Original subtitles

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

- [BIRDS CHIRPING] - [HORN HONKS]

- [BIRDS CHIRPING] - [HORN HONKS]

- [BIRDS CHIRPING] - [WATER SLOSHING]

[TRAFFIC AMBIENCE]

- [TRAIN HORN BLARING] - [ANNOUNCEMENT AT RAILWAY STATION]

[ENGINE REVVING]

- [ENGINE REVVING] - [PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY]

- [ENGINE REVVING] - [TYRE SCREECH]

[PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY]

This way.

- It's too crowded, isn't it? - [PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY]

Big cities are like this.

Let's go.

- [BANGLES JINGLING] - [DOOR OPEN]

Let me.

[BANGLES JINGLING]

[BANGLES JINGLING]

- [BANGLES JINGLING] - [SIGHS]

[BANGLES JINGLING]

Look outside.

- [INDISTINCT CHATTER] - [LAUGHS]

Look at the kids playing.

Isn't it awesome?

Love this place.

Feels just right.

You like it?

I love it.

[CLATTER]

[FOOTSTEPS]

- What's the matter? - Dad...

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

A truck is about to arrive.

Do you even realize who you're talking to?

Just one truck, please.

Okay.

[VEHICLE APPROACHING]

Hey, stop!

[ENGINE REVVING]

Stop!

[ENGINE REVVING]

Get down.

Take him away.

[TRUCK DOOR CLOSE]

Naankhatai.

You can wear it for the occasion.

It costs just ₹150.

- You like it? - Should I keep it aside? - Female: Okay.

Fine, maroon for you.

- Seetaba. - What about Bandhani?

- Just a minute, please. - Female: Okay, keep 25 pieces aside.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

- Should I keep it aside? - [BANGLES JINGLING]

They're hiking up the rent.

Don't you want to buy something for your daughter?

- Just look at it. - [THUD]

Don't stress about the rate.

- This colour would look really good. - Female: How many more do I buy?

Female: They all have the same colours.

Fine.

Let me know if you're coming this Monday or Tuesday.

- I'll show you the entire saree collection. - Female: Okay, I'll come.

- Okay sure. - Okay, goodbye. - Female: Goodbye.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

What is it?

Early morning, uncle...

- Yeah, I'm coming! - [SPITTING]

Hey!

- This... - What?

What?

Can't you see? Got button for eyes?

Watch where you're going!

You're stepping right where I'm spitting.

- Oh, so I'm to blame now? - Of course!

Whose house are you visiting?

Whose house have you come to?

Slithering out early morning!

[HORN HONKS]

[THUD]

Aunty, sorry for the trouble...

Son, what does 'button for eyes' mean?

It actually means...

Don't beat around the bush, just tell him straight!

What I mean to say is...

Hey! That's enough from you.

One day, it's your uncle. Next day, it's your grandpa.

'Spits on the steps, sometimes even on him.'

'Who's the landlord here, me or you?'

No, aunty. The thing is, my uncle stuffs his mouth so full...

...sometimes it sprays out like a fountain.

I can't say anything. He's a guest, after all.

Guest? Since when do guests tell the landlord.

"Where'd you slither out from?"

'So, what if your caste is Darbar? Why should we fear you?'

Not another word. Just vacate my house. That's it.

Aunty...

Uncle, we've been living here for seven months.

And we've always paid the rent on time.

Have we ever caused you any trouble?

'Oh, there's been plenty. Forget it.'

'Please, just look for another place.'

'But please, spare us.'

Are you going to stay quiet? Or would you say something?

- [ENGINE REVVING] - [CRICKETS CHIRPING]

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

[SHOW PLAYING ON TV]

- [SHOW PLAYING ON TV] - [UTENSILS CLINKING]

- [CRICKETS CHIRPING] - [SIGHS]

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

Suru... Su...

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

Su...

Your mom.

She's stepped out.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

Her birthday ended over two hours ago.

The guests came and left.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

Even the neighbours got leftover cake.

One more minute and I'd be asleep, we both would've had peace.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

Alright then, where's the birthday gift?

Show me.

Did you bring anything or not?

Let me check, you must've brought something.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

What's this?

Nail polish?

That's it?

No birthday perks from the government...

...for the wife of a duty-loving, honest cop?

In your 40 years of service, you have missed 38 of your wife's birthdays and...

...25 of your son's! And what did you earn?

Nail polish?

In two months, you'll retire.

And the same government will throw you out of this house.

The uniform, the baton... they'll take it all.

Without all that, who are you? And who am I?

And you have spent your whole life saying...

'Jai Hind, sir! Jai Hind, sir!

'Yes sir, yes sir.'

Isn't it, sir?

Isn't that what you've done your whole life?

All you ever did was shine your boots.

Two months from now, when you take off that uniform...

...those shiny boots will feel like thorns. Mark my words!

Let's see what respect remains when the uniform's gone.

You don't have time even on her birthday?

Hey... what's going on?

What's all this?

Happy birthday.

[DOOR CLOSE]

[BANGLES JINGLING]

Let it be.

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

- [CRICKETS CHIRPING] - [TONGUE CLICKING]

I'm done.

Why done? It's chocolate cake, have some more!

On their birthdays, people order...

...their preferred cake rather than what other people want.

I like whatever you like.

Time to free yourself from me now.

We've been married so long, aren't you bored of me?

No one ever gets bored with their favourite food.

Yeah, sometimes it happens that...

...you do not like the sev tomato curry but still you have to eat it.

So what?

I've been eating bitter gourd for years without even frowning since you like it.

[CHUCKLES]

It's settled then.

Bitter gourd once a week, tangy tomato the next.

And ice cream on Sunday nights.

And summers are for crushed ice pops.

[GASPS]

I'll sit with you and drink tea every morning.

And if you've been painting my nails for forty years...

...why would I get bored of you?

Tell me.

Suru...

I should've built a house.

Every Sunday, I should have driven you all to get ice cream in our little car.

I wanted to build a tiny swing outside the house but...

What happened?

Nothing.

If I'd vanished for just thirty minutes, five years ago...

...our son's future would've been secured.

Had you been away for half an hour...

...you'd have gone too far to return.

If that truck had gone through...

...it would've paid for our son's admission.

But you'd have lost your way forever.

You'd think that you half-hour absence could've built you a home.

And once again, a quick step away might get you a car.

House, car, garden, swing...

...it never ends.

If you really had stepped away for half an hour...

...you wouldn't have felt proud when you ironed and put on your uniform today.

Your shoulders may slump before your son.

But they don't ache, do they?

[TCH]

Not at all.

So that's it. As long as I'm around, I'll keep making 'sev-tomato curry for you.

And your pension's enough to cover that curry.

And the uniform...

- Spotless. - Yes.

[LAUGHS]

Thank you.

Thank you.

[CLATTER]

Did uncle call?

No.

Aunty?

[CLATTER]

He's a nice guy.

- What's this? - Finish your meal. - [CHAIR CREAKS]

I'm full.

[CLATTER]

[CLATTER]

Not all boys are the same, dear.

- [CLATTER] - [WATER RINSING]

I think...

...it'll work out this time.

Mithu.

You know how it will go tomorrow.

[ENGINE REVVING]

Here son, wear these glasses.

They'll suit you.

'He simply travels back and forth between home and college.'

'Boys like him are rare these days.'

'That's what every parent believes.'

'Simplicity is his life's only mantra.'

'It's written all over his face.'

'Yes.'

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

- [INDISTINCT CHATTER] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

No sneaky glances.

- [INDISTINCT CHATTER] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

You can stare.

We're officially allowed twenty minutes.

No, it's not that...

I was just casually...

- [INDISTINCT CHATTER] - [CROW CAWING]

[CROW CAWING]

- [CROW CAWING] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

- [INDISTINCT CHATTER] - [CROW CAWING]

Your glasses look cool.

- Are they new? - Yes.

I mean these are old ones.

Just switched it up because I was meeting you.

Was that your mom's idea or sisters?

Mom's.

Why?

So, you ask your mom before doing everything?

No, that's not true.

What made you ask that?

Shouldn't I ask mom before doing things?

[LAUGHS]

Not everything needs to go through her, right?

- [CROW CAWING] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

Actually...

- [CROW CAWING] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

I like you.

Let's get married.

So... you liked me, huh?

A little bit.

And what about me?

A little bit.

Perfect.

So, then let's get married.

[LAUGHS]

You know what's going to happen next?

No.

We walk down together.

I play coy, you go to your family.

And I'll pause on the steps.

While your mom keeps watching you.

And she'll ask, "What happened, son?"

That's when you blush a little.

Everyone's eyes will be on us.

So everyone will be happily congratulating each other.

And my uncle, he'll be the first to feed you sweets.

Everyone will start cheering for the groom.

After it's all fixed...

...just a few days later, I'll get a call from your home.

You'll think of something polite to say...

- ...and turn me down. - Huh?

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

Yeah.

But why would I reject you?

Yes, you will.

Do you want to bet ₹500?

Done.

We get water 24/7.

We have to get him married...

Yeah.

They are back.

[LAUGHING]

- Oh, wow! - Congratulations.

To you too!

Let's celebrate.

Please have some too.

You'll have to have the whole thing.

Not so much.

You'll have to have the whole thing. Now he'll be your son-in-law.

Let's fix the date when we meet next.

- Yes, I have fixed it all. - Whatever the kids decide.

- Don't worry at all. - Okay.

We promise not to trouble you.

It's good that we left half the stuff untouched.

It saved us the hassle of repacking.

Decor pieces on both doors.

My fancy dinner set, cups and saucers.

The gifted glass toys.

When we don't own the showcase...

...then the yearning for the glass toys...

...is worthless.

The glass toys are ours.

We'll bring the showcase someday.

Just trust me.

[BANGLES JINGLING]

Should we go tomorrow?

You want to?

[ANKLET CHIMES]

Let's do it.

[ANKLET CHIMES]

[DOOR CLOSE]

- [PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY] - [HORN HONKS]

- [HORN HONKS] - [ENGINE REVVING]

[ENGINE REVVING]

[DOOR OPEN]

Please come.

[FOOTSTEPS]

Have a look. I'll wait.

Okay.

[FOOTSTEPS]

Gone?

No. I'm just not in the mood today.

Why?

- No reason. - [TONGUE CLICKING]

I just don't feel like it.

- But why? - That’s how I feel.

That house isn't ours either.

Neither is this one.

We can at least dream.

Come on now.

Let's go.

Let's do it.

- Ready? - Oh, yes.

Ting tong.

- Ting tong! - Ting tong! Ting tong! - Coming.

Ting tong!

Why so late today?

- I'm exhausted. - Oh, then please relax.

Your favourite.

- Okra. - Ugh, not okra.

- So, what would you like to eat? - Pasta.

I don't know how to cook that.

Oh my! Now...

How can I eat okra with these?

- Hands, obviously! - Okay.

[LAUGHING]

Wow!

So, what's your favourite thing here?

This one.

[LAUGHING]

I'm completely exhausted.

Today was really tiring.

Where's my water?

I'm bringing it.

Is this really the place to dry a towel?

- I'll fold it. - First, serve me the water.

Sorry.

[LAUGHS]

- Someone's in a real mischievous mood. - [LAUGHS]

[MUSIC OVERLAP ON DIALOGUES]

[MUSIC OVERLAP ON DIALOGUES]

[WHISTLING]

Come on! Come on! Kabbadi!

Out! Out!

[WHISTLING]

Bring it on!

- Catch him! Catch him! - [WHISTLING]

Great! Come on, boys.

Oh, easy, easy.

Great! Come on.

[WHISTLING]

- Yeah! Yeah! - Surya!

Surya! Surya! Surya!

Surya! Surya!

- Surya! Surya! Surya! - Yeah!

Surya! Surya! Surya!

Surya! Surya! Surya!

Surya! Surya! Surya!

- Good morning, Mr. Dinesh. - How are you? - Good morning.

A new multivitamin gummy just launched.

All vitamins in one gummy.

Okay.

- Thank you, Uncle. - See you next week. - Okay.

So, what's the count on multivitamin orders?

A fortnight, and it's still lying untouched.

Fine, I'll be back after 15 days.

Didn't I say no? Come back later.

- So, that’s the price we’re offering. - That's what I'm saying.

- For diabetes. - You won't find it cheaper anywhere else.

- Or else, you can... - Fine, I’ll take it.

- [VEHICLE PASSING BY] - [HORN HONKS]

The company's added two new flavours. Here's the sample.

I still have your stock. Yes.

Someone might see us.

You're this scared?

[HORN HONKS]

Hey, wait!

[TRAIN RUMBLING]

If your dad finds out, I'm dead meat.

[TRAIN RUMBLING]

Love always comes with a few punches.

Try touching me. Dad's a cop, remember?

Oh, dad's a cop, and you're still a scaredy-cat?

Alright then, let's see who's got the guts.

You haven't earned that much trust yet.

[HORN HONKS]

- [HORN HONKS] - [ANNOUNCEMENT AT RAILWAY STATION]

[ANNOUNCEMENT AT RAILWAY STATION]

What if...

Oh!

You'll kiss me in secret...

...but won’t even sit with me in public?

[HORN HONKS]

[CLAP]

[HORN HONKS]

Where'd you get all this courage from?

Your old man's a coward.

I mean, your dad.

From my mother.

[HORN HONKS]

Yeah. A mother is incomparable.

And your dad?

Have you always wanted to be a doctor?

- Don't change the topic. - Which topic?

We're talking about family.

Why are you bringing up family today?

Is marriage on your mind?

Why?

Don't you want to?

No, I mean...

No plans to marry?

Then from tomorrow, leave your samples downstairs.

I won't even glance at you from my desktop.

- I can promise you that. - Oh no, you took it to heart.

I still don't mind, that's why I'm warning you.

Be with me only if you've got the guts to take a beating.

Because I've got it.

I can take the blows.

Just don't ever let go of my hand.

Never.

[TRAIN HORN BLARING]

Bhaji pav for room number 202.

- [UTENSILS CLINKING] - [SIZZLE]

- Hello. How are you? - Female: Hello.

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

To be honest, no point of lying to you now.

Boy's side or girl's...

...everyone wants to explore a few options.

Yes, of course, everyone checks out a few others first.

After meeting Maithili...

...we went to see two more girls.

You're right, but we had already agreed on it between us.

Yeah, it was fixed.

But Ram was a little unsure.

What do you mean unsure?

I mean, Ram prefers someone simpler, a more homely girl.

A modern girl won't fit into our household.

So basically, it's a no from you?

Yeah, you could say that. Ram preferred the other one.

Oh?

You didn't strike me as the kind who'd drop by just for snacks.

Snacks? Are you taunting us or what?

Did I put a gun to your head and ask you to come home?

You had her full biodata, photos and everything.

And now she's suddenly too modern?

As if you're squeaky clean.

- Listen... - We've got to face the world too.

You really thought we'd never find out?

And you will keep us in the dark?

If you're that desperate to get her married...

...then ask her to run away.

Yes, we'll make her run, and we won't even bother asking you.

- So, you... - Hello... Hello. - What happened?

Same old story. Just like every time.

- Every time, we have to hear this... - No, just listen to me!

Please, listen to me. Please wait. Just listen to me.

- [DOOR CLOSE] - [DOOR OPEN]

[ENGINE REVVING]

- Happy birthday to you! - [CLAPS]

- Happy birthday to you! - [CLAPS]

- Happy birthday to you! - [CLAPS]

- [KNOCK ON THE DOOR] - Open the door.

- [KNOCK ON THE DOOR] - Open the damn door!

[DOOR OPEN]

You rascal!

Why?

If you liked boys, why did you marry my sister?

You ruined her life.

Now you're after the girl's life too?

Had your father strangled you at birth...

...we'd have been spared all this.

Why did you marry? What the hell! Hey!

- Why... - Hey stop! Leave him. Leave him.

Dad!

I'll kill him today, even if I have to go to jail.

- I'll kill him today. - Move away.

Stop. I won't spare him.

I'll finish him off today.

- Stop! - [SLAP]

He is my father.

Better not to have a father than one like him.

- Move away. - [SLAP]

- I won't spare him. - Stop.

I won't spare him.

Stop.

- Enough! Get out! - Leave me.

Get out of here.

- Leave me. - Get out!

- Get lost from here. - Open the door. Open.

- Open it. - Out! - Go away! - [KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

- Go away! - [KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

Open the door.

- Go away! - [KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

- [KNOCK ON THE DOOR] - Get out from here!

- Open the door, Mithu. - [KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

[YELLING]

- [YELLING] - [KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

[SOBBING]

- [SOBBING] - Just go away.

- [SOBBING] - Go away.

Mithu, open the door.

[SOBBING]

Open the door, Mithu.

[SOBBING]

Mithu.

- [SOBBING] - [KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

Open the door, Mithu.

[SOBBING]

[SOBBING]

Dad!

Dad!

Sorry!

Sorry!

[SOBBING]

Enough! Enough!

[SIGHS]

Do you want me to heat the 'dal'?

It's hot enough already.

Just a dash of lemon, and it's perfect.

Wow!

Forget everything else.

Just teach my wife to make dal like this.

You're noting down the recipes, right?

I've only filled a few pages.

I hardly get any time.

[CLATTER]

Just take some time and write it down.

Always chatting with your friends about recipes.

Just write it once and send. It'll be done.

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

Sharing a recipe over the phone is way more fun than writing it down.

It's also about the little chats.

So that's what it is.

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

Mom, make 'sukhdi', please.

Yes, I'll make it on Sunday.

You should get married now.

And get your wife to make sukhdi.

My life's been stuck in the kitchen.

Your dad and you can do all this fussing in front of your wife.

As if she knows how to make that.

Oh, so you've found a girl?

Yeah, I've found one.

But she's got a sharp tongue.

Sharp and straight. Speaks up. No-nonsense type.

[LAUGHS]

Bring her home sometime.

If I bring her home once then she'll be glued to the place.

She told me once...

...earn before you dare hold my hand.

And don't be ashamed to eat off my earnings.

That's who she is!

You think she'll cook for me?

- I'll be the one making dal for her. - [LAUGHS]

It's good. A fiery wife like her will set you straight.

She'll set me straight? Is she coming with horns?

I don't bend.

Even the toughest men tame down.

After marriage, it's her rule.

Listen to her, and you'll live happily.

Time will tell.

I'm sure.

- Get me the buttermilk. - Oh, yes.

I forgot.

They're good folks. No brawls.

Live in harmony with the neighbours.

He doesn't touch alcohol.

I know what kind of tenant you want, so I got them for you.

Just husband and wife.

What's your caste?

Darbar.

Darbar.

But there's no kitchen in this!

How come there's no kitchen?

Kitchens don't need much space.

You can make it here.

They don't even smoke or drink.

Hence got them to you.

- Where is the bathroom? - That's a common one.

You can use it for an hour morning and evening.

And if nature calls in the afternoon?

Goodbye.

- [SIZZLE] - [CLATTER]

Ma'am.

- Ma'am. - Yes.

You have a visitor at the gate.

- For me? - Yes.

- .Who is it? - I don't know.

- [HORN HONKS] - [FOOTSTEPS]

- Yes. - Hi.

[HORN HONKS]

Rs 500.

For what?

You lost the bet.

What had you said? That I'd be the one to reject you.

But you're the one who said no!

- Me? I said no? - Of course.

- And who told you that? - My mom did.

Stop wearing jeans and T-shirts to meet girls...

...just because your mom told you to.

So, you said no because I wear formal pants and shirts?

Why don't you ask your mom that too?

And don't come back here again.

[CLATTER]

Hmm...

Sorry.

Go to sleep.

Can I ask something?

Yeah, sure.

Do you ever...

...miss that boy?

Is that all you wanted to ask, or...

Isn't love...

...a bit too heavy a word?

It's easy to say it.

But hard to stay true to.

Have you ever felt that way...

...about mom?

Love!

When I was a kid...

...my mom loved me a lot.

Ever since dad found out...

...he's been hitting me.

He'd hit me, and mom would step in to shield me.

At night...

...mom would apply turmeric to my bruises.

And lull me to sleep.

I'd leave for school.

And she'd come with me, right up to the gate.

When school got over...

...she would still be waiting at the gate.

Smiling, as always.

Once the kids at school got to know...

...they started making fun of me.

Sometimes they'd beat me badly.

While dabbing turmeric, mom would say...

..."Don't be afraid."

"I'm here for you."

Good boys...

...don't raise their hand on anyone.

So, you don't either.

And after that, I took a lot of beatings.

As mom's health worsened...

...one thought consumed her.

That I shouldn't be alone.

Otherwise, people would kill me.

I never wanted to get married.

I was already 21.

My mother once said, laughing softly, "Marry her, son."

Chhaya...

...will love you as much as I do.

She'll take care of you.

Chhaya took really good care of me.

After the wedding, I confessed everything to her.

It took her a while to understand.

But she finally did...

...after the office incident.

They beat that...

...boy and me.

Brutally.

I'd gotten used to being hit.

But...

But my mother, who applied turmeric to my wounds, was no longer with me.

That day, it was Chhaya who did it.

Since then, she's the one who'd apply it.

Applying turmeric on a wound...

...perhaps...

...that's what love truly means.

This will look very pretty.

This purple one looks nice. See!

Purple is just a shade.

Don't make her unwrap the saree for no reason.

- No need to open. - Don't worry.

- You're at home. Open it. - But...

Relax, let her see.

Aunty, these sarees are quite affordable.

And if you change your mind, returns are easy. - Yes.

We don't want so many.

Been calling you for so long.

Remember I said I liked that lady's house?

Well, I'm here now.

That's why I kept calling. Where were you?

- The local ladies dropped by. - 'This is so pretty.'

Bought heaps of sarees and wedding gifts.

Raghuvirsinh: Sold out the whole stock in one day?

Obviously, I've got that charm.

True that.

- Seetaba: Now show me the house. - Yeah, sure.

Did you see?

'I'll wear it as a veil.'

It's so beautiful.

We're getting a mirror like that.

It's stunning.

Raghuvirsinh: Such intricate work.

Some people have everything in abundance.

Seetaba: Any luck with the house?

No. I'm still looking.

Hey! The month's about to end. Please buck up now.

Got a few house visits lined up today.

I'm going to be a bit late.

No worries. I'll hang up.

- Goodbye. - Raghuvirsinh: Goodbye.

This is perfect.

Did you like any other?

[DOOR OPEN]

[CLATTER]

What's your caste?

Chudasama.

- Darbar community. - Darbar?

You don't rent to Darbars?

Caste hardly matters when I'm renting out the place.

Only the helpless live in rented houses.

That's true.

- The kitchen? - Here it is.

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

[INDISTINCT]

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

Sir...

...the rent?

The current rent is Rs.8000.

But pay whatever you're able to.

Isn't Rs.8000 a bit low for a house like this?

The money doesn't matter.

As long as the house is cared for.

Fine.

Relax and live here as much as you want to.

Can you please tidy it up a bit?

Sure, I will.

Okay, I'll leave. Bye.

- Goodbye. - 'Goodbye.'

[WHISTLING]

Kabaddi. Kabaddi. Kabaddi. Kabaddi.

Yeah! Yeah!

Bloody hell! Dare you touch!

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

Hands off.

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

Don't touch! I'll deal with you.

How is this one?

[DOOR OPEN]

[DOOR CREAKING]

- [FOOTSTEPS] - [THUD]

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

Surya.

Surya.

Do you go out to play or to pick fights?

How could you get into a fight with the officer's son?

And what if he'd gotten seriously hurt in the fight?

How would I have faced the officer?

What?

How would you face your officer!

What if I had got hurt?

No, you don't have the guts to demand answers from the officer.

So, your powers only meant for us, huh?

- Surya. - What Surya! Don't interrupt.

Listen, we're all police officers.

But our true pride is in sticking together like a family.

I don't want your pride!

I don't want it!

What has your pride ever given you?

Police family! Police family!

All your life, you've just stood at signals with a baton.

You're proud over not letting one truck pass?

A thousand trucks passed right before your eyes.

Then where was your pride?

Your self-respect?

Constable, let him go.

Yes, sir. I'll let him go.

- Constable, shut your eyes. - Yes, sir. Eyes shut.

Go home, Constable.

Yes, sir. Heading out. Jai Hind, sir.

- [BANGLES JINGLING] - [SLAP]

Had he allowed the trucks through for money...

...the house would've been full by now.

You wouldn't be the way you are.

If you'd had been given a free bat and ball growing up...

...you wouldn’t be the man you are today.

You'd be chilling, counting your father's cash.

Not sweating it out on a Kabaddi field!

Husband and wife keep blowing the trumpet of your honesty.

Keep bragging about it.

Surya.

Just watch now!

Uncle's not wrong.

No, he isn't.

So, I'm the only one who's wrong?

Don't you all get tired of acting so noble?

I'm the righteous one.

I've always done what's right, and never allowed wrong to prevail.

But me being noble didn't make any difference to the world.

The only place I showed my smartness was with my family.

That's it. Felt good.

Cat got your tongue now?

Speak up.

Tell me.

You're angry right now.

You just want to hear that you're right and he's wrong.

That too, only to comfort yourself.

Everyone else knows the real truth.

What's the truth? Tell me, what is it?

The truth is, uncle isn't wrong.

Oh, God!

- [GASPS] - [TRAIN RUMBLING]

Hypocrites.

Where are you going?

You couldn't hear the truth?

At this moment, you just want someone who agrees with you.

I'm not doing it. Period.

So, keep your father's honesty or dishonesty aside for a moment.

Without him, you wouldn't even exist.

Gauri.

- Gauri. - [FOOTSTEPS]

Gauri.

- He's not used to eating outside. - [LAUGHING]

- On Sundays, he only eats lentil rice. - That's good.

[LAUGHING]

[MUSIC OVERLAP ON DIALOGUES]

[HORN HONKS]

[HORN HONKS]

Her name was Shweta.

[HORN HONKS]

Even at her place, one plate had samosas and the other had sweets.

[HORN HONKS]

Even there, I was allowed to look at her for about 20 minutes.

But my heart was...

...with you.

[HORN HONKS]

Isn't it wrong?

So, did you go for the samosa or sweets?

[HORN HONKS]

Samosa.

[HORN HONKS]

They would've been offended if I'd said no.

It would've felt bad if you'd just eaten and left.

And the girl's family kept waiting for your call.

And then you'd reject her.

But I didn't turn you down.

It was mom who called.

I had no idea. I only found out when dad told me.

I'm so sorry.

- Sorry for? - I mean...

What do you mean?

That I never said no.

Why would I say no to you?

[VEHICLE PASSING BY]

After meeting you...

...I couldn't believe any of this was even possible.

You are so beautiful and...

- [VEHICLE PASSING BY] - [HORN HONKS]

And?

And why didn't I meet you sooner?

Then when should we have met?

In the seventh grade.

I mean, you would've been in the seventh grade...

...and I'd be in tenth grade.

And if we had met back then, what would we have done?

Not sure.

I wouldn't have had the courage even then.

But I'd have wrote you a letter...

...with a fountain pen.

And I'd have slipped it under your cycle's rear rack and left.

Oh, a fountain pen?

Fountain pen gives a different vibe.

What would you have told me in that letter?

Dear Maithili...

...you look pretty in the pink dress.

If you'd added a tiny black dot on your forehead...

But it's good that you didn't.

Because then I might have jinxed you with my evil eye.

Those red ribbons and cute braids...

...look lovely on you.

If school allowed loose hair...

...your flowing hair with that flick on your forehead...

But lucky for me...

...school requires you to tie your hair.

Otherwise, I might have jinxed you with my evil eye.

If only we'd been born in the same year, it would've been perfect.

I wouldn't have had to wait for the break time.

I could've just watched you during class.

But it's good that I was born before you.

Or else, everyday in the class...

...I might have jinxed you with my evil eye.

- After that? - [VEHICLE PASSING BY]

- After... - [VEHICLE PASSING BY]

Then I'd come to see you.

And we'd end up meeting every single day.

We'd have grown up together.

What if our families find out?

Your mom would've found out about my dad...

...and we'd still have ended up right where we are today.

We've hit a dead end.

- [VEHICLE PASSING BY] - [HORN HONKS]

[HORN HONKS]

Just have faith, everything will fall into place.

We'll figure something out together.

Knowing the truth and living with it, are two very different things.

You show up in jeans and a tee to see a girl...

...pretending to be someone you're not.

And then you talk about writing letters like we're school kids.

[VEHICLE PASSING BY]

You won't be able to handle all this.

[VEHICLE PASSING BY]

- Just give me one chance. - The first time we fight...

...my dad will be dragged into it.

Another fight, he'll be blamed again.

Marriage isn't just between two people.

You know that, right?

We'll have a place of our own.

[VEHICLE PASSING BY]

What's your parents fault in this?

And what's my dad's fault?

I'll never leave my dad.

I... - And you shouldn't leave your parents either.

[HORN HONKS]

You are a good man, Ram.

- [VEHICLE PASSING BY] - [HORN HONKS]

Just say yes to that girl.

Marry her. Build a life with her.

Write your letters to her...

...and share your childhood stories with her.

Have a good life.

Take care.

Maithili.

Ram.

Please.

Please.

- [VEHICLE PASSING BY] - [HORN HONKS]

- [PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY] - [HORN HONKS]

[HORN HONKS]

- [BELL TOLLING] - [SIZZLE]

Seetaba.

Now watch the magic. Saw it on YouTube.

I'll make it differently.

Which channel? Raseela kitchen.

- Which one is that? - She cooks very well.

Is it? Share it with me.

Jeera aloo paratha.

Awesome.

- Should I add this? - Yeah, just a bit.

Let me do. Bring the potatoes.

Wow, what an amazing aroma!

Come on, bro.

If that pan-squirting uncle sees you kneading dough...

- ...he'll draw his sword. - [CHUCKLES]

Just try the aloo paratha my man made.

- Oh! Is it delicious? - Don't stir things up, brother.

[LAUGHING]

- Hey, sister-in-law. - Do you want to hear a joke? - Yeah, sure.

[LAUGHING]

Once, two Darbars rode out on horseback...

...just to grind grains.

[LAUGHING]

Hey, what do you think?

[LAUGHS]

Darbars do everything on horseback?

[LAUGHING]

We're not idle, okay? What's so funny?

In these jokes, we’re always made out to be idle.

You and Seetaba go ahead and crack jokes without me.

Okay, fine. Stop whining.

[LAUGHS]

Hey, sister-in-law. I was thinking...

...why don't we do the shifting next week?

What happened?

What did the landlord say?

Nothing. It's just that the month's almost over.

And the old man from the other society called.

He said he'd cleaned up the place.

Mostly because I was free next week.

So, I could've helped.

Please, just tell me the truth.

What is it?

Sister-in-law, you were going to shift anyway.

This happens every time.

[BANGLES JINGLING]

- I'll drop by next week. - Eat first, then leave.

Yes, please. Eat before you leave.

No, I have to show a house to another client.

- But since you mentioned food... - Not like this.

I'll take a bite.

Bye.

- Bye. - Bye.

- Don't stress about it now. - What good will thinking do?

It's the same story, every time.

Enough now. Let it be.

You know something?

My mother always said...

"A house can be built."

"But it takes years to make it a home."

That actually feels true now.

A light pink in the bedroom.

Light yellow in the kitchen.

- And in the living room... - Light blue.

You remembered.

[LAUGHING]

Okay, let me say.

Light blue in the living room.

A 21-inch TV mounted on the wall.

The kind that swings out.

A bamboo sofa placed right in front of it.

- A light green pillow on the sofa. - Yeah, light green.

Then every night, watching a film...

...sipping cold fennel drink, in a glass cup.

Can I say something?

All I want is a one-room kitchen...

...with your nameplate on the door.

If there's ever a film like that, I want to play the heroine.

I'll put up the nameplate.

It'll say Mr. and Mrs. Chudasama...

...surrounded by white flower vines.

No.

Why?

The nameplate will read...

...Raghuvirsinh Chudasama.

Why that?

It feels nice when it's your name.

Whose film is it?

It's our film.

So, the nameplate will say...

...Mr. and Mrs. Chudasama.

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

[INSTRUMENTS PLAYING]

[INSTRUMENTS PLAYING]

[INSTRUMENTS PLAYING]

[INSTRUMENTS PLAYING]

Tea?

- [SHOW PLAYING ON RADIO] - [HORN HONKS]

This is my favourite spot.

[SHOW PLAYING ON RADIO]

We were here the other day.

Why didn't you mention it then?

I didn't trust you enough back then.

And now... you trust me?

A little bit.

[SHOW PLAYING ON RADIO]

Sorry for our first meeting.

[HORN HONKS]

You were clueless, and I...

...ended up venting on you.

And for the second meeting?

[HORN HONKS]

Isn't there something lovely about waiting?

When dusk falls...

...your gaze lingers on the street.

No need to check the time.

Slowly the sun reveals the hour.

The real pain is...

...stepping out and not seeing them there.

The place is vacant.

Suddenly, you hear every kind of voice.

Except the one you long for.

You're just left standing there, alone.

I'll always come.

Everyone wants to.

At first, everyone does.

It's the staying that's difficult.

What if I come once, and never leave?

It's only a dream.

And dreams are always beautiful.

You just can't build a home in them.

- [SIZZLE] - [UTENSILS CLINKING]

Oh, wow!

Smells amazing.

So, trying to boost the old man's energy, huh?

Hey! He's not old yet, okay?

He's retiring in a week. What else, if not old? Super cop?

- He's my super cop. - Aww!

- [UTENSILS CLINKING] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

That was the garnishing!

Add it and turn him young again.

- Eat while it's hot, then go. - Not now, I'll eat at dinner.

- Then what about lunch? - I'll have it outside.

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

Just wait for some time. Eat before you go.

I can't eat this early.

- What's on the curry menu? - Sev-tomato.

Wow, yummy!

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

- Goodbye. - 'Bye.'

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

He's the one.

- Thank you, madam. - Welcome ma'am.

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

Good evening, sir. Chef Maithili for you.

Here's your menu.

Thank you.

- What would you like to have? - It's so expensive.

Yes, sir. What would you like to have?

- Chef's special. - Sure, sir.

That would be, Fettuccine Cacio e Pepe.

Would you like to have that?

What's that?

It's pasta, sir.

Oh!

All that money just for an exotic name!

Yes, sir.

- Okay, I'll order that. - Sure.

- Anything to drink? - No, I'm full.

Sure, sir.

Thank you.

Your order will be ready in the 15-20 mins.

Can I watch the chef while she cooks?

Definitely, sir.

[SIZZLE]

♪ If you don’t walk into my dreams now. ♪

♪ No leaf will rouse the flames again. ♪

♪ If someone stirs my heart... ♪

♪ ...a rainbow blossoms... ♪

- ♪...in the twilight ♪ - Thank you.

Listen.

Are you free this evening?

- ♪Dewy whispering droplets ♪ - Yeah, a bit.

♪ Drenched in the tender drizzle. ♪

- It's delicious. - ♪You meet me again in the misty dusk". ♪

Thank you. - ♪Let’s meet where the misty dusk kisses the shore". ♪

[CLATTER]

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

[CROW CAWING]

Relax, I'll manage.

I'll keep it out.

- [GRUNTS] - [UTENSILS CLINKING]

- Seetaba! - [GRUNTS]

What happened?

Hey... Sit down.

[GASPS]

[HUMMING]

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

- [PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY] - [TELEPHONE RINGING]

Sit down.

[PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY]

- What? - 'It's a new case.'

I'll pay the amount.

[PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY]

I've paid the bill.

Get the X-ray done here.

And submit it here.

Okay, thank you.

Excuse me.

Yes, ma'am.

- For appointment... - Surekha Barot.

I want an expert for my dad.

[CRYING]

[CRYING]

[CRYING]

[CRYING]

[CRYING]

- [DOOR OPEN] - [DOOR CREAKING]

- [DOOR CREAKING] - [FOOTSTEPS]

[SIGHS]

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

Should I make some tea?

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

Hello.

Baby girl, are you asleep, or still awake?

Why a girl?

Why not a son?

[TCH]

I hope it's a girl.

Why?

Because no one loves the way a girl does.

What will we name her?

I've thought of a name.

Oh?

Tell me.

Janaki.

And then...

Janaki will have a big room...

...with white curtains.

And green-coloured walls.

Look at this.

Where did this come from?

I went there last week...

...to fix the switchboard.

I took the picture while I was at it.

Beautiful, right?

Huge walls, just like in the movies.

We'll make Janaki's room just like that.

Green walls and a matching crib.

The whole room will be filled with bright, colourful toys.

Our dreams will only come true in our film, right?

In real life...

Why not?

They will come true.

Really?

Yes, for sure.

Perhaps, they show dreams in films...

...because dreams do come true.

With Janaki's arrival...

...prosperity will follow.

[LAUGHING]

Thank you.

- [HORN HONKS] - [PAPER RUSTLE]

Now, we'll never see each other again.

Please don't come here. Take care.

Of course, smooth talkers seal the deal.

A closed mouth doesn't get fed.

You are right.

Hello, Darbar!

[HORN HONKS]

Hello, sir.

Where are you going? Are you going to fetch milk?

Yeah.

Only one milkman is allowed in here.

You can place your order with him.

Okay.

- Care for a paan? - No, I don't eat that.

How boring!

And who’s he?

Raghuvirsinh Chudasama.

Hello.

Hello.

Sir.

But how do you know my name?

Come on, man! Being a Darbar, how could I miss another Darbar?

He's on the society's committee.

Which one's your house?

The haunted one.

- The old man tricked you. - And did it overnight.

Is it haunted?

Of course not. Just rumours.

Obviously. It has to be rumours.

Yeah, yeah. Ghosts and all that jazz.

Yeah, people gossip.

After all, Darbar blood.

Not everyone's cut from that cloth.

A Darbar doesn't fear ghosts.

Rather, he spooks the ghost into peeing its pants, right?

- Fear? That's for others. - Right!

Exactly. Darbars don’t know fear.

Hey, that wooden chair still in the house?

Yeah. There's still one.

People have seen an old woman on that chair.

People have seen her using a red comb to comb her...

...long, grey hair while cradling her head in her palm.

So what? We're Darbars. No fear.

- Fear? - That's for others. - Others fear us.

- Okay, bye. - Bye.

Bye.

Water is hot.

I'll take a shower.

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

[DOOR CLOSE]

Seetaba!

Seetaba!

Seetaba!

Yes, what is it?

I can't open it.

Push it.

Yeah, I am.

Push!

Maybe the door's jammed.

- Why were you so scared? - I wasn’t scared!

Why do you give me cold water everyday?

- I did heat it. - It wasn't hot.

Do you really have to go?

Can't you hold off for a few days.

What am I even supposed to do at home?

Should I leave then?

Yeah, carry on.

Should we hire a cook?

Let's wait for some time, Then we’ll decide.

Bye...

[ENGINE REVVING]

[GATE CREAKING]

- Hello. - Seetaba: Hello.

- Where are you? - Seetaba: I'm delivering sarees.

Oh.

Seetaba: The keys are under the doormat.

Let me check.

[SIGHS]

- Seetaba: Got them? - Yeah, found it.

Seetaba: Listen.

- Seetaba: Chop the onions. - Okay.

- [CREAKING SOUND] - [DOOR OPEN]

- [CHUCKLES] - [DOOR CLOSE]

O lord Hanuman!

[RUSTLE]

[HORN HONKS]

Mithu will never agree.

Mithu?

Maithili is Mithu to me.

Oh.

She’s met plenty of boys.

But only you came back.

But this won't do.

My daughter's stubborn.

When she wants something, she gets it.

Lately, she's been acting like my mother.

So, she might seem a little harsh.

But she's not really like that.

She bakes cakes.

But she won't trust someone that easily.

If love is meant to be, it'll find its way.

Start by earning her trust.

But Maithili told me...

...we'd never cross paths again.

Oh, so that's why you came to see me, not Maithili.

You're probably thinking, What should I do now?

What should I even do?

Wait for her.

And keep waiting.

She told you not to meet her.

But she's didn't tell you not to wait.

Without them even realizing it...

...when we watch them secretly from a distance...

...it gives a sense of contentment...

...that we don't experience even when we meet them.

Sometimes it can also happen that...

...when you're secretly watching her...

...and then suddenly, her eyes find you.

And your heart races.

No other night...

...will be as restful as that one.

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

Looks like a fan from the British era.

[GASPS]

No worries if you can't fix it.

We'll just call the electrician.

Keep calm.

Here's the plier.

This isn't a plier.

This is. Hold it.

- Oh no. - Hey.

Here we go.

What have you done?

You just moved in and already wrecked the fan.

That's why no one rents it to Darbars.

- Be quiet. - Do you know it?

- How to speed up the fan? - Yes.

I specialize in that. Let me tell you...

Once a Darbar rode on his horseback to speed fans...

[LAUGHING]

Are you two done?

- Go, feed the horse now. - Okay.

Come on.

You want to speed up the fan!

[LAUGHING]

Oh God!

[GASPS]

What is it?

Nothing much.

I got fewer addresses today. But I'll get more next time.

It's okay.

City flats are all gone. Now?

They'll build new ones.

Can I ask something?

What's so fun about video calling from vacant flats?

To check out new flats? Every Sunday, all dressed up...

...hopping from one empty flat to another.

Doesn't it tire you out?

You won't get it.

Brother, you're about to be a father.

Watching you take her around like that, in this condition...

...it's hard to see.

That's why I'm telling you, just stop all this.

This is the last address I can give you.

I can’t help after this. Sorry.

Ever crammed your whole home into boxes and wandered around?

Shifting from one place to the next.

In a rented place, you have to think a hundred times...

...before hammering a nail.

You go to bed wondering...

...will this still be your home when you wake up?

Back when we got married, I promised Seetaba...

...in one or two years, and we'd have a roof of our own.

Since that day, she's been selling saris...

...and I'm fitting bulbs door to door.

Amid everything, we get one Sunday.

And that belongs to us.

Have you seen her face?

She lights up every time we visit an empty flat.

I could never rob her of that joy.

Sister-in-law's...

Sister-in-law's happiness, or yours?

Look into my eyes.

Learn to live within your means.

That's enough of your talk.

This isn't talks. It’s the truth.

Hence advising you.

Better stop while you still can.

It's for your own good.

Okay, see you later.

Have some tea before you go.

I'll be back tomorrow. I'll have it then. Bye.

[RUSTLE]

You can't sleep?

I can't sleep in this house anymore.

Inside this tiny house...

...lives an empty city, it seems.

Ma'am.

'Dear Mithu...'

'I know I haven't earned the right to call you that.'

'But if you're reading this, I hope it brings a smile on your face.'

'You must be holding a half cup of tea in your hand.'

'At your favourite time of the entire day, evening.'

'I longed for evenings like this, with tea, and you beside me.'

'But time and fate kept us apart.'

'But the heart was never one to follow time or fate.'

'We'll keep meeting at this bus stop like a passing thought.'

'Forever.'

'No societal norm will be able to stop us.'

'Here, we are free.'

'That day my first letter remained incomplete.'

'And you came back to the present.'

'You said, if we'd met, fallen in love...'

'...our families would've found out about it.'

'But between those two lines...'

'...if I could have lived my entire childhood...'

'...I'd have met you a hundred times over.'

'I'd have written countless letters, and waited for just as many.'

'Sending you my old Walkman, and a shawl.'

'Hope you like it.'

'Ram.'

- I'm leaving for work. - Okay.

[KNOCK ON THE DOOR]

[DOOR OPEN]

- Yes? - Surekha Barot's residence?

- Yes. - Her parcel.

Thank you, sir.

Your mother had...

- for my retirement... - [CLEARING THROAT]

[CHOPPING SOUND]

[CLATTER]

[PRESSURE COOKER WHISTLING]

[SIZZLE]

No, enough.

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

[CRYING]

What's all this?

How much was it?

Around 5000?

What? 5000?

Why'd you bring so much stuff?

Mom had called.

You've been prescribed a monthly dose of 5 kilos of ghee!

It'll help the baby build strong bones.

So? What did you bring? Tell me.

Mom made a list; I picked up everything.

We're not two people anymore.

We'll have to tighten our budget.

It'll all work out.

We should've waited a bit before having a baby.

We can't afford it right now.

No worries.

It's going to be okay.

We wouldn't be under as much stress if we had saved more money.

What are you stressed about?

You think I won't be able to afford a baby?

- For you... - Exactly. End of discussion.

I'll take care of everything.

End of discussion. Come on.

Why are you so irritated? Leave, I'll stack it.

- I said, I’ll do it. - Let me handle it.

- I'll do it. - No, you go from here.

I'll do it. Come on, go.

Fine, do it.

'Dear Ram...'

'Today morning, I came back to the spot...'

'...where your eyes searched for me each day.'

'And then I sat on the patio...'

'...and relived your presence next to me for a while.'

'Had we known each other in our school days...'

'...we'd be sitting here every evening.'

'After school, we'd have sat on my favourite bench and talked for hours.'

'I know you'd be too shy.'

'...so I'd have rested my head on your shoulder, held your hand, and dozed off.'

'My fingers curled around your hand.'

'And we'd have built a small home.'

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

'That evening, your mother met me.'

'You should focus on your PhD.'

'A bird and a fish might fall in love.'

'But they can't build a nest together.'

'I'll treasure the songs and the shawl you gave me all my life.'

'And you must wear the sweater I gave you in November.'

'If you like it.'

'And in our little dream world...'

'...every Sunday, we'll keep meeting on our bus stop.'

'Won't you come to meet me?'

'I'm shifting to Mumbai next week.'

'Dad is coming along.'

'Perhaps my departure is necessary to move our conversation ahead.'

'Forgive me if you can.'

'Take care.'

'Yours, Mithu.'

[SIGHS]

[SNIFFS]

- You didn’t have to. - Just have it.

[CUPBOARD DOOR OPEN]

[CUPBOARD DOOR CLOSE]

[ENGINE REVVING]

- What’s wrong? Won't it start? - No idea.

[ENGINE REVVING]

Do one thing, take mine.

No, no, it'll start.

Keep kicking, and you’ll land yourself a hernia.

Here, take it to a mechanic this evening.

- No, no, it'll work. - Here, hold this.

Anyway, I've got to sit at the post all day.

Just take it, get it checked by the mechanic later.

Bye.

[ENGINE REVVING]

Mind giving me a lift?

[ENGINE REVVING]

[ENGINE REVVING]

[ENGINE REVVING]

[GATE CREAKING]

Hey, you're back?

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

The wire I installed earlier was...

...a bit flimsy, so I decided to put in a better quality one.

So, you won't have to worry.

Okay, do that.

♪ A tender moment, light as a lash. ♪

♪ A glimmer of a golden dream. ♪

♪ A tender moment, light as a lash. ♪

♪ A glimmer of a golden dream. ♪

♪ How do we prove we're true? ♪

♪ How do we return? ♪

♪ Your rule, your command. ♪

♪ The promise I’ve made to stay true. ♪

♪ Your rule, your command. ♪

♪ The promise I’ve made to stay true. ♪

♪ How do we prove we're true? ♪

♪ How do we return? ♪

[CUPBOARD DOOR CLOSE]

♪ The inner doors of my soul... ♪

♪ The inner doors of my soul... ♪

♪ ...today have heard a tender knock. ♪

♪ It was as though my soul's cradle... ♪

♪ ...had its threads plucked. ♪

♪ Even if I don’t want to swing... ♪

♪ Even if I don’t want to swing... ♪

♪ ...how can I stop my heart’s pull? ♪

♪ A tender moment, light as a lash. ♪

♪ A glimmer of a golden dream. ♪

♪ A tender moment, light as a lash. ♪

♪ A glimmer of a golden dream. ♪

♪ How do we prove we're true? ♪

♪ How do we return? ♪

I've brought shame to my parents' name.

Janaki hasn't even stepped into this world yet...

[CRICKETS CHIRPING]

You were right.

I can't even make ends meet.

To build a home of my own, I nearly broke someone’s trust.

We’ll apologies with folded hands.

Fall at their feet, earn their trust back.

It's not like you stole anything, right?

Let dreams be shattered.

But I'm not going to let Janaki's dad fall apart.

As long as I, Seetaba, stand by you...

...Raghuvirsinh Chudasama will never have to lower his head, okay?

If they tell us to vacate the house...

...we'll just leave.

But our showcase and the glass toys...

...will be placed here.

And not a single corner will remain in darkness.

I'll order more sarees. You're already doing your best.

But don't ever do anything...

...that makes you hang your head in shame.

[SOBBING]

In my film, you're the hero.

And I'm your heroine.

Even if it’s a rented house...

...Mr. and Mrs. Chudasama's movie will still go on forever.

That won't end.

Did you hear that?

It's not going to end.

[SOBBING]

Mr. Ramesh had called. We’re meeting him on Sunday.

For what?

What do you mean for what? To meet his daughter, Priya.

I'm off to Delhi on Saturday.

My train is at night.

I'll be back by Tuesday.

I want to pursue a PhD there.

You didn't even inform us.

But why Delhi?

Why not here?

- You’re leaving such a good job... - I quit.

I quit my job.

I've emailed them.

Once the admission is secured at the university...

...I'll come back and complete the formalities.

So if you’d already decided, why bother telling us?

Don't worry, mom.

I'll marry whoever you choose.

That’s her talking through you.

That's why it's a bit sharp.

My son is never this harsh.

Does your son ever speak?

Does he?

But he should've.

When Seema called me for the first time in 10th grade...

...and you scolded her...

...that was the time to speak.

Her caste was lower than ours, right?

You were too young to get into all this.

I was too young to make sense of our society's caste and class.

Wait, I think Maithili's family is from a higher caste.

Son, we've lived our entire lives under these social rules.

Living in this society means living by its rules.

Once you step outside society...

...who is Ram and who is Maithili?

And yet, while living within this very society...

...Ram can demand an ordeal by fire from Maithili, dad?

If this same society had understood back then...

...no Sita would ever have had to prove herself through an ordeal by fire.

- Listen, Ram... - Don't worry, mom!

Don't worry.

My Sita is not with me...

...because she doesn't want her Ram to go away from his family.

But it is necessary for me to go.

I'll return.

And marry whoever you choose.

Because that choice belongs to you.

And that right will always be yours.

Hey, Ram... Just a minute.

Please don't leave the table and walk away.

Whatever we're doing, it's only for your sake.

There's a reason this society was built the way it was.

This society holds immense honour and dignity.

The honour and dignity are yours.

Yet it is Sita who must undergo the trial by fire?

But this is my Ramayana.

And in my Ramayana, my Sita will not give any ordeal by fire.

[ENGINE REVVING]

You must be hungry. Give me five minutes, I'll whip something up.

- Why was your phone switched off? - Battery was dead.

Is this the time to come home?

- Enough of roaming around. - Roaming, really?

I was getting your bike serviced.

When was the last time you got it serviced?

One kick, and it freezes. It scrapes the ground.

Can't even handle himself, and he's lecturing me!

[UTENSILS CLINKING]

Got to ride it till it dies.

You should only ride what still runs.

It doesn't work like that.

- I thought that... - What did you think?

You thought I was out drinking somewhere?

Just like you shared your whereabouts with your mom...

...if you'd share with me, I'd be okay.

Fine, I'll let you know my drinking plans.

Hey! You shouldn't be drinking.

- Take a shot, and you’ll have fun. - No way!

Are you teaching your father how to drink?

Dark times! God, knock some sense into him.

Should I pour you a drink? Just say so.

'Have some shame.'

[CHUCKLES]

[SANSKRIT CHANTS]

[SANSKRIT CHANTS]

[SCREAMING]

Why are you screaming?

Why'd you shove this coconut in my face?

You stepped forward. But why the fear?

I'm not scared.

You gave me a scare!

Hope I didn't scare you too much?

Nope, this little bit won't hurt.

- Are you sure? - Hold this. But why were you scared?

I didn't get scared.

When was I scared? I wasn't.

Aren't we going today?

I don't feel like it.

We're never really in the mood.

Once we see the flat, we'll cheer up.

It's the last address.

- Let's go. - Yes.

Glory to God.

Let me water the plants.

[DOOR OPEN]

'Dear Mithu, before I write anything else...'

'...there's something important I need to say.'

'This is my last letter.'

'That day, I proudly wrote that I'll become a better cook than you.'

'But time's running out now.'

'So, I made what I could and sent it.'

'Hope it's at least edible.'

'I've seen a lot of people having regrets in life.'

'If they'd known it was their last meeting...'

'...they'd have cherished it more.'

'I hate goodbyes, so I can't wait till the very last day.'

'Nothing more, just grant me this one small permission...'

'...that during these final seven days, you let me gaze upon you to my heart's content.'

'I promise to stop writing you letters.'

'I can't bring myself to write anymore.'

'I want to relive our childhood in these seven days.'

'If you can give me this much freedom, then let me know.'

'These last seven days of childhood spent between these two lines...'

'...is something I'll never forget.'

'That's it.'

'Ram.'

The bike runs really smooth now.

If you had ridden it till it could, it would have stopped long ago.

[CHUCKLES]

Buy a new one now.

No way.

Now that it's smooth, I'll use it as long as it lasts.

But...

All your shirts have ripped collars.

How long do you plan to keep wearing them?

Just toss them and get new ones.

I'll buy them later.

Didn't you buy anything when you went to the mall?

I did buy a nice kurta.

Buy a few more shirts too.

What's your size?

Don't bother, I'll get it for you.

- I'll buy them. - You'll never buy.

Start prepping for retirement, I'll take care of it.

Alright.

How far did your kabaddi get?

The finals are next.

'Last time, I was tied up with duty, so I couldn't make it.'

'This time, I'll be there.'

If you can't come, it's okay. No worries.

'No, I'll be there.'

Okay, I am leaving.

Bye.

Bye.

Wow, what's the matter?

You look really happy today!

No, it's nothing.

Last week of retirement, so a bit...

I can't speak for others, but I will miss you a lot.

I understand.

Don't stress too much.

Control your anger, everything will work out.

[CHUCKLES]

It's in my blood. I'm fearless.

Oh my, my. You're fearless!

[CHUCKLES]

So, what's Surya up to?

[BIRDS CHIRPING]

He had my bike serviced.

- Oh? - Yes.

He said he'd buy me a few shirts for my retirement day.

Didn't I tell you? Everything gets better with time.

He asked me for my shirt size today.

When he was small, I measured him with my fingers and bought...

And today, he is buying for me!

[CHUCKLES]

Listen, sir. Why don't you get him something too?

He'd be happy.

- [BIRDS CHIRPING] - [VEHICLE PASSING BY]

Hey, listen.

Invite him to your match.

[SIREN WAILING]

He hasn't watched a single one till now.

I have given up.

Yeah, but this is the finals.

Just try once.

If he just shows up and sits there...

...you won't even have to win.

Yeah, but he did say, I must win the finals.

Really?

Then it's settled. Just call him.

Now you got to win the finals.

[HORN HONKS]

You'll be coming, right?

If you call me, I'll be there.

- Will you call me? - Obviously.

I'll call you and introduce you to my dad too.

And how will you introduce me?

I'll say that...

...she's a friend.

Friend?

Special friend?

Looks like I'll spend my whole life convincing you.

You haven’t earned my trust yet.

You and your trust!

How the hell do I earn your trust?

- [FOOTSTEPS] - [MUSIC OVERLAP ON DIALOGUES]

[MUSIC OVERLAP ON DIALOGUES]

[CUPBOARD DOOR OPEN]

[RUSTLE]

[CUPBOARD DOOR CLOSE]

Son, this is for you.

[RUSTLE]

All this... But why?

I have many clothes.

I know, but tomorrow is our special day.

Yes, it is a special day.

- I like them. - Good.

This is for you.

But I have to wear the uniform tomorrow.

In the evening, I'll wear the kurta which your mom had chosen.

Can we have an evening party with snacks?

Yes, I'll inform everyone and arrange the snacks.

Yes, please do.

[RUSTLE]

- I'll get going. - Okay.

[CUPBOARD DOOR CLOSE]

Bye.

Bye, son.

[PHONE RINGING]

[PHONE RINGING]

- Hello. - Male: Good evening.

- Good evening. - Male: Where are you?

I'm at work, tell me.

Male: Can you come home after work?

Why? What's the matter?

Male: Nothing much, I just wanted to talk.

I'll be there. I'll reach in fifteen minutes.

Male: Okay.

He's the Darbar we've rented our house to.

- Hello. - Hello.

- Will you have some tea? - No, let it be.

If I drink tea now, I'll skip dinner.

And my wife is waiting at home.

Uncle...

...what's the matter?

Why do you look confused?

No, I'm not.

But I hid something from you.

- About the ghost? - Yes.

I know it.

And I also know it's just a rumour.

And can anyone scare me?

No, Darbar is fearless.

My son's caught up in a mess in America.

He's neck-deep in debt.

I lied to you only to save him.

No worries. After all it's just gossip.

I know the society guys are behind this rumour too.

Yes, you are right.

A few members spread...

...that rumour to stop me from selling the house.

But you were God sent.

You moved in...

...and everything was fine.

Then an old buyer got wind of it.

And the house was sold.

The house is sold? What are you saying?

For bringing my son back...

...selling the house was my only option.

This morning, they paid the advance.

The rest will come by the end of the month.

So, I'll have to hand over the keys in a month.

You can stay comfortably for the month.

I won't ask for rent.

You mean...

...I have to vacate the house in a month?

Please forgive me.

Please don't do this.

If I were in your place, I'd have done the same.

It's your house. I'm just a tenant.

I'll return the keys in a month.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye.

Live within...

...your means.

Didn't you once advise me that?

Our dreams outgrew our means.

So, we did the obvious.

Cut them down to size.

No matter how hard you try...

...and make the rented roof your own.

But at the end of the day...

...a rented roof isn't a permanent home.

You can lose it anytime.

It's Seetaba's birthday tomorrow.

What do I even say to her?

Come on.

Take out the glass toys.

Pack them in boxes.

Clear the showcase and keep moving.

Happy birthday, Seetaba.

What do I tell her?

Let me tell you a joke.

Once, a Darbar...

...and his wife came on a horse into the city from the jungle.

Seetaba had just one dream.

A small house with a balcony.

Darbar couldn't even give her that.

Please don't say that.

It's a dream not a joke.

A poor man's dream is always a joke.

Brother, big doors, wide windows...

...fancy balconies... That's just not our world.

All we want is for our child to sleep in the shade.

On the road between a dream of a home and a home filled with dreams...

...the only thing you’ll see are the huts of the poor.

I've got nothing against your dream.

But this is more than enough for us. It's enough.

You go.

Let me take care of her birthday.

Hey, Surya.

Son!

[RUSTLE]

- [RUSTLE] - [BIRDS CHIRPING]

[INDISTINCT]

[CLAPS]

Respected Commissioner Sir...

...esteemed officers...

...and all my friends in the police force...

My wife wrote this speech.

I told her, I can't say all this.

She would've been overjoyed to see this day.

Without her, today...

...and every single day to come...

...will always feel incomplete to me.

What a life the cops have!

One shift rolls into the next. Day, night, then day again.

No matter the festival...

...no matter the season...

...we're always at our post.

A baby's born at home, and we still report to duty.

When a child is learning to ride a bicycle, their mother stands behind them.

We, however, are always on duty.

Be it the wife's birthday, or...

...the daughter's wedding, duty comes first.

Yet people say police officers act too high and mighty.

What to do, sir?

Whether it's rest or a loved one's wish...

...it always remains incomplete.

Today...

...I hang up the uniform, sir.

My final leave.

But before I go, can I say something?

Next time you get a chance...

...take a day off for them.

Take time off for them.

Jai Hind, sir.

Let's go, let's go.

[CLAPS]

- Come on, Surya. - Kabaddi.

Catch him!

- [WHISTLING] - [CLAPS]

- Come on! - Try the next time! Come on.

Come on, team!

Catch him! Block him!

Catch him!

Hey!

[CLAPS]

[CLAPS]

Game is yet not over.

It’s not over yet.

Surya is here!

Come on, Surya.

Come on, team.

Come on, guys.

Catch him! Catch him!

Just grab him.

It’ll be fun.

Catch him.

Come on.

Yes, yes.

Hurry up and catch him.

Hurry up.

[WHISTLING]

Yeah!

Come on, come on, boys.

Kabaddi, kabaddi.

Kabaddi, kabaddi.

Kabaddi, kabaddi.

Kabaddi, kabaddi.

Kabaddi, kabaddi.

We made it boys. Yeah!

How are you?

Ram's leaving for Delhi tonight.

He quit his job.

He'll pursue his PhD there.

Please don't hold him back.

You two being together is impossible...

Yet, I felt I should inform you.

[FOOTSTEPS]

[SCREAMING]

[DOOR OPEN]

[ANKLET CHIMES]

What’s this?

Our little dream.

What do you mean?

I mean, enough with the fantasies of large balconies.

Big windows.

The colourful walls we dreamed of, were never meant to be ours.

And this dream?

It'll take a few years.

But I'll do something.

It will happen.

We can't have the six-seater dining table.

No worries.

We'll sit on the floor and eat.

That two-door fridge won't fit in.

Clay pots are best for cool water.

- Seetaba! - Hmm?

There's no space for a big sofa.

Enough room for a table and two chairs.

This will be just fine.

So, we'll pull up the chairs.

And sit in front of our 42-inch TV.

No, a 21-inch TV.

And we will watch films together.

[LAUGHS]

This is it.

We can't have a separate room for Janaki.

Hmmm.

I will never let Janaki sleep away from me.

If nothing else, we can match the crib to the wall's colour.

By the time the house is truly ours, Janaki will have grown.

- Seetaba. - Hmm?

This place doesn't even have a balcony.

But there's a huge window.

In the evening, we'll sit here and sip tea.

Is it okay?

It's a bit too sweet.

[LAUGHS]

- We've to vacate the house. - What?

When did that happen?

Uncle had called me last night.

Without breaking any rule.

Well actually...

...I chased the ghost away.

What does that mean?

I don’t scare easily.

But you don't worry, I'll manage something.

So, what next?

Now...

A fresh start on your birthday.

Mr. & Mrs. Chudasama's film, a new chapter begins.

Seetaba.

Happy birthday.

Thank you.

♪ What is it saying... this heart of mine? ♪

♪ What am I even holding on for? ♪

♪ What am I even holding on for? ♪

♪ What is it saying... this heart of mine? ♪

♪ The shores are far, and the waves never meet. ♪

♪ Days are not the same, and lonelier the nights. ♪

♪ You and I remain the same, but what's different is... ♪

♪ Our tale. ♪

♪ You and I are written as strangers in this tale. ♪

♪ Strangers. ♪

♪ In this tale. ♪

♪ If we ever meet again in this life. ♪

♪ I’ll treasure you in my eyes, where no dream can break. ♪

♪ Hold my memories till that day. ♪

♪ Safely hidden from every evil gaze. ♪

I’ll never forget you".

♪ My heart knows this too well. ♪

♪ What shall I tell you now? ♪

♪ My heart no longer knows. ♪

♪ These memories, now are just memories. ♪

♪ Forever in my heart they’ll stay as quiet pleas. ♪

♪ Keep them safe with you. ♪

♪ Yours and mine unfinished... ♪

♪ ...tale. ♪

♪ You and I are written as strangers in this tale. ♪

♪ Strangers. ♪

♪ In this tale. ♪

♪ You and I are written as strangers in this tale. ♪

♪ Strangers. ♪

♪ In this tale. ♪

[SOBBING]

Naankhatai