Original subtitles

Kalyanam! Why are you removing the makeup now?

Chandran didn't show up and so I have to also play Kunti's part.

Tandavam will ruin your life by making you play all women characters.

Does he even realise that you're the only person who hasn't played the King?

If that's my fate in this Jama (troupe) then better live with it.

Fate, my foot!

Grab the opportunity when it presents itself

and then see the wonders it leads to.

Look, only thing present here is unlimited desires.

And only dejection to grab.

The only way I'm playing the king is if I start my own Jama.

Hey! How many times do I tell you?

Why start a new one? This is your father's Jama!

When Tandavam's time is up, you're the rightful person to own this.

Poona, can't you just shut up? Why do you want to cause a rift?

Should Tandavam die for him to own this Jama?

Let him die. What's the big deal?

Quiet, man.

At times a rift is good.

A rift is what exposes the truth and thus it triumphs. Got it?

Also, his father started this Jama.

So stop boasting about Tandavam!

Of course, the troupe artists will fear their teacher.

You guys may fear Tandavam, as this is your bread and butter,

but not me!

If he shows up in front of me

I'll rip him apart!

Poona! Do you think he'll get the Jama if Tandavam dies?

Nobody will turn to his side.

Dare you judge him! He's not like you to stay stagnant forever.

Wait and watch, soon he'll be the teacher who runs this Jama.

Hello.

It's me, your mother. Can you hear me?

I can hear you, mom. Tell me. Didn't sleep yet?

No, dear.

Your uncle had visited. The conversation with him kept me awake.

Conversation? About what?

What else but about your marriage.

Say what you have to say. I've to dress up to play Draupadi.

Playing that character is the reason for your current plight!

It's ruining your life!

I'll cut the call if you don't!

Say this and you'll get all riled up! Whatever, it's your loss.

Your uncle brought an alliance for you. Everything is set

but the bride's family has only one condition.

Agree it to and soon the wedding will take place.

Well, even I'm not so comfortable with their condition.

Then why are you telling me all this?

He doesn't even hear me out!

Fine, tell me. What's their condition?

You must quit acting in plays and the troupe.

JAMA (TROUPE)

"Here she comes"

"Here is Draupadi"

"She walks down like the forest peacock"

'Dear friends and audience, greetings to one and all. '

'By now you must be knowing what is my problem. '

'I am Kalyanam. '

'I wonder if my mother named me Kalyanam (Marriage), '

'so that she can pester me to get married. '

'In our Jama, '

'if there is a second or third most woman character, then I portray it. '

'The only person not to portray a king in our Jama'

'is me. '

'He is the leader and teacher of our troupe. '

'Yours sincerely, Tandavam. '

All of you pray.

'All other troupes here direct only one or two plays, '

'but our teacher directs'

'Valli thirumanam, Harichandran puranam, Karpagavalli, '

'Ramayanam and Mahabharatham. '

'In fact, only person to perform Battle of Kurukshetra to the 18th day'

'is our one and only talented teacher. '

'He looks like majestic when he portrays a king. '

'He exhibits femininity when he portrays a woman. '

'Nobody can match his talent in and around this place. '

'One day I must also become a celebrated artist like him. '

'He is Pangu Pandi. '

'If Tandavam sir is Krishnan then he is his Arjunan. '

'If he is Chandramathi then he is his Harichandran. '

He is the Countertenor of our Jama.

'This is Poona. The senior most person in our troupe. '

'A yesteryear artist. '

Widen your legs more. Okay?

'The only person who can question Tandavam sir, is Poona. '

'He knows in and out about street plays. '

'Poona fears nobody. '

'The most important thing in this world for Poona'

'is food!'

'This is "Jalra" Perumal. '

'He is the interrogator who keeps our play rolling. '

'He knows all the songs and stories by heart. '

'Then we have "Harmonium" Hari. '

'He can play that instrument throughout the night. '

'Then Thekkan who portrays a Buffoon. '

'Our Jolsiyan who portrays the small characters. '

'Including extras, we are a troupe of 16 members. '

'The top Jama in Thirunamalli'

'is our "Ramachandran Nadagam Sabha" (Ramachandran Drama Association)'

He drinks everyday and now look how he's coughing!

Come on, get up.

-Tandavam, sir. -Get up and have this gruel.

-I heard you're ill, sir. -Wait!

Nothing like that.

Shall I massage your legs?

No need.

Careful.

Don't shove it down his throat.

-Feed a little by little. -That's what I'm doing.

You'll choke me to death! Go and get some water.

Wait, sir. I'll get it.

Wait, dear. Jaga is in there.

-Jaga, get some water. -Jaga is home?

("Santhana Katre" from the movie 'Thanikattu Raja' playing)

Ask her to give water.

Hey! Give it.

-What are you gawking at? -Here!

Enough. You got to eat.

Feed until he's healthy and then he'll go and drink more.

Please, don't start now.

What did I start now?

Street play is the reason why he drinks everyday.

-He drinks otherwise too. -You shut up!

Did you see it?

Why is he yelling at Kalyanam now? Ask him to answer me first.

She thinks she's some mayor because she is educated?

And I should answer her? Get lost!

Of course, education is God.

She asked, why do you drink so much? Don't drag education into this.

Are you both showing me your arrogance? Tell me!

Mother and daughter live off me, and you both are confronting me?

I'll throw you both out in the streets!

Yeah, right. You are capable of that.

Get lost!

I don't want any food! Just leave!

Wait. I said, wait.

Dear, please eat a little.

Kalyanam, stop.

Kalyanam. Kalya...

Stop.

What's your problem?

Why are you acting strange?

Please move, madam.

Don't you like me?

You are my teacher's daughter.

You're well educated. How can you and I...

Please, I'm leaving.

Aunt, is Kalyanam home?

No, dear. I don't know where he went.

He's roams out more than staying at home.

-See you. -Okay, dear.

Phew! Thank God, she didn't see me.

Move!

Let me tell you, she talks too much.

If work's done, then why are you still cutting the vegetables?

-Aren't you done doing the dishes? -Can't you see I'm not done?

How long will you take to...

I know. Do the dishes properly!

Stop gossiping and finish the work.

Last night, Manickam's son eloped with Chandra's daughter.

There are so many of them and there's only one glass of tea.

I wonder what's in store for me today.

-Make sure you do a neat job. -We won't leave until we do.

When the sun is at its peak, you all cleverly leave.

-So be quite and focus on the work now. -Mom, here's your tea.

That's the last thing I need now!

Why? What else do you need?

Like your name 'Kalyanam' (marriage), I want you to get married!

Don't you have anything else to talk about?

-Is marriage very important for a man? -Of course!

What else could be more important?

To fulfill some needs you need to get married on time.

Oh, come on. Kalyanam knows nothing about all those needs.

Oh you fatso, go ask your daughter.

She'll tell you whether I know or not.

You? No, you are not good enough for all that.

We can blindly trust and leave 10 girls with you.

Madam, first stop looking for a bride. Instead find him a groom.

He'll get married soon.

It is because you talk like this, your husband left you.

She keeps yapping away!

Shut up!

Stop arguing and your life will be better!

Told you not to argue with women!

That's why you're not getting married.

Oh! Do you think else he'll get married?

I'll slap you!

Your shorts won't stay put on your hip and you're pulling my son's leg?

-See! Isn't it staying put on my hips? -One slap!

Come closer and I'll kick you! You loud mouth!

I'll keep a safe distance.

I came here to call you for bathing.

-It was a huge mistake! -Oops, here. Catch this.

Wait for me Lakshmipathy.

Yeah, roam with him and you'll find a bride soon!

What is your problem?

Just get married as per you mom's wish.

When did I refuse? But this bride hunt is tiring.

Nothing is working out.

Oh! So in the name of visiting the town...

you and your mother went bride hunting?

Uh-oh! Oh my God.

Why did I tell you? Look, Mr. Broadcaster...

-don't spread it around. Take this bribe. -Thank you.

Take it. Keep walking!

Fine, then what happened?

What do I tell you? Last month, we went to meet a bride.

Greetings.

Too much smoke. What's going on inside?

She's preparing Kichadi for you.

So much for a Kichadi?

Wait, let me see.

Wait, mom. Don't stop me.

Why so much smoke while preparing Kichadi?

Ms. Bride...

Never pour water into the pot when the oil is in it.

That's it. Here, take it.

And you were sweating it out for this?

Making Kichadi is this simple.

How can I let go of it?

He is always sitting and chatting with women.

-Then obviously he'll talk about cooking. -Really?

-Oh my... -Saw that?

He's escaping, that too during the day.

Now do you believe me?

Thank God, who wants such troubles?

Kalyanam is not like him!

Why do you give others a chance to talk?

What do you want me to do? All my friends are women.

Only they talk to me well.

These men have nothing better to do than tease and pull my leg.

Once when I went to meet a bride...

Look, sister Kalyanam.

Catch! Catch hold of the bicycle.

Sister! Sister!

-Guys, his mother saw us. -Why's he running?

-Can't you get hold of the bicycle? -What is it?

-Were they teasing you? Stop you guys! -Mom, leave it.

-Mom, just leave it. -Leave me.

-How dare they? -Come and sit.

Greetings.

Listen, just do what we are here for. Meet the bride and leave.

Dare you try to teach her cooking or anything else...

Quiet, mom. Why would I unnecessarily do that?

Sit like a man.

The bride is here.

Look at the bride.

Groom is not looking at bride's face. Is he feeling shy?

Nothing like that.

Look at the bride. I said, look at her!

Kalyanam, the bride looks very beautiful.

Kalyanam, what are you doing?

You're scaring me. Open your eyes!

You! Mom, keep quiet!

Is this how you drape a saree?

When you drape it, the pleats must look elegant.

Is this how you drape it?

I'll teach you how to drape it.

This is how you drape a saree.

Superb man!

He drapes sarees in the plays. That's why he knew it.

Why are you taking his side?

Yes, he drapes it in plays but why show it at bride's home?

Will you marry your daughter to a groom who does that?

I won't but that doesn't mean you can judge Kalyanam.

Blame his actions!

What games does your son play?

He plays cricket, kabbadi and plays with tops and marbles.

But my son?

Guess what games he plays?

Five, six or twelve please.

Four! One, two, three and four.

Do you all think you can trick me?

It is for my mother's sake I'm okay with getting married.

Marriage is not my priority.

Ever since my dad passed away,

I have only one goal in my mind.

To have a Jama of my own.

And it must be this Jama, which my dad started.

Whatever man.

Fine, I'll leave now. It's getting late.

You'll rant till sunrise. Get up all of you.

Don't you all have work.

Get up and go. See you, madam.

Don't you worry.

Your son is a gem.

He will get a bride.

Ask your friend to teach cooking and draping sarees to brides...

and he'll definitely find a bride!

Come on now!

Don't talk ill of my friend.

Did any one of the brides' father say...

"The groom came to visit our daughter

"and our daughter couldn't even drape a saree properly.

"But look at the groom, how good he is at draping a saree!"

Did any of them say so?

Or did any of them say, "Our daughter doesn't know to cook properly

"but look how good a cook the groom is.

"He'll treat our daughter like a queen!"

-Did any one say that? -Not at all.

-No, right? -No.

"Women must do all the house chores. "

Until you all have that mindset,

my friend here will never get married for life.

It's all the booze talking!

-What? -Now leave!

Leave! He gets drunk and blabbers.

And she's listening to him.

Yeah right!

I have been noticing,

neither your teacher nor the village people;

none of them respect or value you!

What do you want me to do, mom?

There's a way to make them respect you. Come with me at once.

To where?

-To your teacher's house. -Tandavam sir's house?

Yes!

First tell me what's your plan, then we can go.

Go to him and tell him,

"Look, I won't play Draupadi hereafter. That's ruining my life.

"Nobody's is respecting me nor am I getting a bride.

"I'll only portray King Arjun hereafter!

"Or else I'll move to another Jama in the next Tamil month of Aadi".

Stop talking like a mad woman, mom!

How can I talk to him in such a tone?

Also, I love portraying Draupadi's character.

One slap! Do you ever want to get married or not?

You won't find a bride if you play women characters!

Just shut up and do as I told you! Go!

Mom, come on. Listen to me...

If you don't follow my orders now

then I'll drink the pesticide and die!

Blame my fate!

No water?

Greetings, sir.

Welcome back, man. Welcome!

So finally you remembered us?

So did you quit on us or did you quit street play altogether?

Answer me. Why didn't you show up all these days?

Kalyanam had to portray two characters since you were absent.

Well, I didn't quit.

I was offered a character in Sathya's Jama. So I went there.

As if only he runs a street play troupe! Are we running a Cabaret here?

You made a promise to us and went there?

Don't you belong to this Jama?

Sir, don't get angry.

How long do I keep playing Draupadi and Kunti here?

They offered me King Arjunan's role. Soon I'll portray Lord Krishnan.

We also want to become a successful artist like you.

-Quiet. -I know what I'm saying.

Dressing up and performing aren't the only traits of an artist.

An artist must respect the profession.

You'll never be an artist if you're disloyal to your Jama!

You better show some respect, sir. Mind your words!

-Leave me. -Sir...

The rule is not to change Jama till a season ends.

And you broke that rule! So get out!

-Mind you! How dare you? -Get lost! Leave!

-Just leave. -He's being unreasonable. Don't control me!

-I'll chop you into pieces! -Leave.

-As if there are no other Jamas! -Just leave, man. Leave!

He talks as if he's the greatest artist of all time!

-Come again and I'll break your legs. -Let's see!

I'm not at your behest.

-Doesn't even know to respect a co-artist! -Chandran...

Chandra, where were you?

I'll be a successful artist one day. Brace yourself!

-Why are you furious? -Get lost, man!

My God!

Why did he get upset with me?

I better stop talking to him.

Tandavam sir...

Where is he?

Tandavam sir...

Kalyanam, he's in the backyard.

-Outside? -Yes, come here.

I've been asking for so long and you tell me only now?

-I didn't hear you. -Yeah right!

-Tandavam sir... -You got to be patient.

Patient, my foot! Out of my way!

Sir, I've something important to tell you.

Not now. Later.

No, sir. I must talk to you now or my mom won't let me inside the house.

-She won't let you in? -Yes, sir.

What's so important?

She says, I am like this because I portray Draupadi.

Like how?

She says, I talk, walk and act like a woman.

And that's why I'm not finding a bride.

Hence...

Hence?

I won't portray Draupadi hereafter.

Let me portray King Arjunan. I'll nail it, sir.

Hey, not the right time.

Get out. I said, get out!

-Get out, you mongrel! -Dear, don't scold him.

You shut up. I said, get out!

How can you ask that?

What do you know about plays?

You all are still in the buds!

Don't we know, whom to assign which character?

You kids don't teach me which character suits whom!

Don't vent out the anger on Chandran, on Kalyanam.

You shut up or I'll finish you off!

-What character did you ask for? -Sir...

Which character do you want to portray?

Kalyanam, just say it.

Speak!

King Arjunan's character, sir.

God, this is embarrassing.

-Take that sword. -Sir...

I said, take that sword!

-Here, sir. -Pose like King Arjunan.

Sir...

I said, pose and perform like King Arjunan!

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"Here I am... King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"The greatest warrior... "

Is this King Arjunan? Is this how you portray him? Give it!

Take it!

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"The greatest and mightiest warrior"

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

This is how gracefully you must sing and portray him!

He is KING Arjunan!

Mere street dogs cannot portray his character.

You need special talent for that.

How did you even get the courage to talk in front of me?

First, play the character you're given to perfection.

Wishing to portray other characters can wait.

He's got nothing to show off yet he wants to show off!

Kalyanam, was that necessary?

I wasn't demanding.

I just asked if I can portray King Arjunan.

You spoke too soon, without knowing the situation here.

How would I know that?

You could've asked me. I'd have told him when the time is right.

Chandran came and riled him up unnecessarily.

I swear I didn't know what happened between him and Chandran.

Else, I'd have kept quite.

-Fine, don't cry. -Control yourself.

You were so rude!

Kalyanam can't be responsible for Chandran's actions!

Poor guy. Look, he's weeping.

Don't cry for this silly issue.

-Wipe your tears. -Sir's coming. Stop crying.

-What you asked is wrong. -Kalyanam.

I, your sir scolded you.

Yeah, yell at him and then try to make it up.

You think that will convince him?

Come on now.

-Will you stop talking to me? -No, sir.

Come on! Stop crying, first.

What's the big deal?

Sir, my mom said,

if I stay like this then I will never get married.

What does your mom know about plays?

She'll order you to portray King Arjunan or some other character.

But don't you know what suits you? Explain her.

She just won't listen to me, sir.

This is how she troubled your father until he passed away.

Now she's troubling you!

She thinks everything will fall in place if I portray King Arjunan.

That's why I requested you.

What's not in place to fall in place?

Look here,

portraying a woman character is more challenging than portraying King Arjunan.

Even a newbie can learn the song and portray King Arjunan in no time.

-True. -But...

do you think anyone can play a female better than you?

-It'll take years of practice. -Correct!

It's not so easy.

It's a boon to portray such characters.

Well, looks like women hate the men who portray women characters.

Shut up. You stupid.

Women are more into men who portray women characters.

I fell for him when I saw him portray a woman character.

Not the time and place to tell that. Quiet now!

Your father?

He looks so beautiful when he dresses up like a woman.

The way he sings and dance, he nails it!

Even married women fell for him after seeing his performance.

-Really? -In fact...

your mom fell for him and married him after watching him perform.

I didn't knew this until now,

else I'd have shut my mom's mouth with this argument.

So, finding you a bride is not an issue at all.

If your mom can't find you one,

I shall find you a suitable bride.

-Okay, sir. -Look at Kalyanam blushing.

Everything will go well. Don't worry, I am here for you.

-Okay. See you, sir. -See you.

Before you leave, sort those props...

-and wash all the costumes. -Okay, sir.

-Leave once you're done with the chores. -Okay, sir.

Show me where are the sarees to wash.

There's a lot to wash. Go.

Sir, that was a smooth way of turning the table.

Wants to portray King Arjunan, my foot!

What's your problem, Poona?

How dare he scold you, especially when I'm out of town?

Whom are you talking about?

Did Tandavam tell you that you can't portray King Arjunan?

Oh that! He was already angry and spoke in haste. Forget it.

-It's not a big deal. -To hell with his anger!

Does he think he's such a great artist? I trained you all.

Can't you perform King Arjunan?

I can.

Then perform!

I said, perform!

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"The greatest and mightiest warrior"

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"The greatest and mightiest warrior"

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

That's all.

Isn't it?

You did good.

Then why couldn't you perform in front of him?

He's afraid that you'll take after your father, if you portray King Arjunan.

And you're dancing to his tunes.

I do perform it well.

But I panicked when he took that angry tone.

It made me doubt my own talent.

Kalyanam, we must vouch for our own talents.

Nobody else going to do that for us. Do you understand?

Our well wisher will only try to push us forward.

Those who don't like us will try to oppress us.

Don't listen to him or else you'll never grow.

If you want to own this Jama and run it someday,

then you must earn everyone's trust.

Do you understand?

"One who portrays women can neither become a teacher nor earn for the Jama"

That's what they all believe.

Change that stigma first.

But how do I change it?

Kalyanam,

if they all will only trust you if you play King Arjunan, then do that.

You also stand in the line during Aadi month festival ritual.

If the Deity ascends on you,

then no one can deny you from portraying King Arjunan.

Go and let all other artists in the troupe know about your intentions.

Now, go!

I said, go! Can't perform, my foot!

He thinks Tandavam will do good for him!

Perumal, sir.

Welcome, Kalyanam. What brings you here?

I had already told you about me starting my own Jama.

Been years now but you don't pay heed at all.

Your own Jama, right?

Sure! Who else will I help if not you?

After all you are one good artist.

Who does he think he is? He keeps yelling at us all the time!

Start your Jama, Kalyanam. I'm with you.

Happy to hear this, sir.

Then you talk to other artists too, and we'll start it soon.

Consider it done.

I need 500 rupees for my daughter, Jeyamadhi's school fee.

Please help me with that. Let her go to school.

1000 rupees? I can't afford that much.

Pay me 1000 rupees and I'll come.

Or else, there's the way. You may leave.

Do you think you can bypass Tandavam and do it overnight?

It'll take time. We'll work on it. Now, go inside.

-My wife needs help in grinding batter. -Sir...

For whom all you doing all this at the cost of your self respect?

You'll say, it's all for your father. Isn't it?

My dad is always with me.

He will win back all that he lost, through me.

This Harmonium plays for any and all performers.

Don't you worry.

Let everyone agree to this and I'll also come.

Okay, sir.

This your Jama. Your father's Jama.

Don't you ever forget that!

How many days vacation you have, Jaga?

-Four days. -Just four days?

It's actually study holidays.

So do girls and boys study together in your college?

So there must be smart and handsome guys in your college, right?

Smart like yesteryear hero Vijaykanth, isn't it?

I'm sure they all would be running after you like Romeos.

Yes, you bet.

And they all are well educated.

Select one among them and settle down.

I don't need a well educated guy.

I want someone whom I love.

Now, who's that?

Who else? There, my Kalyanam.

-I will marry only Kalyanam. -Now what?

-This fellow? -Nobody else will suit me.

What do you say, Kalyanam?

Won't you marry me?

Answer me. Will you or will you not?

Kalyanam...

Listen, Kalyanam...

Why did he just leave?

Doesn't he love you back?

What! You refused?

Have you grown so mature...

to refuse her proposal?

Why did you refuse?

Don't you love her?

There was a point where Jaga had to quit school

and take up her elder sister's job at the farm.

Pack her clothes. I'll drop her off at the farm today evening.

Okay.

-I don't want to go, mom. -Uncle...

Now what do you want?

Uncle, Jaga is good at studies.

So what?

She's the topper in school.

Everyone praises her.

So what you want me to do?

Well, no matter what, I'm never going to be good at studies.

I shall work at the farm instead of her.

Let her continue her studies.

Dear, do you want our son to suffer for the sake of his daughter?

Ampu, quiet!

Make sense when you talk.

What if in the future Tandavam says,

"My younger daughter refuses to work at the farm.

"Return my share, I've to repay the farm owner. "

Where will we go for money?

He's willingly doing it out of the love he has for her. Let him go.

-It's not like what you think. -Farm work is to tedious, right?

Nothing like that. Don't you worry.

You're doing this for me, right?

So you're leaving me?

Look here,

I agree I'm doing it for you

but don't say that I'm leaving you.

I'll never leave you.

I swear on my art that I love.

How many litres collected in the morning?

In the morning? 15... no, 10 litres, sir.

And how much now?

Now?

-10... no, 12 litres, sir. -What?

12 litres?

You collected 15 litres and you're telling me 12?

15 litres! Why did you come here for work?

You useless!

-Here, holy ash. -Listen...

see that? My daughter passed the 12th grade.

He wanted to stop her education but look how proud he is now?

Tell it to him! Let it get through his skull!

-Yeah, take his side. -Obviously.

See, if I knew they'd pay her for studying why'd I refuse?

What? They paid her?

-They gave a good amount. -Is it, Jaga?

Are you the topper in our region?

No, uncle.

I just scored 800 marks.

I got 1st mark in Tamil. I was rewarded money for that.

Nice!

-Well, all good. -Here, eat.

Now, to whom will you give that money to?

Aadi month is around the corner.

We've to pay advance for Jama artists.

Keep dreaming. I've been asking for bangles for a long time.

Jaga will give that money to me. Isn't it, Jaga?

Yeah, now you keep dreaming.

Uncle, Kalyanam is suffering in the farm for my sake.

So take this money and bring him back.

Please bring him back home, uncle.

Take it.

Jaga could've done anything she wants with that money.

But she understood I'm suffering

and gave that money to bring me back home.

I still remember the day I returned from the farm and met Jaga.

I will never forget that day.

One of the happiest day of my life.

Education, my foot! What's the use?

She got some money and she spent it on you.

That alliance didn't work out, right? Then let her study further.

Get lost!

I'll slap you. Get lost!

Calm down. We'll find a better groom.

Yeah, I dare you to find another groom!

Put up a board outside saying: "Daughter for sale"

Enough of the embarrassment.

I'll stay at my elder sister's and go to college.

Who gave you the permission?

I need nobody's permission hereafter.

My life, my rules! Got it?

-I don't need your permission. -Who'll give the money?

She thinks education is free!

Uncle, money is your problem, right?

Starting tomorrow, I'll join your troupe.

Don't pay me. Use that money for her education.

Money is not a big deal.

You go ahead and master the art of acting. You love it so much, right?

You just spoke my mind.

You take care of your health and study well. Okay?

The bus is here. Get in.

You take care.

Eat on time.

The Kalyanam who Jaga knew before going for higher education...

and after her education, the Kalyanam she came back to,

had a vast difference.

That in between time gap, brought about a huge difference in me.

So you refused her proposal fearing the villagers will tease you?

Shut up. I don't give a damn about those people.

What can they say at the worst?

They will call me 'Sister' or say that I act like women.

Look, I see this as a blessing of the art called street play.

Forget about me.

After marrying me, if people mock her saying,

"Look at her! Guess whom she married?

"Do you know how her husband acts?"

Then eventually one day,

she will also be hurt, right?

She must marry someone... like...

Let her marry some one like that.

Come again!

What do you mean by this?

What does that mean?

You mean I should marry a real man?

That's what you meant, right?

Tell me, who is a real man here?

One who talks ill about others?

One who oppresses those who all are weaker than him?

Or is it the one who only prioritizes his own happiness?

Are they the real men?

The one who

doesn't hurt anybody's feelings,

now he is a real man!

The one who is genuine,

he's a real man!

The man who sacrifices his happiness and goes to any extent

for the happiness for his family and loved ones,

he is a real man!

In which case,

more than anybody out there

you are a real man, as far as I'm considered.

"You have a very generous heart"

"I don't know if I can ever be as generous as you are"

"Stay the generous queen that you are"

"Do not change yourself for anything"

"You have a very generous heart"

"I don't know if I can ever be as generous as you are"

"Stay the generous queen that you are"

"Do not change yourself for anything"

"You have a very generous heart"

"I don't know if I can ever be as generous as you are"

"Stay the generous queen that you are"

"Do not change yourself for anything"

"My generosity is a result of the love you showed towards me"

"The whole world knows, doesn't it?"

"Don't you think less of yourself"

"You will always be a king"

"You are all I want, so don't leave me stranded"

"Don't leave me and lose yourself to the art you love"

"O' dear, you are killing me"

"You're tricking me into having things your way"

"My performance on the stage"

Why do you even come to act in plays?

Can't keep ankle bells safe and you call yourself an artist?

"I'm happy and content being the king of your dreams"

"You talk like a real man"

"And you're the most beautiful woman when you act in plays"

"O' beautiful, it's so beautiful when you put it that way"

"Do you do all this to stand aside and admire me?"

"You have a very generous heart"

"I don't know if I can ever be as generous as you are"

"Stay the generous queen that you are"

"Do not change yourself for anything"

Why do you drink when you're not well?

What if something happens to you?

Phew, finally! Stop the jeep.

We have reached their house.

My hips are broken after travelling in this.

Get down.

-Something might happen to you but not me. -Welcome, aunt.

Nothing will happen to me.

Welcome, Ampu.

-What's with the gifts? -Forget this.

Aren't you sick? Why do you drink then?

-Won't you reform? -Let's not discuss that.

We'll deal if something happens.

Perumal, look at Kalyanam.

-He's wearing new shirt and pant. -Yes.

Wow!

-He looks like yesteryear hero Baghyaraj. -Indeed!

Quiet now.

So, what's with the gifts, Ampu?

-Finally found a bride for him? -Why should I find one?

When this queen is here, why'd I look out for a bride outside?

Who are you talking about?

-Tandavam's daughter. -Of course.

-You have come at the right... -Shut up!

Ampu...

-Get out with the gifts. -What?

Why should they leave?

They are here on my orders.

Oh!

So this is all your arrangement?

She's educated but has zero knowledge about status and prestige.

You want to use a loin cloth as turban?

Why are you insulting Kalyanam?

Shut up!

I'll vent out all the anger on her onto you!

Look, calm down. Be polite.

Be polite? Why?

This is pathetic! Does it even make sense?

Instead of saving money, I used it to get her educated.

Only to find such a pathetic groom?

He thinks he's a king!

-Let's leave. -Mom, quiet. Wait.

Sir...

didn't you parents fix Jaga as my bride, back when we were kids?

I'll take good care of her, sir.

-I'll take care of her better than you. -Come again.

-Better than me? -Yes, sir.

And how?

-Wait. -Tell me, how?

-Tandavam, mind you! -Out!

How dare you raise hands on him?

How will you take good care of her?

I will.

Are you a teacher of a troupe or do you have hefty wealth?

After all you're a mongrel who acts in plays for pennies!

Dare you call him a mongrel! I won't show you any respect.

If you have that much ego, then take your son and leave!

I'll kill you. Get inside!

-I'll take good care of her, sir. -Get lost!

-Get lost! -I curse you!

-Look how he's kicking my son. -Get lost!

-Mom, keep quiet. -You sinner!

-You traitor! -Get lost you beggar!

I'm not a beggar but it's you, a beggar who stole from us!

You cheated my husband and that's why you own all this now!

Don't teach me the law!

Do you think you're elite because you own a house?

Mark my words, one day my son will also build an own house here!

Get lost!

This is what family friends do!

-I warned you this might happen. -Do you have any sense?

-He's insulting me. -Don't mind it!

-You drunkard! -Jaga.

I won't return to this house. To hell with you and your husband!

Stop!

Get inside! Go!

It's all because of you.

He thinks you're some waged labourer in his troupe.

Everyone knows who started and nurtured this Jama.

Forget it, aunt. I am here for good, right?

You don't know dear. You were kids back then.

You have no idea about what happened.

My husband...

He died due to the depression of losing this Jama.

'After all you're a mongrel who acts in plays for pennies!'

Why are you still upset?

-Forget it. -What is it?

What are you looking at?

Give me that.

Tandavam, come on. Enough.

You shut up.

He took away my daughter.

-Come with me. -Listen...

He took her away? She went willingly.

How can he take her, even if she went willingly?

-See what I do to him today. -This is ridiculous.

-I'll chop him down. -So unfair.

Quiet! You're spoiling him by fixing his drink everyday.

-I'll butcher him today! -Tandavam... wait...

Don't think we returned because we fear you.

No matter what, I'll only marry him.

Make it loud and clear.

Yelling makes all the statements correct.

That's what your father believes, right?

Sir.

I don't care what they say.

You don't have to pay heed to them.

Let me tell you what's in my mind. Hear me out.

I neither want your daughter nor a marriage.

-What? -Quiet, mom.

I know what I want.

I want to be with you and act in your plays, sir.

I'll happy to dress up and act life long, sir.

To hell with love

and to hell with marriage.

All I want is my Jama!

Just my Jama, that is all I want!

"Ladies and gentlemen and all the respected seniors"

"Ladies and gentlemen and all the respected seniors"

"Ladies and gentlemen and all the respected seniors"

"Ladies and gentlemen and all the respected seniors"

"Dear brothers and sisters, and everybody present here"

"Welcome all of you"

"Please witness the play we present to you"

Sir...

Kalyanam is inviting everyone

to form his own Jama and wants to become a teacher.

Did you hear that?

Of course, I did.

Do you think I'll take it seriously? It's not so easy.

Come on, don't take it lightly.

He went to everybody and he might do it.

Who? This fellow?

Stop kidding.

He is sticking to us even without realizing where we have kept him.

The so called "daughter" of mine, that stubborn girl,

you saw how she's getting embarrassed by him, didn't you?

He's a life long slave to us.

Who can trust him and go if he starts his own Jama?

Now, go. Get ready to go to Mottaparai hills for the ritual.

Pandi, is everything set?

Stop. Stop.

Listen to the priest.

Tandavam sir, ask all your men to bathe and then we can start.

-I'm an expert on booze. -Look who's coming.

-Who is it? -Our sister is coming.

Govinda, careful. Don't slip.

Sister.

Kalyanam sister.

Careful, sister.

Only men are allowed here. Why are you here?

Govinda, watch your step.

Guys, what's your problem?

Make fun of him again and I'll finish you all off!

Oh my God! That was scary.

I am scared. Please don't harm us.

You should've given back to them!

Yes, in five minutes.

Bring that pot, so that we can pour water.

-I'll get it. -Step back!

I said, step back!

He thinks he can step in. Back off!

-Thekka, you get the pot. -Okay, sir.

They bring along Poona and drunkard Govindan every year

and they ruin this festival.

What's taking so long? Check what's going on there.

Sir took bath. Come on, let's go back.

I just gave you the pot.

Make it fast.

Move. Go and stand down.

-Yeah right! -They just barge in.

Looks like outsiders and drunkards are here.

Exactly what I was saying.

Listen Natar (Pambai drum player).

It's been 11 years since Deity spirit possessed any of us.

What good is a village if it cannot summon the Deity with offerings?

Play the 'Pambai' drum in such a way that

the Deity's spirit must come out of forest and possess any one of them.

My foot!

-None of you are deserving. -Govinda, quiet.

Get lost!

You think the Deity will ascend if you give offerings?

Govinda, you are going to beaten up. Mind you!

We've been trying to please the Deity for years. Dare you jinx it.

Listen, dear.

Don't talk to him and make him feel he's an equal to us.

He's talking too much.

Natar, play.

(Singing devotional song to summon the Deity)

On this day of our festival,

these street play artists are praying to the Deity Amman

and that's why they are here. Shall we continue the ritual?

-Offer the holy fire to everybody to pray. -Okay, sir.

Well, the Deity didn't ascend even after we played the music for so long.

Now that you are dry, go and bathe again.

You can bathe and dry the whole river out

but Deity won't ascend.

-Hit him! -Dear, listen...

-I'll finish him off. -Dear, just listen to me.

I won't spare his life! Come on!

You! Listen.

Don't you have sense?

I understand young bloods are boiling. What's wrong with you?

-Shut up! -He drinks and talks ill of the ritual!

He is not letting us conduct this festival properly.

He didn't say anything wrong.

You've been sincerely praying for 11 years.

Then why isn't the Deity ascending?

To hell with your prayers!

Then teach us how to pray and we'll learn.

Look, his father was the first person to present a play in our village.

This ritual won't exist if not for him.

Won't you just shut up!

Yeah, his father started this. So what? Why bring it up now?

You have been doing the ritual for 11 years without making him a part of it.

Then how will the Deity ascend?

You useless mongrels!

You don't where your next meal will come from

but you want to talk rules?

Don't we know who should be part of this?

So stop teaching us!

Sir, leave it. Don't get upset for such a silly matter.

Won't I get upset?

Does he live in our village?

His father lived in our village.

He lives somewhere in the outskirts

and you want us to make him a part of this?

If the Deity will ascend only if he's a part of this,

then we're good without the Deity!

-Listen. -Tell me.

If we still believe the Deity will ascend then we are fools!

-Throw away that holy pot in the river. -Okay.

-'Drunkard' Govinda, I'll finish you! -Move!

Try your luck.

That's it!

No more street play in our lives!

Let's sell this house.

Let's buy some land on the outskirts and move there.

Tandavam!

You betrayed me and snatched away my Jama from me, right?

But mark my words! One day

my son

will definitely take this Jama over from you.

I promise this on the art that I love!

Why is cleaning the verandah when it's raining? Crazy lady.

Phew.

"A man went abroad with lot of hopes

but after going there all he could do was hope!"

Why are you talking crazy now?

As if all that you talk makes very much sense!

I saw how you couldn't speak at Tandavam's house.

Like a generous king, you went and left her back in her house.

Look, no use talking about it. It's over.

Over? What do you mean?

You better keep your mouth shut!

Or else I'll beat you black and blue with this broomstick.

Why are you so desperate to get me married?

So what if I don't get married? Nonsense.

I want to start a Jama. Once I do that, everything will fall in place.

My foot! Nothing will happen.

Will you ever get a girl like Jaga?

She's a gem of girl.

To hell with you! To hell with you!

Shut up! Just shut up!

Talks so inauspiciously so early in the morning.

-I'll kill myself. Do my final rite. -Go, do it!

-I'll do it! -Then go!

It's better to die once and for all than living with you.

She keeps pondering for each and everything.

She just won't let me live in peace.

She kills me with her words.

Kalyanam...

-Having fun both of you? -Look, two girls.

Kalyanam sister, having fun?

Get lost you idiots

-How dare you? -Damn it.

-No, leave it. -Leave or I'll give you both a slippering!

Let's go!

-You let her go? -What else do you expect?

I let her go considering Tandavam uncle.

What's wrong with you?

What's your problem?

How long will you keep avoiding me for the sake of that man?

That man will neither let you live not let your grow.

Are you so foolish to not understand that?

It was your wish that I be with him.

Yes.

I told you to be a part of his troupe.

Now I'm telling you, leave him and his troupe!

He's the teacher who taught me the trade.

I am nothing without him.

Your teacher? My foot! So what if he's your teacher?

That gives him the right to treat you bad?

Yes.

Let him.

What is your problem, madam?

You are well educated. Go and marry a well educated man.

This won't work out for me.

Street play and Jama is all that matters to me.

If leave all that for you,

then it'd be like I haven't done anything for my father.

-You please leave, madam. -One slap!

I'll leave.

Even if you ask me to stay, I won't.

I'm not that shameful.

Before, I was the only one that mattered the most to you

but now your street play is all that matters to you, right?

So be it.

'Don't say that I'm leaving you. '

I'll never leave you.

I swear on my art that I love.

This is the house.

Do you think they will join you?

Shut up! Don't jinx it.

I don't trust them.

You think you can book plays trusting them?

Just come.

Greeting, sir. I had discussed about the street play.

-Mom... -What's going on here?

Don't worry, mom.

Remember Tandavam sir told us, there's a vacant peon job in village school?

I spoke to the village head regarding it.

He said that the job is mine if I pay up 4 lacs.

So, I'm measuring our land to check how much it'll fetch.

Do we really have to sell our land?

Don't cry, mom.

Sir.

-Here. -Sir...

I've booked a play in Edathanur, Tandarampet.

Here's the share you asked to join my troupe.

Take this and do a neat job.

-Look, he got the money. -He lived up to his word.

What are you waiting for, sir?

So happy to hear this, Kalyanam.

-Please be there all of you. -Okay, Kalyanam.

You questioned his credibility.

But as promised he paid up front.

What do you say, Perumal?

Sir, looks like he'll become a successful street play teacher.

Did you hand over the money to the Village Head?

I did, mom. He lived up to his reputation.

He spoke really well.

He asked me to come tomorrow morning and said we'll get the job done.

Lord Ardhanareeshvara, bless us with good times.

See you, mom.

Okay. Take care.

Poona...

Where are all the artists?

Why did you sell the land?

Forget the land. My son's future matters the most than the land.

Think about it. If he gets that peon job in school,

like you, I'll also come to your house with my son's wedding invitation.

-His future looks good. -Come here.

Pray and apply the holy vermilion.

You guys are being unfair.

How can you all betray him?

Poona is right. We are so wrong to do this.

We must have gone. He booked the play trusting us.

If we have to be a part of his Jama,

pay us advance money for next year too.

What do you all say?

Advance payment for next year? How can I afford that, sir?

Pure interest won't be enough.

We need money to run our family.

Kalyanam, pay as he said and we'll come.

Do you think he won't pay?

He already paid you so much. Will he not pay properly?

Poona, you be quiet.

Perumal sir

I very well know that money is not the issue here.

Something else is the issue. What is it?

My foot! Get lost!

-He thinks he knows everything. -Something else is the issue.

Please tell me. What is it?

What do you want me to tell? Tell me!

You want a reason, right?

I don't prefer to perform under you!

Who do you think you are?

Our teacher?

How dare you aim to become the teacher when Tandavam is still alive.

Wish according to your status.

To hell with you!

Guys, let's go.

Thought I'll be the next teacher

but obstacles like him keep showing up!

Oh my God.

Kalyanam?

Oh God. Kalyanam, what happened?

Mom...

What happened? Why are you crying?

You sinner!

You fool, how could you do this?

Oh God!

My land is gone, oh God!

Everything's gone!

-Oh God! -Mom... mom...

Mom... Mom!

Mom! Mom!

How could you be so naive?

Don't lose everything in life for the sake of Jama.

You didn't pay heed to anything I told you so far.

One last time, for my sake

will you do as I say?

I will, mom.

I will definitely do it, mom.

I want...

O' mother!

Kalyanam.

Did you talk to Jaga?

Don't you have any other topic to discuss?

Will our Deity at least ascend this year?

What did I ask you?

She hasn't returned to the village since their last fight.

Her mother said that she will come for this year's ritual.

Is it?

Kalyanam,

this year you must lift that ritual pot.

You talk as if they will allow me to. Shut up.

Who do they think they are?

You just wait and watch what happens this year.

Poona, tell me something.

Should only people from our village act in street plays here?

Why only people from one family can play a specific character?

Who formed these rules?

Who else? It was his father.

That's shocking!

His father Ilavarasan is the one who introduced street play in this village.

Sir... sir... please stop.

-I'm getting late for the play. Please. -I'm going somewhere else.

Please, drop me. It's nearby. God!

Get lost, you fool.

-Ilavarasan... -Ganesha?

-Drop me. I'm getting late for the play. -Come on.

Wait, I'm coming. Hold on.

'The first artist from our village was me. '

'I was a part of Sir Ambalavan's troupe. '

'One day I was late for the play. That's when... '

'Ilavarasu dropped me. '

11th night,

-this play is taking place in this village. -Move. Make way.

You're the Mridangam drums player. How can you be late?

-Forgive me. -This is unfair.

To all the ladies and gentlemen who have come to witness this play,

also to our well wishers here,

'He came along with me the next day too. '

Come and watch the play.

-Come on. -Okay.

'Somethings enter late in our life, '

'yet it'll end up becoming the most important part of our life'

'That is how street play became a part of Ilavarasan's life. '

'After that'

'he became a regular audience. '

'He started falling in love with the art called street play. '

'He somehow wanted to learn this art of street play. '

You're playing it wrong. Just follow me.

Do as I say.

'Beats, song and acting, '

'he started learning all of them, as if he was possessed. '

"Dear brothers and sisters, and everybody present here"

"Welcome all of you"

"Witness this lovely street play"

-Dad, no. -Don't be scared. Go!

Swim! Come on, swim.

Catch him.

He can't even swim.

-Throw him in again, dear. -He's already scared.

You crazy lady! You mad woman! Don't call yourself a mother.

Ilavarasan's was lost in the art of street play.

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

Look, you scared the child.

Sleep. Nothing to be scared of. Just go to sleep.

'He earned Amabalavanam sir's trust. '

'Amabalavanan sir took him in our Jama. '

'Soon, he also learnt to apply make up. '

(Singing a song from the play)

You're doing it wrong.

(Rehearsing a song from the play)

'After few days, '

'Ilavarasan portrayed a character for the first time. '

'I didn't knew back then'

'that I introduced an extraordinary artist to the art of street play. '

'Ambalavanan sir would never let anyone portray the king so soon. '

'Though they presented many plays in many villages, '

'he felt bad that there was no street play in his own village. '

'Later we found about the history of our street play from Ambalavanan sir. '

'Then based on his advice, '

'Rituals were performed for the seven Deities in Mottaparai hills'

'and the holy pot was carried down to village temple'

'Then offerings were made in the temple. '

'Then we were all set to perform the play for the Deities and villagers. '

'He summoned all the artists in our village, '

'and assigned a character for artists from each family, '

'and Ilavarasan asked them to bear the cost of attire and make up. '

Am I right, Tandavam?

Of course.

'Though there were many other artists in the village, '

'Tandavam and Ilavarasan were always thick friends. '

Ilavarasu, all of us are performing well.

Then why don't we start a Jama and perform in other villages too?

What do you guys think? Am I right?

Are you serious?

-What's the big deal? -Well...

I've a little money save up. I'll invest that.

You also pool in. Let's start a Jama together.

Don't change you expression. Just agree to this.

But money?

Okay, let's do it.

-Here, count it. -Thank you.

-That girl will do the chores in this farm. -Please come with me.

Tandavam sent his elder daughter to work in a farm

and it was that money

he invested in the Jama, as his share.

The amount seems to be less.

-This is too much for your performance. -So unfair.

Rathnam, in other troupes they must sign documents before getting paid.

At least we don't do that.

-Don't go anywhere till next Aadi month. -Okay.

Here, this must be in bold letters.

-I can't read and write. -What, you can't?

Now that was unexpected.

Don't stitch 'Ambalavanan Drama Association' as 'Ambalavanan Drummer Association'.

That doesn't sound bad, what if he stitches it as 'Dumber?'

Don't talk ill of our teacher.

-I'll stay here and supervise. -Okay, do it.

Do you think he can read and write? Let's go and send someone else.

'That is when it all started. '

'AMBALAVANAN DRAMA ASSOCIATION'

'Everything was going smooth'

'until Tandavam's elder daughter came of age. '

Well, no matter what, I'm never going to be good at studies.

I shall work at the farm instead of her.

Let her continue her studies.

'Kalyanam said he'd go to the farm instead of Jaga. '

'Tandavam was okay with that'

'but when Jaga used her reward money to bring back Kalyanam home, '

'Tandavam just couldn't accept that. '

Uncle, money is your problem, right?

Starting tomorrow, I'll join your troupe.

Don't pay me. Use that money for her education.

Money is not a big deal.

'Kalyanam started acting for the sake Jaga in the first place. '

'But Tandavam just couldn't accept Kalyanam joining their Jama. '

So, Ilavarasu

what character are you going to let your son portray for the first time.

Give Arjunan or Karnan, he'll look good.

-Look at that now! -Quiet, mom.

She wants to see her son as the king.

Well, am I wrong to wish for that?

Which character do you want to portray?

Dad, I shall portray Draupadi.

I've seen you and Tandavam uncle play women characters

and you both look so beautiful in it.

That's what created the spark in me.

Look at that.

I'll portray Draupadi, dad.

Fine, do as you wish.

My son will become a great artist, just like me.

Of course, a tiger will sire only a tiger and not a cat.

I feel good but I feel strange without the mustache.

You look beautiful, son.

Feels like we are performing the whole month

but I'm unable to save a penny.

Well, you have to split the money between you and Ilavarasu.

That's why you aren't able to save.

If we get a chance, we must start our own Jama, Perumal.

Yes! Exactly my point.

Well, though we make money,

Ilavarasu is the one earning all the fame.

And now his son has joined us.

He'll be his successor and you? You'll be forgotten.

So think hard.

End of the day, this is known as Ilavarasan's Jama.

Dear, I heard some alliance came for Jagadambal.

Did you know?

Yes. Look at this Tandavam,

looking for grooms elsewhere. He's doing wrong by our son.

True, dear.

Jaga and Kalyanam have been very close since childhood.

-So sad. -Forget it. We'll be around.

Jaga will eventually be our daughter-in-law.

I'll make sure it happens.

Fool, what are you searching?

The crown is missing from Karnan's attire is missing.

Where is it?

-It's missing? -What?

Search, it must be somewhere there.

Tandavam! Where is the crown?

Can't you keep the costumes safe?

Go and search now!

I said, go! Look for it.

-Check if it's over there. -No.

-Ilavarasan is a great performer! -Obviously.

I am his trainer.

He's a very talent person.

Only drawback, he's a bit short tempered.

That's his nature.

Nothing can be done about it, Poona.

Of course all great artists are short tempered.

True but if he gets furious for silly reasons

then he'll die with no one left to do his final rites.

Well, that's true.

Tandavam, aren't you ready yet?

There's still time for me to enter the stage.

I'll get ready when it's time.

Strange, You have come all the way to my home. What's going on?

For years you've been looking for a bride for your elder son.

Yes. Since I've two wives,

no parents are ready to give their daughter to my son.

I am trying so hard to find a bride for him but no luck.

You tried for an alliance everywhere

but won't you come to me?

Tandavam...

I'll ready to marry off my elder daughter to your son.

Are you serious?

I will never forget this.

I'll never forget this favour.

I'll never forget this and I'll do anything you ask for.

Yeah, that can wait.

Let's wait for 2-3 months.

Once Aadi month is here, I'll let you know the rest.

Okay.

-You fix a date for the wedding. -Okay.

-See you. -Okay.

Chandra, get the calendar. Tandavam just gave me a good news.

Wait, let Tandavam uncle come.

What's your hurry?

Ilavarasu, look at Tandavam's attire.

Ganesha, look at Tandavam's attire.

Please sit.

You may start now.

An announcement to all of you present here.

Once the ritual is successfully completed tomorrow at Mottaparai hills,

then on Tuesday we'll make the offering to the Deity,

and present the play on the same night.

Do you all agree?

-Sounds perfect, isn't it? -Yes, we all agree.

-Do you all agree? -Yes.

-We'll do the ritual tomorrow. -Yes.

Also, let's also discuss about the play.

What's there to discuss?

-It'll go as per the usual plan. -Ganesha!

As per the usual plan? What, is it some written law?

Why can't we change it?

-Perumal? -Ganesha, wait.

Perumal, what do you want to be change?

Present a different story?

Let present the usual play.

Let's shuffle the characters.

-What does he mean? -Earlier

you knew all the songs and so you portray any character you want.

But now? Everyone knows all the songs.

So let's shuffle characters when we play in our village.

-Ilavarasu... -Leave it. Fine.

Fine, talk among yourselves and shuffle it accordingly.

-Okay? -Come again!

-Talk among ourselves? -True.

Won't you portray different character for a change?

Are you the only performer here? Are we good for nothing?

We too have fans waiting to watch us perform.

This time I'll portray King Arjunan instead of you.

Tandavam, you're crossing the limit!

Do you want to break the tradition?

Mind your words or else...

A tradition is of course formed over the years.

Didn't you change it to suit your needs?

So it can be changed. Do it.

Let him portray King Arjunan. You may portray Draupadi.

Yes. Let him portray King Arjunan this time.

Perumal!

-Are you out of you mind? -Poona, shut up!

-Mind you! -Quiet please.

Ilavarasu... Ilavarasu

we are performing for the Deity.

It doesn't matter which character we portray. Leave it.

I'm not okay with this.

I'm not at all okay with this!

Then just get lost.

Who do you think you are?

Those who are okay with this, join us.

Else, leave with your former teacher!

Former teacher? How dare you!

-Poona! I'll break your jaws. -Quiet, Poona.

I said, keep quiet.

Quiet!

-He called you 'Former teacher'. -Shut up!

They already made a decision before coming here

-Leave. -Move!

Govinda, see if you can get alms from him.

I'm sober now. Watch what I do once I'm drunk.

You come here. Take the center seat.

Perumal, you sit next to me.

Thank you.

Now, let us know what you have in mind.

-What else do we have to discuss? -Why not?

Don't we have to discuss about the play?

Don't we have to decided who gets to portray which character?

Do you think I'll still run this Jama along with you?

Respect is what matters to an artist.

An artist doesn't have to stay where he is not respected.

Then get lost. Nobody's begging you to stay.

Do you think you can run a Jama without me?

Are you capable enough?

Sir... sir...

-Sir, please. Come back. -Ilavarasu.

-Leave it. -Sir, please don't fight.

-Forget it. Let him go. -Look at this audacity!

We didn't start this Jama trusting him.

That's it!

No more street play in our lives!

Let's sell this house.

Let's buy some land on the outskirts and move there.

-Look at your father. -Oh my God.

-He has trimmed his hair. -Looks so bad!

Dad...

Have you gone mad? Trimming your hair. And on top you're drunk!

-Wait, dad. Mom, catch him. -You're becoming a trouble.

Come here.

-Sit. -Careful, watch out for his head.

-Do you have any sense? -Mom, keep quiet.

Dad, how'd you act in plays without long hairs?

I'm done with street play for life!

Never! Not even after my death!

To hell with street play.

My whole life is a tragedy play now.

Uncle.

Uncle...

Uncle!

What do you want?

The issue is between you and my dad.

What's my fault, uncle?

I want to learn acting from you, uncle? Will you train me?

Come, join us.

Okay, uncle.

Stop addressing me as 'Uncle' hereafter.

Call me 'Sir'.

Okay, sir.

Start.

You drink and lie wasted everyday.

Somebody picks you up and drops you home.

-You've made it a routine! -Don't splash water on my face.

Stop!

We cut ties with Tandavam.

How dare you go and join his Jama?

-If you go to his Jama again... -Ampu!

Well dear...

Our enemies doesn't have to be his enemies

He has a life of his own.

He'll make decisions for himself.

Not us, the parents.

If he is passionate about street plays,

then let him go.

Let him act.

Look here

don't let him inherit my anger.

-Dear, what I'm telling is... -No need.

Do not let him inherit my anger.

My life is ruined.

-Let him act in plays. -Son is taking after the dad.

You must portray King Arjunan.

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

Look, he's biting his hand. Control him.

Put a lemon in his mouth.

Come on, put it.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

'Tandavam's plan worked out. '

'Without Ilavarasu, he took over the Jama under his leadership. '

'The plays began under Tandavam's direction. '

For the first time, we are performing a street play under my leadership.

Unlike before, this time

it will be an extravaganza.

Can we have a round of applause, please.

On behalf of our villagers, I felicitate Tandavam

with this shawl.

Ilavarasu, what are you doing?

You lying drunk in the forest?

'It was troupe that he nurtured wit care. '

'But everyone there threw him out of it. '

'Ilavarasu just couldn't digest it ever. '

Govinda, he played his cards right knowing I'll be provoked.

He betrayed me.

That's my Jama!

My Jama!

That's my Jama! It's mine!

Father!

Father!

Ilavarasu sir.

Father...

Father...

O' father!

Father!

Kalyanam!

Come, let's leave.

Come on.

'In Pallikondapattu village of Tiruvannamalai district, '

'the offering ritual will take place in the Arimigul Nallaayiamman Temple. '

'All the villagers are invited for this tomorrow evening. '

-We'll take care of it. -Come on.

Village Head has asked to conduct ritual in the hill, pray

and then do the offering.

Hope everybody agrees to it.

Yes, we all agree.

It's been 12 years since the Deity ascended.

Ask the 'Pamabai' player to play properly.

We have three sets of 'Pambai' this time.

We'll nail it. Deity will ascend and we will do the offering.

Hope no maniacs will create issues this year.

Create issues? Then they'll get beaten up so bad that

they will be confused which way to escape in that forest.

-Let's see who creates an issue. -Fine.

Fine, so let's all meet there tomorrow morning.

See you.

(Singing devotional song to summon the Deity)

They have already started.

Kalyanam...

You won't get a better chance. Mind you.

Everybody's here.

All the artists are here.

Come on. All the artists stand in a line.

-Let's start. -Kalyanam, go.

Take bath and come. Look, they already took bath.

Remove your shirt and go. Make it fast.

Go! Go!

-Come on. -Quick, make it fast.

Go and stand in the line.

Light it up.

What are you waiting for? Start.

Look over there.

Look who's standing.

Why are you in the line? Get out! Out!

-Out! -No, you stand.

-Start. -Just stand there.

-Sir... -I said, stand in the line.

How dare you disobey me? I said get out!

-Out! -Who are you to throw him out?

How dare you throw him out?

-I'll break your face? -I dare you to!

That girl won't be always there to support and fight for you.

We must fight for ourselves. Now go.

I said, go!

Let go of me! I said, leave me!

Dare you throw him out!

Move! Quiet. I said, quiet!

Keep quiet!

-He will stand in the line. -I said, keep quiet!

Come on now.

Quiet. I will stand in the line.

Dare you not repeat the same mistake.

Do we all look like fools to you?

You are unnecessarily provoking us.

We are already upset that for 11 years the offering hasn't been successful.

You better leave or else I'll chop you down here.

Go ahead, do it!

Kalyanam, please leave.

What if they harm you?

You are not supposed to stand here.

Why shouldn't I stand? Tell me, why?

I am also from this village.

My house is on the outskirts and not outside the village.

Do you want to break the tradition we've been following for years?

A tradition is of course formed over the years.

Didn't you change it to suit your needs?

So it can be changed. Do it.

Well said!

I'll chop him down today!

Catch him. Stop him.

Why can't he take part? Isn't he from our village?

Let him stand.

Maara, you better back off.

We know to show people their place.

-Back off! -Dad

For 11 years you did things as per your wish, right?

Did the Deity ascend? No, right?

We want the offering to happen this year!

Yes, offering must happen followed by the street play, that's all.

-Let him take part. -Let him.

Tandavam?

Now do you know how it feels when everyone goes against one person?

Sir, let him take part. What's the big deal?

We stood for 11 years and the Deity didn't ascend.

Do you think Deity will ascend if this mongrel takes part? Just leave it.

Oh come on. Why did you agree?

Just leave it.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

All of you follow his suit and chant 'Govinda'.

O' Lord Govinda.

Dear Lord

speak your mind and makes us happy.

Lord, please tell us who you are, only then we can proceed.

I'm Lord Kannimaara!

Hold him tightly.

Hold him.

Deity, will you carry the holy pot?

Or should any of these street play artists should carry them?

I will carry it.

Perumal, come. Lend a helping hand.

-Keep moving. -O' Lord Govinda.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

Come here. You nailed it.

Do you love our village so much?

Did you stand up to your dad to make sure the offering is done?

My foot! It was not for that.

My mom went to an astrologer.

He said, I'll get married only if the offering happens.

Now what?

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

Stop it. Now let's decide about the street play.

Decide what?

-Decide what? -What do you mean?

Don't you know, one who carries the pot must choose a character?

Come again!

Fine, let him portray the usual one.

That's unfair.

He cannot portray the usual one.

He must portray what his dad portrayed.

-That's our tradition. -He's right.

-What do you all say? -Isn't that our tradition?

He must portray King Arjunan that his father portrayed.

Yes, let him play King Arjunan.

-Whatever! -Do as you wish!

Let's go.

All these useless fellows have ganged up. Let's go.

Pass those pots from the back.

O' Lord Govinda. O' Lord Govinda.

First to him.

Move!

Listen,

Jaga is here.

Jaga is here?

Pray whole heartedly.

Jagadambal.

Your anger is justified.

-I shouldn't have... -Who are you? What do you want?

Let me explain why I stopped talking to you.

What's your explanation?

Street play... Jama... my dad... your dad... Right?

-You told me to be with him. -What?

Go.

I said to do it for me and not to leave me!

Please, just ask me why I did it.

Please ask me why I did it.

Just say and get over with it!

You very well know,

how Tandavam tricked my dad to take over the Jama.

After losing the Jama and unable to act in plays,

my dad died out of depression.

I want to own a Jama and not any Jama

but I want this Jama, the Jama that my dad started.

Now if I come after you leaving all that,

I'll be thrown out.

What is he up to?

I cannot achieve anything if I'm thrown out.

But once I take over this Jama,

then I don't need anybody's permission.

I'll tie the knot with you and take you away.

I am unable to believe all this, Kalyanam.

You didn't do a thing to stop me when I left.

In fact,

you didn't call me even once.

You just stood there without bothering about me.

I will never forget that!

You'll do as you wish

and I must come running at the snap of your fingers?

Do I look like a fool?

I made a mistake.

I should have married somebody else during this one year.

Jaga...

It'd be nice if everything goes smooth, like it went in Keeranur.

You expect too much for things to fall in place for you.

Don't pull away!

Okay. Fine, tie it.

Kalyanam, where were you?

Once I'm done with him, I'll help you dress up as King Arjunan.

Okay? Look,

I've kept the crown for King Arjunan over there.

"Here I am, King Arjunan of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

How is it?

"Here I am, King Arjunan... "

It's superb.

Welcome, Kalyanam sir.

Please come here, sir.

What song did Lord Krishnan sing to King Dharman on the 18th day of battle?

What was that song?

Sing it.

So you have learnt all the songs?

That's why you're so eager to become the teacher.

Trying to show off in front of the village?

Fine, you'll become one.

Don't strive hard.

I'll announce it.

Everybody, attention please.

Hereafter, Kalyanam is your teacher.

Okay?

Stop kidding, man.

What do you say, Perumal?

How's our new teacher? Looks perfect, right?

Yeah right.

If he pays me more, I'll leave you and join under him.

Who? This face? See if he can pay the salary properly.

He wants more it seems.

What? None of you are okay with it?

You should've told him this when came to your doorsteps.

Come on, guys.

So nobody's going to act in his Jama?

Kalyanam,

now do you understand

your status?

So stop going around saying you want to start your own Jama.

Just shut up and do the job you are assigned.

Stop talking as if this is your Jama!

You cheated my dad and took over this Jama, isn't it?

Even if it is at the cost of my life,

I won't rest until I take over this Jama.

I swear this on the art that I love!

Who cheated whom?

Who cheated whom?

People like you are filthy dogs!

If we clean you up and bring you inside our houses,

still you'll have shit for brains!

Take that.

Tandavam!

How long do you think you can talk and keep having it all your way?

What happened?

There will be no play. Throw all the things out.

-What? -No way!

Leave if you can't act. We'll run the show with Kalyanam.

You filthy rascal!

Don't call yourself my son.

-Get out! -Dad...

To hell with you. Just get lost!

Why do you say so?

If the Play doesn't take place

then none of the villagers will respect us.

In the next elections

we cannot go to any doorstep asking for votes.

The play must take place. Tell me, what must be done?

He must not portray King Arjunan which his dad used to portray.

That's all, right?

How can you change it now?

No way.

Poona, you better shut up and stay put.

Or else I'll slit your throat.

Shut up and stay put!

So what character must he portray. You say it.

Let him portray Kunti.

Sir, at least let him portray the usual Draupadi.

Shut up. Everyone's got an opinion.

Just be quiet.

You get ready. I'll have everything set out there.

Don't drink too much.

You got a play to perform.

He ate all my share of the money

and you think I cheated him?

Get me the costumes.

Wait.

-Who are you portraying? -Lord Krishnan.

No.

You portray Karnan.

"I am the king of kings"

"So listen"

"Today"

"17th day of the Battle of Kurukshetra"

"Battle of Kurukshetra!"

"Today, as advised by uncle Saguni"

"My elder brother, "

"King Karanan"

"must be awarded the title 'Senathipathi'"

"and he will ensure the fall of our foe, King Arjunan"

"Yes"

"Hence, "

"I must meet my brother"

"Follow me"

Move... move...

Hold the screen! Hold the screen!

"Here I am, the ruler of the Anga kingdom"

"The king with an army of warriors, elephants and horses"

"I have had victories that earned me respect from everybody"

"Here I am, the ruler of the Anga kingdom"

"The king with an army of warriors, elephants and horses"

"I have had victories that earned me respect from everybody"

"My dear elder brother, King Karnan"

"Offer me the customary ritual gift"

"Let me go and win the Battle of Kurukshetra"

"Go and defeat Arjunan. Here is the ritual gift, my elder brother"

"As you wish"

"Arjuna, Karnan has been given the title of 'Senathipathi' "

"-By Duryodhana? -Yes!"

"-Let's go to war. To Kurukshetra! -Let's go, uncle!"

"Let's head to the land of Kurukshetra and look for Karanan"

"Let's head to the land of Kurukshetra and look for Karanan"

"Let's head to the land of Kurukshetra and look for Karanan"

"-Where is Karnan? -Where is he?"

"-Where is he? -Let's go and search. "

"Okay, uncle"

"-Hey Arjuna! -Hey Karna!"

"Step out and face me, rascal!"

"No more mercy on you. "

"-See what I'll do to him. -What?"

"Alwar!"

"Today's the 17th day of the battle"

"Arjuna's weapon"

"brought the downfall of Karnan, who died in land of Kurukshetra"

"I must pass on this message to my aunt - Kunti Mahadevi"

"Let's go and look for my aunt"

"Daughter of the great Soora Senarajan"

"Here I am - Kunti Amman"

"Daughter of the great Soora Senarajan"

"I have gracefully made my way here"

"The mother of five Pandavas"

"Here I am"

"I was born to the great Soora Senarajan"

"I married the great King Pandu"

"I am the mother of five kings - Kunti Mahadevi"

"-My dear aunt. -Kanna. "

"Today marks the 17th day of the battle. "

"No matter who dies, I'll be the one to mourn and cry. "

"True. "

"What happened, Kanna? Did Arjunan's arrow kill Karnan?"

"Or did Karnan's arrow kill Arjunan?"

"-What scene did unfold? -Aunt... "

"You tell me. Will your ploy succeed or will my ploy succeed?"

"Hence, dear aunt, "

"Arjunan's arrow brought the downfall of Karanan in the land of Kurukshetra. "

"O' my dear Karna!"

"Karna! Karna!"

"The son who was born to me and the Sun God before I gave birth to Pandavas!"

"O' dear Karna! Karna!"

"Karna... "

"Will Kunti Mahadevi go running now?"

"Will she go in search of Karnan?"

"Will Kunti Mahadevi go running now?"

"Will she go in search of Karnan?"

"Oh God!"

"My dear Karna! Karna!"

"Karna!"

"O' precious, my dear son"

"The first flower of my garden"

"Instead if you were born in the garden by the river"

"The priests would've gently plucked you"

"and they'd have offered you to the Gods"

"O' dear, the first flower of my garden"

"Instead if you were born in the garden by the river"

"The priests would've gently plucked you"

"and you'd be offered to the Gods while performing rituals"

"I leaned on to a support believing I won't fall into the well"

"I leaned on to a support believing I won't fall into the well"

"But now my support and you, are lying in the well"

"Karna! O' my dear Karna!"

"My dear son! Your death pains me. O' dear Karna!"

"The play of 17th day of Battle ends here with Karnan's death"

"To all those witnessed this play, "

"we pray that God bless you all with a long and prosperous life"

"as we bid good bye to you all. Please, a round of applause everybody. "

"The show is over. "

Ilavarasu toTandavam: 'Do you think you can run a Jama without me?'

Tandavam to Ilavarasu: 'Get lost, if you don't have money. Who's begging you?'

Tandavam to Ilavarasu: 'Are you the only performer here? Are we good for nothing?'

Tandavam to Ilavarasu: 'We too have fans waiting to watch us perform. '

Tandavam to Ilavarasu: 'This time I'll portray King Arjunan instead of you. '

Ilavarasu toTandavam: 'Tandavam! Where is the crown?'

(2 months later)

'Do you think he'll get the Jama if Tandavam dies?'

'Nobody will even turn his side. '

'How do we trust you?'

Can you book plays?

'How can I trust him?'

'This inexperienced mongrel and Tandavam are not the same!'

'Who do you think you are?'

Our teacher?

'I want... '

'to see you portray King Arjunan. Can you perform that for me?'

'For once, dress up like the king and perform. '

'Do it with grace! I dare you!'

'And if you perform it successfully, '

'you will be my teacher for life!'

We spent so much and invited the people

but not a single villager has turned up.

Where are these villagers?

Guys, play louder!

The villagers will turn up only if they hear the music. Nobody's here yet.

Louder!

"O' Lord Vinagaya, the problem solver"

-The power's gone. -What a luck!

First play of the season and the power's gone.

Now go and get some fire lamps.

Ask them to be patient. They will get the fire lamps.

Hey Poona!

-Who is that? -That's...

-That's Kalyanam. -Kalyanam?

What is he doing there?

Now that he is here in the King's attire, hit the music!

"It's me, the son brought up by Lord Indhiran"

"It's me, the son brought up by Lord Indhiran"

"It's me, the son brought up by Lord Indhiran"

"It's me, the son brought up by Lord Indhiran"

"King Arjunan stands in front of you"

"What a surprise!"

"King Arjunan stands in front of you"

"King Arjunan stands in front of you"

"What a surprise!"

"King Arjunan stands in front of you"

"As the foot steps make music and as the parrot sings"

"As the foot steps make music and as the parrot sings"

"I, King Arjunan, am also known as Partha"

"What a surprise!"

"I, King Arjunan, am also known as Partha"

"The King of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"Here I am"

"The King of the Mighty Lunar Dynasty"

"Here I am"

"So rejoice and let the drums play"

"So rejoice and let the drums play"

"An army consisting of millions of brave Kalakeyas"

"An army consisting of millions of brave Kalakeyas"

"I am the warrior who assassinated all of them"

"I'm the war hero Arjunan, who assassinated all of them"

"I am the warrior who assassinated all of them"

"I'm the war hero Arjunan, who assassinated all of them"

"I am the warrior who assassinated all of them"

"I'm the war hero Arjunan, who assassinated all of them"

"I am the warrior who assassinated all of them"

"I'm the war hero Arjunan, who assassinated all of them"