Original subtitles

[soothing music]

Name?

Anju.

Why did you ask so?

Chechi, I meant what name should I write on the cake.

Well...

Uhm...

Let's do this.

Write 'Baby'.

Whoa!

Who's this 'baby'?

My daughter.

Eh! No way!

It's true.

You are always kidding around.

Ask me.

Ask me where she is now.

Tell me, chechi.

Look, right here.

Huh?

This is different from what used to happen.

Today, we completed the first scan.

-Really? -Yes.

Make it fast.

I sneaked out in the name of lunch break.

A small suprise for the doctor.

-That's all. -Wow!

It's been 7-8 years, right?

Eight?

It's fourteen.

[yelps]

You know...

there's a difference between wishing and longing.

Many people wish to have children.

But, mine was a deep longing.

I was hell-bent.

[smiles]

[knocks on door]

Yes, come in.

[door creaks open]

Hey Anju, come in.

What's this?

Are you tired of the canteen food?

Outside food doesn't seem so safe.

Actually, I didn't go out for food.

I thought of buying a small token of happiness.

Nothing else, but a bit of sweet.

A small surprise.

What's this?

Who asked you all this?

It is too early.

I've told you many times.

It's best not to get too excited or upset about these things.

Anything can happen at any time.

Okay.

Not too much...

But I can be a little happy, right?

Happiness...

You haven't forgotten about the prior experiences, right?

[ominous music]

Anju...

You are a very brave person. I know that.

But...

this is

different from every other time.

You...

you should be stronger than ever before.

As per the assessment,

this is a molar pregnancy.

we can't go ahead with this.

So...

you mean... should I wait again?

Listen, Anju...

This is entirely different from what has happened before.

It's really complicated.

I understand your desire for a child more than anyone,

but unfortunately, I can't help you this time.

all our efforts seem destined to be put to an end.

What? Put to an end!?

I'm prioritizing your life more than anything else.

After going through the scan report...

all I have for treatment is one option,

that's the removal of uterus.

At the moment,

I could only proiritize your life--

Anju...

Anju, one minute.

Anju!

Anju, wait!

Anju, please!

Let me explain.

Please sit here.

Please!

Sit here.

[mournful light music]

[baby crying in the background]

[phone rings]

Ma'am...

Can you carry my kid?

I have to pick up a call.

Hey, don't give the kid to strangers.

Sorry ma'am.

[crying]

[sobbing]

'AM AH'

Bro, 2 tickets to Kavantha.

Oh no! The bus won't go up there. You'd have to call on a jeep from the last stop.

♪ Beyond the sight, ignites a fiery dream ♪

♪ In parched groves, there's an unseen spring of mercy ♪

♪ Kavantha, no one has ever seen, back in the day ♪

♪ Kavantha, no one has ever climbed, back in the day ♪

♪ Beyond the sight, ignites a fiery dream ♪

♪ In parched groves, there's an unseen spring of mercy ♪

♪ Alphs and Rockies spread mighty ♪

♪ Flows between them a river's rhythm ♪

♪ Beware the eddies, time's deadly snare ♪

♪ And Kavantha awaits with a trap ♪

♪ Beyond the sight, ignites a fiery dream ♪

♪ In parched groves, there's an unseen spring of mercy ♪

[bus rumbling]

[Attendant] Get down quickly, sister.

The temple and monastery are nearby, right?

Over there.

Once you turn that way, you'll see them.

There's a short uphill climb, though.

Be careful, it might be slippery.

Actually, I'm not here for the temple.

I'm the supervisor for the rest of the road tarring project in this area.

The roadwork will start soon.

That's good news.

The member asked me to get down here.

Hey Subin!

-Greetings! -Greetings!

The member is here.

What's going on here?

Why don't you offer him a tea first?

We're just getting to know each other.

-I'm Stephen. -Yes, come in.

Aashan, please take a seat on that bench over there.

Please, come in.

Please, sit down.

Eapen, is it?

It's Stephen.

We'll call you Eapen here.

-Hey, get him a cup of tea. -Hold on a minute.

I just had a cup of tea a little while ago.

So what? I had tea at home too.

His tea is special.

You can get his tea only from here.

Am I the only one who hasn't had any tea?

Didn't you offer tea to Aashan, yet?

He's just trying to get under your skin.

So, when do you plan to start the work?

I'll need to hire some workers locally.

And I'll need some metal for the job as well.

I plan to start gradually once I have everything organized.

So, you need a place to stay here for some period, right?

Exactly!

I have already arranged everything.

How do you know him? I mean, Abraham Sir?

I know him through our contractor.

Ah, that explains it.

Would you like a snack?

No, I'm good thanks.

Kunji... [calling out]

Kunji...

She's looking for her grandkid.

She must be around somewhere...

There's no need to make a scene about it.

It's best to just ignore it.

Let's not waste time. Finish your tea quickly.

[phone rings] Who is this calling?

Oh! It's him.

Dear...

Hey, you...

he is drinking tea here.

I've the key with me.

The place is clean, right?

How much is it for the tea?

No need. That will go down in the member's books here.

Kunji dear...

[lullaby humming]

Dear...

Kunji.

Kunji...

dear.

[panting]

[lullaby humming]

♪ On an untouched branch, ♪

♪ a nest woven from gentle sighs resides ♪

♪ O' darling, you’re the dawn in shadows deep ♪

♪ Your smile, a pearl in words you reap ♪

♪ O' dearest, even when the world sheds its leafy gown, ♪

♪ may you bloom like a enchanting flower, ♪

♪ untouched by winter's chill ♪

♪ and hidden from every eye ♪

[crickets chirping]

The ground is slippery, be careful or you might fall.

It could hurt you a lot.

We have a long walk ahead from here.

Watch your step carefully as you go through here.

We're not even close yet.

Keep walking.

I did warn you to be careful here, didn't I?

Back when I was in 5th or 6th grade, this place got here after a landslide.

We call this place "Udulukuzhi".

Only wild trees can take root here.

Be especially careful when you climb down.

Take it slow and be cautious.

Given the remote location, would this house even have basic amenities?

Who says there are no amenities?

Why would you need a lot of amenities in the first place?

You'll be with the workers during the day...

...and at night, all you really need is a place to sleep. You'll get it here.

We're almost there.

The only downside is the distance. Otherwise, it's a good place to stay.

Are you tired? Why would someone build a house so far from the road?

It takes a long walk just to get here.

Which road?

This road was actually paved less than a year ago.

Come on, let's go.

The distance we covered is nothing...

...compared to the actual distance from town.

Back in the day, we used to buy things in sacks and carry them on our heads.

Come up.

Take a look around the place.

Isn't this cool?

The front of the house will be tiled soon.

Can you hold this for a second?

Uh-huh.

Actually, this used to be a smokehouse way back when.

Later, it was converted into the rubber-tapper's shed.

The one good thing about this shed, if you ask me...

...is the great light, ventilation, and air circulation.

But you can't get it inside.

If you want, stand right here and look over there.

[laughs]

Let's see if this one opens.

[window creaks]

Which key is the right one?

[playful music]

They're all rusted shut!

Oh no, something got in my eye.

Is there any way I can get a house with better amenities?

Who would even rent a house in this remote village?

You are the first one to do so.

Do you know that?

Consider yourself lucky for getting this.

Okay, in that case, let me enter with good cheer.

I just recalled you're not the first. You're the second.

Anyway, enter inside with glory.

What are you doing?

This is not a temple.

I"ll show you the temple, later when we go down.

It's a habit for me.

And I'm not someone who regularly visits temples or churches.

Oh church!

So, Eapen hasn't been to school, right? [Mimicking a famous malayalam movie dialogue]

It's not Eapen, Stephen.

Yeah, let it be.

There is no point in just naming for the namesake.

Do you go to church?

You should.

We are used to this.

What?

Temple.

Even if the entire village cried out...

nobody beyond it would have known until recently.

It was a strange loneliness.

When something painful occurs, we'll go to the temple and cry out loud.

The relief one feels when he cries out loud can't be put into words.

Oh, it's a Goddess Temple, right?

Yes, Goddess Kaali.

[smirks]

And...

There are no toilets here. You'll have to go outside.

Do you have any issues with bathing outdoors?

What...

If yes, this is a good opportunity to practise it!

Okay?

[birds chirping]

When you place your sandals outside, make sure to stand them upright.

Why is that?

When it's cold, small snakes might find their way inside them.

You'll get used to that.

My dear member!

There's no need to worry.

I had a boy help me clean the place.

It should be much easier to descend now.

There goes your neighbor, Brother Pappachan.

[ominous music]

Hey! [whistling]

He didn't hear us.

He's elderly. His diaphragm isn't working well now.

He's just on his way back from the store, getting the newspaper.

He'll come down only tomorrow.

Climb down slowly.

Where's my neighbour's house exactly? I can’t see it.

It's a little further up that way.

[grunts]

It's close enough to walk.

Just a 5-minute walk.

Maybe half a kilometre.

Half a kilometre?

In fact, a little more than that.

I just said that to ease your worries.

So, this neighbour only comes down tomorrow?

He's a bit of an oddball.

He takes a nap during the day and stays awake at night.

He wanders his farm at night, carrying a powerful torch to scare off wild boars.

Its light can reach all the way to the top of all the mountains nearby!

More stories on the way! Let's get going.

According to the village custom, you might get casava to eat in the morning...

porridge for dinner...

I'll ask Subin to bring it here on time.

Who's Subin?

The boy at the tea shop.

We have to get a big lunch box.

I'll ask him to pick up your dinner early.

Since it's difficult to climb this hill at night.

[tuning radio]

Here you go.

And the money?

This guy!

Kolumban, pay the bill and leave.

Just wait, he'll be back with some firewood, you'll see.

How's the house? Did you like it?

Ugh, forget about it.

That thing isn't a house.

What was it? A smokehouse or something like that.

They used to dry rubber sheets with smoke in the past.

Nowadays, most people deal with rubber in its latex form.

Apparently, processing it like that saves their energy.

It might be thatVadakkemuri house, right?

Maybe. But the member didn't mention anything specific.

[radio playing in the background]

So, is the house downhill?

No, we actually went uphill from the road.

Uphill, you say?

Did you cross a stream while going uphill?

Yes, there was a small stream.

How was the current?

The water flow was normal.

But there were these big tree roots hanging down from above.

Ah! That must be Uppumakkan's house then.

They probably would have crawled right by your legs.

Did you get clear of them?

The member mentioned the possibility of snakes hiding in the footwear.

Not those that bite and then leave.

The ones that hang in there after biting.

You should be wary of those creatures as well.

If that much blood is lost, it could be a problem too.

Take off your shoes and check your legs properly.

Oh my God, blood!

I told you, right?

Subin, get some salt.

I didn't even sense it.

Those are leeches.

Check between your toes as well.

Are you wearing a dhoti or pants?

If its dhoti, check all the way up to your knees.

Let me see.

There is no need to pour salt now.

Oh no!

[Stephen] A considerable amount of blood is lost.

That's because you were moving.

Did it go out?

Yes, they're already gone.

Don't worry about it now.

You'll get used to it eventually.

That member should be held accountable.

He hikes up and down everywhere, every day.

Leeches don't need his blood.

But that's not the case with you.

Is 'Aashan' your real name?

In my village, we call teachers who guide children in writing rituals "Aashan".

These guys use it to mock me.

Well well!

He is the most knowledgeable person here.

We all respect him greatly.

Again about teasing...

He always leaves the radio on,

hoping to hear one of the songs he wrote to be played.

Wow! Do you write songs?

Just some light music, nothing fancy.

Nobody cares about these things nowadays.

Let it play, Aashan.

Buzz off, man.

Next time, I'll have someone else write down the song for me.

What's your plan for the rest of the day?

There are no plans for today.

I'd like to explore this area, meet some people around...

And I had to arrange some workers.

But member is busy for the rest of the day.

Anything to eat?

No. I'm good.

It's best to avoid walking alone.

Leeches and snakes are the least of the worries.

For newcomers here, there are many other things to be cautious of.

Do you usually have at least a small knife with you?

No. No.

Subin, what's happening? Is the 'Aakashavani' down?

Even machines need to rest sometimes.

It's not like your work where you're always resting.

He got right back on us!

It seems there's no one.

Come let's see.

Ammini Amma?

Ammini Amma?

Kunji...

the door is open though.

Kunji is here.

[pleasant music]

Come here dear...

Where is your grandmother?

Ammu...

my dear.

Try speaking dear.

-Just try to speak, my dear. -Ah ah.

Where are you going, looking so pretty?

A...

Anganwadi. Try saying it.

A...

Let's not force her to talk.

She won't be able to say such big words.

What a pretty flower! What kind is it?

Say it.

She's not mute, she just doesn't have many people to talk to.

Give me a kiss.

Give Aunty one kiss.

Give Aunty one kiss.

Come.

She's not a baby now. Let her walk on her own.

Keep her down, Ammini Amma.

I have never seen such a strange grandma love!

Kunji...

Don't you wanna go to Anganwadi?

Did you eat?

Susy, I'll be right back.

Give them a wave goodbye.

Bye!

See you later.

[ominous music]

[intense cricket chirps]

[rain pattering and loud thunderclaps]

[loud thunderclap]

Hello.

-Hello member... -Hey Eapen, what's up?

We have a power outage over here.

Oh no!

I forgot... [heavy rainfall]

to ask you to grab some candles and

a matchbox while we were at the store.

I got it already.

Then what's the issue?

But there's this strong wind!

Can't you do something about the power?

Now, the case will be the same in every ward here.

The wind is blowing the tree branches into the power lines, causing a short circuit.

So power is not stable here.

We can't control the weather. It's out of our hands.

Can we just call God and ask him to stop it?

Your place supplies the electricity.

-That's true. -And yet, you are short of it?

That's how it goes;

the cobbler's children have no shoes.

I don't think I can adjust here, member.

Didn't I tell you already?

To rent a place in town...

and get here by a trip-jeep or a bus.

You didn't listen to me when I told you that.

This is worse than I expected.

Do one thing for now.

Lie down on your side and listen closely.

When you hear the sound of the water stream...

You might fall asleep. I'm getting drowsy myself, so I'm going to sleep.

Hello? Did the call drop too?

Hang up, member. Let me listen closely for some time.

Alright! Bye.

♪ the sky is dark with rain-clouds... ♪

♪ the sky is dark with rain-clouds... ♪

[loud thunderclap]

[door creaks open]

[suspenseful music]

[dog howling]

[water splashing]

Oh okay.

Go ahead and meet the secretary. Mary member will accompany you.

I'm a bit busy right now. Can you call me later?

That was from the village council.

Eapen, I hope you're ready. Did you have breakfast?

Absolutely ready.

You'll need your energy for the climb. It's a steep hike up and back.

Did you get any sleep last night?

Please don't even mention it.

I already called the driver.

He's on his way now.

We need him and his jeep to get up there.

Here he is.

Hey Kannan! Kavantha, it is!

[jeep rumbling]

The road is tarred only up to this point.

The rest of the journey will be challenging.

Get ready for a bumpy ride. Isn't it, Kannan?

Hold on tight!

[quirky folk beats kick in]

♪ Beyond the sight, ignites a fiery dream ♪

♪ In parched groves, there's an unseen spring of mercy ♪

♪ Thenan, Vellan, Charan, Chaman and Sankaran ♪

♪ Those adventurous hearts, Vanished in Kavantha's eternal sleep ♪

♪ Who dares to challenge next? You? ♪

♪ Even the wind whispers warning ♪

♪ A cautionary chime to the danger ahead ♪

♪ Beyond the sight, ignites a fiery dream ♪

♪ In parched groves, there's an unseen spring of mercy ♪

♪ Beyond the sight, ignites a fiery dream ♪

♪ In parched groves, there's an unseen spring of mercy ♪

♪ Kavantha, no one has ever seen, back in the day ♪

♪ Kavantha, no one has ever climbed, back in the day ♪

♪ Kavantha, no one has ever seen, back in the day ♪

♪ Kavantha, no one has ever climbed, back in the day ♪

[Member] How is it?

[wind howling loudly]

This is Kavantha.

Until recently, we only saw this place from below.

It almost seemed like a gateway to hell.

Honestly...

No one ever thought humans would reach this place.

See this? You've to connect the road till here.

If this road is ready...

we can travel to Kattappana much faster,

similar to how we travel from Thodupuzha to Idukki.

So far, the climate has been different.

From here, it's going to be another climate.

Expect many barren hills and extreme cold.

This area is actually under a different Panchayat.

Even the political landscape changes here.

Is it easy to get through this way from Elappara?

Oh, that place is quite a distance from here.

But it'll shave off 50 kilometres compared to the bus route.

That much of a difference?

Yes. That's the trick here.

That is the importance of this road as well.

Instead of taking the longer bus route by those two dams...

we can take a shortcut through this path.

But only a four-wheel drive jeep can handle this route.

Is it possible to walk from Elappara to here?

From Elappara to here?

Oh goodness!

Quite a distance! Well... it's possible if someone really wants to.

Via Kappipathal and Kottamala.

But be prepared to use the outdoors as your restroom.

Alright then. Let's discuss the rest on the way down.

Hey Kannan...

Just check the Jeep over, see if we took any bumps on the climb.

Kolumban, are you leaving with some stolen timber?

The jeep isn't stopping even after braking?

My dress got stuck.

Where are you going?

I'll be right back.

Hey Kannan, heading to town? We'll settle it later.

What's this? You said you weren't religious.

I never said that.

We're about to start something good. So, I offered a prayer.

That's true. What did you pray for?

Aren't we about to start the work?

I asked for protection as the village receives.

[smirks] That's good.

Don't get stressed out as the roads are zig-zag.

We are here for you, right?

Feels like I'm showing the expert the ropes.

You have paved countless roads.

-And many more to come. -No, this is the final one.

No more roads.

That's why I asked for help over there.

Who is calling? Oh, it's from the local council.

Have one more tea and leave.

Let me get to the town first.

[coughing]

Ammini Amma, how many times did I tell you?

You can't pull this work off.

[birds chirping]

Do you have any capsules with you?

[honking]

[jeep rumbling]

Why doesn't Ammini visit the temple once in a while with her grandkid along?

Can't you just tell her, Janaki Chechi?

She usually lights the lamp at her home.

I didn't mean devotion.

The child needs to socialize with others.

Only then she will start speaking.

Right now, she's like a bird in a cage.

Swami, we are afraid to tell her.

She has a strange nature.

But, can we blame her?

She lost her daughter and son-in-law right in front of her eyes.

And her grandchild is in this condition.

Anyone would need time to heal from that trauma.

Could that be the reason the child can't speak?

Who knows!

[radio playing]

Aashan...

is it your own song this time, at least?

Kiddos...

Isn't Kunji playing?

A...

Here you go.

A...

We have to make a building like this.

A...

Aaa....

A...

A...

Fix it here.

Let's make a building?

Paappachan brother!

If we don't catch him now,

we'll likely have to wait until tomorrow.

Hey...

I have something to say.

-Let me introduce someone. -Eh?

Stop complaining that all your neighbours have left you behind.

If someone leaves, I'll bring you a better person. Here he is.

Who is this?

My name is Stephen.

I'm here for the road works.

-Speak louder. -This road...

I'm the supervisor in charge of paving the road up the hill.

By staying here?

Yes, yes.

Don't you know Uppumakkal Joy's old smoke house?

I cleaned it up and let him stay there.

Initially, I considered bringing him to your house in place of your son.

But he can't climb those high hills.

[melancholic music]

Let me take your leave.

Doesn't he have any children?

Yes, he has 4 sons.

And two daughters as well.

Only a son is left, others moved abroad.

He drops by occasionally, grabs a few coconuts, and heads off.

Poor man.

So there aren't many young people around here, are there?

In the past, before this road and all these facilities were built...

There used to be many people living in this area.

When the amenities improved, only the elderly are left here.

Leave it.

Well, what about the workers?

Talking about workers...

the ones I counted went to Vagamon for another work.

So... let's look for people from the forest.

-Where? -The forest area on the other side.

It's no use going there today.

Let's just leave it for now. We can head out tomorrow.

[crickets chirping]

[Ammini Amma coughs]

Who is that?

Is that Kolumban?

Bug off!

Go to your home!

Be careful.

Hey...

As they consume the forest's bounty, they have immense strength.

But there is one problem.

When called upon to work, none of them will come.

Walk.

Hey Chaaman!

Don't strike!

Watch out for your head.

It will crack our skull!

Put it down.

Come down!

If that hits you, your head is done for!

What were you aiming at?

Huh?

Why are you here?

We are here for that Thenan.

For the road works, right?

How did you know? Did someone tell you?

-Are you interested? -No.

I knew it, he's not up for it.

He'll be up there, in that giant jackfruit tree.

Come on, let's find him.

So he's not here?

-No. Follow me. -Ah, so he's not here.

-Come. -Let's go.

If we'd gone the other way, we could have caught him.

Come here, sir. Hold onto that rope while you walk.

Slowly.

Be careful while walking. You might fall down.

Hold on to the rope.

[river gently flowing]

The stream isn't that deep, is it?

Take it slow, sir.

You can't cross easily like we do.

Look there.

Thuruthan was gone from there.

It was his younger brother, who was a giant figure...

In 2018's heavy flood...

-The flood took him through this way.

What a pity!

Ammini Amma's daughter and son-in-law...

I mean, parents of that child.

One of them slipped... and the other tried to grab...

Chaaman...

Wait there.

I am also coming. If you see that Thenan...

It would be nice if you could join him for work as well.

I'll get you some money. Just wait there!

Look at him, running away.

Is this where Kunji's parents fell in and were swept away?

Ammini amma's...

Are you asking about the mute child's parents?

Yes.

It didn't happen here. It happened at Cheruthoni.

[suspenseful music]

Only one person was lost here.

Is it your habit to learn the history of every place you visit?

No. Nothing like that.

It's because I have some free time for the next few days.

And I'm just curious like any other person.

Who would expect a temple and monastery in a remote place like this?

Did anyone new come here after the road was built?

No.

Who would want to come here these days?

Many people who live here are actually leaving.

If we have road access up to Kavantha, we might see a small change.

Do you recall anyone visiting here in the past 3-4 years?

I can't remember, to be honest.

Actually, your neighbour is a walking encyclopedia of this village's history.

Try asking him.

Sitting here gives the feeling of being on a watchtower.

Your eyes are everywhere.

So, you don't miss a thing in this village, right?

There used to be houses and farms up to that point.

With people living, the elephants wouldn't come there.

There weren't wild boars either.

Everything's changed now.

Still, when people who were born here leave this place,

how come two people climb up here?

It's especially unusual with an old woman and a child involved.

-Actually, they didn't climb up here. -Then how?

-They climbed down actually. -From where?

Up there,

there's a place where two hills meet, called Kavantha.

-Have you been there? -Yes, yes.

-Have you looked down from there? -Oh my God, yes.

It is scary.

Is it even possible to climb down from a place like that?

Up there from Uluppuni,

there's a small path where jackals come down often.

Someone could slide through there if they really wanted to.

But it's not easy. Their life will be at stake.

Wouldn't people here be suspicious if they heard...

someone came down a path like that?

Who saw it?

No one saw how they came down.

Back then, and even now,

only two people in this village stay awake all night.

One, of course, is me.

The other is Aashan, who cooks up the entire fake stories over here.

Aashan?

Yeah.

I can only see things from afar.

But I cannot hear.

We have opposite strengths.

Only he knows what she told him.

What he heard remains a secret to everyone else.

Instead, what he said became popular like a song among everyone.

Who says no one has heard his song?

This entire village sings his song now.

The song he created.

The song that remains unchanged.

Huh?

Aashan!

Hey Aashan!

Where is Subin?

He was late to wake up.

Now, went to collect the vegetables.

He'll be back soon.

I was also late to wake up today.

Oh!

Honestly, I haven't slept well at all since I arrived here three days ago.

Me too.

What happened to you, Aashan?

I have a bad feeling.

I usually don't sleep much.

But especially these days, I haven't been sleeping well at all.

I feel like something bad is happening.

In my case, I haven't adjusted to that house yet.

I'm thinking about moving somewhere else.

I knew... you were coming to this.

Subin, do you know of any houses close to the road?

He knows only what I know.

Member knows what we both know.

There aren't many houses here.

There aren't any amenities for outsiders to stay here.

There's a house downhill with a room available.

A house with some steps.

Which one? Aashan's home?

I'm talking about Ammini Amma's house.

How do you know about that house?

Well...

We had a shortage of metal stones...

I went there looking for rocks.

And...

There’s absolutely no space available there.

Don't think too much.

If you can't stay here, you should consider some places near the town.

You could commute by bus or jeep daily.

An elderly woman lives alone with a child there...

and she is too ill as well.

Wouldn't it be good for them to have some help?

I don't think they need any company.

Aashan moved here after they arrived.

Oh Goodness! Don't go there even by mistake.

She will attack you like a mother hen.

-Well... -Subin, I haven't gotten my tea yet!

Oh! That's awesome!

Oh, the colour itself changed! Wow!

Do it again. This time on this circle.

Oh! That's so great!

Kunji, try drawing a moustache like Uncle's.

Look at Uncle's face to see if it looks like a moustache.

Are you going to draw it on your face?

Okay, you can draw it, Kunji.

Shouldn't we fill in these gaps?

Who are you?

Hey, Ammini Amma.

I was waiting for you.

-Get up. -Huh?

What is this, sister?

Is this how you treat your guests?

Why is your grandma behaving like this, Kunji?

Why are you still standing here, sister?

You could have offered me a glass of water.

-Poor girl, doesn't know anything. -Don't touch her!

Ugh!

Why are you so rude, sister?

I heard only good things about the people in this village.

Are you not from here, then?

[upbeat tense music]

Y...yes.

Really?

There's something about me.

I won't ever believe the first answer I get from someone.

My dear sister, why are you getting so spooked?

I'm not here to steal anything from you.

Or...

are you here after stealing something from somewhere?

[metallic thud]

Come on, sister, show some more courage.

The women from the Elappara region, are known for their bravery.

Please don't bring shame to Elappara.

You'd better move that knife. Be careful not to step on it.

Sometimes, under pressure, our vision can get cloudy.

Let's not talk and frighten the child.

I"ll be around.

Okay then.

We will see later.

Where is Subin?

-Went to fetch water? -Yeah.

[phone ringing]

Tell me, sir.

Yes, I went there.

Can I call you back after some time?

No, it's not a network issue. I'll call you back.

Fine.

It's a pretty old phone, right?

Yeah...

Aashan can see a little, I think.

You know,

sometimes people without sight have a better understanding of things.

It's a gift by the God.

Only those who rely on sight can be fooled by illusion.

People who see with their inner eye cannot be deceived.

Is road construction work not getting you enough money?

Can't you get a new phone?

No need.

Handling even this one while working is challenging enough.

[a smartphone ringing]

Aha...

This call couldn't have come at a worse time, could it?

Is this call from the same "sir" who called earlier?

Well, you could have given him a hint about...

why you can't take the call right now.

In that case, "sir" wouldn't have called your other phone.

Either a seasoned thief or a cop.

Out of these two, who are you?

Who are you talking about?

Besides me, how many people are here?

Should someone who is blind like me even answer that?

Did you go to that child's house again?

I just dropped by when I went for something else.

Was Ammini Amma there?

-Yes, she came later. -WHO THE HELL ARE YOU!?

[tense music]

What's your motive coming here?

Tell me the truth.

Spit out the truth!

[grunts]

[groaning]

[pained grunt]

Kunji...

Please, don't make a sound.

Heard me?

I'll stay with you until Grandma comes.

-Please don't make any sound. -Ah!

Oh my God!

Kunji, please don't make any sound.

[window creaks open]

[panting]

Hey...

No one stays over there now?

I don't know.

Who are you looking for?

Doctor Thankachan.

Oh...

It's been 7-8 months now...

No, it's been almost a year since he passed away.

Who are you by the way?

I used to work here.

I came here to ask for help.

Hey...

Do you know where a nurse named Lilly lives?

She is from Elappara.

I don't know, sister.

Where? Working in the mission hospital?

Yes.

Then why don't you go and ask there?

Oh! I see...

In that case, say it directly to Abraham sir.

I'm giving the phone to sir.

Sir, it's him.

Hey...

what?

Do you really want me to come over there?

Then, it's good for you.

From where did you find such scoundrels?

Sir... well...

What were we talking about?

Why do you think she's a good person?

She's not as tough as she seems.

She seems constantly afraid of something.

She'd be concerned about the kid, nonetheless.

Who among you is more close to her?

She is not close to anybody.

Is she not getting close to you all, or are you keeping your distance?

-[shouts] Tell me. -Both are true, sir.

That's good.

That itself is a problem.

You say she's soft, yet she acts tough.

Sir, these are the photos.

Okay.

Does anyone come from outside to see her?

No sir.

Does she ever leave to go somewhere far?

Leaving the child at home? No way.

I was referring to up until now.

The nurse is on duty. You can't see her right now.

It's an urgent matter.

I'll leave soon after I tell her.

I need her help.

No chance.

See the crowd here.

It would take a minimum of 2 hours to meet her.

The doctor will give us an earful if we call her now.

If she becomes available in the meantime, we'll let you know.

But it's unlikely.

Is it really that urgent?

Yes!

Let's do one thing. Do you have the OP card here?

Yes.

Are you taking any medications?

Yes, earlier.

Why don't you go see the doctor?

It's a new doctor.

Just tell him you've been here before.

We'll make sure to keep the file right at the top.

So, you'll be called soon.

When you see the doctor, you can talk to the sister.

-That would work, right? -Yes.

I don't have the OP card with me right now.

It's an old card.

That's not a problem.

Tell me your name.

I'll call you. Hang up for now.

Fine.

Seems like you overlooked it.

The flood of 2018, was about five or six years ago, right?

Yes.

Is that child really that old?

Even at that age, is she still going to Anganwadi?

Oh. That's true.

How old is that lady?

Has anyone of you seen her employment card?

Who signs muster roll and employment card?

That's the 'mate', sir.

I'm asking the same.

Who is your mate?

Well...

Is that anyone from this photo?

The one standing at the side, sir.

Oh.

What's the name of this secret keeper?

Elsy.

How did you manage to get our photos, sir?

-Do you know why these photos are taken? -No idea.

To catch if any of you commit any wrong.

Hey, Stephen.

-Sir. -Do you have any questions?

Sit.

I only need one-word answers. Understood?

-Amminiyamma is her nickname, right? -Yes.

So what is her real name?

-Sulochana. -Savithri.

It is Sumathi, right?

Yes.

That's interesting, sir. They all start with "S"!

Sa...

Su...

[laughs]

Is Sarasamma Sivanandan here?

Mary Joseph?

Sir.

Lilly kutty.

Oh, Mary Kutty Chechi! It's you!

Why are you here? Where have you been all this time?

I have the same question for you.

What have you been doing all this time?

-Come here. -Come, sit.

Why was there such a long gap?

Did you move away from here?

Yes.

Did you receive treatment at a different hospital?

No.

Huh?

Are you still taking the medication we prescribed for you here?

Which pharmacy is giving you medicine without a doctor's prescription?

I haven't gotten it from anywhere.

I wasn't able to take my medication for a while.

Mother...

If not you, then your children should be more responsible about this.

With whom are you living now?

[sobbing]

Don't you have any children, mother?

No, God hasn't blessed me with children.

I can't have children.

Husband?

She's alone, doctor. She doesn't have anyone.

Oh.

What's the problem with the place you're living in now?

Come closer.

What?

I want to leave there as soon as possible.

I was wondering if I could stay at Thankachan Doctor's farm.

I just want to go somewhere else.

I can't let go of it.

What are you talking about?

I'll speak to the people at the convent.

They can provide temporary housing for a person.

At least, for a while.

But...

there's one more person with me.

Who is that?

My daughter.

What happened to you?

What are you saying?

See...

the blocks are very evident.

Does she know the seriousness of this?

Make her understand it.

You said you already know her, right?

I didn't know her much when we were in hometown.

After that, she worked here sometime back.

We became close around that time.

Where is she living now?

She didn't answer when I asked.

Worked all over the place, in different roles, so it's all up in the air.

Can't we include her in our ''Free treatment for elderly'' scheme?

Can you talk to Mother about this?

I'll talk to her too once I'm done with this.

I was planning to talk to Mother anyway.

Why?

I think Mary Kutty Chechi might be struggling mentally as well.

She seems afraid of something.

She's saying things that don't seem to add up.

She definitely needs some counselling.

[nods]

Hey, look at me.

I'm not trying to stop you from leaving.

I'm only asking you a few things.

You can answer quickly and then go.

You can share any of your sorrows with me.

You don't have to fear anyone if you haven't taken anything from anyone.

Then, why are you getting afraid for no reason?

I had a big desire.

That's true.

But, I can't steal anything.

I got this in my hand.

God gave it to me.

So it belongs to me, right?

Of course, it is. Whatever it is, it is yours.

Nobody will take it away from you.

Neither police nor the army.

The police didn't step in search of Amminiyamma.

The police were searching for the child,

who had been missing for some time.

During the investigation, we learned that another person was also missing.

Two people, with no one to look for them.

What happened to their other relatives?

When you say "other relatives," what exactly are you hoping to find?

Do you still think that child is Amminiyamma's granddaughter?

Then?

What happened to the parents of that child?

-They were dead in floods of... -Which year's floods?

It happened when the child was so tender.

From where?

That...

Kanchiyar I guess...

Now we have another place name as well.

If you ask everyone in your area, they'll all give you different places.

Even Amminiyamma doesn't know where it happened.

Why is that?

Because such an event never occurred.

So, the parents of this kid are still alive?

Yes, they are alive.

But I'm not sure if it's appropriate to call them parents.

But they don't have any connection with this Amminiyamma.

In fact, they haven't even met her once.

What are you saying?

So who is this kid?

We received a complaint from the hospital where she was born.

Sir, we're ready to provide any data regarding this.

We don't have anything to hide.

That's why we decided to file a complaint when a question arose.

I'll request the data when necessary.

Can you please explain the technical side of surrogacy?

Nothing technical, sir.

Surrogacy is like using another woman's uterus to carry a pregnancy.

The egg of the biological mother would be used.

But the child would develop inside another woman's womb.

In most cases, the biological parents will take the child after birth.

It will be clearly outlined in the agreement as well.

There are situations where the parents may ask the

surrogate mother to breastfeed the child for a while.

Breast milk is better than bottle milk, right?

However, we don't prioritize encouraging breastfeeding for surrogate mothers.

Forming an emotional bond could make it difficult

for the surrogate mother to give the child back.

Did that happen in this case?

The child wasn't returned even after 5-8 months, right?

Actually, the exact opposite happened in this case.

Here, the biological parents were not willing to take the child.

How did that happen?

Sometimes, biological parents may choose not to accept their child,

especially if the child has a disability.

What was the issue with this child?

The biological parents were considering taking the child

after a period of breastfeeding,

but a medical concern arose in the child's audiology report.

The report indicated some hearing problems.

It wasn't that severe, though.

Fearing potential speech loss, the parents opted not to reclaim the child.

But it's their own child, right?

The world isn't always as we expect, sir.

There wasn't any labour pain or effort for the biological mother in this case, right?

Maybe they won't even be emotionally haunted by this.

They don't want a child with a disability, that's it.

They would just pay the money and leave the child.

With their wealth, they might try surrogacy again in the future.

What's all happening in this place?

That's not possible anymore. Surrogacy with payment is banned.

That was not the case back then.

What happened to the mother who gave birth to the child?

The family who acted as surrogates did it solely for the money.

As they had no other options.

They couldn't afford to raise the child.

And they weren't obligated to either.

We knew they looked after the kid out of humanity

and in hope that the other family's mind would change.

It went on for some months.

Where do you think the child is now?

That is the problem, sir.

We have no idea what happened to the child.

We eventually stopped following up on the case.

And you're reporting this late?

Sorry sir.

During a recent audit,

we discovered that the documents related to this child's transfer are missing.

We contacted both parties for confirmation.

But they were...

not picking up the calls.

Or avoiding the calls.

They started being rude later on...

and then they completely ignored our calls.

Sir, we are sure that the child is not with either party.

We became concerned that they might have harmed the child.

It's a child that neither of the mothers wanted.

There's a possibility that they may have tried to harm the child.

There is a high possibility.

That's why we felt it necessary to inform you, sir.

Oh no, sir...

We are not involved in the agreement between the two parties.

Our only duty is to check if the surrogate mother is medically fit.

It is them who select the surrogate mother as well.

This is totally between them.

We went far and wide searching for the child.

When we finally found the child, we spotted an identity change crime.

Normally, when someone new moves to a town,

the panchayat member would notify us.

They have a knack for spotting this kind of people.

Do you know what my margin of victory was in this ward?

-It should be a big number. -That's what I thought too.

But, when the votes were counted, I secured my election sign itself.

Huh?

Five votes.

What will be the first question asked by that person to a newcomer in the ward?

-What is that? -Will you be voting for me?

I didn't even dare to ask this.

I couldn't even get near her!

Aashan won't say a word even if we insist him.

We had a complete picture of the situation.

We needed to uncover the real motive and

determine if someone was pulling the strings.

That's the reason I roamed around for 2-3 days.

Oh, I'm done for!

The policemen are entirely something else!

Well...

even when you tell me not to be afraid,

I don't fear much.

I had lost everything in a second.

But God will show us a different path then.

This isn't the first time something like this has happened.

What can I do with this?

I'm not asking you to quit forever.

For now, go back to your hometown.

When business picks up, I'll call you again.

I'm not talking about that.

Where can I go now? It's getting late.

That's what I'm saying. Go before it's too late.

You need to pack your dresses or so, right?

Don't forget to drop the keys here before you leave.

Where will I go?

Instead of wasting time, you should leave.

Why would you beg that guy, sister?

He's got actual tenants for the rental.

Can't blame him, considering we don't make much from here either.

You know it too, sister.

What else can I do?

I don't have a place to go.

Well, can I stay with you for a day?

We barely have space for ourselves there, sister.

Its only for a day, right?

Yeah, just temporarily.

There's a road behind the panchayat office...

take that road and after passing 1-2 homes, you'll see a house with roof tiles.

An ex-coworker, Jincy, lives there.

She used to stitch at home.

Poor girl is struggling with a child now.

Don't expect a big paycheck.

And her house has minimal amenities.

Try to meet her. You might find a solution for a couple of days.

[vessels clattering]

Who are you, sister?

What do you want?

Dear...

I was working at Jose's tailoring shop.

There was a place to stay, behind the shop.

They sent me away now, claiming hard times in business.

[frustrated grunt]

Sherly told me to check with you.

I can help with the stitching.

Can I stay with you for a day or two, dear?

Only until I find a place to stay.

Dear sister, I don't have a penny to give you.

You won't mind sharing some food, right?

A place to stay and food to eat is more than enough for me.

Just to hold on for the time being.

I'll find something else later.

Where is the child's father, dear?

Some random scoundrel. I haven't seen him yet.

What are you saying, dear?

You're living here alone with this child?

I have an elder son.

I didn't want him to suffer, so I made him stay with my sister.

He's studying staying there.

I was not talking about that.

Then? Oh, the husband?

Yes, there's one.

He will come by night.

Since he's always drunk, it takes him a while to walk on all fours.

[knocks on the door]

Open the door.

Open the door!

When I'm trying to avoid the kid, you bring in an old woman too.

Open the door!

[spits]

Can't you see it's already morning?

Can't you go now?

It was my decision to let her in.

So I'll send her off when it's time.

You told me the same about the child as well, right?

The child has grown up now.

I've told you many times, I can't just kill and dump the child.

But I have the guts to do it.

In that case, let this mother stay here.

If someone can take the child, I can stitch during that time.

She can stitch and earn as well; she's free.

Agree only if you want money. You're not earning anything anyway.

Why do you need this old woman for that?

Then ask your mother to come and stay here.

She's the one who took the money we got for this child, right?

Hey, you!!

She's adding more hassle and causing more stress.

This is normal here. You don't have to worry about it.

Anyway, stay here for a few days.

People only give me stitching work out of pity for the child.

I can't always finish the work on time.

If it goes on like this, no one will give me work.

And he comes at night to sleep with me. I don't like it.

If you're here, that nuisance won't happen either.

Still, why is he like this?

He doesn't even have any love for the child.

Like you said the other day, isn't the child his?

Not just the father, the mother is also different. This is not our child.

Then, whose child is this?

Actually, what's her name?

Oh! That's quite a story. I'll tell you some other time.

And as for the name, you can call her whatever you want.

[lullaby humming]

♪ I sought a name for the flower lost to time ♪

Kunji...

♪ Even when sorrow's shadows deepen around my soul ♪

♪ O' my golden flame ♪

♪ Your presence keeps me steady on my path ♪

♪ On the untouched branch, ♪

♪ a nest woven from gentle sighs resides ♪

♪ O' darling, you’re the dawn in shadows deep ♪

♪ Your smile, a pearl in words you reap ♪

♪ O' dearest, even when the world sheds its leafy gown, ♪

♪ may you bloom like a enchanting flower, ♪

♪ untouched by winter's chill ♪

♪ and hidden from every eye ♪

Here, take it.

I used to drink peacefully at home.

Until now, you only had to fear your wife.

Give it.

I've been telling you for a while to get rid of that child.

That old woman will also go along with it.

Damn! She won't listen when I tell her to get rid of the child.

You played this game for money, and it didn't work out.

Sell the child now; you'll get some money as well.

Eh! How can we do it?

If not, why am I here with you as a friend?

There is someone interested.

Let them come and see first, right?

Hmm...

[eerie music]

[rickshaw honking]

What is it, Ravi Bro?

Someone's at Soniya's house. The gates are open.

I saw it when I rode past.

-Really? -Yeah!

Please wait a bit, brother. I'm coming.

Hurry up! There's something.

I've told you about the mother of this child, right?

Yes!

-The one who's hiding from me. -Yeah.

She has a house here but doesn't come often.

She secretly came here. Let's go and get her.

Come on.

[gate creaks open]

[intensely knocks on the door]

Is anyone here?

She's hiding inside, seeing me.

I can't bear everything just because I gave birth to the girl.

I want to give the child to the one who asked me to have it.

Hey...what are you doing?

If you don't open, I'll break the door open.

Hey!

[baby crying]

Why is the child crying?

For not seeing her mother.

Your daughter only asked me to have the child.

I did.

Then she asked me to feed the child, and I did that too.

After that, leaving the child with me is not at all fair!

No. I can't bear the pain anymore.

Call that fraud mother.

She's not here. It's just the two of us.

Are you trying to make a fool out of me again?

No dear. She hasn't come here.

She's not listening to what we say.

She won't listen to us. That's how she is.

Can we kill her for that?

I'm asking the same.

Can I kill this child?

Why did you ask me to have the child then?

Why did you give me the hell I'm having now?

We would've raised the child.

At our age, how could we look after a breastfeeding child?

Hand the child over to her.

Playing with the baby for a bit won't help it grow.

Hand over the baby.

-Hey! What are you doing? -Take care of the baby if you want to.

-Please take the baby. -I don't have peace anywhere.

Yes, I'm mad.

This is your child. Take care of her if you want.

Please don't do this. Take the child.

Please pick the child up.

Take her.

[baby crying]

Why did our daughter commit such a sin?

We are also responsible for that kid.

[lullaby humming]

[lullaby humming]

Shall I buy some baby food as well?

Not the big one, only small is available.

Come back, man.

We don't want it!

There are no bargains in this.

Actually, you should pay us to get rid of the child.

We know what to do when the kid cries while we go.

But you need to handle things here when we take the child.

There shouldn't be any commotion.

Nobody should know about this.

The neighbors shouldn't come here.

We're trusting your word that your wife is okay with this.

Or will she create a scene here?

No. I've worked on a solution.

-Just give me some time. -Okay.

Whatever it is, let's not discuss it here.

Get inside.

Start the car.

[baby crying]

[calling bell rings]

Where were you?

Where's the baby?

I handed her over.

What have you done?

You should have called me.

I would've come with you.

I need to see the baby.

Should I run over and check?

Don't go now.

They might've taken her.

So quickly?

Let me go check.

I told you not to go!

Huh?

You abandoned her there?

You're going to hell!

You're a sinner!

What else could I do?

Should I have just watched him sell her?

They'd have come to take her any time.

She was.... born from my womb, after all.

[sobbing]

[shattering noise]

[dogs growling]

[growl intensifies] [baby crying]

[breathing heavily]

Kunji!

Kunji!

Kunji!

♪ The clouds weave a radiant arc of rainbows ♪

♪ An array of flowers blossoms in delight ♪

♪ Sparrows chirp in gentle, playful chatter ♪

♪ The sun-kissed twigs shower their smiles ♪

♪ O’ little flower that found my hand ♪

♪ O’ cherished child who found comfort in my lap ♪

♪ O’ little flower that found my hand ♪

♪ O’ cherished child who found comfort in my lap ♪

♪ O’ soothing little petal ♪

♪ Rest on this lap like a golden star ♪

♪ O' soothing rain ♪

♪ Can you wait here with a gentle kiss, in this way of dream? ♪

♪ The clouds weave a radiant arc of rainbows ♪

♪ An array of flowers blossoms in delight ♪

[crickets chirping]

[In Tamil] Hey...who are you?

Stay away from that path.

That route leads straight to the top of the hill.

What are you doing there?

Hey!!

That’s a dangerous place.

Ugh! Who is this at this time?

[tense music]

[panting]

[light melancholic music]

[ominous music] [intense cricket chirps]

[river flowing]

[grunts]

Who is that?

It's not as if I've stolen anything.

She’s my very own daughter.

God gifted her to me.

I don't think she ran off.

She won’t leave the child here and go anywhere.

She will come back.

Let her come. We will see.

She has no ties with the child traffickers.

Other than looking after the child with love,

I don’t think she has any harmful intentions.

I'm sure about that.

If we also reach such a conclusion,

there won’t be any actions taken against her.

But...

She won't get custody of the child.

This is a clear case of illegal custody.

Considering her age and current state, adoption will also face legal hurdles.

Oh! That will be sad.

We might feel that way due to our sympathetic nature.

But if we think about it properly, is this the kind of care that kid needs?

This is nothing but an illegal hostage situation in reality.

That's a crime.

You might be right, Eapen.

Sorry...

Since I saw you as my younger brother all this time...

it's tough for me to start calling you 'Sir' all of a sudden.

That's not a problem. Let it stay as it is.

Eapen.

No.

Stephen...Stephen sir!

That's it.

[Ammini Amma] I’m not sick.

I don’t need anyone’s treatment either.

Until my daughter becomes independent,

God will take care of me.

No one should interfere in my matter, be it the cops or anyone.

I only fear ONE.

Only He has the power to give me orders.

He worked wonders that night.

By transferring a life from heaven into the womb of a virgin mother.

Now, if He decides...

if He asks me to return her...

I have no other options but to obey him.

[radio playing]

♪ As twilight descends ♪

♪ Its time to bid adieu ♪

♪ Adornments fade ♪

♪ and heart lose it's way ♪

My song!

My song!

Hey...hey...hey Subin!

Subin...

hey, my song is playing.

Subin...

Subin.

My song.

Is there no one here?

Did someone die?

♪ A solitary path, now I must tread ♪

♪ So ends this chapter, unforeseen ♪

♪ O' eyes don't fill with sorrow ♪

♪ O' heart, be strong and ever still ♪

♪ Without a parting glance ♪

♪ A farewell left unsaid ♪

♪ A solitary path, now I must tread ♪

♪ So ends this chapter, unforeseen ♪

♪ O' eyes don't fill with sorrow ♪

♪ O' heart, be strong and ever still ♪

♪ Daughter's tender kiss, ♪

♪ a gift unknown ♪

♪ A moment lost, forever flown ♪

♪ A solitary path, now I must tread ♪

♪ So ends this chapter, unforeseen ♪

[bus rumbling]

♪ A new hue envelops life’s embrace ♪

♪ And you become our world’s grace ♪

♪ The clouds weave a radiant arc of rainbows ♪

♪ An array of flowers blossoms in delight ♪

♪ O’ little flower that found my hand ♪

♪ O’ cherished child who found comfort in my lap ♪

♪ O’ little flower that found my hand ♪

♪ O’ cherished child who found comfort in my lap ♪

♪ O’ soothing little petal ♪

♪ Rest on this lap like a golden star ♪

♪ The clouds weave a radiant arc of rainbows ♪

♪ An array of flowers blossoms in delight ♪

♪ Sparrows chirp in gentle, playful chatter ♪

Am...

Ah...