Media365
It has been said that the Hindi film industry was heavily influenced by underworld don Dawood Ibrahim in the past. However, most stars avoid discussing him openly. During a recent interaction, journalist and author Hussain Zaidi spoke about Dawood’s close ties with Bollywood stars, producers, and directors. He disclosed that superstars like Rishi Kapoor and Dilip Kumar had connections with Dawood and that, at one time, being associated with him was seen as a mark of prestige.
Did Dilip Kumar and Rishi Kapoor accept expensive gifts from Dawood Ibrahim in past? A journalist made shocking revelations
In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, Hussain revealed that Dawood Ibrahim maintained close connections with many prominent producers and actors of that time, often hosting them in Dubai. Explaining Dawood’s interest in the film industry, he said, “Dawood didn’t want to earn money from films; he simply loved Hindi cinema. He loved all the heroines. For all the film stars who would travel to Dubai, Dawood used to organise dinner for them. For instance, Dilip Kumar, Rishi Kapoor, Amjad Khan… These people have even talked about it in their interviews about meeting Dawood. He has also given them expensive gifts. So, he wasn’t interested in Hindi films with the purpose of earning money. He just wanted to hobnob with them and be seen in that company.”
Hussain, who had previously interviewed Dawood regarding allegations of extortion in the Hindi film industry, recalled asking him about his involvement in Bollywood. “I asked him why he was terrorising the industry, and he told me, ‘I love the film industry; they don’t need to be scared of me.’ This trend started with Abu Salem, who would extort money from filmmakers,” he shared.
Zaidi highlighted Dawood’s influence over Bollywood, pointing out how many in the industry openly boasted about their connection with him. “He knew everyone—producers, directors, stars, and actresses. During that time, people spoke about their friendship with Dawood as a thing to be proud of. I won’t name anyone, but they would say things like, ‘I just spoke to bhai on the phone.’
Speaking to Dawood was a thing to be proud of. Because the police didn’t have a strong grip at that time, everyone was in touch with him. They saw nothing wrong in being in touch with him.” Hussain also revealed how Dawood used the film industry to turn his black money into white.
