Nayakan

An anti-hero who rises from the Dharavi underbelly to become the king of Bombay’s harbor, Velu’s arc blends bold leadership with moral ambiguity. Driven by the murder of his father and a desire to protect his loved ones, he navigates crime, politics, and public adulation. His relationships, especially with Neela, define his humanity even as he rules with an iron will.

A schoolgirl coerced into prostitution who captures Velu’s heart and stands by him as his partner and moral compass. Her courage and innocence make her a pivotal influence in Velu’s evolution and in portraying the human cost of his world. Her death becomes a turning point in Velu’s crusade and Leans toward vengeance.

A kind-hearted smuggler who raises Velu in the Dharavi slums, shaping Velu’s early sense of loyalty and survival. He represents the paternal figure in the underworld who offers trust and a code of mutual aid. When illness strands Hussain, Velu steps into the family business with growing power.

A corrupt police inspector whose machinations cause the killing of Velu’s ally and father figure, driving Velu’s later acts of vengeance. His manipulation of law and order embodies the systemic rot Velu confronts. Velu’s killing of Kelkar marks a pivotal point of violent justice.

A lawman tasked with eradicating Velu’s criminal empire, Patil becomes entangled in the family drama when Velu’s daughter Charumathi is involved. His pursuit highlights the thin line between legal authority and personal grievance against Velu. The eventual exposure of shared secrets complicates the case against Velu.

Velu’s son who initially hesitates but later follows in Velu’s footsteps, embodying a generational shift. His presence shows the potential for legacy and tragedy within Velu’s world. He dies in a petrol bunk explosion, underscoring the peril that shadows Velu’s rise.

Velu’s daughter who marries Patil and represents the next generation caught between Velu’s world and the state. Her life becomes a fulcrum around which Velu’s public persona and private family life collide. The revelation of her connections probes the ethics and consequences of Velu’s choices.

The adult son of Inspector Kelkar, who reacts with shock upon learning the truth behind his father's death. His actions culminate in avenging his father's death, bringing a personal reckoning to Velu’s legend.

Velu’s father, Rathnavelu Naicker, plays a crucial role in Velu’s early life and his sense of loyalty to family. His memory and legacy fuel Velu’s drive to protect his kin and leadership in the harbor.