The Enigmatic Legacy of Natwarlal: India’s Legendary Conman

Pushkar Navin
2 min readMar 14, 2024

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In disguise vs real face

In the annals of Indian history, one name stands out among the rest when it comes to the art of deception and swindling - Natwarlal. Born Mithilesh Kumar Srivastava in 1912 in Bihar, India, he would later adopt the alias Natwarlal, a name that would become synonymous with audacious scams and unbelievable cons.

The Early Years

Natwarlal's early life is somewhat shrouded in mystery, much like many aspects of his later exploits. Little is known about his upbringing, but it's clear that he possessed a sharp mind and a gift for manipulation from a young age. These traits would serve him well in his future endeavors.

The Rise of a Master Conman

Natwarlal's notoriety began to grow as he embarked on a career of deceit and trickery. He was a master of disguise, able to impersonate various personas with uncanny accuracy. Whether posing as a government official, a businessman, or even a member of the Indian elite, Natwarlal could charm his way into the trust of his victims with ease.

Unbelievable Exploits

Throughout his career, Natwarlal pulled off a series of mind-boggling scams that left authorities and the public alike dumbfounded. Perhaps his most infamous scheme involved selling iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, and even the Parliament House of India. These audacious cons captured the imagination of the Indian populace and earned Natwarlal a reputation as a folk hero of sorts.

The Great Escape Artist

What truly set Natwarlal apart from other conmen was his remarkable ability to evade capture. Despite being arrested multiple times, he always managed to slip through the authorities' fingers, earning him the nickname "The Great Escape Artist." His cunning and resourcefulness made him a legend in his own time and a source of endless fascination for years to come.

Legacy and Influence

Natwarlal's life and exploits have inspired countless books, movies, and television shows, cementing his place in Indian folklore. He remains a symbol of rebellion against authority and a testament to the power of wit and charm. While his methods may have been dubious, there's no denying the enduring legacy of India's greatest conman.

Conclusion

In the annals of history, few figures loom as large as Natwarlal. His life story reads like a thrilling adventure, full of twists, turns, and larger-than-life characters. While his deeds may have been morally questionable, there's no denying the impact he had on the collective imagination of a nation. Love him or hate him, Natwarlal will forever be remembered as India's legendary conman.

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Pushkar Navin

Teen blogger: Navigating life's twists with humor, insight, and a dash of rebellion. Sharing stories, dreams, and teenage musings. #TeenBloggerLife