Meow Meow: The Incredible True Story of Baby Patankar : Book Review

Srinath Rao’s Meow Meow explores the incredible true story of Shashikala 'Baby' Patankar, revealing her rise in Mumbai's drug trade and the complex socio-political backdrop.

on Aug 06, 2024

Srinath Rao’s Meow Meow: The Incredible True Story of Baby Patankar offers a riveting exploration into one of Mumbai's most perplexing crime narratives. The book unveils the life of Shashikala 'Baby' Patankar, a woman ensnared in the city's drug underworld and the public's sensationalist gaze.

On March 9, 2015, Mumbai Police constable Dharmaraj Kalokhe was apprehended with a white powder suspected to be the synthetic drug Mephedrone, also known as 'Meow Meow'. His partner, Shashikala Patankar, who was initially seen as an informant, quickly found herself entangled in a web of accusations and media frenzy. Rao’s narrative delves deeply into this bewildering case, shedding light on the intricate investigation and the broader implications of Mephedrone’s rise in Mumbai.

Rao’s writing is both erudite and engaging, balancing a journalistic rigor with a compelling narrative style. He meticulously constructs a three-dimensional portrait of Baby Patankar, weaving together personal anecdotes, interviews, and archival material. Rao's access to Patankar herself, alongside various key figures—from habitual drug users to veteran cops—adds authenticity and depth to the story. This blend of perspectives paints a vivid picture of Mumbai’s socio-political landscape during the drug’s prevalence.

The book’s detailed account of Patankar’s rise from a tough, poverty-stricken background to becoming a significant player in Mumbai’s drug trade offers readers an engrossing tale of resilience and ingenuity. Patankar’s initial foray into crime through brown sugar and real estate investments, her eventual involvement with mephedrone, and her dramatic turn to becoming an informant are portrayed with both sensitivity and analytical depth.

Rao also enriches the narrative with a socio-historical context of Mumbai, painting a broader picture of the city’s evolution, including its marginalized communities and evolving drug laws. His portrayal of the Mumbai police’s internal dynamics, jurisdictional disputes, and individual backgrounds adds a layer of authenticity and complexity to the story.

Meow Meow is not just a gripping true-crime account; it’s a thoughtful examination of the human elements behind the headlines. Rao’s meticulous research and narrative skill ensure that Baby Patankar’s story resonates with readers, providing both a thrilling and insightful look into one of Mumbai’s most baffling criminal cases.