When Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story premiered on SonyLIV, it took India by storm. Directed by Hansal Mehta and based on the book The Scam: Who Won, Who Lost, Who Got Away by Sucheta Dalal and Debashis Basu, the series dives deep into one of the most sensational financial frauds in Indian history.

Starring Pratik Gandhi as Harshad Mehta, the show chronicles the meteoric rise of a stockbroker who exploited systemic loopholes in India’s banking system to manipulate the stock market—and how it all came crashing down.

Who Was Harshad Mehta?

Harshad Mehta, often dubbed the “Amitabh Bachchan of the Stock Market,” was a stockbroker who changed the way India looked at investing. Hailing from a middle-class Gujarati family, he moved to Mumbai and entered the world of finance in the 1980s. By the early 90s, he had become a household name, known for his extravagant lifestyle, bullish approach, and ability to make stock prices soar.

But behind the glitz was a dark secret—a web of banking frauds amounting to over ₹4,000 crore (around $1.3 billion at the time). His illegal manipulation of banking receipts and securities rocked the foundations of the Indian financial system and led to widespread reforms in how stock markets operate today.

Why Scam 1992 Became a Phenomenon

The show’s success can be attributed to its gripping storytelling, powerful performances, and authenticity. Here are a few reasons why Scam 1992 resonated so deeply with audiences:

• Detailed Characterization: Pratik Gandhi’s portrayal of Harshad Mehta was widely praised. He brought a mix of charm, confidence, and vulnerability to the role, making it easy for viewers to understand Mehta’s ambitions and eventual downfall.
   
• Realism: The creators paid close attention to historical accuracy, from stock trading floor setups to the 90s Mumbai aesthetics.
   
• Engaging Narrative: The series balanced technical financial details with human drama, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with stock markets.
   
• Strong Supporting Cast: Shreya Dhanwanthary as journalist Sucheta Dalal brought depth and intensity, highlighting the critical role of investigative journalism.

Harshad Mehta’s Impact on the Stock Market

Harshad Mehta’s scam exposed the vulnerabilities in India’s banking and financial sectors. It led to regulatory changes, including the strengthening of SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) and reforms in banking transparency and stock trading practices.

He also fundamentally changed retail investors' perception of the stock market. For many, his story was a cautionary tale—a lesson on how unchecked ambition and greed can lead to ruin.

Harshad Mehta Net Worth at His Peak

At the height of his influence in the early 1990s, Harshad Mehta’s net worth was estimated to be in the hundreds of crores. He owned multiple luxury cars, a lavish sea-facing apartment, and had direct influence over major market movements. Some reports suggest he was worth over ₹1,000 crore before his downfall. However, post-scam investigations revealed the shaky foundations of his wealth.

Even decades later, curiosity around Harshad Mehta net worth continues to draw interest, symbolizing both the heights of ambition and the consequences of unchecked greed.

Final Thoughts

Scam 1992 is more than just a crime drama—it’s a reflection on ambition, systemic flaws, and the human cost of financial fraud. It reignited public interest in one of the most pivotal moments in Indian financial history and served as a reminder that no matter how high one rises, accountability is inevitable.

Whether you're a finance enthusiast or a fan of compelling storytelling, Scam 1992 is a must-watch. And if you’ve ever wondered about Harshad Mehta net worth, you’re not alone—it remains one of the most searched aspects of his incredible yet cautionary tale.