Haseena Parkar (2017), directed by Apoorva Lakhia, is a biographical crime drama that delves into the life of Haseena Parkar, the sister of India’s most wanted fugitive, Dawood Ibrahim. The film chronicles her transformation from a timid young woman into the formidable “Aapa” of Mumbai’s underworld. The narrative unfolds through courtroom sequences where Haseena recounts her journey, highlighting her marriage to Ismail Parkar, his subsequent murder by a rival gang, and her alleged involvement in her brother’s criminal empire. Despite facing 88 cases, she maintains her innocence, asserting that she was merely a victim of circumstances.
Shraddha Kapoor portrays Haseena Parkar, delivering a performance that captures the character’s evolution, though some critics felt it lacked depth in portraying her later years. Siddhanth Kapoor, Shraddha’s real-life brother, plays Dawood Ibrahim, bringing a nuanced portrayal to the role. While the film boasts commendable production design and attempts to shed light on a lesser-known figure in India’s criminal history, it received mixed reviews for its screenplay and character development. Overall, Haseena Parkar offers a glimpse into the complexities of familial ties and the blurred lines between victimhood and complicity in the world of crime.