Arun Gawli, famously known as “Daddy”, has re-emerged in the public eye following his release on bail in September 2025 after nearly 18 years behind bars. A notorious figure who transitioned from underworld don to legislator, Gawli’s life reflects Mumbai’s gritty crime-politics nexus.
Quick Highlights – Arun Gawli 2025 Update
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Arun Gulab Gawli (also known as Arun Gulab Ahir) |
| Born | 17 July 1955, Ahmednagar (Maharashtra) |
| Criminal Activity | Former Underworld Don—rival of Dawood Ibrahim’s D‑Company |
| Political Role | Founder—Akhil Bharatiya Sena; MLA (2004–2009) from Chinchpokli, Mumbai |
| Conviction | Life imprisonment (2012) for 2007 Shiv Sena corporator murder |
| Recent Development | Granted bail by Supreme Court—released September 2025 |
| Appeal Timeline | SC granted bail (Aug 2025), final hearing set for February 2026 |
| Current Focus | Ready to reunite with family after long incarceration |
Who Is Arun Gawli?
Born in 1955 in Ahmednagar, Gawli began his career as a factory worker in Mumbai. His underworld entry started after joining the Byculla Company, a gang led by Rama Naik and Babu Reshim. In 1988, Gawli took over the gang after Naik’s death and consolidated power from his stronghold—Dagdi Chawl, Byculla .
Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, he was a major rival of Dawood Ibrahim, steering violent gang wars until Gawli’s arrest in 1994 . Transitioning into politics, he founded the Akhil Bharatiya Sena and was elected as an MLA in 2004 .
Crime, Conviction & Acquittal
Gawli’s downfall began with his arrest in connection to the 2007 murder of Shiv Sena corporator Kamlakar Jamsandekar. In 2012, a sessions court convicted him and handed down life imprisonment and a ₹17 lakh fine under the MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) .
In parallel, a separate 2008 extortion case failed to hold due to insufficient evidence, and Gawli along with his brother and associates were acquitted.
Bail Granted After 18 Years
In August 2025, the Supreme Court granted Gawli bail, citing his age and prolonged incarceration—his appeal was pending. The court’s order led to his release from Nagpur Central Jail in early September 2025 after nearly 18 years behind bars.
Gawli expressed gratitude toward the judiciary and noted that he has only received “partial justice.” He expressed his desire to spend time with his family—especially grandchildren—and care for an ailing relative . A final hearing on his appeal and premature release application is scheduled for February 2026 .
Popular Culture & Media Portrayals
Arun Gawli’s life inspired Marathi and Hindi cinema:
Dagadi Chawl (2015) featured a character loosely based on him.
Daddy (2017) is a high-profile biographical film starring Arjun Rampal, focusing on Gawli’s life and rise as a don-turned-politician.
Elements of his life also influenced characters in the popular series Sacred Games.
FAQs – Arun Gawli’s Return
Q1. Why was Arun Gawli released on bail now?
A: The Supreme Court granted bail citing his long incarceration (nearly 18 years) and old age, while his appeal remains pending.
Q2. What major crime was he convicted for?
A: The 2007 murder of Shiv Sena corporator Kamlakar Jamsandekar. He was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2012 and fined ₹17 lakh.
Q3. Has he faced any other convictions?
A: No. He was acquitted in a separate 2008 extortion case due to weak evidence.
Q4. What are his next legal steps?
A: Final hearings are scheduled for February 2026 to decide on his pending appeals and premature release petition
Final Words: A Cautious Homecoming
Arun Gawli’s release marks a dramatic chapter in the annals of Mumbai’s underworld and political scene. From a factory worker to crime lord, politician, and now a freed convict—his journey underscores the blurred boundaries between crime and power. Now freed, Gawli aims to reconnect with loved ones, but the road ahead remains entangled in legal complexities.
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