Is the story of Once Upon a Time in Mumbai true 2024?

As a cultural and historical analyst with a keen interest in cinema, I often delve into the intersections of film and reality. When it comes to the question of whether the story of "Once Upon a Time in Mumbai" is true, it's important to approach the topic with a nuanced understanding of the distinction between fact and fiction, especially within the context of a cinematic narrative.
"Once Upon a Time in Mumbai" is a 2010 Indian film directed by Milan Luthria that explores the evolution of the Mumbai underworld. The film is a blend of fact and fiction, using real-life events and figures as a springboard for a dramatic and engaging story. It is indeed believed to be inspired by the lives of notorious real-life gangsters Haji Mastan and Dawood Ibrahim, who are portrayed by the characters Sultan and Shoaib, respectively. However, it's crucial to recognize that the film is a work of fiction that takes creative liberties to craft a compelling narrative.
The film's depiction of the underworld's growth from its early stages of crime and smuggling to its later connections with international terrorism is a reflection of the complex and often dark history of organized crime in Mumbai. While there are certainly elements that are grounded in truth, the film also employs exaggeration and dramatization to heighten the emotional impact and entertainment value for the audience.
Haji Mastan, a figure central to the Mumbai underworld in the mid-20th century, was known for his involvement in smuggling and organized crime. His life story has been a subject of fascination and has inspired various works of art, including films. Dawood Ibrahim, on the other hand, is a more controversial figure, often linked to global terrorism and still at the center of many unresolved legal and ethical debates.
In creating the characters of Sultan and Shoaib, the filmmakers have taken elements from the lives of these real individuals but have crafted characters that are products of their imagination. The narrative arc, the relationships, and the conflicts presented in the film are designed to provide a dramatic portrayal of the underworld, rather than a documentary-style recounting of events.
It's also worth noting that the film does not claim to be a biographical account or a historical documentary. It is a work of fiction that uses real-life inspirations to tell a story that is engaging and thought-provoking. The filmmakers have taken the liberty to fictionalize and dramatize certain aspects to create a cinematic experience that resonates with audiences.
In conclusion, while "Once Upon a Time in Mumbai" draws from the lives of real gangsters and the history of the Mumbai underworld, it is not a true story in the strictest sense. It is a fictionalized account that uses real-life events and figures to tell a dramatic story. As with any work of art inspired by true events, it's essential to appreciate the film for its narrative and artistic merits while recognizing the distinction between the film's portrayal and the actual historical events and individuals it is inspired by.

The film depicts the growth of the Mumbai underworld, from crime and smuggling in its early stages to its connection with international terrorism in recent times. It is believed to be based on the lives of real-life gangsters Haji Mastan and Dawood Ibrahim, portrayed by the characters Sultan and Shoaib, respectively.