Daddy

"Daddy" unfolds the gritty and sensational true story of Arun Gulab Gawli, who ascended from the depths of Mumbai’s impoverished Dagdi Chawl to become one of the city's most notorious figures. Born to a humble mill worker, Gawli's journey is one of adversity and ambition, marked by the harsh realities of life in one of Mumbai's most challenging neighborhoods. The film paints a vivid picture of his formative years, showcasing how the socio-economic struggles around him shaped his character and ultimately, his destiny. As he navigated through challenges, Gawli's rise to power began, capturing the attention of both the criminal underworld and the broader community around him.

Set against the backdrop of Mumbai's volatile crime landscape during the 1970s and 1980s, "Daddy" meticulously chronicles Gawli's evolution into a feared don and influential politician. The film not only highlights his criminal endeavors but also the fierce rivalry with the notorious Dawood Ibrahim, who was considered the preeminent crime boss of the era. As tensions escalated between the two, the narrative delves into the complexities of crime, power, and loyalty, revealing Gawli's multifaceted personality and his need for respect and recognition in a world dominated by violence and treachery. The film's portrayal of this rivalry offers an intense look at the dark underbelly of Mumbai, where alliances are fleeting and betrayal often leads to dire consequences.

Through its gripping storyline, "Daddy" also reflects on the socio-political climate of Mumbai, providing a crucial commentary on how systemic issues contribute to the rise of such figures. It brings to light the struggles of the marginalized and the circumstances that push individuals towards a life of crime. The narrative progresses with Gawli's life unfolding into the 2010s, eventually culminating in his conviction and life sentence in 2012. This film does not just recount a life of crime but also examines the broader implications of survival in a city rife with corruption and moral ambiguity, leaving the audience pondering the thin line between heroism and villainy.

Main Cast of Daddy

Arjun Rampal delivers a transformative performance as the notorious gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli in the biographical crime film 'Daddy'. Rampal embodies the complex character with a chilling intensity, capturing the nuanced layers of Gawli's life, from his early days in the underworld to his eventual transition into a respected, if controversial, figure in Mumbai politics. His physical transformation is striking, but it's the subtlety in his portrayal that truly stands out; Rampal conveys Gawli's ruthlessness and cunning, as well as his quiet charisma and unexpected vulnerability. Rampal's performance is not just a mimicry of the real-life Gawli; he brings depth and an internal conflict to the role, making the character more than just a caricature of a feared mobster. Despite the heavy subject matter, Rampal's restraint ensures that the audience is given space to form their own opinions about Gawli's moral ambiguity. His careful balance of intimidation and a strange sense of honor that Gawli was rumored to possess in real life adds to the fascination with his enigmatic persona. Arjun Rampal's dedicated portrayal is a testament to his range as an actor, and it stands as one of the most compelling performances of his career, earning him critical acclaim and showcasing his ability to lead a film with gravitas.

Secondary Cast of Daddy

Shruti Bapna

Rani

Anand Ingale

Babu Reshim

Rajesh Shringarpore

Rama Naik

Purnanand Wandekar

Vijay

Deepak Damle

Phamplet Bandya

Richa Meena

Geeta Gawli

Crew of Daddy