In Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, Kanhaiyalal Khatik—popularly known as ‘Goldman’—has reportedly received a major extortion threat from gangster Rohit Godara’s associates. In WhatsApp call, he was allegedly asked to pay Rs 5 crore, with threats of severe consequences if he refused. But who is this man known for wearing nearly 3.5 kg of gold, and how did he transform from a roadside vegetable vendor to Rajasthan’s famous ‘Goldman’?
From vegetable cart to ‘Bappi Lahiri of Mewar’
Kanhaiyalal, affectionately called the “Bappi Lahiri of Mewar,” rose to fame due to his massive gold jewellery collection. But his journey is nothing short of cinematic. Around 25 years ago, he used to push a vegetable cart on the streets of Chittorgarh.
According to media reports, during that time a friend once lent him a two-tola gold chain to wear. That moment sparked Kanhaiyalal’s fascination with gold.
Soon after, his business of sourcing apples from Kashmir and selling them in Chittorgarh flourished. As profits grew, he began indulging in his passion for wearing gold. Over time, his distinct appearance and love for heavy gold jewellery gave him the title of Rajasthan’s ‘Goldman’. Locally, he is also known as Kanji Khatik.
What did the threat say?
Recently, Kanhaiyalal received a missed call on WhatsApp from an unknown number, followed by a WhatsApp call and an audio recording. In the clip, the caller demanded Rs 5 crore in extortion.
In the recording, the caller identified himself as a member of the Rohit Godara gang and said:
“When Rahul calls, speak to him. Do something that works for both sides, otherwise you won’t be in a condition to wear gold anymore.”
Shortly after, another call came in demanding Rs 5 crore as extortion.
Following the threat, Kanhaiyalal immediately informed the City Kotwali Police Station. Police have registered a case of extortion and intimidation and have begun their investigation.
