MUMBAI, India – February 13, 2026
The much-anticipated crime drama O Romeo hit theaters on February 13, reigniting public interest in one of Mumbai’s most talked-about underworld figures — Hussain Ustara.
Portrayed by Shahid Kapoor, the character is inspired by accounts from the book Mafia Queens of Mumbai written by crime journalist Hussain Zaidi. The film also stars Triptii Dimri and is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, known for films such as Haider and Kaminey. The movie is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala.
Who Was Hussain Ustara?
According to media reports and crime literature, Hussain Ustara’s real name was Hussain Shaikh. He reportedly grew up in the outskirts of Mumbai and entered the criminal underworld through street fights and extortion activities.
Reports suggest that he gradually became a contract killer, taking on assignments ranging from intimidation and debt recovery to violent enforcement. His name later surfaced in discussions surrounding alleged rivalries within Mumbai’s underworld.
Alleged Rivalry With Dawood Ibrahim
Hussain Ustara’s reported hostility toward fugitive underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim has long been referenced in crime narratives. Accounts suggest that clashes over territorial control and competing interests led to escalating tensions between the two camps.
Observers of Mumbai’s crime history claim that Ustara’s decision to operate independently intensified the rivalry, transforming it into a broader power struggle within the underworld ecosystem.
How Did Hussain Ustara Die?
According to various media accounts, Hussain Ustara died in 1998. Reports at the time suggested he was allegedly killed by individuals associated with the network of Chhota Shakeel, a close aide of Dawood Ibrahim.
While many details of these events remain based on journalistic sources and underworld accounts, the narrative has become part of Mumbai’s crime folklore.
Film Rekindles Public Interest
With O Romeo now in theaters, Hussain Ustara’s story has resurfaced in mainstream conversation. The film dramatizes elements of the underworld era while blending fact and cinematic interpretation.
Filmmakers have positioned the movie as an adaptation inspired by published crime accounts rather than a documentary depiction of historical events.
