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Gangster on the Run: The True Story of a Reformed Criminal
He ran from a life of drugs and bullets.
Now, he runs to shatter records.
Rahul Jadhav took the name 'Bhiku' after a character from the 1998 cult classic Satya - a gangster who was everything Rahul once wanted to be. Capturing his don's attention as a tech-literate criminal, running his extortion ring over Skype, Rahul found himself shouting threats down the barrel of his gun and became one of the most wanted gangsters of his time.
After his arrest in 2007, the extortionist and hitman was left a shadow of his former self, ravaged by alcoholism and drug abuse - which twisted his mind into a near schizophrenic state. That was only part of his journey.
Today, the gunrunner is an ultra-marathoner who has covered nearly 10,000 kilometres - including a 2019 run from Gateway of India to India Gate - and aims to shatter the national stadium run record.
Written by award-winning journalist Puja Changoiwala, this is the extraordinary story of a hitman who became a de-addiction counselor and outran his demons, leaving them far behind in the murky shadows of gangland.
Now, he runs to shatter records.
Rahul Jadhav took the name 'Bhiku' after a character from the 1998 cult classic Satya - a gangster who was everything Rahul once wanted to be. Capturing his don's attention as a tech-literate criminal, running his extortion ring over Skype, Rahul found himself shouting threats down the barrel of his gun and became one of the most wanted gangsters of his time.
After his arrest in 2007, the extortionist and hitman was left a shadow of his former self, ravaged by alcoholism and drug abuse - which twisted his mind into a near schizophrenic state. That was only part of his journey.
Today, the gunrunner is an ultra-marathoner who has covered nearly 10,000 kilometres - including a 2019 run from Gateway of India to India Gate - and aims to shatter the national stadium run record.
Written by award-winning journalist Puja Changoiwala, this is the extraordinary story of a hitman who became a de-addiction counselor and outran his demons, leaving them far behind in the murky shadows of gangland.
- GenresCrimeNonfiction
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2020
5 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 27, 2020
Gangster on the run
Can a person really change after having a controversial past?
This book is a biography of Rahul Jadhav. As a young innocent boy from Dombivali, he thought it wasn't possible for him to achieve all that he desired through right way, so he turned to underworld.
He was a gangster, an underworld hitman & an alcoholic, he went by the name Bhiku.
But something made him turn a new leaf. He left this life behind and worked on himself. Now he is marathoner and coach. To know the reason for this magical transformation you need to grab your copy.
The book uncovers the world of drugs, crimes, alcoholics. We not only get to read about the underworld, but also about rehabilitation centers, life in prison and much more. A very detail and inspiring biography.
Definitely a book that will recommend to all. My major takeaway from this book was that we can achieve anything that we set our mind at, and this story proves it.
Rating 5/5
Can a person really change after having a controversial past?
This book is a biography of Rahul Jadhav. As a young innocent boy from Dombivali, he thought it wasn't possible for him to achieve all that he desired through right way, so he turned to underworld.
He was a gangster, an underworld hitman & an alcoholic, he went by the name Bhiku.
But something made him turn a new leaf. He left this life behind and worked on himself. Now he is marathoner and coach. To know the reason for this magical transformation you need to grab your copy.
The book uncovers the world of drugs, crimes, alcoholics. We not only get to read about the underworld, but also about rehabilitation centers, life in prison and much more. A very detail and inspiring biography.
Definitely a book that will recommend to all. My major takeaway from this book was that we can achieve anything that we set our mind at, and this story proves it.
Rating 5/5
November 9, 2020
*Gangster on the Run*
The world is unjust, and the way a person deals with the unfairness makes him different. The Gangster on the Run is the story of an innocent boy who dreamed big, but the unfair world never let him climb up the ladder on a righteous path, or at least, he thought so.
Born on the then outskirts of Mumbai, Rahul Jadhav grew up with the determination to get everything he desired. He admired heroes of the past without bothering about the nobility of their actions.
" All he cared was their magnificence and their power, their conquests and their triumphs."
He despised to live a sluggish life and die like a typical man, and when he found that procuring it by the righteous way was not easy, he chose the daring way - the underworld.
The book discusses in detail how Rahul grows as a gangster and how he became a marathoner as a result of the twists and turns of life. The book is not just a blunt description of a man's life. The history of Mumbai underworld, its organisational hierarchy, its financing sources, the coalitions and conflicts, and all such details about the underworld make the book unputdownable. The book also gives an insight into issues like delinquencies of the judicial system, disruption of the economy, how one's crimes disarray the life of his family and friends, and how society makes it difficult for a person to let go of the past.
The book is at its best for the right amount of information written in a poised language. Also, I admire the author for writing the whole story in an unbiased manner.
Rating 5*
The world is unjust, and the way a person deals with the unfairness makes him different. The Gangster on the Run is the story of an innocent boy who dreamed big, but the unfair world never let him climb up the ladder on a righteous path, or at least, he thought so.
Born on the then outskirts of Mumbai, Rahul Jadhav grew up with the determination to get everything he desired. He admired heroes of the past without bothering about the nobility of their actions.
" All he cared was their magnificence and their power, their conquests and their triumphs."
He despised to live a sluggish life and die like a typical man, and when he found that procuring it by the righteous way was not easy, he chose the daring way - the underworld.
The book discusses in detail how Rahul grows as a gangster and how he became a marathoner as a result of the twists and turns of life. The book is not just a blunt description of a man's life. The history of Mumbai underworld, its organisational hierarchy, its financing sources, the coalitions and conflicts, and all such details about the underworld make the book unputdownable. The book also gives an insight into issues like delinquencies of the judicial system, disruption of the economy, how one's crimes disarray the life of his family and friends, and how society makes it difficult for a person to let go of the past.
The book is at its best for the right amount of information written in a poised language. Also, I admire the author for writing the whole story in an unbiased manner.
Rating 5*
October 16, 2020
• r e v i e w •
.
Gangster On The Run is the story of Rahul Jadhav, who was once a budding threat to Dombivli and Mumbai. Contrary to other Underworld Dons back in the late 80s and early 90s who knew next to nothing about technology and internet, Rahul used his sharp mind to make the best use of computers. This, eventually set him apart from the other foot soldiers. His story is nothing short of an action movie, one that is masterfully penned by Puja Changoiwala. Puja, undoubtedly has the knack of keeping the readers hooked to the story right from the start. An unconventional story of a reformed criminal, this book is extremely engaging.
.
Born in a lower middle class family in the city of Dombivli, Rahul always had his eyes on things he couldn't afford. Living on a hand to mouth basis, all that Rahul ever received was hand-me-downs from his siblings. Although he didn't enjoy studying, Rahul made an effort to go to college but eventually dropped out when he found other means to make money. Dombivli back then was known for having notorious groups of young men who worked with bigger Dons in Mumbai. Rahul too found someone to work for and after he tasted the thrill of easy money, there was no stopping him. Puja draws a clear picture about how one gets involved in the Underworld. What starts off as extortion, slowly leads to harming people to imbibe fear amidst commoners. When his parents were intimated about their son's activities, they admit him to a computer class which ultimately turns into a biggest boon to Rahul.
.
While other groups of foot soldiers worked manually to procure contact details of rich builders and Bollywood actors/directors, Rahul relied on the internet. This impressed his boss immensely and he was given more projects to make money. It wasn't long until he was entrusted with the job of shooting people to threaten them. Rahul, who was a severe alcoholic by then barely ate food and appeared ill. Just when he felt at the top of the world, the cops got a sniff of his activities and he was immediately arrested. Three years in prison eventually made him understand that he wasn't special to the Don. That he was just another foot soldier.
.
His life outside the prison was difficult as he battled with alcoholism. His repeated visits to the rehabilitation gradually pushed him into running. It was running that finally absolved him of his addiction. Rahul's anger with the world for not accepting him as a human after his criminal stint made him channel his feelings into running. His life was nothing short of a miracle for surviving his addiction, for finding his own way out of prison and for now leading a normal life. Perhaps, it was his extraordinary mind that pushed him to study law books in the prison where he learnt how the law actually works. He found his own way to freedom. Gangster On The Run was without a doubt an interesting read, wherein the author threw enough light to see how criminal activities work. If you're looking for a fast-paced book that's gripping and intruiging, this one's for you.
.
Rating : 4.3/5.
.
Gangster On The Run is the story of Rahul Jadhav, who was once a budding threat to Dombivli and Mumbai. Contrary to other Underworld Dons back in the late 80s and early 90s who knew next to nothing about technology and internet, Rahul used his sharp mind to make the best use of computers. This, eventually set him apart from the other foot soldiers. His story is nothing short of an action movie, one that is masterfully penned by Puja Changoiwala. Puja, undoubtedly has the knack of keeping the readers hooked to the story right from the start. An unconventional story of a reformed criminal, this book is extremely engaging.
.
Born in a lower middle class family in the city of Dombivli, Rahul always had his eyes on things he couldn't afford. Living on a hand to mouth basis, all that Rahul ever received was hand-me-downs from his siblings. Although he didn't enjoy studying, Rahul made an effort to go to college but eventually dropped out when he found other means to make money. Dombivli back then was known for having notorious groups of young men who worked with bigger Dons in Mumbai. Rahul too found someone to work for and after he tasted the thrill of easy money, there was no stopping him. Puja draws a clear picture about how one gets involved in the Underworld. What starts off as extortion, slowly leads to harming people to imbibe fear amidst commoners. When his parents were intimated about their son's activities, they admit him to a computer class which ultimately turns into a biggest boon to Rahul.
.
While other groups of foot soldiers worked manually to procure contact details of rich builders and Bollywood actors/directors, Rahul relied on the internet. This impressed his boss immensely and he was given more projects to make money. It wasn't long until he was entrusted with the job of shooting people to threaten them. Rahul, who was a severe alcoholic by then barely ate food and appeared ill. Just when he felt at the top of the world, the cops got a sniff of his activities and he was immediately arrested. Three years in prison eventually made him understand that he wasn't special to the Don. That he was just another foot soldier.
.
His life outside the prison was difficult as he battled with alcoholism. His repeated visits to the rehabilitation gradually pushed him into running. It was running that finally absolved him of his addiction. Rahul's anger with the world for not accepting him as a human after his criminal stint made him channel his feelings into running. His life was nothing short of a miracle for surviving his addiction, for finding his own way out of prison and for now leading a normal life. Perhaps, it was his extraordinary mind that pushed him to study law books in the prison where he learnt how the law actually works. He found his own way to freedom. Gangster On The Run was without a doubt an interesting read, wherein the author threw enough light to see how criminal activities work. If you're looking for a fast-paced book that's gripping and intruiging, this one's for you.
.
Rating : 4.3/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2020
I loved this book! What a brilliant tale of struggle and salvation - what really struck me was how human it was. From the heady job of having someone's life and money in his hands to cleaning a drainage pipe, I was right there, beside Rahul Jadhav as he srted his intense issues and rose like a phoenix. Adapted with sensitivity and and a pace that will have your heart racing, this one is definitely a great buy!
November 26, 2020
This is the story of Rahul Ramakant Jadhav, who at a very young and impressionable age wanted to make easy money and idolized the likes of Dawood Ibrahim.
He eventually decides to become the "Bhikhu" of organized crime, after he saw the movie Satya 17 times and embodied the character of Bhikhu. ( Bollywood and it's never-ending love affairs with Gangsters😄)
Unlike his peers' slow and inefficient method of using khabris, he used the internet to remain anonymous and find out the contact details of people he wanted to mess with and soon became the wanted "Bhai".
He fell in love with Aarti but she left him because of his criminal ways and as the author puts it "the only thing more dangerous than an underworld gangster is an underworld gangster with a broken heart"..after she left him, he became more aggressive.
Soon, the police arrested him, and his health deteriorated to the point that one of the officers told him that he will kill himself before they do.
After spending 3 years in prison, he decides to take responsibility for his deeds and gain control over his life through Detox and De-addiction programs. However, soon he meander to his old ways and plans to commit suicide.
His entire life he ran from his problems, his happiness, his family, his criminal past, and authorities, yet it was running which healed him, eventually making him an ultramarathoner who ran from Mumbai's Gateway of India to Delhi's India Gate. ( A rare feat!)
How did this transition happen? To know more, grab a copy!
He eventually decides to become the "Bhikhu" of organized crime, after he saw the movie Satya 17 times and embodied the character of Bhikhu. ( Bollywood and it's never-ending love affairs with Gangsters😄)
Unlike his peers' slow and inefficient method of using khabris, he used the internet to remain anonymous and find out the contact details of people he wanted to mess with and soon became the wanted "Bhai".
He fell in love with Aarti but she left him because of his criminal ways and as the author puts it "the only thing more dangerous than an underworld gangster is an underworld gangster with a broken heart"..after she left him, he became more aggressive.
Soon, the police arrested him, and his health deteriorated to the point that one of the officers told him that he will kill himself before they do.
After spending 3 years in prison, he decides to take responsibility for his deeds and gain control over his life through Detox and De-addiction programs. However, soon he meander to his old ways and plans to commit suicide.
His entire life he ran from his problems, his happiness, his family, his criminal past, and authorities, yet it was running which healed him, eventually making him an ultramarathoner who ran from Mumbai's Gateway of India to Delhi's India Gate. ( A rare feat!)
How did this transition happen? To know more, grab a copy!
December 5, 2020
Gangster on the Run is the story of Rahul Jadhav, an ex-gangster, hitman, alcoholic and whatnot. It is a biography and it doesn't feel so. If you're a fan of pacy, Netflix-like suspense thrillers, then this book will impress you from page 1.
So, Rahul had a tough childhood growing up in the rural Dombivali. From a kid with desires to achieve and tough luck, fate had different plans for Rahul. It made him turn to the underworld, become a gangster with a nickname and such.
There's another twist in Rahul's life where he becomes a better version of himself, into a coach and athlete. This needs severe perseverence and struggle.
This book is very detailed and uplifting, told in an informal narrative making it a very interesting composition.
So, Rahul had a tough childhood growing up in the rural Dombivali. From a kid with desires to achieve and tough luck, fate had different plans for Rahul. It made him turn to the underworld, become a gangster with a nickname and such.
There's another twist in Rahul's life where he becomes a better version of himself, into a coach and athlete. This needs severe perseverence and struggle.
This book is very detailed and uplifting, told in an informal narrative making it a very interesting composition.
November 7, 2020
The book is an inspirational journey that details the effects that the life of crime can have on a person, but more importantly, its about the will power of a person to reform and how a person’s choices can affect their lives. The book goes deep into the Mumbai of the early part of the millennium when it was ravaged by gangsters and how things unfolded during the time. A very well-researched book, Puja has incorporated some interesting insights into the lives of not just Rahul, but also the criminal justice system that prevailed during the time, both the good and the bad aspects of it. It also presents an interesting account of the systems that were in place that led to the crimes being committed. A very informative account, there are moments in the book that were quite amazing, like the interrogations that happened. I loved the detail of Bhiku’s time in jail, specially the part that shows that the humanity inside him hadn’t died. His time at the recovery centre was quite touching and his transformation was quite magical, and Puja deserves mention for penning it out so nicely that one can actually feel the different emotions that course through Rahul throughout the story. there are some places in the book that have some grammatical errors which can be removed in the subsequent editions.
November 30, 2020
This book is great, tight, interesting overall paint a great picture. When I finished reading this book. I was left wanting more, which is always a sign of a good book. A fascinating and almost unbelievable story about a remarkable gangster. The book is a story of Rahul Ramakant Jadhav. Who idolised underworld don and want to become a BHAI. Book has everything love, break up, drug, emotion,passion. Te language of the book is simple and easy to understand. The cover of the book is apt to the story. This is very good bookand I will definitely read it several more times. A must read.
July 8, 2024
Amazing story of a boy who becomes a runner.
December 1, 2020
One of the first things that come to mind when I recall the 1998 crime blockbuster Satya is Manoj Bajpayee standing on a cliff overlooking the sea. His character shouts, “Mumbai ka baap kaun? Bhikhu Mhatre.” (Who’s the boss of Mumbai? Bhikhu Mhatre). Bhikhu, of course, is the name of his gangster character.
What I didn’t know is that there was a young, real-life gangster in 1998, who took on the “Bhikhu Mhatre” moniker for himself. Rahul Ramakant Jadhav terrorised Dombivli in the late 90s-early aughts with his shootings and extortion calls. Award-winning crime journalist Puja Changoiwala charts the life of the wannabe don of Mumbai from his childhood to present day.
The USP of this book is the feel-good finish that Rahul’s story has. Almost every classical gangster story – fact or fiction – ends with either the anti-hero riding into the sunset or going out, glorified, in a hail of bullets. Not so here. Having run from authorities, his family and himself for ages, Rahul Jadhav found peace in running marathons and conducting de-addiction counselling. It is nothing if not an utterly remarkable story.
There are familiar beats in the book, themes and tropes one sees across the genre, both in fiction and nonfiction. If you’re a crime/gangster genre aficionado, you’d find much of the early portions of the book familiar to you. But this is also a story steeped in its time period. The late-90s heralded the era of the Internet. Most gangs and almost all police departments hadn’t jumped on the bandwagon. As the book tells us, Rahul Jadhav, eager to please his bhai and faithful to the core, found that his dexterity with computers and the Net gave him significant early-mover advantage. These passages are some of the most exciting in the book.
The book’s opening section is another that grabs you instantly. Going through Rahul’s childhood, we are told of an incident so sudden and shocking that it’s difficult to imagine anyone suffering that to come out mentally unscathed.
The chronological, third-person narrator order of the book is helpful in taking us through Rahul’s life and mind. The narration is crisp and allows us to feel close to the action, finding guilty joy even in our protagonist’s illegal escapades. And it also takes us through his pigheaded, arrogant ideas of not giving up crime and addiction, because of a presumed belief, time and again, that he was going to strike it rich again.
A special mention of the depiction of alcohol addiction. The author’s stark portrayal of Rahul’s physical condition under addiction is as dreary as any I’ve ever come across. Although his crime history gets the major focus during his “working” days, we still get to see how alcohol dependency ravaged his body. It becomes more harrowing once he takes up rehab.
One of the things I was confounded by is the book’s timeline. I came across multiple instances of it being messed up. Although most of these instances don’t have a major bearing on the story itself, they were irritants in the book’s comfortable flow. Plus, I’d have liked some more pages to have been dedicated to Rahul’s long-distance running days.
I kept thinking at various points while reading it that this book would make a great adaptation, maybe as a web series more than a film. The narrative arc of rise, fall and redemption is there, with some astounding story about Rahul’s tech-savviness and desire to learn stuff even when behind bars. Looking forward to a production house picking up the rights to the book.
All said, Gangster On The Run is a remarkable, feel-good story about the power of dedication and determination. It’s proof that if we decide to take charge, it’s never too late to make a course correction in life.
What I didn’t know is that there was a young, real-life gangster in 1998, who took on the “Bhikhu Mhatre” moniker for himself. Rahul Ramakant Jadhav terrorised Dombivli in the late 90s-early aughts with his shootings and extortion calls. Award-winning crime journalist Puja Changoiwala charts the life of the wannabe don of Mumbai from his childhood to present day.
The USP of this book is the feel-good finish that Rahul’s story has. Almost every classical gangster story – fact or fiction – ends with either the anti-hero riding into the sunset or going out, glorified, in a hail of bullets. Not so here. Having run from authorities, his family and himself for ages, Rahul Jadhav found peace in running marathons and conducting de-addiction counselling. It is nothing if not an utterly remarkable story.
There are familiar beats in the book, themes and tropes one sees across the genre, both in fiction and nonfiction. If you’re a crime/gangster genre aficionado, you’d find much of the early portions of the book familiar to you. But this is also a story steeped in its time period. The late-90s heralded the era of the Internet. Most gangs and almost all police departments hadn’t jumped on the bandwagon. As the book tells us, Rahul Jadhav, eager to please his bhai and faithful to the core, found that his dexterity with computers and the Net gave him significant early-mover advantage. These passages are some of the most exciting in the book.
The book’s opening section is another that grabs you instantly. Going through Rahul’s childhood, we are told of an incident so sudden and shocking that it’s difficult to imagine anyone suffering that to come out mentally unscathed.
The chronological, third-person narrator order of the book is helpful in taking us through Rahul’s life and mind. The narration is crisp and allows us to feel close to the action, finding guilty joy even in our protagonist’s illegal escapades. And it also takes us through his pigheaded, arrogant ideas of not giving up crime and addiction, because of a presumed belief, time and again, that he was going to strike it rich again.
A special mention of the depiction of alcohol addiction. The author’s stark portrayal of Rahul’s physical condition under addiction is as dreary as any I’ve ever come across. Although his crime history gets the major focus during his “working” days, we still get to see how alcohol dependency ravaged his body. It becomes more harrowing once he takes up rehab.
One of the things I was confounded by is the book’s timeline. I came across multiple instances of it being messed up. Although most of these instances don’t have a major bearing on the story itself, they were irritants in the book’s comfortable flow. Plus, I’d have liked some more pages to have been dedicated to Rahul’s long-distance running days.
I kept thinking at various points while reading it that this book would make a great adaptation, maybe as a web series more than a film. The narrative arc of rise, fall and redemption is there, with some astounding story about Rahul’s tech-savviness and desire to learn stuff even when behind bars. Looking forward to a production house picking up the rights to the book.
All said, Gangster On The Run is a remarkable, feel-good story about the power of dedication and determination. It’s proof that if we decide to take charge, it’s never too late to make a course correction in life.
December 4, 2020
A boy, who lost his innocence to the Mumbai mafia;
a painter, who lost his art to the 9mm pistol;
a dreamer, who lost his ambition to cheap whisky;
a romantic, who lost his love to dimly lit bars and brothels;
and a son, who lost his ideals to hard cash
-- this is the story of Rahul Ramakant Jadhav aka Bhiku Mhatre
- a gangster, a gun runner, a sharpshooter, an alcoholic, a de-addiction crusader & an ultra marathoner.
A saga of grime & grit.
GANGSTER ON THE RUN- the true story of a reformed criminal
by @Pujachangoiwala - an award winning journalist & author.
____
📚An inspiring read with amazing life lessons to learn in the process! I loved it to the core.
283 pages: there are my pencil ✏ markings throughout the book!
21 chapters: love the title of each chapter.
Trigger Warning ⚠️: Foul Lang.; Substance Abuse; Foul vernacular language.; Killings & Murders.
____
The story begins with a 10 year old Rahul, the protagonist & an incident which shows his strong will power & focus.
He's a problem solver, writes ✍ diary entries, draws, is an average student- no matter how hard he studies & is ambitious for fame & power.
He wants easy money, to realize his wild fancies, doesn't want to die a commoner & doesn't want to be like his simple, humble, hardworking, submissive Father.
" Demons were in Vogue".
As a 14 yr old, he commanded attention, + or - & wanted a big future.
" The notorious kids were happier than the accomplished scorers."
LESSON LEARNT: the signs are always there.
Also, the underworld has its own lang.
He was well read & was not impulsive. He would offer fail- safe sol.ns
His mind was his weapon. He climbed up the ladder in underworld, pretty soon.
"Money can buy happiness."
He was a good actor, tech savvy, well informed, power hungry & a fantasist.
He made flowcharts for organized crime & hierarchy. He was ecstatic with easy money.
LESSON LEARNT: classic underworld trick: Buy loyalty with flattering praise.
"A gangster is nothing if not loyal".
This was Mumbai in the 90's when Music Baron Gulshan Kumar was killed for refusing to put up with threats.
Rahul did a lot of research & collected data. He was an enthusiastic learner. He was keen on learning computer software & internet, was tech savvy & streamlined processes before execution. His approach was unique & pragmatic.
He lost his girl & was heartbroken.
After this phase, came substance- alcohol & smoke abuse & girls.
"Gangsters work hard on monopolizing domains".
Then came the transition. He got arrested & had been in jail for 2 yrs in various cases without bail. Around 2009, he started reading documents & laws w.r.t his imprisonment. He was a graphic designer & now he started acquiring legal acumen. His don, left him in a lurch.
He had been in the underworld for 12+ 3 yrs now.
He became a chronic alcoholic. Started consuming mother's antipsychotics. Withdrawal symptoms & schizophrenia happened.
"The old man stayed true to his patient nature, and the son to his.
........
.....
....
...
..
🏃♂Then how did he become the man he is today, a marathon runner?
How was he able to leave the underworld & get a 2nd chance at life?
What about alcohol & tobacco addiction? How could he separate himself from all this?
READ the book to know more.
HE HAD BEGUN TO HEAL.
5/5.
Genre: Non- fiction; biography.
#noorthebookwormreviews
a painter, who lost his art to the 9mm pistol;
a dreamer, who lost his ambition to cheap whisky;
a romantic, who lost his love to dimly lit bars and brothels;
and a son, who lost his ideals to hard cash
-- this is the story of Rahul Ramakant Jadhav aka Bhiku Mhatre
- a gangster, a gun runner, a sharpshooter, an alcoholic, a de-addiction crusader & an ultra marathoner.
A saga of grime & grit.
GANGSTER ON THE RUN- the true story of a reformed criminal
by @Pujachangoiwala - an award winning journalist & author.
____
📚An inspiring read with amazing life lessons to learn in the process! I loved it to the core.
283 pages: there are my pencil ✏ markings throughout the book!
21 chapters: love the title of each chapter.
Trigger Warning ⚠️: Foul Lang.; Substance Abuse; Foul vernacular language.; Killings & Murders.
____
The story begins with a 10 year old Rahul, the protagonist & an incident which shows his strong will power & focus.
He's a problem solver, writes ✍ diary entries, draws, is an average student- no matter how hard he studies & is ambitious for fame & power.
He wants easy money, to realize his wild fancies, doesn't want to die a commoner & doesn't want to be like his simple, humble, hardworking, submissive Father.
" Demons were in Vogue".
As a 14 yr old, he commanded attention, + or - & wanted a big future.
" The notorious kids were happier than the accomplished scorers."
LESSON LEARNT: the signs are always there.
Also, the underworld has its own lang.
He was well read & was not impulsive. He would offer fail- safe sol.ns
His mind was his weapon. He climbed up the ladder in underworld, pretty soon.
"Money can buy happiness."
He was a good actor, tech savvy, well informed, power hungry & a fantasist.
He made flowcharts for organized crime & hierarchy. He was ecstatic with easy money.
LESSON LEARNT: classic underworld trick: Buy loyalty with flattering praise.
"A gangster is nothing if not loyal".
This was Mumbai in the 90's when Music Baron Gulshan Kumar was killed for refusing to put up with threats.
Rahul did a lot of research & collected data. He was an enthusiastic learner. He was keen on learning computer software & internet, was tech savvy & streamlined processes before execution. His approach was unique & pragmatic.
He lost his girl & was heartbroken.
After this phase, came substance- alcohol & smoke abuse & girls.
"Gangsters work hard on monopolizing domains".
Then came the transition. He got arrested & had been in jail for 2 yrs in various cases without bail. Around 2009, he started reading documents & laws w.r.t his imprisonment. He was a graphic designer & now he started acquiring legal acumen. His don, left him in a lurch.
He had been in the underworld for 12+ 3 yrs now.
He became a chronic alcoholic. Started consuming mother's antipsychotics. Withdrawal symptoms & schizophrenia happened.
"The old man stayed true to his patient nature, and the son to his.
........
.....
....
...
..
🏃♂Then how did he become the man he is today, a marathon runner?
How was he able to leave the underworld & get a 2nd chance at life?
What about alcohol & tobacco addiction? How could he separate himself from all this?
READ the book to know more.
HE HAD BEGUN TO HEAL.
5/5.
Genre: Non- fiction; biography.
#noorthebookwormreviews
December 4, 2020
Full review on my blog:
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2020/12/bo...
Rahul Ramakant Jadhav, the most wanted gangster and hitman of the late 90s is an ultra-marathoner now. Gangster on the Run is the true-life account of Rahul’s life as narrated by the author Puja, on how a notorious gangster had transformed into a marathon runner.
The story starts from the time Rahul was a young kid living with his family in Dombivli, the quaint place in the outskirts of Mumbai. As the youngest of three siblings with an honest father who was satisfied with his modest earnings, Rahul always yearned for a better life, which prompted him to get involved with the mafia gangs that were on a rise during his young days. The computer coaching that his parents hoped to get him back to academics, made him an Internet savvy extortionist and more famous than his peers.
Post terrifying his sleepy town to witness incessant gun firing, Rahul’s life reached a troubled phase when he had to spend jail term, slowly realizing how the justice system worked and how his boss treated him as one more hitman once he got captured. As he struggles with his alcohol addiction and society’s insensitivity once out of jail, how running gave this gangster a new leash of life forms the rest of the story.
Any true crime account makes for impressive story material if the author can avoid going the documentary style, and author Puja succeeds in presenting Rahul’s story with an impressive narrative style. The story wins the reader with its raw and real presentation, capturing the ups and downs of a phenomenal life led by Rahul. The story also mirrors how the adrenaline rush and easy money involved in criminal activities attracts youth, along with the long-term loss as the reader is taken through life in rehabilitation centers and dingy prison rooms.
One of the best stories I ever came across, this one is a must read not just for the thrilling story line but for the life lessons it imparts.
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2020/12/bo...
Rahul Ramakant Jadhav, the most wanted gangster and hitman of the late 90s is an ultra-marathoner now. Gangster on the Run is the true-life account of Rahul’s life as narrated by the author Puja, on how a notorious gangster had transformed into a marathon runner.
The story starts from the time Rahul was a young kid living with his family in Dombivli, the quaint place in the outskirts of Mumbai. As the youngest of three siblings with an honest father who was satisfied with his modest earnings, Rahul always yearned for a better life, which prompted him to get involved with the mafia gangs that were on a rise during his young days. The computer coaching that his parents hoped to get him back to academics, made him an Internet savvy extortionist and more famous than his peers.
Post terrifying his sleepy town to witness incessant gun firing, Rahul’s life reached a troubled phase when he had to spend jail term, slowly realizing how the justice system worked and how his boss treated him as one more hitman once he got captured. As he struggles with his alcohol addiction and society’s insensitivity once out of jail, how running gave this gangster a new leash of life forms the rest of the story.
Any true crime account makes for impressive story material if the author can avoid going the documentary style, and author Puja succeeds in presenting Rahul’s story with an impressive narrative style. The story wins the reader with its raw and real presentation, capturing the ups and downs of a phenomenal life led by Rahul. The story also mirrors how the adrenaline rush and easy money involved in criminal activities attracts youth, along with the long-term loss as the reader is taken through life in rehabilitation centers and dingy prison rooms.
One of the best stories I ever came across, this one is a must read not just for the thrilling story line but for the life lessons it imparts.
Read
December 4, 2020Gangster on the run: Puja Changoiwala
This is a story of person who outran his demons, quite literally. Once a criminal who terrorised Dombivali in Mumbai, he is now winning medals and marathons and now, hearts of millions.
The story starts with a middle class boy who has been traumatized by certain events very early in his life. In a age where idols and role models are actors and athletes, Rahul was mesmerized by the Dons of the Underworld. The book then takes us how little Rahul eventually became the technical genius and the right hand of Jaidev Reddy. But this not just his story, it also about the parents who loved him enough to sell and mortgage everything they own to get his bail, his first love who married another man on his birthday and his friends who eventually took the fall of Rahul's wary ways.
Doing crime is easy, being a criminal isn't. Eventually law caught up with Rahul and he was then treated to a new Police Station every week. He then plans to rescue himself on his hands and starts reading criminal law. But the real problems started after he left jail. Addictions, withdrawals, taking his own life went on and made his life more difficult.
Finally overcoming all this over the years, he took up running marathons. From running away from the Law to running for marathons and medals, his life is now an inspiration to many. This is the story of Bhiku, a technological mastermind to a man of simple pleasures.
What I love about the book is direct extracts from the police reports that made everything authentic and gave us a sneak peek about how he was terrorized the elite. I was hoping for an interview from the horse's mouth, but nevertheless the book is nothing short of a screenplay. The story definitely gives us a vibe of 'Shantaram' when it talks about Mumbai and Arthur Road Jail. The language was easy and I found it extremely difficult to keep it down.
This is a story of person who outran his demons, quite literally. Once a criminal who terrorised Dombivali in Mumbai, he is now winning medals and marathons and now, hearts of millions.
The story starts with a middle class boy who has been traumatized by certain events very early in his life. In a age where idols and role models are actors and athletes, Rahul was mesmerized by the Dons of the Underworld. The book then takes us how little Rahul eventually became the technical genius and the right hand of Jaidev Reddy. But this not just his story, it also about the parents who loved him enough to sell and mortgage everything they own to get his bail, his first love who married another man on his birthday and his friends who eventually took the fall of Rahul's wary ways.
Doing crime is easy, being a criminal isn't. Eventually law caught up with Rahul and he was then treated to a new Police Station every week. He then plans to rescue himself on his hands and starts reading criminal law. But the real problems started after he left jail. Addictions, withdrawals, taking his own life went on and made his life more difficult.
Finally overcoming all this over the years, he took up running marathons. From running away from the Law to running for marathons and medals, his life is now an inspiration to many. This is the story of Bhiku, a technological mastermind to a man of simple pleasures.
What I love about the book is direct extracts from the police reports that made everything authentic and gave us a sneak peek about how he was terrorized the elite. I was hoping for an interview from the horse's mouth, but nevertheless the book is nothing short of a screenplay. The story definitely gives us a vibe of 'Shantaram' when it talks about Mumbai and Arthur Road Jail. The language was easy and I found it extremely difficult to keep it down.
November 19, 2020
📌"I am thinking honesty is overrated, Maa. Had it paid, Baba would have been the richest man in the world!"
📚Gangster On The Run – The True Story of a Reformed Criminal is a biography of Rahul Jadhav who took up the name Bhiku in underworld.
📚 It is a story of a boy who lost his love to dimly lit bars and brothels, a dreamer who lost his ambition to cheap whisky, a painter who lost his art to the 9mm pistol and a son who lost his ideals to hard cash!
📚Rahul Jadhav was born on 11th February 1976 in Dombivali which is now the biggest middle-class township in the Mumbai metropolitan region.In his mother's words he was Godless- a man who did not fear the devil because he was the devil!
📚Rahul was over 6 feet tall with a frail frame but a deep penetrating gaze. Studies never excited him and considering that his performance was average , he feared it won't provide success to him. And just then , he was introduced to a new genre of achievers : gangsters.
📚 The book gives you the glimpses of underworld functioning. It gives an inspirational journey of a reformed criminal who now is a marathoner with total run 10,000km so far!
📚 A powerful story of how Rahul had realised that he could not let his past overpower his present or annihilate his future. It describes how he made peace with history and how running helped him heal.
📚 The book is really very well researched with anecdotes from his childhood, his journey as a gangster is well described and is unbiased. The book has 21 chapters and 280 pages. The start of book is really heartwarming and it hooked me. But, as I reached midway through book, I felt the book could have been a bit shorter so that reader doesn't get lost with too many details. But language is easy and chapters are well organised.
📌 If you like crime genre , do give it a read!
📚Gangster On The Run – The True Story of a Reformed Criminal is a biography of Rahul Jadhav who took up the name Bhiku in underworld.
📚 It is a story of a boy who lost his love to dimly lit bars and brothels, a dreamer who lost his ambition to cheap whisky, a painter who lost his art to the 9mm pistol and a son who lost his ideals to hard cash!
📚Rahul Jadhav was born on 11th February 1976 in Dombivali which is now the biggest middle-class township in the Mumbai metropolitan region.In his mother's words he was Godless- a man who did not fear the devil because he was the devil!
📚Rahul was over 6 feet tall with a frail frame but a deep penetrating gaze. Studies never excited him and considering that his performance was average , he feared it won't provide success to him. And just then , he was introduced to a new genre of achievers : gangsters.
📚 The book gives you the glimpses of underworld functioning. It gives an inspirational journey of a reformed criminal who now is a marathoner with total run 10,000km so far!
📚 A powerful story of how Rahul had realised that he could not let his past overpower his present or annihilate his future. It describes how he made peace with history and how running helped him heal.
📚 The book is really very well researched with anecdotes from his childhood, his journey as a gangster is well described and is unbiased. The book has 21 chapters and 280 pages. The start of book is really heartwarming and it hooked me. But, as I reached midway through book, I felt the book could have been a bit shorter so that reader doesn't get lost with too many details. But language is easy and chapters are well organised.
📌 If you like crime genre , do give it a read!
October 31, 2020
Guns. Drugs. Murders. Extortion. Sex. Jail. Redemption.
This book has it all. It is a biography of Rahul Jadhav who went by the name of Bhikhu in the underworld. What amazed me is the detailing the author has been able to achieve, right from his childhood to Mr. Rahul's current life. No doubt, author has been helped by an equally amazing life story full of twists. It feels like a work of fiction, only it is 100% true.
The book lays bare the truth of how underworld function. It also gives an insight into how the newbie gangsters think and how they are further drawn into world of crime. Further it also, traces the working of rehabilitation at a personal level for a past addict. Because, in the end it is always about the individual. The ex gangster is now a seasoned runner. A person whose aim was to create terror, now wants to break running records. Brilliant story.
What I liked-
(1) As mentioned, the research and detailings are extreme.
(2) I loved the fact that author has not tried to cast the life of Rahul as Bhiku in positive light and has managed to remain neutral. This even though, he is the hero of her book.
(3) Just look at the embossed cover, its Wow!!
(4) The length of the book is ideal, anything more would have been tiresome.
What could have been better-
(1) Absolutely Nothing. Only if some kind of words or interview direct from Mr. Rahul Jadhav was added, it would have taken the book to a whole new level.
Recommended to everyone. Especially, biography and non fiction lovers as a whole.
This book has it all. It is a biography of Rahul Jadhav who went by the name of Bhikhu in the underworld. What amazed me is the detailing the author has been able to achieve, right from his childhood to Mr. Rahul's current life. No doubt, author has been helped by an equally amazing life story full of twists. It feels like a work of fiction, only it is 100% true.
The book lays bare the truth of how underworld function. It also gives an insight into how the newbie gangsters think and how they are further drawn into world of crime. Further it also, traces the working of rehabilitation at a personal level for a past addict. Because, in the end it is always about the individual. The ex gangster is now a seasoned runner. A person whose aim was to create terror, now wants to break running records. Brilliant story.
What I liked-
(1) As mentioned, the research and detailings are extreme.
(2) I loved the fact that author has not tried to cast the life of Rahul as Bhiku in positive light and has managed to remain neutral. This even though, he is the hero of her book.
(3) Just look at the embossed cover, its Wow!!
(4) The length of the book is ideal, anything more would have been tiresome.
What could have been better-
(1) Absolutely Nothing. Only if some kind of words or interview direct from Mr. Rahul Jadhav was added, it would have taken the book to a whole new level.
Recommended to everyone. Especially, biography and non fiction lovers as a whole.
November 19, 2020
No human being is a gangster or a hitman by birth. People, surroundings & circumstances, situations both financial and psychological makes someone become one. ‘Gangster on the run’ is such book, a beautiful story narration of a man named Rahul Ramakant Jadhav aka ‘Bhiku’ known in the underworld, how from an innocent boy of Dombivali, Mumbai, he became the most wanted gangster of all time.
If this book was only about how quickly he becomes wealthy and famous not by doing good deeds though, it would become monotonous. Every coin has two sides to it, so does this story. The latter part of the book showcases his downfall and how he ends up being a marathoner.
I completely adored the fact, how the author has kept her narration so crisp. It doesn’t feel like that any information is fabricated rather it is thoroughly researched. Being an award-winning journalist and a critically acclaimed crime book author, she has narrated the whole story in a raw and surprisingly attractive format to the reader’s eyes. Even, the cuss words are written in the same manner similar to how they are uttered in India or can be heard in various web series. Furthermore, I appreciate how the book cover is done, very subtle and apt to the content inside.
However, in my opinion, the pace of the book was a little slow in the middle, perhaps that’s how a non-fiction crime biography is. Not revealing the details further, I heartily recommend any reader to purchase his/her copy of this book to have their own unique experience.
December 3, 2020
Gangster On The Run is a riveting and inspiring tale of a boy Rahul who in a bid to get everything he desired, grows up to become a wanted gangster. Inspired by the cult classic Staya he even changes his name to Bhiku to suit his profession.
However his arrest in 2007 changes his life forever and today that extortionist and hitman is an ultra marathoner who has covered nearly 10,000 kms and aims to shatter the national stadium record.
- The storyline of the book here has been deeply researched and very well narrated.
- It is highly engrossing, fast paced and tightly organised with no open ends. Despite being a work of non fiction the author doesn't let it turn boring and keeps her reader intrigued till the end.
- The story is a honest and detailed account of the life of a criminal who, when got a chance ran away from the dark shadows of the underworld to rise as an inspiration for 100's of such people.
- Through his life journey, the author brilliantly explores the murky world of crime, alcohol, drugs and bullets. The unprecedented ups and downs further adds to the interest of the readers and makes it an unputdownable read.
- Simple and easy to understand language has been employed throughout it's writing.
- To protect the identities of some of the persons involved the author has also used required pseudonyms.
- The cover of the book looks attractive and the title seems totally appropriate wrt the storyline.
Overall for me it was an incredibly inspiring read! Highly Recommended for all.
However his arrest in 2007 changes his life forever and today that extortionist and hitman is an ultra marathoner who has covered nearly 10,000 kms and aims to shatter the national stadium record.
- The storyline of the book here has been deeply researched and very well narrated.
- It is highly engrossing, fast paced and tightly organised with no open ends. Despite being a work of non fiction the author doesn't let it turn boring and keeps her reader intrigued till the end.
- The story is a honest and detailed account of the life of a criminal who, when got a chance ran away from the dark shadows of the underworld to rise as an inspiration for 100's of such people.
- Through his life journey, the author brilliantly explores the murky world of crime, alcohol, drugs and bullets. The unprecedented ups and downs further adds to the interest of the readers and makes it an unputdownable read.
- Simple and easy to understand language has been employed throughout it's writing.
- To protect the identities of some of the persons involved the author has also used required pseudonyms.
- The cover of the book looks attractive and the title seems totally appropriate wrt the storyline.
Overall for me it was an incredibly inspiring read! Highly Recommended for all.
November 15, 2020
Gangster on the run is a true story of a Dombivali Resident ʀᴀʜᴜʟ ᴊᴀᴅʜᴀᴠ, a ɢᴀɴɢꜱᴛᴇʀ, ᴀɴ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ʜɪᴛᴍᴀɴ, ᴀɴ ᴇxᴛᴏʀᴛɪᴏɴɪꜱᴛ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀɴ ᴀʟᴄᴏʜᴏʟɪᴄ.
This book showcases his journey from underworld shooter to becoming a ᴅᴇ-ᴀᴅᴅɪᴄᴛɪᴏɴ ᴄᴏᴜɴꜱᴇʟʟᴏʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀɴ ᴜʟᴛʀᴀ-ᴍᴀʀᴀᴛʜᴏɴᴇʀ.
Born on 11 February 1976 in a lower-middle-class family, Rahul was not happy with the family's limited means. He wanted cash and he thought underworld is the roadmap to easy money.
At the age of 21 he joined a notorious don in Mumbai. He use to threat big people and celebrities at gun point and extort money from them for his boss. He was getting easy flow of money, was enjoying expensive alcohol, bar and bar dancers. Soon he turned into an alcoholic and drug addict but he didn't mind. It Made his work easier. He became the most wanted.
It was in 2007 that he got arrested by Mumbai police.
Read the book to know his full story.
I have never loved a biography so much before. In fact I hardly pick up biography books. I picked this up blindly without reading the blurb. The title attracted me and soon I found myself reading this book.
The story is super intresting and gripping. Inspite of so much details it didn't feel like a drag. The details were tantalizing. I simply couldn't put the book down. Its brilliantly written.
This book showcases his journey from underworld shooter to becoming a ᴅᴇ-ᴀᴅᴅɪᴄᴛɪᴏɴ ᴄᴏᴜɴꜱᴇʟʟᴏʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀɴ ᴜʟᴛʀᴀ-ᴍᴀʀᴀᴛʜᴏɴᴇʀ.
Born on 11 February 1976 in a lower-middle-class family, Rahul was not happy with the family's limited means. He wanted cash and he thought underworld is the roadmap to easy money.
At the age of 21 he joined a notorious don in Mumbai. He use to threat big people and celebrities at gun point and extort money from them for his boss. He was getting easy flow of money, was enjoying expensive alcohol, bar and bar dancers. Soon he turned into an alcoholic and drug addict but he didn't mind. It Made his work easier. He became the most wanted.
It was in 2007 that he got arrested by Mumbai police.
Read the book to know his full story.
I have never loved a biography so much before. In fact I hardly pick up biography books. I picked this up blindly without reading the blurb. The title attracted me and soon I found myself reading this book.
The story is super intresting and gripping. Inspite of so much details it didn't feel like a drag. The details were tantalizing. I simply couldn't put the book down. Its brilliantly written.
December 6, 2020
It is said, “When life gives you a Second chance, give your Best Shot” just like the way Rahul transformed himself from the most wanted gangster to the ultra-marathoner.
The book, “Gangster on the Run” by Puja Changoiwala is a motivational read that takes you through the transformational journey of Rahul from the world of crime to the world of peace and achievements. This book depicts the dedication of a person proving that “Nothing is Impossible” and that life always gives you an opportunity provided you identify and make the most of it.
Well, being a non-fiction reader, I chose this book without any second thought. Also, the appropriate title and embossed cover with Rakesh Maria’s recommendation attracted me the most. So, initially when I started the book, I found it to be at a normal pace but the more I read, the more I was engrossed in it. I must say, the author has done a great job by illustrating the story so beautifully covering all the aspects of Rahul’s life from being a criminal to an ultra-marathoner. The language is simple yet interesting which comes in a perfect length keeping you hooked throughout the book. The detailed insights show that the book is well-researched. So, if you are a fond of biography or looking for a thriller book this is the one you must go for!
The book, “Gangster on the Run” by Puja Changoiwala is a motivational read that takes you through the transformational journey of Rahul from the world of crime to the world of peace and achievements. This book depicts the dedication of a person proving that “Nothing is Impossible” and that life always gives you an opportunity provided you identify and make the most of it.
Well, being a non-fiction reader, I chose this book without any second thought. Also, the appropriate title and embossed cover with Rakesh Maria’s recommendation attracted me the most. So, initially when I started the book, I found it to be at a normal pace but the more I read, the more I was engrossed in it. I must say, the author has done a great job by illustrating the story so beautifully covering all the aspects of Rahul’s life from being a criminal to an ultra-marathoner. The language is simple yet interesting which comes in a perfect length keeping you hooked throughout the book. The detailed insights show that the book is well-researched. So, if you are a fond of biography or looking for a thriller book this is the one you must go for!
October 14, 2020
Gangster, Extortionist, Hitman, Addict these words have no undo option. That world is beyond the understanding of a common man, while for a gangster it's his own world. One can deliberately choose but leaving a dream on their own isn't something everyone can afford.
Puja in her book Gangster on the Road, presented the life of Rahul Jadhav with such a simplicity and his dreams of becoming a man different than his own father. Challenging various social evils poverty, caste, religion that leads a man to an infelicitous path. While a tech expert proved his love for his dreams, of becoming big in no time. With the similar effort all he could do was to find a way to undo his life. He made a choice earlier and later that took him to two different extremities. Once a gangster and later an ultra marathoner.
Puja in her book has mentioned in detail the its and bits of Rahul's life. Along with the history that justifies the story and presented a story beautifully without compromising on any aspect.
Story of Rahul could be an inspiration for some while for me it was my first non fiction that I truly enjoyed.
Puja in her book Gangster on the Road, presented the life of Rahul Jadhav with such a simplicity and his dreams of becoming a man different than his own father. Challenging various social evils poverty, caste, religion that leads a man to an infelicitous path. While a tech expert proved his love for his dreams, of becoming big in no time. With the similar effort all he could do was to find a way to undo his life. He made a choice earlier and later that took him to two different extremities. Once a gangster and later an ultra marathoner.
Puja in her book has mentioned in detail the its and bits of Rahul's life. Along with the history that justifies the story and presented a story beautifully without compromising on any aspect.
Story of Rahul could be an inspiration for some while for me it was my first non fiction that I truly enjoyed.
December 2, 2020
'Gangster On The Run' is the story of 90's Dombivali extortionist and hitmen Rahul Jadhav aka 'Bhiku' his advent into the underworld, his arrogance, petty fame, list and methodology of crime, prison life, judicial trials, fight with drugs and alcoholism and eventually winning over addiction through rehabilitation also giving up heinous crime world.
Today, he is a transformed man, an ultra-marathoner and a de-addiction counsellor.
Unlike many biographies of a gangster who took to crime and addiction due to circumstances, this book doesn't make a heroic defence. Nor does the book slain the Indian police or judicial system. Rather the author has biographed Rahul in the truest sense as a person who finally tears down to guilt and takes up running to make peace with his past by shattering marathon records.
The portrayal of the underworld world, murders and extortion is astonishing. The sacrifice of Rahul's parents and siblings is really heart-breaking.
Puja Changoiwala is an award-winning journalist; her research and writing is wisely reflected in the book.
Recommended for all those who love to read criminal memoirs, true crime biographies and rehabilitation stories.
Today, he is a transformed man, an ultra-marathoner and a de-addiction counsellor.
Unlike many biographies of a gangster who took to crime and addiction due to circumstances, this book doesn't make a heroic defence. Nor does the book slain the Indian police or judicial system. Rather the author has biographed Rahul in the truest sense as a person who finally tears down to guilt and takes up running to make peace with his past by shattering marathon records.
The portrayal of the underworld world, murders and extortion is astonishing. The sacrifice of Rahul's parents and siblings is really heart-breaking.
Puja Changoiwala is an award-winning journalist; her research and writing is wisely reflected in the book.
Recommended for all those who love to read criminal memoirs, true crime biographies and rehabilitation stories.
December 2, 2020
Gangster On The Run is the biography of Rahul Jadhav, born on the then outskirts of Mumbai and grew up with a resolution to achieve whatever he desired, Rahul was a big fan of Bollywood, he even changed his name to Bhiku after the protagonist of the movie Satya. His life was proof of his love for the Bollywood.
In the year 2007, the police were successful in arresting Rahul, but then what happened that made him an inspiration.
Read this book and find out yourself.
This is not an ordinary story of a gangster but a motivational tale of a person who becomes an ultra-marathoner from a gangster.
I like the intense research done by the author which makes this book captivating.
Written in easy to grasp language, this book will surely hold your attention. Even the cover and title do justice with the story of Rahul Jadhav.
I have read a few biographies which were written to improve the effete image of the person but this is not the case here, here the author has presented Rahul the way he was.
If you love reading non-fiction and biographies then this book is surely for you.
In the year 2007, the police were successful in arresting Rahul, but then what happened that made him an inspiration.
Read this book and find out yourself.
This is not an ordinary story of a gangster but a motivational tale of a person who becomes an ultra-marathoner from a gangster.
I like the intense research done by the author which makes this book captivating.
Written in easy to grasp language, this book will surely hold your attention. Even the cover and title do justice with the story of Rahul Jadhav.
I have read a few biographies which were written to improve the effete image of the person but this is not the case here, here the author has presented Rahul the way he was.
If you love reading non-fiction and biographies then this book is surely for you.
April 9, 2025
Gangster on the Run, The True Story of a Reformed Criminal by Puja Changoiwala tells us the story of Rahul Ramakant Jadhav, the man who used to be the man Friday of the underworld don, Jaidev Reddy. Born and brought up in Dombivli, Mumbai, Rahul started his criminal career at the age of eighteen when he successfully extorted money from a Mumbai-based real estate developer for his bosses, the notorious underworld dons, Daya Mahajan and Jaidev Reddy. When Jaidev Reddy and the Daya Mahajan syndicate parted ways, Rahul Ramakant Jadhav decided to go with Jaidev Reddy. Other than extorting money from real estate developers, celebrities of Bollywood, and politicians, Rahul was also involved in Hawala and many shootouts. Being an MCOCA accused (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act), Rahul spent almost three years in jail. Later on, he got acquitted of his cases and reformed his life as a normal man and started participating in marathons as a pro-marathon runner.
November 16, 2020
The book "Gangster on the run" belongs to true crime genre and it was my first ever book from the same genre. I always wanted to read books related to this genre and I am so glad that I got a chance to read this book.
The plot of this book is based on Rahul Jadhav's journey from being an ambitious kid to being a gangster. It's all about the various circumstances or situations that made the protagonist to choose this dangerous path and also, about his life as a gangster.
The author has done a wonderful job by doing a lot of research about the life of the protagonist and also, narrating it in a brilliant and interesting way. The cover looks pretty interesting and it goes well with the plot of the book. Language was really simple and lucid. Overall it was an interesting read. I would recommend this book to everyone who enjoys true crime genre.
The plot of this book is based on Rahul Jadhav's journey from being an ambitious kid to being a gangster. It's all about the various circumstances or situations that made the protagonist to choose this dangerous path and also, about his life as a gangster.
The author has done a wonderful job by doing a lot of research about the life of the protagonist and also, narrating it in a brilliant and interesting way. The cover looks pretty interesting and it goes well with the plot of the book. Language was really simple and lucid. Overall it was an interesting read. I would recommend this book to everyone who enjoys true crime genre.
October 14, 2020
Author Puja Changoiwala have beautifully written the biography of one of the most trusted and dangerous pawn of Underworld don Reddy...
The book takes us to the journey as how a boy from Dombivali began doing petty theft, moved on to become a gangster and then came back on a steady track
Book is basically divided into two parts...first involves the rise of Rahul as a gangster...the second basically deals with how a drug addict, extortionist and gangster steadily came up through the strong clutches..how he proved his innocence though not being the one
Book also involves how flexible Indian constitution is and the bizzare work of police department in convincing the accused to spit out the information required for the investigation
The book takes us to the journey as how a boy from Dombivali began doing petty theft, moved on to become a gangster and then came back on a steady track
Book is basically divided into two parts...first involves the rise of Rahul as a gangster...the second basically deals with how a drug addict, extortionist and gangster steadily came up through the strong clutches..how he proved his innocence though not being the one
Book also involves how flexible Indian constitution is and the bizzare work of police department in convincing the accused to spit out the information required for the investigation
November 12, 2020
A non-fiction real life story of gangster Rahul Jadhav, the book documents the journey of a teenager from a humble family background who loved to paint and cycle in the neighborhood but found life as an extortionist and gangster more lucrative than what a college degree could give. A young boy disgruntled with monetary situation at home Rahul Jhadav, was drawn to the power and money that underworld commanded, found it fascinating and gravitated towards a life of crime. He chose continue his adventures in underbelly of Mumbai, ignoring his lover who implored him to change.
An engaging and riveting story that takes the reader in the murky underbelly of Mumbai through rahul's life and sees him emerge out of the depths of crime into a life as a 'gentleman'.
Must read
An engaging and riveting story that takes the reader in the murky underbelly of Mumbai through rahul's life and sees him emerge out of the depths of crime into a life as a 'gentleman'.
Must read
November 13, 2020
Puja Changiowala’s ‘Gangster on the Run: The True Story of a Reformed Criminal’ is the story of Rahul Ramakant Jadhav, a boy who grew up to become a criminal. Born in a lower-middle-class family, Rahul gradually gives way to his criminal instincts and grows up wanting to be a feared Don of crime. I liked the beginning of the book when Rahul loses his friend Dina, a girl who is six years elder to him when she commits suicide. Read the rest of the review here.
December 1, 2020
To begin with, the cover of the book is really good. I liked the slant concept designer used, it really suits the concept
This book was like a bollywood mafia movie like me, like it was that relatable. I could literally imagine the words in a movie form. Language is really easy and a fast pace keeps you hooked from the first page itself. The storyline is really interesting and facts adds like a cherry on the cake
If you are ready for a Bollywood style mafia theme book then this book is definitely your pick.
This book was like a bollywood mafia movie like me, like it was that relatable. I could literally imagine the words in a movie form. Language is really easy and a fast pace keeps you hooked from the first page itself. The storyline is really interesting and facts adds like a cherry on the cake
If you are ready for a Bollywood style mafia theme book then this book is definitely your pick.
September 23, 2020
Highly recommended!!
What a marvelous story and so beautifully written! I bought this book after I read an excerpt from it in a national newspaper, and I'm so glad I did. It's basically the TRUE STORY of a gangster who turned his life around and it left me so, so inspired.
The writer has done a brilliant job! Such close attention to details - you can tell that only a reporter's eye could catch such nuances. Very rarely do you come across such gems. I cannot recommend it enough!
What a marvelous story and so beautifully written! I bought this book after I read an excerpt from it in a national newspaper, and I'm so glad I did. It's basically the TRUE STORY of a gangster who turned his life around and it left me so, so inspired.
The writer has done a brilliant job! Such close attention to details - you can tell that only a reporter's eye could catch such nuances. Very rarely do you come across such gems. I cannot recommend it enough!
September 27, 2020
The book has a double advantage - a great true story and a great storyteller. Right from the childhood days of the protagonist to him becoming the Man Friday of one of India's most wanted dons to his eventual transformation, every detail is so intriguing and so beautifully narrated. Commendable research, certainly because the writer is a crime reporter. The book highlights not just her writing skills, but also her strong journalistic abilities. A must, must read.
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