This intense financial drama took the Indian OTT space by storm, winning hearts with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable performances.
Published: September 13, 2025 5:16 PM IST
In 2020, a gripping financial thriller captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and stellar performances. This series delves into the life of a man who rose from humble beginnings to become a significant figure in India’s stock market, only to face a dramatic downfall.
Which series is this?
The series is Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story, directed by Hansal Mehta. Based on the book The Scam: Who Won, Who Lost, Who Got Away by journalists Sucheta Dalal and Debashis Basu, the show chronicles the meteoric rise and fall of stockbroker Harshad Mehta in the 1980s and 1990s. Pratik Gandhi’s portrayal of Mehta earned widespread acclaim, bringing depth to the character’s ambition and eventual unraveling.
What makes it stand out?
The series received critical acclaim for its meticulous storytelling, period-accurate production design, and compelling performances. It achieved a remarkable IMDb rating of 9.3 out of 10, surpassing globally renowned series like Breaking Bad and Chernobyl. The show’s success marked a significant moment for Indian web series on the global stage.
What is the storyline?
The storyline of Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story follows the dramatic rise and fall of Harshad Mehta (played by Pratik Gandhi), a stockbroker who changed the face of the Indian stock market in the early 1990s. Set in Mumbai, the series begins with Harshad’s modest beginnings and ambition to break into the financial world. With sharp market instincts and an aggressive approach, he starts manipulating loopholes in the banking system to push stock prices and build massive wealth. His success earns him fame, the nickname “The Big Bull,” and the envy of many.
However, his empire begins to crumble when journalist Sucheta Dalal uncovers the Rs 5,000 crore securities scam involving public money and fake bank receipts. As investigations unfold, Harshad faces legal battles, media scrutiny, and personal downfall, turning him from a hero to a villain in the eyes of the public.
More about Scam 1992
The role not only showcased his acting range but also earned him widespread critical acclaim and a massive fan following. Overnight, Pratik became a household name, leading to major film and OTT offers in Hindi. The series turned him from a regional talent into a pan-India star, making Scam 1992 the ultimate breakthrough in his acting journey.
Story Highlights for Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story
- Follows the real-life rise and fall of stockbroker Harshad Mehta during the 1992 Indian stock market scam.
- Pratik Gandhi’s portrayal of Harshad Mehta became a breakout role, earning him national fame.
- Based on the book The Scam by Sucheta Dalal and Debashis Basu, it explores the loopholes in India’s financial system.
- Achieved a record-breaking IMDb rating of 9.3, placing it above global hits like Breaking Bad and Chernobyl.
Scam 1992 not only raised the bar for Indian web series but also redefined how real-life financial crimes are portrayed on screen. With its gripping plot, authentic performances, and a nuanced look at ambition and downfall, the series became a benchmark in Indian OTT storytelling.
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