Have you ever wondered how a simple man from a small town becomes a kingpin of a massive scam?
“Scam 2003: The Telgi Story” is a compelling depiction of this startling rise and even more dramatic fall.
Adapted from the book ‘Telgi Scam: Reporter ki Diary’ by journalist Sanjay Singh, the story follows Abdul Karim Telgi (played brilliantly by Gagan Dev Riar) and the ₹30,000 crore stamp paper scam that shocked the nation.
Telgi: From Hustler to Scamster
Born into hardship, Abdul Karim Telgi started his life selling fruits on passenger trains. Who would expect him to pull such a gigantic con, becoming one of India’s most notorious scamsters?
Gagan Dev Riar, much like Pratik Gandhi in ‘Scam 1992,’ is a promising actor who may soon spring into stardom.
The uncanny resemblance to the real-life character of Telgi, the emphatic performance, and the grasp of the Hyderabadi lingo, Riar nails his role with precision.
Although the story begins with Telgi’s infamous narco-analysis test, it interestingly uses flashbacks to reveal his astonishing journey from small-town hustler to grand scamster.
The intricate details of Telgi’s life gradually unfold, weaving a compelling storyline where twists and turns lead to the famous stamp paper scam.
Mumbai of the 90s: A Nostalgia
With the scam occurring in the 1990s, the creators have brilliantly recreated the charm and simplicity of that era in Mumbai, which adds nostalgia and flair to the Show.
The performance by other lead actors like Hemang Vyas and Achint Thakkar is also commendable.
They bring to life the characters that help take Telgi’s story forward. Of special note is Vyas’ performance, depicting convincingly the small-time con artist who aids Telgi in the early days of his ascension.
The Legacy of Scam Series
Despite the elaborate storyline and huge scale, the storytelling sometimes feels abrupt with sudden shifts in Telgi’s ambitions.
However, like its predecessor, Scam 2003 stays true to its essence, making it an engaging watch.
In conclusion, “Scam 2003: The Telgi Story” is not only a chronicle of one man’s ambitious journey but also a riveting tale of greed, ambition, and the dark underbelly of the system. Certainly, not to be missed!
