Original subtitles

'Buddy boy John Doe... you crackle like a firecracker'

'Why should you alone get the goodies?'

'Strutting around, sharply dressed...'

'You want to police our women'

'Men and women are equal, you say'

'There must be a fine balance, you say'

'You belt it out like a chorus'

'But inside your home where no one's watching'

'You unleash your closeted violence'

'In the village, they say you are a man'

'Stay classy and you do you, my man'

'In the village, they say you are a man'

'Stay classy and you do you, my man'

'Buddy boy'

'Buddy boy'

'When I wear makeup and dress up, I'm called a slut'

'When you hot up, you're called a stud'

'Clad in a sari and flat at your feet, I become a lady of light'

'But if I dare to wear what I want, I become a blot on our culture?'

'You do you, buddy boy'

'You're all self-righteous out there'

'In the game of 'save culture', you make me the fall girl'

'But you slip away, courtesy your poetry'

'Now, if you pretend to be a nice guy, I'll punch your face'

'You do you, buddy boy'

'Buddy boy John Doe... you crackle like a firecracker'

'Why should you alone get all the goodies?'

'Strutting around, sharply dressed...'

'You want to police our women'

'Men and women are equal, you say'

'There must be a fine balance, you say'

'You belt it out like a chorus'

'But inside your home where no one's watching'

'You unleash your closeted violence'

'In the village, they say you are a man'

'Stay classy and you do you, my man'

'In the village, they say you are a man'

'Stay classy and you do you, my man'

(Valluvanpettai welcomes you)

Popsicles, cup ice creams!

(P. Kayalvizhi, B.A.)

Kayalvizhi! Come to dinner!

It's getting late, Kayal. Won't you have your dinner?

I'll have it soon, grandpa.

Won't you ever listen, Kayalvizhi?

Why can't you dress properly like a lady?

I am not interested in being a proper lady.

Only men should wear pants and shirts or what?

Can't I wear what I want, at least at home?

Kayalvizhi...

Your uncle from Madras has written to us.

About what? -There's a good match.

Don't start, mom!

The groom prefers a working girl!

Please! Let me be.

This is not only about you.

Your brother is not able to marry because you are still single.

Did I tell him not to get married?

He is going to get hitched before me and bring home a girl, one of these days.

Are you listening, father-in-law?

Won't the entire town laugh at us if we marry off the son before the daughter?

Not at all!

The whole world will laugh at us!

Come on, grandpa! -Sure.

I already have enough to deal with at the bank, mom.

Please be quiet.

You won't even let me eat in peace!

He's had a stomach ache for two weeks.

Now he's coughing. Why can't he go to a doctor?

Of course one must see a doctor for coughs and aches.

Can't see an engineer now, can I?

Where's Shankar?

He left for our oil mill early in the morning. He's not back yet.

It seems there's a big order.

Our mill? -Yes.

A big order? -Come see this, boss!

No chance... -Why are you yelling?

The neighbors might come over! -Don't worry. I got this.

So what if they come?

You are prophetic, darling! Let me go get the 'aarthi'.

This has been going on for three years?

What's the bloody rush to get married without telling us?

Just that, dad...

Because of her murky horoscope, they were forcing her to marry an old man.

You could have told me!

You'd get on my case for wanting to get married before my sister.

I had no other choice. Forgive me, dad!

All right, then...

Poonkodi...

My name is Poonkothai.

Whatever! What's your father's name?

Rajagopal.

Vayalpadu Rajagopal.

What a disgrace!

What the hell am I going to tell her parents?

"My son took a hasty decision."

"If you agree, we'll arrange for a grand wedding ceremony!"

That's what you need to say!

All right, Kayal! Now hear me out!

You agree to get married too!

We'll make it a grand affair! Two weddings on one stage.

How can my son get married before my daughter?

Which moron came up with the stupid 'daughter-before-son' rule?

I will not get married, dad! That is all.

Yes, keep talking back!

How can I show my face to people when my daughter is still unmarried?

Listen, Kayal!

Don't think it is an idle threat!

If you refuse to marry, I'll hang myself!

What?

Last month, it was poison. This month, it is hanging!

Quit threatening the child!

Honey...

I'm hungry. Can we eat?

She is your perfect match.

Hey, Granny!

When is your wedding feast, Kayal?

At your funeral!

What was that, dear?

Nothing! I said it is too hot today. -Of course it is, love!

Good morning. -Good morning.

What's wrong, Kayal?

You seem a bit off.

Nothing like that.

Thank you.

Thank you for introducing me to an excellent writer like Jayakanthan.

You read it already, Selvan?

It took me three weeks!

Reading comes easy to me.

You wouldn't believe it...

I read the whole Thirukural in just three days!

How is work?

It goes on.

Is the work on your transmission towers done?

Yeah! Fifteen villages will be electrified very soon.

I got plans to electrify twenty five more villages.

We'll see how it goes.

The country needs men like you!

Please open the book.

What's this?

"If Cuddalore has a JK, Valluvanpettai prides on KP!"

Oh please...

How can you compare me to Jayakanthan?

What's wrong with your fan comparing you to another excellent writer?

I'm telling you again.

You must write under your real name. "Kayalvizhi Pandian".

Hush! People might hear you.

For how long will you write under a man's name like KP?

I wish I could too.

But no one in this country will read what a woman writes.

How?

How do you write so well?

I struggle to fill just a single page in my diary.

When I want to write...

...thoughts flow like a river...

...but when I sit down to write, I just...

Make it a habit to write twenty minutes every day.

Then watch the words pour like a waterfall!

I read your latest short story.

Mark my words.

Your words will lay the foundation for the women's equal rights movement.

Whether you write or not, you sure have a way with words!

Go!

Kayal?

I have to ask you something.

Go ahead.

It's... a little personal.

Come on! Go ahead.

Why are you still not married?

You too?

Just that...

...you must be past the marriageable age...

How old are you?

You said you wouldn't mind...

(informal) No, just tell me... How old are you?

(formal) Sorry... Please tell me.

You can address me informally.

I don't mind.

Age?

Thirty two.

You're seven years older than me.

Why aren't you married yet?

Don't women typically marry early?

I'm not that typical kind of woman.

Any more questions?

You said you wouldn't take it the wrong way.

I didn't take it the wrong way.

I'll say it again, Kayal.

You can address me informally.

Is it almost time?

Yikes! Good heavens!

What the hell?

You scared me. Thought a monkey jumped on me!

"Maami!"

Sir? Coffee.

Sir?

(Hindi) Namaste, sir. -(Hindi) 'Arey' (hey)!

Suneel Kumar Lepcha!

(Hindi) How are you? -(Hindi) I'm good.

(Hindi) Found a house? -(Hindi) Yes. Nearby.

Very good! -(Hindi) Yes, sir.

Madam?

It's hot. -Thanks.

Madam?

Hello, sir.

Alamelu Madam?

There's a letter for you, madam.

Here you go.

A letter from the hubby?

(Hindi) The word isn't 'satri', sir. It's 'stri'.

(Hindi) You misspelled it.

(Hindi) You fix it.

Are you kidding, sir?

Why does Valluvanpettai need a Hindi 'word of the day'?

There she goes again!

Quiet, 'maami'!

Will you erase that or not, sir?

(Hindi) Oh Kayal...

What to do?

Banks have been nationalised.

So many new rules!

Head office will chew my brains.

I... can't do anything... about it...

(Hindi) Oh no!

I have a meeting! Sorry!

I come here to get away from home but there's only more trouble here.

How come you didn't tell me?

It seems your brother got married.

What's there to tell?

Wait! How do you know?

It's the talk of the town!

They say your wedding is up next.

Post-marriage, will you continue writing stories under the name 'K. Pandian'?

Or will you change it?

Stop it, 'maami'!

I'm already upset that my marriage is a hot topic again, at home.

You need to decide faster.

If you delay... -"Maami..."

Just focus on your transfer to Delhi!

Your husband is all alone there!

Delhi girls are very pretty!

You are so mean!

Kayal?

That telex from Bangalore... -Oh... yes, sir!

No need! Just tell me from there.

No, sir. I'll bring it over.

Madam?

What is it, boy?

Does Kayal Madam not like Hindi?

Why do you ask?

Just that the manager himself seems nervous around her.

This is nothing, Suneel.

Back in the day, she shook up this whole town!

Parade...

(Hindi) Attention!

(Hindi) One! -(Hindi) Turn to the right!

(Hindi) One, two, one!

Say it in Tamil, sir!

I didn't understand!

(Hindi) Turn to the right!

You shut your mouth!

Even that's nothing!

A man called Ranganathan used to live in Valluvanpettai.

Do not impose!

Do not impose Hindi!

Valluvanpettai!

The fortress of Tamilians!

Call yourself a proud Tamil! -With your head held high!

Do not impose! -(Hindi) Silence!

Do not impose Hindi!

How she troubled him!

(Hindi) It is essential to learn Hindi.

(Hindi) Should you go to Bombay or Delhi, how will you converse with the locals?

(Speaks in French with a Tamil accent)

What are you blabbering? I don't understand!

Now you know how it feels.

"Why should a Tamilian, living in Tamil Nadu, speak in Hindi?"

I asked that in the little French I know!

Speak in Tamil, Rangu!

Raghothaman...

Don't you and your granddaughter have anything better to do?

I object to this kind of rowdyism.

What do you want?

One onion uthappam and some thick chutney!

Look at him questioning us!

We don't even have proper electricity in this town!

What is the need for this Sabha?

The Ekta Sabha must be shut down!

Yes, indeed!

Shut it down!

I will not allow it!

We're not asking for your permission!

We will shut it down!

It would be most helpful if you stepped aside!

Come on! -Let's go!

Following that scuffle, with just a photo frame in hand...

...Rangu took off to Madras, like a bat out of hell.

Selva?

Come eat, son.

Sambhar again today?

We had visitors today?

I forgot to tell you about something important.

The broker came by.

There's a marriage prospect from Coimbatore.

She's an only child.

They own 200 acres of land, an oil mill...

What has she studied?

She's well-educated, son.

Won't I verify all that before telling you?

Is that so?

What has she studied?

Ninth grade.

"Ninth grade."

I've told you many times.

I will only marry a college graduate!

Why are you trying to marry me off to uneducated girls?

How many graduate girls have we seen so far?

Did anything work out?

Where will I go find a graduate girl now?

You needn't go anywhere.

I'll take care of it.

What is that supposed to mean?

It means...

...I will take care of it.

What's up, Doctor... Chandrasekar...

Come in, Grandpa.

You seem to have lost weight.

Haven't seen you around lately.

Hey!

Is this a relative's house, for me to visit often?

Oh well.

A romantic, I see.

Always reading such raunchy books!

Is that why you took more than ten years to finish MBBS?

Oh no! It's not what you think!

It's a murder mystery.

Men buy books only when they sport such attractive covers.

How's your health, Grandpa?

Never mind that!

Have you no shame?

If you keep puffing on that cigarette...

...how will your patients have any trust in you?

I'll let go of this habit.

You let go of lecturing, Grandpa.

You've been 'letting go' for three years!

But only the smoke. Not the habit!

Are you checking if the mercury is rising?

It must rise and fall.

What's wrong, Grandpa?

My stomach burns. -At whom?

Tell me. What's bothering you?

I don't feel hungry. What I eat doesn't digest.

My stomach hurts like hell.

Here...

Here? -The upper part, yes. Right there.

It hurts. Let go.

Why are you thinking so much?

You need to get tested.

At the town hospital.

Barium swallow test.

I should buy barley and soya, huh?

Just take it to the town hospital. I'll follow up with them.

You wanted to see me, sir?

Yes, Kayal! Please sit!

I sent the promotion list to the head office.

I have included your name on the list, I say!

Thank you, sir. -Yes, yes.

If you are promoted, your pay will be hiked to 450 rupees.

Four hundred and fifty rupees!

Thank you, sir. -Right...

Things have improved after the nationalisation of banks, right?

Employee benefits, job security...

...social status... Slipper!

Slip... Spic...

Side-splitting, isn't it?

Are you not feeling well, sir? -I'm okay.

(Hindi) Why do you ask?

Then why are you blabbering?

(Hindi) Oh, Kayal!

Won't I feel jealous if you are promoted?

Sir... The word is 'joyous', sir.

You feel what you want. I have a lot to do.

(Hindi) Oh no! Kayal!

What is this?

(Hindi) Please sit!

Come on! Sudden blossoms of anger, huh?

It's 'bursts of anger', sir.

Please get to the point.

It's nothing!

When I sent the promotion list...

They approved everyone. Just like that!

But...

...they've added a single couple of conditions.

And what could those 'single couple' conditions be?

One.

You must move to the Calcutta branch.

After the promotion.

They're understaffed. -Is that all? No problem.

Two!

Well...

From now on...

Be it Delhi...

...or Bombay...

...or Calcutta...

Wherever you go, you need to know Hindi, right?

Therefore...

...they need you to pass an entry level Hindi exam...

What the hell, sir? Are you joking?

Why should we write a Hindi exam to work in a bank?

Well... this order comes straight from the head office.

Head office, tail office!

What are you getting at?

So we'll be promoted only if we pass this Hindi exam?

Then, I don't need the promotion!

Oh, Kayal! What are you saying?

Even Alamelu Madam is writing the exam.

This promotion... It's a big doll!

It's a 'big deal'...

You know who I am! And you are saying all this.

The pride of Valluvanpettai!

The brave Tamil maiden!

The favorite child of Mother Tamil!

I invite Kayalvizhi Pandian to the dais.

The shutting down of the Ekta Sabha...

...is but a drop in the ocean of our revolution.

Deeming it a significant victory, we must not become complacent.

As the great leader Annadurai once said:

"India is a subcontinent."

"Even if this sacred land is but one nation..."

"...several languages and cultures are contained in it."

"It is the duty of every Indian citizen to safeguard India's diversity."

Despite all this, if they are still hell-bent on imposing Hindi...

...there can only be one response to it:

"I don't know Hindi. Beat it!"

On that note, I sign off.

Thank you for the opportunity. Long live Tamil.

(Hindi) This is my family's legacy.

This is a mirror, Ranga 'Ji' (sir).

What can I do with it?

You needn't do anything with it!

I will redeem it myself.

For now, just give me fifty rupees.

(Broken Tamil) Gives you thirty rupees.

You have no idea how valuable it is!

(Broken Tamil) Gives you twenty rupees.

Who gives?

Mock my Tamil again, I'll pay you even less!

Hey, Selvan!

Have a seat! What brings you here?

Good thing I ran into you here.

You finished reading it? -Just did.

Thank you.

So...

Are you writing any new stories?

I'm trying to write one.

But I am drawing a blank.

What is it?

You are upset about not finding a story?

Not that. Stuff at work... -Kayal!

Hey, Dhanam!

You got married?

No. He's a friend.

How are you?

What are you doing there? Come mind the kids!

Dhanam!

A friend of yours?

Yes.

You know what she used to be like?

Back in school, she wanted to become a Collector.

They got her married when she was fifteen!

But isn't fifteen the legal age for a girl to get married?

Just because it's legal, should we not question it?

A man...

The legal age of marriage for a man is eighteen.

For women? Fifteen.

Is fifteen even the age to get married?

There's gender disparity even in marriageable age!

Be it male or female...

...the age to get married must be twenty two or twenty three. Right?

Indeed, right?

I never thought of it that way!

(formal) Why don't you write a story about it?

Indeed, why not...

Good idea!

Should only I address you informally?

(informal) All right. Why don't you write a story about it?

This is my next story.

Is this your daughter? -Yes.

Come on in. Go get changed quickly.

They're here to see you.

Are you kidding, dad?

Why did you invite prospects home without asking me?

We're your parents. Why should we ask you?

If you want it, you go get married again!

Stop shooting your mouth off!

Quiet, mom!

Don't take this the wrong way. Please leave.

Don't just sit there! Get going!

First, learn how to behave like a woman...

I'll crack your head open!

Leave.

What is this?

You invite us over and humiliate us like this?

Is this fair?

Please don't mistake us, sir! -"Sir"?

Bring any more prospects, I'll poison your coffee!

Get going!

Didn't hear what I said?

You'll show up wherever they serve snacks?

Then why do you serve it?

Get lost!

Mom! -Come along!

Kayal!

What the hell are you thinking?

We can't let you stay single when your brother is married.

If that's your problem...

...then tell him to get a divorce!

My God! -You meanie...

I don't want to get married, dad!

Is that your final decision? -Yes!

This is my final decision!

In that case, I'll go hang myself...

Don't just keep saying it!

Go hang yourself!

It is all because of you!

She didn't mean it.

Please don't hang yourself, for real.

Lakshmi!

Looking for a groom is fine.

But have you no standards?

Lakshmi!

Ask him to zip it.

I'm really pissed off!

His coddling is what got us here!

Damn it! Ask him to hear me out!

Kayal is an educated girl.

A writer, too.

How will she say yes to such goofy gluttons?

Look for somebody who matches her intellect.

Talk to her uncle in Madras again.

What are you staring at?

Have you never seen me before? Get lost!

What is this, doctor?

What now?

You look like a constipated python.

Didn't take a dump?

I sent you to town to get tested, right? -Right.

The results are in. -What does it say?

Is anyone here with you?

Is this a festival or a political rally? To bring people along?

There's no one. Just me. Get to the point.

The thing is...

It's called esophageal...

You have no idea what it is, right? So why try?

Will you give me medicine for the pain?

Grandpa...

Please understand what I'm saying. -Go on!

What you have...

...is cancer.

Listen...

There's a time and place for jokes.

Quit kidding around and tell me the truth!

I'm not kidding. It's the truth.

Stomach cancer.

'A seed sown ages ago...'

'A tale written by fate...'

'A vicious blow from ages ago...'

'A tale of a coconut cracking a skull'

How many days do I have?

Why talk like this, Grandpa?

We can treat it!

Hey! You say I have cancer! How can one treat that?

How can one treat that?

Just tell me how many days I have left.

It's still early, so we can go to Madras...

Stop it! -Grandpa!

Where are you going? Please listen! -Treat it in Madras, eh?

Just a minute, Grandpa!

Grandpa!

'A tale where one sought refuge under a tree, from the sun...'

'...but fell victim to a falling coconut'

'A tale of a coconut cracking a skull'

'A tale where one tried flying from great heights...'

'...only to come crashing down to earth'

'A tale where one fell face down in the dirt'

'A tale that began with a seed sown by fate...'

'...and ended with a coconut cracking the skull'

'A tale about fate's crushing blow...'

'...and ended by crashing face down in the dirt'

'The final knock-out punch of the Almighty...'

'...you will never see it coming'

'You will never see it coming'

'You can try all you want...'

'...but there's no escaping it'

'You can never escape it'

'Once the end is around the bend...'

'...you don't get to enjoy the morning coffee'

'A seed sown by fate...'

'A tale of a coconut cracking a skull'

'A tale about fate's crushing blow...'

'...and ended by crashing face down in the dirt'

Let's go to Madras and get treated by a reputed doctor.

The cost doesn't matter, dad.

I cannot endure cancer treatment, son.

You finally spoke to me. That's enough for me, Pandia.

Dad...

Don't throw your money away.

I'm past 70.

I've lived like a king.

Let me continue living like that until the end.

Before I go, I have three wishes.

One.

I want to eat biriyani at Buhari in Madras.

Sure, dad!

Two.

I want to take a photo with the great MGR!

What's the third, grandpa?

Never mind. No use talking about it.

Tell me what it is, grandpa!

Tell me! What's the third wish?

If I say it, you will...

Grandpa...

Let it go. It doesn't matter.

Grandpa!

I want to see you get married, sweetie!

Grandpa!

Let's hope for the best.

Life is a leap of faith.

"Maami..."

I'm not crying because Grandpa is dying.

He's old.

Sooner or later, he's bound to go.

What are you saying, sweetie?

Then what!

He dropped a bomb on my head, by way of his last wish.

He wants to see me get married!

You did say 'No', right?

The government must pay out a monthly salary to homemakers.

They work harder than anyone else!

I was adamant about going to work.

I found my husband only after turning down fifteen prospects.

Who said married people can't chase dreams?

Someday, all of India will embrace the progressive views of Periyar.

Sweetheart...

This is the last prospective groom in the district.

Take a good look and make a decision.

What is it, Kayal? You said you wanted to talk about something important.

It's been ten minutes, and you haven't said a word.

Selvan...

Shall we get married?

'I am the messenger of Lord Rama'

'I am the messenger of Lord Rama'

'I am the messenger of Lord Rama'

What kind of concert is this?

You said the place would be packed!

(Hindi) How can you enjoy his singing?

And to think you run the Ekta Sabha!

Did the head office respond to my petition?

Care for some coffee?

My petition has been rejected in Delhi again. Right?

Why keep clinging to that damn Sabha in Valluvanpettai?

Let it go... -I can't 'let it go', Mr. Ananda Murthy!

Rangu, listen to me I say!

Join us in Madras.

I'll give you the posting of Joint Director.

I don't care if you make me the President!

I want to reopen the Valluvanpettai Sabha. That's all!

At least stop sending telegrams to the Prime Minister's Office!

It seems you are sending out a telegram every day.

Why so stubborn, Rangu 'Ji'?

They're yelling at me on the phone!

Already, shutting down the Valluvanpettai Sabha is a huge blot on our organisation.

Yet, you keep pushing...

Why so stubborn, Rangu 'Ji'?

I dedicated my life to the Valluvanpettai Sabha!

They acted like thugs, humiliated me and threw me out!

But you won't question that!

Where's the respect for my service?

Sending telegrams was a mistake!

I'll go straight to Delhi and demand justice, in front of Madam's office.

Please don't do anything like that!

Please be patient!

I've been patient for two years!

I haven't taken up another job owing to my principles, you know!

Yes I do, Rangu 'Ji'.

Please be patient.

I'll personally talk to Delhi. Okay?

Oh no! I was too hasty!

Should I have kept my mouth shut?

How could you do it, Kayal?

If I had said something wrong...

I just read your new story!

You killed it!

Fantastic!

Whatever you say, KP is KP!

But I have a small doubt.

In your story, you say it is wrong to consider adultery as a criminal offence.

Is that fair?

The law treats women as property of men. Is that fair?

So you claim it's okay for a wife to cheat on her husband?

I'm not saying it's okay for either spouse to cheat on the other.

But the law must treat men and women equally, right?

Oh... True, isn't it?

You're right.

I just...

I just needed clarity. That's all.

Well, I...

That thing I brought up at Amrutha Vilas...

Kayalvizhi!

How are you?

Hey, Aadhavan!

Been a long time!

Why didn't you come to Suman's wedding?

He didn't seem to care if the bride came or not.

But he tortured us no end asking if you had come or not!

Selvan, meet Aadhavan.

A friend from college. -Hello, sir.

Aadhavan, this is... -Selvan!

Kayal's future husband.

Wow! How about that!

Congratulations, sir!

What's happened, Kayal?

You used to act like marriage was a bad word!

How did you get our rebel Kayal to agree to marry you, sir?

What is this, Kayal?

I'm going on and on, but you just keep staring?

But one thing is for sure, sir.

You're very lucky.

See you. See you, Kayal!

'Come closer'

'My precious'

'Won't you understand...'

'...my pain?'

'My heart is filled with desire'

'Your beauty is etched on my mind'

'My heart is filled with desire'

'Your beauty is etched on my mind'

'Untamed passion, dances within, like it's possessed'

'An unconnected dot is ready for a wild party'

'Come closer, my precious'

'Won't you understand my pain?'

'Our love will not end up as a lie'

'Come closer, my precious'

'Won't you understand my pain?'

'Our love will not end up as a lie'

Coffee, son-in-law. -Take it.

Stay blessed, child.

May you live a long and happy life!

Fall at your master's feet too.

"Master"? Am I livestock that he owns?

She is right.

Why must she fall at my feet?

He's just going by what the tradition says, son-in-law.

You too, father-in-law?

It's getting late. Exchange the trays.

Hold on!

Where's mother-in-law? -She's here.

But... -But?

Why should she be present at an auspicious event...

You said you follow Periyar's teachings.

Is this what you have learned?

You know I don't care for such things, don't you?

What then?

I was worried your parents might get upset...

Please bring your mother over before my granddaughter changes her mind!

Please come, mom!

I'm the father of the bride.

It's my duty to ask this.

If you can tell me what your expectations are...

What is this, dad?

Going on about expectations and palpitations!

My only expectation is that he must get married.

That is all.

I was afraid he'd remain single for the rest of his life.

Only now, I feel at peace.

This is enough.

I want nothing else.

Excellent, auntie! You hit the nail on the head!

Enough with the idle chit-chat!

Exchange the offerings! Sire, hand them the trays!

'My beloved queen'

'My pristine beauty'

'Step up and ease my pain with your love'

'Within my restless heart...'

'...you are the violent sea'

'To tame you, I arrived, O enchantress'

'Like limestone in water... Restless and boiling'

'I am waiting to shackle you, buttercup'

What is this, father-in-law?

My mother already made it clear that she wanted no dowry.

Why bring this up again?

Oh stop, son-in-law!

Something you demand, is called dowry.

Something I offer, is called a gift.

Understood? -No, father-in-law.

Come, son-in-law. -Father-in-law!

Here, take it. -'Come closer'

I'll get going.

'The scent of your hair makes me breathless'

'Your incendiary love makes me sweat'

'The scent of your hair makes me breathless'

'Your incendiary love makes me sweat'

'Life hangs on by a slender thread'

'The whole world seems to be set ablaze'

'Come closer, my precious'

'Won't you understand my pain?'

'Our love will not end up as a lie'

'Come closer, my precious'

'Won't you understand my pain?'

'Our love will not end up as a lie'

'Our love will not end up as a lie'

'Our love will not end up as a lie'

(Hindi) What did the 'kutha' (dog) eat?

(Hindi) What did Gupta eat?

Not 'Gupta', madam. 'Kutha'.

No, thank you. -It's fresh.

It's okay.

Why so sad, 'maami'?

Do you miss your dear hubby?

Of course you'd say that!

Once I get a transfer, I'll move to Delhi right away!

Of course you will.

Any chance of you getting a transfer, Kayal?

Oh! So you don't know?

Why, 'maami'? -Wait!

They said she will get a promotion if she clears a Hindi exam.

But she told the manager she values her principles over the promotion!

If she gets a promotion she'll also get a transfer to Calcutta.

And a salary of 450 rupees!

Four hundred and fifty?

It's nothing.

One can earn money anytime.

Principle is more important.

Right, Kayal?

Managing by invoking the 'principle' card, are we, Mr. Selvan?

You are scared that she'll end up earning more than you!

Nothing like that! It doesn't matter who earns more.

It's all for the family, right?

It's okay. I was just joking.

You're a good man. I totally agree.

Selvan?

Why don't we go settle down in Calcutta?

Why?

Just that all the major publishers are based out of there.

I can write more stories, right?

What's this all of a sudden?

Let's not.

Why?

Because...

I have a lot of work to do here, don't I?

I have to electrify more villages.

Also, for both my mother and I...

...city life won't suit us.

Even if I get offered one lakh rupees.

I won't move out of our town.

That's true, too.

You make a fair point.

Let's get going.

I'll pay, Selvan.

It's okay. I got this.

No, I've got this.

This is the new normal!

What new normal?

Just that...

It doesn't matter who pays, right?

All the same, right?

You pay next time.

Don't be so naughty, 'maami'!

The longer we teach them Hindi, we'll lose all our grasp of Tamil.

Send him in. -Yes, sir.

Say, Mr. Ananda Murthy?

Very busy, huh?

I've been waiting out there for an hour!

You said you'd check with Delhi.

Any word on reopening the Valluvanpettai Sabha?

I personally spoke to them two days ago.

The approval isn't in yet. What am I supposed to do?

You needn't do anything!

If the approval's not in within ten days, I'll go to Delhi myself...

Consider my situation, Rangu 'Ji'!

If Madam learns how you torment such a loyal soldier like me...

No. Let her not know about it.

It is best for you that she doesn't!

Hurry up and get this done!

(Hindi) Ten days. That is all!

I don't understand.

Told you!

He's been conning everyone that he's a doctor!

Quiet, grandpa!

What's wrong, doctor?

I've never seen him this healthy.

All this for Kayal just getting engaged! When she gets married...

...this wretched illness will entirely vanish!

Grandpa? -Not for me.

Give it to him.

Will you have some, grandpa?

No, I'm good. You go ahead.

Grandpa...

I heard what the doctor said...

Please don't. It's okay.

Death is certain. One way or the other.

This is how I am going to go.

I need to accept it.

Kozhi? -Grandpa?

Tell him how much I love my granddaughter.

His granddaughter is his whole world.

When a landlord's son pestered Kayal in college...

...he chased down the guy and thrashed him in front of the entire town!

I wanted you to tell him how much I love my granddaughter.

Not these old tales.

My granddaughter Kayal is everything to me, son.

A very good girl.

Just a bit short-tempered.

Gets angry at the slightest provocation.

But her anger is always justified.

All these years, I've taken good care of her.

But if something happens to me...

Nothing will happen to you, grandpa.

There is this though, son...

God has sent you to us. An educated and progressive man.

I understand, grandpa.

Don't you worry.

It's my responsibility to always keep Kayal happy.

Thank you very much, son.

There's a letter for you, Kayal Madam.

What happened?

Someone from Valluvanpettai has sent an anonymous letter...

...saying that K. Pandian is a woman.

Oh no!

Now that they know you're a woman...

...will they continue to publish your work?

That's not an issue, 'maami'.

The publishers already know that I am a woman.

But who in Valluvanpettai...

It must be someone you know very well!

Except me!

You say the publishers know already? -Move!

So they won't give you any trouble.

Your wedding is also fixed.

My husband's using that as an excuse to book his ticket to come here!

There are poisonous vermin in this town.

The Almighty will take care of them. Don't worry about it.

Just focus on the wedding plans.

Cutie pie, aren't you?

Please be quiet, 'maami'!

Why pounce on me?

Some guy writes an anonymous letter and she takes it out on me!

Where are you off to?

Please cover for me with Gupta Sir.

What do I tell him? -Be back in an hour!

At least tell me where you're going! Kayal!

Who is it?

Mother-in-law? -I'll be there in a moment.

Hello, mother-in-law. -Welcome, Kayal!

Your parents didn't come?

No.

Please come sit. -Is he...

Selva left for work, dear.

Shall I send someone to get him? -No, no!

His...

I wanted to gift him a book for his birthday.

I came to check what books he already has.

His birthday is three months away.

True.

Three months away, right?

I wanted to buy many books and gift it as a collection.

That's why I wanted to start collecting right away...

Please don't tell him.

A pleasant surprise, huh?

I won't say anything.

You go ahead!

Where are his books?

In his room.

I'll leave you to it.

Care to eat or drink anything?

A cup of coffee, perhaps?

Sure, I'll make one right away. You go on.

"This is the problem with women!"

"Give them a little space..."

"...and they'll clamber up your head!"

"Where does she get the nerve to address her fiance disrespectfully?"

"Let the wedding get over."

"Be patient, Selva."

"How is she so well versed with the intricacies of illicit affairs?"

"If allowed to write, will she write any rubbish?"

"I'll put a full stop to that writing!"

"Very soon!"

"Who is this Suman?"

"Who is this Aadhavan?"

"Why did he tell me that I am very lucky?"

"Let the wedding get over."

"Be patient, Selva!"

"I am not saying widows should burn along with their dead husbands. I'm not so evil."

"But how can they be present at an auspicious event?"

"How can a widow be present at a place where holy matrimony is decided upon?"

"Even if she is the groom's mother?"

"Let the wedding get over."

"Be patient, Selva."

"What is dowry?"

"A fee that you pay to enter my house."

"That is all."

"To live your entire life in my house rent free..."

"...without paying any bills..."

"...and to eat for free..."

"...it is a form of down payment."

"Why do you see that as a crime, KP?"

"Let the wedding get over."

"Be patient, Selva."

"I am going to marry and settle down with you..."

"...but I can't settle the bill for the food you ate?"

"The arrogance that comes from earning a salary!"

"And God forbid, you earn more than me!"

"Should I shave off my moustache, wear a woman's clothes..."

"...and serve you forever?"

"And, when you move towns, am I supposed to shut up and follow you, like a dog?"

"I will tolerate anything."

"But I'll never allow this!"

Isn't that Rangu Master?

Greetings, sir!

Been a while! Are you well?

After all that you did, now you ask me if I'm well?

You are clinging on to the past!

When you serve the people, you have to listen to them.

It was not the people, Karuppayyan 'Ji'!

A few toxic creatures poisoned their minds.

Never mind!

What are you doing in Madras?

I've fixed my daughter's wedding.

I'm here to invite people.

I am glad I saw you. Here you go.

You must definitely attend the wedding.

Please, let go of the past.

Has your daughter finished her schooling?

She finished eighth grade.

That's a lot for a girl child!

Do you reside here in Madras?

For the time being.

All right. I'll get going.

You have to attend the wedding.

Karuppayyan 'Ji'!

I will set foot in Valluvanpettai only when you reopen the Sabha!

If I don't hack him to bits, shove it in the post box, and mail it to Madras...

...my name isn't Kothai!

Calm down!

Always dreaming of hacking and killing!

He's planned this very well!

He pretended to be a nice guy and cheated Kayal!

Scum!

Fine!

But what about Grandpa's cancer?

There's no way he knew about that beforehand!

A coincidence which he used to his advantage.

Rascal!

So what do we do now, Kayal?

I will not marry him!

Never mind that. What about Grandpa?

He's already suffering, because of this disease.

If you break this to him now...

...he'll be shattered.

Listen to me.

Once you're married--

--it'll all work out, right?

No way! He's a fraud, bro!

He is like this now. Imagine how he'll be after we're married.

It's quicksand! And you want me to jump into it?

I don't know how to break it to Grandpa.

What if he breaks it?

What if I break the news?

What now!

Grandpa will get upset only if I call off the wedding.

What if Tamil Selvan does it?

He'll beat the shit out of him.

Exactly! We'll reveal the truth, after that.

After all that scheming and planning...

...you expect him to call off the wedding so easily?

That is true...

What do we do now!?

Just learn Hindi and pass the bank exam.

When you get promoted and transferred, he'll refuse to marry you!

Hey! I was just kidding!

Are you testing me, Kayal?

Not at all, sir!

I mean it!

I need this promotion!

What are you saying?

Yes, sir!

(Hindi) Oh man!

Will you learn Hindi?

Will you write the exam?

Okay...

Why this sudden 'strange' of mind, tell me?

Sir...

...it's personal.

Please understand.

Okay, but, how will you learn Hindi?

Coaching classes?

Oh no, sir!

If the townsfolk find out that I am studying Hindi, I'll be doomed!

Then how will you learn?

Thought I'd get a self-study book, sir.

(Hindi) Nah, nah, nah (no)...

Do you want some 'nei' (ghee), sir?

Not that.

Do this.

Alamelu Madam attends the coaching classes.

Why don't you learn from her?

Good idea, sir.

Anyhow, if you get a promotion...

...I'll be very pissed.

I mean... pleased.

Gupta Sir?

Please don't tell anyone about...

Tell anyone about what?

Thank you, sir.

Think my head will explode!

Goodbye!

Bye, sir. -Bye.

Explain it in a way I can understand!

"Maami..."

If I earn more than Selvan or if I get a transfer...

...he won't accept it.

Okay...

What will he do when I get a promotion and a transfer?

How would I know, what he'd do!

He'll ask me to quit my job, 'maami'!

Okay... -And if I refuse to quit?

The wedding is off!

Don't mind me saying this.

What is it?

This is the dumbest idea that I've ever heard in my life.

I can't think of another way to stop the wedding without hurting Grandpa!

That's fine.

But what if Selvan calls your bluff, says he's okay with you earning more...

...and wants to move to Calcutta too? What will you do then?

He definitely won't say that!

I know now exactly how his mind works.

Are you sure?

I'm very clear about it, 'maami'.

Please share your Hindi notes with me.

It's very easy to smear black paint on Hindi signboards!

But to learn Hindi is very hard!

What is so hard?

It's just another language. That is all!

You'll find out soon enough.

(Hindi) It's very difficult!

(Hindi) You will see.

"The granddaughter of Raghothaman and Chellammal of Valluvanpettai..."

"The daughter of Sundarapandian and Lakshmiammal..."

"Kayalvizhi alias Kayal..."

"And the grandson of Gopalsamy and Maniammal of Katpadi..."

"The son of Palanisamy and Andal..."

Damn it!

Don't say such things!

Then what, 'maami'? It's pissing me off...

...to work on a Sunday like this!

"It's just another language."

Quit wasting time and study!

Read it out loud! Only then, it'll stick!

I can read only if I know how to.

I'll read. You repeat.

"Ladka" (boy)...

What is a 'ladki' (girl)?

"Ladki"... The pair of a 'Ladka'.

Male and female.

What's this now?

What are you doing here?

I came shopping, madam.

The office was open, so I wanted to check.

Now that you checked, get going!

I swear Kayal isn't learning Hindi!

Did he ask?

Did I screw up?

Sorry, darling.

Suneel...

You won't tell anyone, will you?

No. Why would I tell anyone?

Right! Why would he? -He won't.

If you don't mind, can I ask you something?

Go ahead.

Why are you learning Hindi?

For the promotion!

New rules!

(Hindi) Very well.

Okay, madam. You keep at it.

I'll get going.

How do you speak Tamil so fluently?

Only if I speak Tamil here...

...the cooking fires will burn back home in Darjeeling.

You speak Hindi well, don't you?

Yes, I do.

Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu...

Why not have Suneel teach us?

True! Great idea!

We'll start tomorrow!

We'll meet here after office hours.

See you then. Now get going!

All right. See you. -Okay, madam...

I'll get going too, 'maami'.

Stay a little longer, won't you!

They've invited me to judge a debate contest at school. I must go.

Politics is a waste of time for students.

We need to avoid it completely!

We must study, come up in life, and build our home and our nation.

Thus firmly restating our duty...

...I conclude my argument.

Thank you. Greetings!

Next up, I invite Kumudha of Class 5-E, to put forth her argument.

Greetings to all.

Before I start, there's something I must tell you.

The previous debater said, "Politics is a waste of time for students".

Think about it, my friends.

When they tried to impose Hindi in Valluvanpettai...

...the one who spoke and fought against the politics behind it...

...was a student like us!

A fiery Tamil lady who is a role model to many girls like me in Valluvanpettai...

...is my big sister Kayalvizhi!

In her presence, how can we ever say that politics is a waste of time?

Why not tell Selvan directly that you're applying for a promotion?

Why are we beating around the bush?

If I do that, then the moron will tell our folks...

...and stop me from even applying for the promotion!

We must first get the promotion before we do anything else!

There's a truck driver who is close to our family.

What about it? -Well...

My mother says he will run over anybody for a fee of 500 rupees!

You murderous woman!

Where did you find her?

She looks meek, but listen to her speak!

So what do we do now, Kayal?

You want the promotion. But, you refuse to learn Hindi.

Whenever I think of learning Hindi...

...all I'll see and hear is that little, school girl.

"It's okay to commit a minor sin to prevent a major wrong!"

"Fight fire with fire!"

Yes, Kayal!

"Even if the water's hot, it can put out a fire!"

"Desperate times, desperate measures!" -"Before you buy a buffalo..."

I deserve this and more!

'It was within my grasp, yet dodged me like a slippery eel'

'I won't let it go'

'The drawn arrow will find its mark'

'Like a gushing river, it was a torrent of love'

'It dried out into a muddy ditch...' -Make it fast!

'...and I drowned in the slush'

'Be patient, Selva'

Haven't seen her in a while!

'Be patient, Selva'

You mean Kayal?

'The divine dawn will rise' -I don't know.

Okay then...

I'll pick it up tomorrow. See you! -'Be patient, Selva'

You didn't buy anything! -'Be patient, Selva'

"Ek" (in)... -'Until the day of the wedding...'

"Gaon" (a village)... -'...be patient, Selva'

"Mein" (there was)...

"Ek kissan" (a farmer)...

Welcome, sir!

Have a seat!

What can I get you?

'Even a cage is a home'

'She fails to understand...'

'...and nitpicks'

'I asked for no dowry...'

'...to give her a life, but she walked away'

'Baby, you rap about feminism'

'But your love is a lie'

'When you become a bride...'

Come in, brother-in-law. -'... your idea of equality dies'

Is Kayal around? -'The more forbidden, the sweeter'

She isn't back from work yet. -'I'll never let it go'

'Be patient, Selva'

'Be patient, Selva'

'The divine dawn will rise'

'Be patient, Selva'

'The divine dawn will rise'

'Be patient, Selva'

Try adding up again!

An announcement for everyone!

Except Kayal.

The date of the Hindi exam has been announced!

The twenty third!

Congratulations!

You okay with that?

(Hindi) Start.

Did you say 'stout'?

Start writing, I said.

Give it! -Just one more...

Just one more answer!

Looks like I passed!

You scored only twenty!

How can I learn a new language at my age?

God knows how I'm going to write this exam!

It's hard. I agree.

Your goal is only to pass the exam, right?

You don't have to learn Hindi, right?

So? I still have to write the exam!

Not someone else.

Oh, that's right.

Oh, that's right!

Why can't we get someone else to write the exam for you?

You want me to commit fraud?

As Kothai said, why not commit a minor sin to prevent a major wrong?

Forget it, bro!

Shankar!

Grandpa fainted, Shankar!

Let's go to the doctor. Hurry!

Come!

Why would you call him here, dad!

Calm down! You don't understand all this.

Grandpa was doing so well, wasn't he?

How did this happen all of sudden? -I don't get it either.

What can I do?

It's all dad's fault.

What happened to him, doctor?

He's dehydrated.

Which means... -I know. Go on.

Who is he? -My son-in-law!

Kayal's fiance.

Can I talk to you in private, doctor?

Of course! By all means!

Listen to me carefully.

You know how candles...

...burn bright before they die?

Same thing happened with Grandpa, methinks.

His vitals are not looking good.

You look pretty in this outfit, too.

Even diarrhoea can cause such infirmity.

I don't understand, doctor. Please explain.

How many more days until Grandpa conks off?

Selvan!

Just that... Grandpa's health is getting worse.

I was thinking we could prepone the wedding date...

Won't that make Grandpa happy?

What do you say?

Good idea!

I'll speak to the priest right away!

Say something, man!

Don't be hasty, dad!

Grandpa will be fine!

You shut up!

You eloped and married and now advise us on being hasty?

Try to think about others!

Dad!

What is it?

Kayal...

At first, you didn't want to write the Hindi exam.

Then, you wanted to write it.

But now...

...you want to write it sooner?

What is going on? Can you please start again?

Sir...

Sir!

My wedding!

The Hindi exam!

At first...

...I was going to write the exam before my wedding.

Okay.

But now...

...the wedding is happening before the exam!

Okay! -That's the problem.

What is the problem?

You can proudly write the exam after the wedding and the honeymoon!

You don't understand, sir!

How can I write it after the wedding?

You will be very busy after the wedding!

You will be distracted!

I understand!

That's the thing, sir!

There's an exam happening next week at the Sitrur branch...

I'll write the exam at the Sitrur branch, sir!

Please, sir! Please, sir!

Kayal, Kayal! Please!

The Sitrur branch manager has to agree!

The Ekta Sabha must agree!

Your name must get on that list by this evening!

It's difficult, Kayal!

Please talk to them, sir!

Please add me to that list! Please, sir!

You can do it! -Okay...

Please, sir! -Kayal...

I'll definitely try!

I'll book a trunk call right away!

I'll talk to the Sitrur branch manager!

But whether he'll agree or not...

No guarantees, Kayal.

Please, sir!

Be patient, Kayal.

Didn't Gupta Sir say he'd try to get you on the Sitrur list?

I'll tell everything to Grandpa.

Kayal... -No, bro.

I have no other choice.

Kayal...

Go to sleep. I'll be fine.

Forgive me, grandpa.

For what, my pet?

How can my diarrhoea be your fault?

Not that, grandpa.

I have something important to tell you.

I don't want this wed... -Kayal?

Your manager sent over this envelope.

You had to interrupt just when she's saying something important?

Get lost!

There's an important list.

What's wrong?

Isn't your name on the list?

I wonder who'll write the exam on my behalf.

"It isn't wrong to commit a minor sin to prevent a major wrong!"

Not at all wrong!

Not at all wrong!

Who will write in my place?

We need to find someone in Valluvanpettai who can write in Hindi?

We're doomed!

Yes, madam.

(Hindi) Who will write?

Bro...

Where is he?

"Be patient", Kayalvizhi. Be patient.

I'll whack you!

I've told Selvan I'm busy with the audit at the bank.

If he sees me here...

Nothing will happen.

Tell me something, isn't he a moron?

Can he pull this off?

He's a moron only when it comes to studies.

He's real skilled in this kind of fraud.

Only that he's a little crazy.

Did you pull this kind of fraud to pass tenth grade?

Did you call a welder?

Not just tenth grade.

I passed every class with Kozhi's help.

Really? -Yeah!

Then why did he flunk?

Yeah, no?

I said he's crazy, didn't I?

Take off those shades, man!

I heard you wanted to speak to me in private?

Shankar?

I'll do this.

A condition, though.

What is it?

When it's over...

...you must take me to Amrutha Vilas.

We are at Amrutha Vilas!

One more time.

Just her and me.

Not happening!

All you want is food, right? Buy a meal on my tab.

Get going, man!

Remember, it's Sitrur. Our folks visit the town often.

Make sure no one sees you. Be as invisible as the breeze.

Should you screw up and our townsfolk catch wind of it...

Never mind the wedding being called off.

There'll be a huge uproar in town.

Be careful, Kayal.

'Come, let's go'

'To shatter the rules'

Stop!

-'At the sword's edge...' -Won't you stop when I tell you?

'...there is no right or wrong'

'Let opposing voices roar'

'Let deep dissent seethe'

'Feminism is war' -Make sure you sit near the window.

'Rise up and fight' -Once the exam begins...

...Kozhi and Suruli will come to take your question paper and answer sheet...

...and give you dummy papers.

Once they get those papers to me, I'll have Suneel fill in the answers.

Until then, you'll have to manage with the dummy papers somehow.

Before the exam is over, Kozhi and Suruli will return the answer sheet to you.

Once you submit it and leave the hall...

...that is all! The chapter with Selvan is closed!

'Let opposing voices roar'

'Rise up and fight'

'Let deep dissent seethe'

'Rise up and fight'

What's going on here?

Some Hindi exam for government employees, sir!

Who are you?

They're looking for you there! Go!

Take your seat.

My name is...

...Sai Kiran Mamidana.

(Telugu) Malpractice makes my blood boil.

Got it?

What's her roll number?

Start!

(Telugu) For a Hindi exam, you seek God's help in Tamil?

(Telugu) Brilliant.

Help me out here, please.

I myself know nothing. I am just copying the questions.

Are you the candidate from Valluvanpettai?

Yes, sir.

Bank employee, yes? -Yes, sir.

What's the name?

Madras Central Bank.

I meant your name!

Sorry, sir. -She's inside!

Kayalvizhi Pandian.

You go in and distract that guy.

I'll go around and get the paper!

Don't talk too much and get caught! Got it?

Raghothaman's son Pandian?

Sir?

Who are you? What do you want?

Can you please tell me where this address is, sir?

Why are you coming here to ask me this?

There's an exam in progress. Go.

Please help! -Who let you in here?

Leave! Get going!

Mr. Groom!

It's Kayal's fiance! Look how he ignores us!

Get me the question paper!

Fill in the answers, Suneel. There's no time!

I forgot to tell you, Shankar!

I saw your brother-in-law Tamil Selvan at the Sitrur bus stop!

What?

We even waved at him!

He bloody ignored us!

He didn't see you two, right?

Is it yes or no?

Sir? -(Telugu) Miserable fellow!

(Telugu) Cheating, eh?

Get out!

If I don't speak to your bank and get you fired, my name isn't Mamidana!

"...lived a farmer."

Is it over, Suneel?

Get going!

Only fifteen minutes! Can you do it?

Don't worry. Once I make up my mind...

Shut up and leave!

Fifteen more minutes!

Suneel?

Why are you so nervous?

I'm here, no?

'There is no greater weapon than courage'

'When the times demand, it's okay to fight a war'

'Don't count losses in the battleground'

Why are you wobbling so?

How will you get us there in time? Go faster!

'Sow the seeds of revolution in the broken land'

What do we do?

'Time waits for no one'

'Let's keep marching' -Ten more minutes!

'A volcano shows no mercy' -Kozhi!

We don't have time to stop! -'Let us erupt'

'Only the winners...' -It's a long route! The shortcut is faster!

'...can make history'

'Let opposing voices roar' -Five more minutes!

'Let deep dissent seethe'

'Feminism is war'

Shall we eat and go? -Hurry up!

'Come, let's go'

Three minutes left!

'To shatter the rules'

'At the sword's edge...' -One minute!

'...there is no right or wrong'

Are you writing a novel there?

'Let opposing voices roar'

Time's up. Hand it in! -Please!

'Let deep dissent seethe'

If I don't do this well, my wedding will happen!

'Feminism is war' -So?

I mean... it will not happen! -Sir!

'Rise up and fight'

Who are you? -'Rise up and fight'

Why do you keep barging in here?

'Rise up and fight'

Got change for ten rupees?

I do.

Please give me a Rupee, sir.

(Telugu) I'll smack you! Nonsense fellow!

Get out of here!

Just say yes or no.

Bloody miser! -"Miser", it seems!

Are you done? -'Rise up and fight'

You will definitely get married!

You wrote the exam successfully, right?

Why do you two look so glum?

You don't know what we're dealing with!

Think Selvan saw me in Sitrur?

No.

There's no way he saw you.

But why was he in Sitrur?

He's come!

That's what I'm wondering! Why did that doofus come there?

Honey!

Brother-in-law... Hello!

Haven't seen you in a while!

It's tough to catch you these days, Kayal.

It's just that...

She has a bank audit, right?

Where? In Sitrur?

No.

I went there to write an exam.

What? An exam?

Yes!

For my promotion!

Brother-in-law...

You two keep chatting.

We'll catch a bite outside and come.

Didn't we decide not to try for a promotion?

Now, I feel like I want it.

If you feel like...

Did you think of my mother?

How can I move to Calcutta, Kayal?

Who asked you to move there?

I'll go by myself!

What, baby?

Why, Kayal?

You've been sounding off lately.

You could've asked me!

Why should I?

Why should I ask you?

So... what about your ideals?

For a measly promotion, you went and wrote a Hindi exam?

Sick!

What's 'sick'?

It's not just for the promotion!

It's for me!

For my writing!

For my ideas to reach the masses, I need to go to Calcutta!

The things you say and do nowadays... It's not right.

You're making a huge mistake, Kayal!

What am I supposed to do?

What am I supposed to do?

We'll talk later. -No, let's talk now!

Don't raise your voice.

I will raise my voice!

We'll talk later. -No! Let's talk now!

I said we'll bloody do this later!

What? Eat.

He seemed pretty furious!

He was fabulously furious, honey!

What if he tells our folks?

We are doing all this so that he'll call off the wedding, no?

Right...

If the wedding is off, he'll return that scooter, won't he?

Selva...

Remember the diamond earrings your grandmother gave me?

Shall we give it to Kayal?

What's wrong, son? Are you not feeling well?

Did you meet Kayal?

What do you want now, mom?

Just that the wedding is around the corner...

So?

Nothing, son. Drink up your milk.

Can't you see that I'm busy, mom?

Leave me alone.

Son...

Can I tell you something?

You are very lucky to get a girl like Kayal.

We saw so many girls!

Did we ever find the right girl?

It's your good fortune!

Just like you wished, she's a well-educated girl.

A well-mannered girl, too.

The Goddess waiting to grace our home...

Stop it, will you!

You have no idea what you're talking about!

Well mannered, it seems!

For the stunt she just pulled...

What did she do wrong?

She is arrogant because she's educated.

Don't say such nasty things.

Do you know how much she cares for you?

What the hell do you know?

Stop blabbering!

I'm not blabbering.

She came home to see you, you know.

Kayal came here?

That's okay, son.

Why did she come?

Why the hell did she come?

Why are you getting worked up?

She wanted to gift you a book for your birthday.

So, she came to see the books you already have.

What books?

Those books there. She went over them all.

And that book you scribble in? She was reading it for a long time.

Why the hell didn't you tell me earlier?

You truly are your wretched father's son!

I am so pissed off that...

Listen!

Breathe a word of this to anyone...

...that's it!

It'll be over my dead body!

(Hindi) That's wonderful!

I was convinced that your plan would fail!

Never thought it would succeed! -"Maami..."

Didn't I tell you it will work?

You should've seen his face yesterday!

I need to speak to you alone, Kayal.

Care for some tea or coffee, Kayal Madam?

This might come as a bit of a shock.

I decided this after a lot of thought.

It's... a little hard...

...but then again, that's life.

Not just a transfer to Calcutta...

Wherever you may go, I'll go with you!

Yes.

Just that...

If you make more money than me after your promotion...

...people might talk.

Let them talk!

Grandpa's happiness is all that matters!

What do you say, Kayal?

Kayal?

Kayal...

What do you say, Kayal?

I can't believe it!

Neither can I.

The wedding day is almost here.

There's so much to do!

See you!

I know everything, sweetie.

Grandpa...

I wasn't sure how to tell you.

The doctor already did, didn't he?

That I am in good health.

Because of whom?

You!

Listen...

I've already said this to you.

Whatever happens to me, you must see me off with a smile.

Be happy.

Chandru! I don't see any filling defect on the barium swallow.

Because you asked, I even did the ultrasound test.

I get to see fifty such patients every day, Chandru.

Sometimes, even severe esophagitis can lead to weight loss.

Have you considered that?

Why don't we treat him for that and monitor his progress?

Okay.

Thank you, doctor. -Yes.

Hey Murthy!

Come, Rangu 'Ji'!

What is all this?

What's going on here?

The evaluation of Hindi exams for the bank employees.

They have dumped answer sheets from all over the state, on us.

Is that so?

Very well. Why did you call me?

Madam read one of your Telegrams it seems!

Did she really now?

You wouldn't believe it!

Madam is one of a kind!

Despite her busy schedule... -First bloody tell me what she said!

She's given her permission to reopen the Valluvanpettai Sabha!

(Hindi) Very good!

It's all God's grace! -Hold up!

There's a small formality. -What?

She wants a No Objection certificate from the Valluvanpettai panchayat board.

What does she want that for?

Listen, Rangu 'Ji'.

This is Madam's order. I cannot question it.

Never mind that.

I'll handle it.

Anyway, Mr. Murthy...

Thank you.

Rangu 'Ji'!

I forgot to tell you!

We received a letter that was addressed to you.

Here.

There's no sender's name or return address!

"The same Kayalvizhi Pandian who shut down the Ekta Sabha..."

"...and stopped you from continuing your work..."

"...has written a Hindi exam in order to get a promotion at work."

"Yours truly, a well-wisher."

Mr. Murthy...

Didn't you mention the Hindi exam papers of bank employees...

...are being evaluated here?

Yes.

Look at me!

What's your name, child?

Can't do anything now.

I will marry now. After Grandpa dies...

...I'll get a divorce.

Why do you say such things?

We need to usher in the groom, Kothai.

Welcome! -Greetings, grandpa.

This way!

Offer some money, son-in-law!

Offer some money!

Here you go!

It's okay!

Come on in!

The anointment ceremony is over, son-in-law.

You must not leave the house until the wedding is over.

Okay? -Okay.

Shut it and come!

I meant the door!

What is it, Kayal?

What if I run away?

No bride, no wedding. Right?

Don't go on like a broken record.

Did you forget you're doing this for your grandfather?

The room up here is nice and airy.

Here it is.

The kids are playing... -Just a minute.

What is it? -Hey!

Go tend to the work! -Going, dad!

Get going. -Come along!

Go on.

Get some rest.

Send word if you need anything.

All right.

All right.

Go to bed soon. The nuptial ceremony is between 8 and 9:30 AM.

Don't stay up chit-chatting.

Son-in-law?

Son-in-law!

Son-in-law!

Son-in-law?

Enjoy the meal!

The groom's missing, dad!

He must've gone to the loo!

He'll be back! Don't panic! Go!

He'll be back. Get going.

Think the groom's gone to the loo. Go get him ready and bring him over.

It's time. Tell him I sent you. Go!

Welcome! -Hello, Pandian!

Welcome! Come on in!

Greetings! -Welcome!

Please come in!

(Hindi) Oh my!

The flowers are down.

Greetings, Grandpa!

Welcome, doctor! Have a seat and eat!

I need a word with you, Grandpa.

We'll talk later. First eat!

Serve some idlies for the doctor!

It's almost eight, Pandia! Where's the groom?

I'm really worried, dad!

I have to tell you something important!

The groom's mother is here! -Grandpa!

Where's your son, madam?

I thought he was with you!

What do we do now?

Bring the bride over. I'll finish her rituals.

Take this.

At such a crucial time, where could he be? What happened?

Sometimes for work emergencies, he'd take off like this.

How can he do that on his wedding day?

All is lost!

The whole town will laugh at us!

Quiet!

Where is Shankar?

Where did he go?

Sprinkle the grains on the idol.

Lead the bride away.

You better get the groom now.

I have nothing left to chant.

Come here, Shankar!

Chant them one more time from the top. He'll be back by then.

Where the hell were you?

I was handling chores for your daughter's wedding!

The groom is missing, moron!

Sure, I'll get it.

What?

"The groom is missing?"

You could've told me!

"What if I run away?"

"No bride, no wedding. Right?"

And then?

The wedding can't happen without a groom either, right?

What now?

Pay 500 rupees to that truck driver?

No murder and all, Kayal.

Something simpler. Thinking of abducting the groom.

That's a good idea!

What are you two saying?

Talking murder and abduction!

Stop with the madness!

Okay... Let's say we abduct him.

Who will abduct him?

You?

Me?

Or her?

Or the three of us together?

Who will do it?

There's someone.

Are you insane?

Are you insane?

I only look like a rowdy.

And you ask me to abduct someone?

Go on! Go take a nice oil bath!

We'll pay you five hundred rupees, man!

Will you do it or not?

All that's good!

But the anointment is over!

They won't let the groom leave the house.

How do we abduct him?

You need to get him to some deserted place away from the house.

We'll handle the rest.

How do we do that?

Let us also send him an anonymous letter!

Fantastic!

I thought education would reform him, Kayal.

The sins of my womb!

The wretch turned out to be just like his father!

What is it?

Someone sent you a letter.

Who?

A boy delivered it.

Before I could enquire, he left.

Did you eat?

Go sleep.

"Dear Selvan..."

"I heard you are going to marry Kayal."

"Congratulations."

"But before you do, there is an important thing you need to know."

"Meet me at the cemetery near the river bank tonight. Alone."

"Yours truly, your dear brother Suman."

"P.S."

"I really mean this. You are very lucky, sir!"

Mr. Suman?

Mr. Suman?

Suman...

Hey, Suman!

Mr. Suman?

Hey! Then who are you?

So where is Selvan?

Safe and sound in a place where no one will look for him.

Is this some joke?

Will you bring the groom or not?

He'll be here any minute!

Any minute now!

Kayal...

Do you know how proud I am to call you my sister-in-law?

The auspicious hour isn't over yet! Don't jinx it!

All must go well, O dear God...

What are you giggling for?

My neck hurts, Kayal!

Stop pacing!

What is going on here?

We've sent for him, sire! Right?

Where did he go?

What is going on here?

You just checked!

Would the time have moved already?

Put it down.

What's going on?

The nuptial time is almost up!

There's nothing for me to do!

Leave me alone!

What is going on here?

Do you underhand?

I have to tell you... -Go!

Lovely wedding this is!

A wedding without a groom! Get going! It's all over!

Thirty seconds! -Come on!

It's time!

Make room for me!

You can force me to stay, but the nuptial time won't stay put!

The nuptial time has passed!

(Hindi) Game over!

No, sire! -Please wait!

He'll be here soon! -Please listen!

Be practical! -Please sit!

How could he do this? -Settle my dues and I'll be on my way.

I don't understand!

Praise be to God!

Oh no! Seems like the groom ran away because he didn't like the bride!

Who will give her a life now?

There is a God!

Poor girl...

How could the wretch do this?

Don't cry, Kayal!

Please be seated!

They're gone!

"Maami!"

I'm sorry.

It's all for the belle, sir.

It's 'all for the best'.

That's the one. For the best.

We worked so hard to arrange this! It's all ruined!

An important thing, Grandpa... -Hey!

I beg of you! Please don't bother me! Get going!

I am shattered over my granddaughter's cancelled wedding...

Here you are rubbing salt on my wound? Leave!

Hey! -Grandpa?

Come here! Take him away!

Enough, doctor! -It's important! Just give a minute!

Oh My God!

What is this?

What is this, son-in-law?

Where did you go? The auspicious time is over!

Where did you go without telling us?

After dinner last night, I thought I'd take a walk...

Oh no! How could you step out after the anointment?

Be quiet!

Tell us what happened!

That was when...

...two thieves tried to steal my valuables!

I didn't spare them!

I beat them up to a pulp!

But suddenly one of them...

...knocked me out from behind with a club.

I fainted, grandpa. -Oh no! What is this?

Such a terrible thing has happened! Get him to a hospital!

Let's go! -I'm here! May I?

It's okay! I'm fine!

No problem here!

Forgive me, everyone!

Forgive me... Sit down!

Sit down!

Sit down, everyone!

I was wrong to disobey the elders and step out!

It's okay. -Please forgive me!

Let's have the wedding, grandpa.

The auspicious time has passed!

Yes, indeed! The time has passed!

The priest said the next one comes up only next month!

I'll never get to see Kayal's wedding! -Dad!

Don't cry, father-in-law.

I'll give you hundred. Get it done today.

Pay up two hundred rupees. I'll make it grand!

A hundred and fifty! -Two hundred!

I'll kill you. -Is that so?

Then we can do it!

All that's left is tying the knot!

We'll finish the wedding now and do ritual remedies tomorrow.

Just that it'll cost a bit.

The cost doesn't matter! We'll go along with what you say!

Okay, dad? -We'll do it!

So Kayal... were you afraid the wedding wouldn't happen?

Grandpa!

Did you say something? -No, son!

"Maami?" -Yes?

Get this blessed by all the elders and everyone in attendance.

All right, sire.

O Goddess! Everything must go smoothly!

Go ahead.

Pandia! Why is this man here?

I don't know, dad.

Congratulations, Kayal.

Promotion, marriage...

Excellent!

Be well!

Why are you staring at me?

Doesn't your grandfather know about the promotion?

What is it you want now?

One onion uthappam!

We'll be reopening the Valluvanpettai Sabha!

The Panchayat has agreed to give a No Objection certificate.

You and your people must not cause any trouble!

That is all! -Listen...

Open whatever you want.

You'll have no trouble from us.

Please leave now. -What is this, father-in-law?

Well, sweetie...

You're about to get married...

Why bother with all this anymore...

So...

Who asked you to come here, Master?

Listen to me first.

"We don't even have proper electricity in this town!"

"What is the need for this Sabha?"

"The pride of Valluvanpettai!"

"The brave Tamil maiden!"

"The favorite child of Mother Tamil!"

"I invite Kayalvizhi Pandian to the dais."

"A fiery Tamil lady who is a role model to many girls like me in Valluvanpettai."

"My big sister Kayalvizhi!"

Pick up the nuptial thread.

Drumrolls!

Kayal!

Mr. Rangu!

What is this insanity, Kayal?

Shut up! I don't even care that you are my father!

We won't let the Ekta Sabha reopen!

I thought so! -Well...

The kid doesn't know what she is saying!

Quiet!

You ruin my life while you get married and earn a promotion?

You turned me into a pauper, do you know!

Until dirty linen is washed in public, everyone smells of roses!

Perhaps touched by my good deeds...

...a merciful soul sent me an anonymous letter...

...that exposed your facade!

Listen up!

I'll ask you one last time!

Will you let me open the Sabha or not?

We will not!

Stop imposing mandatory learning of Hindi!

Then, we'll consider it!

Yes! Kayal is right! -Yes!

Stop imposing!

(Hindi) Silence!

Always chanting slogans!

You'll turn this country into a cemetery!

First listen to this!

After forcing me to stop teaching Hindi...

This woman here?

"The favorite child of Mother Tamil"?

She wrote and passed the Hindi exam!

For her promotion!

Oh no! What do we do now?

Not just me! She has deceived you all!

Who is not greedy for money, after all!

Don't shoot your mouth off!

Aadhavan...

It's the truth.

I wrote the Hindi exam to get a promotion!

There you go!

After chanting slogans like 'Ban Hindi'...

We never said 'Ban Hindi'.

We protested against the imposition of Hindi!

Like you'll ever understand that!

What is this, Kayal?

We fought beside you! Is this how you repay us...

Back off, you mosquito!

Yes!

Kayal wrote a Hindi exam for her promotion!

So what?

Cancel it!

Come, Kayal!

What I did was wrong! I admit it!

I will accept any punishment you all give me!

I'll even quit my job!

But one thing's for sure!

I didn't do this for money or for my career!

I wrote this exam only to stop this wedding!

Kayal! What are you saying?

Please don't interfere, grandpa.

The arrogance! You talk back to Grandpa?

Shut up, dad!

This is all your fault!

Kayal...

You don't want to get married?

Don't you know why I'm stopping this wedding?

Really don't know?

No, baby...

What a performance!

All right, man!

This man is impotent!

Yes!

This, too? No one told me!

How do you know that?

Did you test it?

I tolerated the fact that you're a working woman.

In the name of feminism, she wanted to get a promotion and earn more than me.

I accepted it!

Then what? -All that's fine too!

I am a Post Graduate Engineer! With a Masters in Engineering!

A government servant!

She expected me to marry her without charging dowry!

I even accepted that!

And you say 'I' am impotent?

Bitch! Such arrogance because you are educated!

Don't you dare call her that!

How dare you?

I'll have you crushed by a truck!

Easy, sister-in-law! -Hold your tongue.

One has to just read your diary to figure that you're impotent.

What is this, son? -Dad!

Don't worry, dad. It's not what you think.

What is this, son?

Who documents impotency in a diary?

That's not true, grandpa!

She's blabbering!

What's happening here?

Answer me first! You can then continue your fight!

Forgive us, Mr. Rangu.

Come talk to us once your Sabha denounces imposition!

Get going! -You heard her!

Get him out of here! -Let's go!

Let go of me! -Let's go!

Let go! -He mustn't set foot in these parts!

Good riddance!

This wedding stopped because of him!

Be well, good fellow! Sorry!

Please say something, father-in-law!

Go talk to her, dad.

Please... -Go, dad.

Kayal...

What's the matter now, sweetie?

You want to fight against Hindi imposition, right?

Let the wedding happen first.

Then... Never mind Valluvanpettai!

We'll go to every corner of India to fight Hindi imposition!

I'll be with you! And so will the groom! Right?

Grandpa...

Fighting the injustice that women face at home...

...is less important than fighting for justice outside home?

Why are you being so stubborn?

I'm half dead already!

Before I completely die... -...you want to see me get married. Yes?

Okay...

It's not wrong to protest against imposition, no?

Definitely not!

Then why do you insist that I get married before you die?

Isn't that imposition, too?

Kayal!

We did this with your approval! All of a sudden, you disapprove?

Humiliating me before everyone! How can I walk with my head held high?

I should marry this shithead just so you can hold your head high?

Keep talking back to me and--

--you'll hang yourself, right?

Honey! -Please be quiet!

I'll throw you out of the house!

Don't bother! I'll leave myself!

Stubborn idiot! We did all this only because you wanted it!

Why are you backing off now?

Mommy dearest!

Did you not hear what this educated gentleman said?

Do you still not get it?

How can you?

If it happens suddenly, it's imposition. Been around for ages, then it's culture!

Forgive me, sweetie.

It's all my fault.

I should've just accepted my fate...

Grandpa!

You don't have cancer or any other crap!

The report came in from the Madras Cancer Institute!

He has gas trouble only.

That's what I've been trying to say all day!

What? -Back off!

Don't get started! -There is a God!

Doctor!

At least you gave us some good news!

My pleasure! I only did my duty!

I don't know if I should laugh or cry, dad!

Grandpa...

There? Coming!

Never mind, Grandpa...

Get out!

Always causing chaos!

Grandpa...

Kayal...

You opened my eyes, Kayal!

I'll say it now!

Even if the whole world is against you... -Selva...

I'm out of here! -Sire!

Please forgive me.

Thank you.

Going to Madras?

I am also going to Madras.

Do you know where K. Pandian's house is?

Why?

I'm a big fan of his writing.

No one can write about feminism like him.

Have you read his work?

Maybe one or two books.

He becomes a woman when he writes these stories!

Have you read all his stories?

Yes.

Do you think what happened to Sridevi in the story 'Kanaal Neer' was right?

Are you testing me?

There's no character named Sridevi in that story.

She's part of the story called 'Ilavenil'.

I've seen you somewhere...

Um, well...

I worked as a child artist in films.

Right... -Now, I'm about to direct a film.

So, I wanted to meet KP...

But nobody in this town knows where he lives.

Why do you want to meet KP?

His ideas must definitely reach the masses.

So I wanted to make a film based on one of his stories...

I don't know how to meet him.

My name is Kayalvizhi Pandian.

KP!

Kamal.

Kamal Haa...

'Come, let's go'

'To shatter the rules'

'At the sword's edge, there is no right or wrong'

'Let opposing voices roar'

'Let deep dissent seethe'

'Feminism is war'

'Rise up and fight'

'Rise up and fight'

'Rise up and fight'

'Rise up and fight'

'Let opposing voices roar'

'Rise up and fight'

'Let deep dissent seethe'

'Rise up and fight'

'Let opposing voices roar'

'Rise up and fight'

'Let deep dissent seethe'

'Rise up and fight'

'There is no greater weapon than courage'

'When the times demand, it's okay to fight a war'