Baweja shares insights from her groundbreaking interview with underworld figure Chhota Rajan in 1996.
In her memoir, ‘They Will Shoot You, Madam: My Life Through Conflict’, journalist Harinder Baweja recounts her experience interviewing Chhota Rajan, the notorious underworld figure, in Kuala Lumpur during 1996. Rajan, whose real name is Rajendra Sadashiv Nikalje, had a tumultuous rise in the criminal world, transitioning from a bootlegger and muscleman to a prominent aide of the infamous Dawood Ibrahim. The backdrop of their meeting was steeped in tension, as Rajan had distanced himself from Dawood, branding him a traitor after the latter sought refuge in Pakistan following a series of bombings in Bombay.
Baweja’s narrative unfolds against the grim events that had marked Rajan’s rise, particularly the brutal murder of Thakiyudeen Abdul Wahid, the managing director of East West Airlines. This incident, where a close associate of Rajan pumped multiple bullets into Wahid, showcased the violent atmosphere surrounding Rajan’s bid for dominance in the Mumbai underworld. The killing drew the attention of law enforcement, with Rajan becoming a prime suspect amidst the chaos that followed.
Understanding the weight of the situation, Baweja highlights the importance of image in the criminal world, suggesting that Rajan was aware of the need to project a particular persona. She reflects on her approach to the interview, emphasizing the journalistic principles instilled in her by Aroon Purie, her editor-in-chief. Purie’s insistence on thoroughness and integrity guided Baweja as she prepared for her encounter with Rajan, a fugitive whose reputation preceded him.
The logistics of the interview came together when she contacted Rajan’s aide, who facilitated the meeting. Baweja insisted on a tape-recorded session, recognizing the significance of capturing Rajan’s words directly. As she traveled to Genting, an hour from Kuala Lumpur, she felt a mix of anxiety and excitement. The prospect of gambling at the casino provided a brief distraction, yet the underlying tension of meeting a figure like Rajan lingered in her mind.
When the moment finally arrived, Baweja was taken aback by Rajan’s demeanor. Contrary to expectations of intimidation, she described him as amiable and fluent in the local dialect, “Bombaia Hindi.” His voice, while deep, did not carry a threatening undertone, allowing Baweja to feel at ease during their interaction. The interview itself proved to be revealing, as Rajan made several claims linking Dawood to the Bombay blasts, offering insights that only someone in his position could possess.
Baweja’s experience with Rajan provided a unique perspective on the complexities of criminal alliances and rivalries, particularly the tumultuous relationship between Rajan and Dawood. Their eventual split, marked by the violent events of the time, illustrates the harsh realities of life within the underworld. This encounter became a significant chapter in Baweja’s career, reflecting her dedication to uncovering the truths behind the headlines.
