Karim Lala (1911–2002) is proverbially known as the first crime lord of Mumbai.
Afghan : He belonged to Kunar province of Afghanistan.
Poverty compelled him to relocate to Mumbai (then Bombay).
He lived in Bhendi Bazaar, an impoverished Muslim dominated area.
Worker : He started his life as a simple dock worker at Mumbai port.
Recovery agent : Later, he became a recovery agent for money lenders and property owners.
His dementor and mannerism made him a curious personality.
Gang : Cops claim that he soon formed a gang of fellow Pathans.
His gang collected money on the behalf of rich tycoons from victims.
Later, it became notorious for extortion business, kidnapping, extortion etc.
Turf : His illicit activities were centered around Muslim dominated areas (Bhindi Bazaar)
He run a durbar ( personal court) for mediation and counselling.
His writ ran large across these areas as many feared him.
Robinhood : Ironically, he was seen as a Robinhood by poor Muslims as he used to help them.
Interestingly, he maintained a good public image among urbane Mumbai.
He was quite friendly with who's who of Mumbai elite.
Movies : Many movies like Gangubai Kathiawaadi, Angaar , Insaaniyat , Once upon a Time in Mumbai have depicted his character.
Facts : But, a tough police action against his gang pushed him into an early retirement.
He later ran hotels and a travel business ; far away from his former life of crime
Pic Credits : Google Images / Web