5.34 Hussain Zaidi: Capturing Criminals With India’s Biggest Crime Writer

What does it take for a national hero to be deemed a deadly criminal?Join your host Michelle, as she dives into conversation with Hussain Zaidi, author of “R.A.W. Hitman: The Real Story of Agent Lima”, as he talks about covering the story of Lucky Bisht, who was convicted for the alleged murder of two notorious criminals. In his book, he uncovers how a 16-year-old ended up being “a fantabulous killing machine”. In this episode, you’ll hear how Hussain Zaidi accidentally hurtled headfirst into crime journalism and how he escaped getting shot in Iraq by bonding over Bollywood and Amitabh Bachchan.Tune in to hear more stories about his growth as a crime journalist, how he convinced Lucky Bisht to tell his story, and the trouble he faced getting it published.Authors  mentioned in this episode:Vikram ChandraNeeraj KumarBooks and series mentioned in this episode:Dongri to Dubai- Hussain ZaidiThe Lincoln Lawyer (Series)Bambai Meri Jaan- Dir. Shujaat SaudagarProduced by Aishwarya JavalgekarSound edit by Kshitij JadhavApplications for The Bound Publishing Course 2026 are now open.The Bound Publishing Course is a 3-month intensive course on book, magazine, and digital publishing. Through live sessions, workshops, and industry-facing projects, participants gain practical publishing skills and exposure to careers across the industry.Cohort size: 50 seatsFirst round of acceptances: 15th June 2026Applications are reviewed on a rolling bas‘Books and Beyond with Bound’ is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D’costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India’s finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.