Before diving into the web series, it's crucial to understand the scale of the real crime that inspired it.
: This is the official title of the series. Created by Applause Entertainment and SonyLIV, the show chronicles the rise and fall of Abdul Karim Telgi, the mastermind behind the infamous 2003 stamp paper counterfeiting scandal in India.
The concluding five episodes explore the "golden handcuffs" Telgi placed on high-ranking officials and politicians.
: Telgi discovers a loophole in the government's stamp paper distribution and begins printing high-quality fakes.
From a dingy room in Karnataka, Telgi had reverse-engineered the government’s own printing process. He knew the watermark, the texture, the fiber composition. He knew that the biggest banks, the richest brokers, and even the police would look the other way if the paper bore the right seal.
However, it's essential to note that the series is based on real events and individuals. While some artistic liberties may have been taken, the show's creators have done an excellent job of staying true to the spirit of Telgi's story.
The narrative shifts focus toward the relentless law enforcement officers who refused to be bought. The introduction of dedicated investigative units acts as the perfect foil to Telgi's fading genius.