Original subtitles

Sadanand Acharya, C. A. Dr. Saudamini Acharya, M. A. PhD. Kruttika Acharya

Mother won’t come for work today… The municipality has sent people to demolish our huts….

Oh God...

She won’t come tomorrow… Will come day after tomorrow…

Not even tomorrow? Then what do I do with Grandma ?

Sorry…. We almost forgot you, Mai…. (Mother-in-law)

Where do I keep you ? How Can I leave you alone ?

Come…

Let’s change….

Four walls, just One door…. And two see through windows ….

With Mai (her mother-in-law)

Madhu…. Come out….

What is it ?

What is it ?

Come, Mai…. -This way ?

Are you going somewhere or returned ?

Mai, mind the step… _ Are we going out ?

Are you going somewhere or returned ?

I’ve left home… and come here…!

Why take hasty decisions ? Let’s wait for 2/3 days….

Have you brought the debit card ?

Of course I have my debit card …

And cheque book ?

I hope, you remember your bank account number….

Are you familiar with net-banking ?

See… And you consider yourself a modern woman…!

How come you let your husband handle all your finances ?

Kukee will be back from school… Please, avoid these subjects….

What do we answer if son-in-law calls…? - Say, I’m not around….

Or….. tell whatever you like…

Let Mom answer his call… She is very fond of her son-in-law….

Why blame me ? We suggested… but you accepted….

Were we wrong in treating him as a son-in-law should be treated ?

I can read your face… You don’t trust me….

Of course, I trust you…

But breaking the wedlock ……is not a child’s play !

Let’s see what he says……

What do you mean ?

Don’t we know, what she is going through for last 10/12 years…?

Whatever it is… But bringing his mother along… He might get wild at it !

But what do I do if he just walks away ?

Should I get trapped in that home because of her?

She is your responsibility, too…!

That’s why I brought her along…

But is it easy to look after her ?

Madhu is back with Kukee… Let me make snacks for her….

Welcome…. Welcome….

My friend Richa told me…. ’ Your aunty has come…’ I said.. ’ Don’t bluff …’ But it was true!!

She just missed my class teacher…. !

She adores her. Says, “how charming Madhu looks on TV !” Says, “ We shared a bench in the 8th standard !”

Go… freshen up….

Grandma…. It’s there … -What’s there ?

My favorite sweet dish…!

Have you washed your hands & feet ? -No… I will… Where is Mom ?

She is in her room…

Need anything ? I’m going out….

Sameer & I are going for a movie- “School of madness…” Want to go ? …. For relaxing…. ?

Mom… I won’t be there for dinner…..

Please, tell Sis to tidy her luggage …. And tell Kukee not to spread her things….

Sis is married for 12 years. Now stop calling that room ‘Her room’…. !

And please, make her mother-in-law to sit in the drawing room…not in my room…, please!

Are you going out of station?

Why didn’t you tell me in advance ?

I have invited Richa for studying together… How can I study in this chaos ?

You better tell Dad to take me home…

And how come Grandma Mai is here ?

What do you mean ? She came with me…. !

I have left that home and come here…

What do you mean ?

I have left that home permanently….

Then what do I do ?

You decide if you want to stay with me Or with your father …

Come dear… the snack is ready…. Eat it and then talk….

No… Tell me right away…

Didn’t I tell you…

I want to stay with both of you….

That’s not possible….

Sorry…

I forgot my bag….

Kukee…Why such a long face ?

Madhu, why don’t you take her to the movie ?

Me, Sameer & Kukee ? Great company…. Anyway… Let’s go…

I don’t want to watch the movie….

Don’t you know which film she is going to watch ?

Which one ?

What was it, Madhu ? -The school of madness….

Yes… School of madness….. Don’t you want to go ?

Come on…. Carry the snack in a tiffin… And have popcorns, too….

Come on… Hurry up…. Or we’ll miss the titles…. -I don’t have any home-work…

Wow…. Hurry up…. And Mom….. No tiffin, please…!

Wipe your face…. It's looking white like floor…. !!!

Kukee….. Browse through these books…. I’ll look for Sameer….

Am I too late ?

No… In fact we came just now!

‘WE’ ?

Yes… It’s me and….

Oh… How come you brought her alone? Why not the entire family ?

You are so… ummm… heartless!

Isn’t it difficult to decide who is heartless?

Tai (Elder Sister) has left her home…. She had a serious fight with her husband…

Serious ? How serious ?

She has come with all her things…

You mean, is she going to stay in your home henceforth?

What do you mean? Isn’t it her home, too?

You don’t tell me! Would you tolerate any intrusion ?

That’s why, I always say…. Marriage brings loads of problems…

Those who get married ….. create a home and then break it !

If you don’t get married…. -Kukee is coming…Stop arguing in front of her….

Your sister’s husband is a cheat!

Why are you envious of him? - Why should I envy him?

Aunty…. Aunty…

Why is she panicking? - C’mon…. she is a child…

Why do you panic? We were just having a coffee…

Hello...

Hello...

Who is it ?

Oh yeah… I recognized you! I’m sorry…. …… no… no…. no problem….

I know nothing of his office matters….. No… absolutely not….

Listen … listen…

We are not divorced ….

And in any case our marriage is our highly personal matter…

So, I do not have anything to tell you…. I know nothing…

…. and I can’t tell you anything more than this!

Appa (Grandpa), listen to me… there is a funny character in the film…. He utters ‘night’ as ‘height’….

In the end… - What ‘in the end’…? You were fast asleep at the end!

No…. that’s not true! -Don’t deny… You were snoring….

No… I was not…. no….

Won’t talk to you… -You… angry-bird…. !

What did he say ? -Umm ?

What did he say ?

It was not ‘him’…. It was a call from his MD…

MD ?

Executive board wants to meet me informally…

Can’t you talk in you mother tongue ?

They want to use me in their corporate politics… Actually, they have no sympathy for me…!

How could they assume that I’ll be ready to become a pawn? How humiliating!

These days you don’t keep anything inside four walls…

Give it to me….

Administration is always unscrupulous…. Organizations will always protect their own interest…

And what about personal emotions?

How will society function efficiently if you start pampering individual emotions?

But society is formed by individuals…. !

See… these are two distinctly different spheres…

Private and public…Inside the four walls and outside…. And they should remain like that!

I don’t agree Appa …Principles of justice should be same… At home or in the society…right ?

Tai, if we women have to survive in the men’s world we should stop indulging in the debate of scruples or otherwise… !

Now she always has her own weird take on everything!

Mini…. I agree these are double standards…. But they have been there from ages…

And so we have to succumb?

Enough…. Wash your hands…. Let me clean the table….

Let’s go…. Let’s put on the TV… -Yes…. Go….

Hi…. yes… of course she is here…. Just a minute…

Sis…. Call for you…

I had told her to tell that I’m not home…

Saying, you are not home at 10pm?

Hello

Don’t have to wait till tomorrow… Your MD called tonight itself…

I won’t politically misuse our personal grievances!

Yes… We are staying here…. At least for the time being…

I have no objection…

You can ask her…. whether she wants to stay with me or you ?

Don’t argue like a lawyer…!

Yes… I need the cheque-book….

What do you expect me to do with your mother after you left and the maid was on leave ?

Fine… You decide what to do with your mother!

Your aunt is coming tomorrow….

Oh my God…. More the merrier…. !!

She wants to sell off her share in our ancestral home! Wants my ‘ no objection signature’…!

But uncle is staying there…

Your aunt’s daughter-in-law harasses her….

Mom, no need to sympathize with Aunt…. She is as pigheaded as her daughter-in-law!

She and her daughter-in-law have pressed our cousin-brother like a sandwich!!

Mom…. In fact after a gap of few days you start craving for a gossip session with her !!

Why this herbal drink? Not for me, please!!

It’s for Kukee… Wasn’t she coughing in the evening…

But she admires Sadanand’s personality and social status…

I don’t know how but she is always in the knows of all the gossip…!

But why do you encourage her gossip?

Mom, is there a comparison between the concerns of her barely educated daughter-in-law, her postal clerk son….

… and concerns of your scholar children who have won fellowships and studied in National-International schools…?

I know, that’s true…!But look at Madhu…!

If she aimlessly roams around with Sameer Saying, ”We are just friends”…!!

Then people are bound to gossip about it!

May I know, who are these ‘people’?

By ‘people’ I mean your aunt…! -Oh.. then let aunt blabber …. !

Sameer is going to the US. Official deputation…

Oh…But what about Madhu ?

She is thinking of applying to a university in US for a short term course….

Telephone rings

Want to watch ‘Friends’ ?

Mom, I have to rush… Urgent call for a shoot…

So late? But it was your ‘off day’ today…!

But our producer wants to cover a ‘Rave Party’ with a hidden camera… Explosive exposure…. !!

So you have to go right now? -See, this is how it is…!!

What do you mean by ‘This is how it is ‘…. ?

Media profession knows no routine! And I know, how to protect myself…!!

Madhu.....

Congratulations... !

What for ?

Sameer is going to the US…. !

Oh… that…! Thanks…! Why don’t you call him? He’ll be happy!!

Will call him tomorrow…!

Is it just a ‘storm in the tea cup’ or you have decided not to return ?

I can’t face humiliation, now! Let alone disillusionment and anguish…!

Don’t you care for the poor child? Look at Kukee’s pale face…!

Doesn’t she have a choice? What does she want ? With whom she wants to live…?

Which child gets such a choice? What to do ? Where to live ?

Do children of so called ‘happy’ parents have such a choice?

All children will get the benefits or losses of the assets and limitations of their parents….

You took your decisions….

Then you have to bear the consequences….

You preferred Sadanand to Suresh…! Of course, Sadanand was earning more, then…!

I regret the day, when Suresh introduced Sadanand to our family….

Should I put the mattresses in the drawing room for two of them ? I’ll get up late, tomorrow!

You & your privacy…. ! Get the mattresses…

OK… Bye… I’m leaving….

Yes Chand ? What ? No… no… I’m coming… I’m leaving…. Yeah… yeah….

It’s easy to blame me in hindsight.. !

But everyone was charmed then by Sadanand’s personality.

And Appa, don’t you need strength to take decisions to change your life ?

Ok… But why not use your energies to build stability ?

Kukee…. Come down and sleep…. Come… come….

Telephone rings

Oh… Surprise…. Where are you?

Oh….. I see…I thought you are already in Pune.

No…. no… Mini is very much awake…. I’ll hand over the phone to her….

Everything fine with you ? Of course, you are a happy bachelor…. !

Mini…. Its Suresh….

Hello….

Tell me…!

No… not to worry…!

Why did he (Sadanand) call you in a haste ?

Don’t bluff…. I am sure, he must have called you and that’s why you are rushing to Pune tomorrow…!

OK…. Come… See you tomorrow….

Kukee…? Sleeping….

They could sleep in Pradeep’s room….

Three of them in one room?

Mini (Off screen) Yes…. Mai (Mother-in-law) is with me….

Your habit of storing annual ration has turned Pradeep’s room into a godown…. !!

I see…. Then don’t grumble on the dining table if you don’t get your favorite rice!

Sleep well…. Don’t grieve… Everything will be fine….

Let’s discuss in the morning…. Your father will have a word with Sadanand…

Why stretch it too far?

All couples fight…. But why take overnight decision of breaking your home?

Good income…. Dignified social status…. Impressive personality…. You have it all…!

Then why be ashamed of yourself ?

Good night…. Go to sleep, now!

Today was the last day of property tax submission… Have you complied?

Don’t know…. ! He might have….

He is a Chartered Accountant, Appa…

Appa, don’t I have a home of my own ?

Why say so, Mini ? You came here because you considered this your home…isn’t it ?

When you bought new apartment he had offered you joint title!

You said, ‘No’…. ! Didn’t you ?

One should learn to compartmentalize emotions & practical matters….

Perhaps, I was under some spell…. For so many years…..

In modern age, the concept of ‘My home’ is bound to change….

A home is where you are at that given moment!

Ancestral home will be an outdated concept, now.

Sister-in-law is here…. !

Take Appa in the kitchen…

Why don’t you sit, sister-in-law…

Here? In the men’s sit out?

Why not ? You wrote an official letter to me like a man !

Don’t touch me… I’m in sacred saree….

When nobody attended my husband’s funeral, I realized what is my status in the joint family…

You won’t imagine our life struggle…. You want to educate your son in the city….

You think, my sons will remain dumb in this village?

Do you know, what rights a widow has in Hindu joint family ?

Laws are also made by men like you!

So much harvest comes from the family farms….

Give my son’s share….. !

Aren’t you listening ?

Sister-in-law has come to demand her share…

You…. meek cow!!

Look at her smartness!!

Won’t even get a peanut…. !

It’s fine if you stay humbly as family

No one is saying no to an annual saree and a few morsels…

As if, studying in city is sure to make Appa a District Collector and owner of a big bungalow !

He may or may not….. That’s my look out…!

And mind you, it need not be a bungalow, even a room of our own will satisfy me…. !

You want us here as bonded servants…. !

Your tongue is wagging hard…. Enjoy your honor without taking a penny from us….

Brother-in-law, only time will tell….

Appa….

Appa…. Get up….

Keep some money with you…

I’m leaving for Pune…. Will start working as a cook… Then I’ll take you along…

Till then stay here…

This is your ancestral home… It’s not your uncle’s self-earned property!

Learn to swallow insults and stale food thrown at you…

It’s a matter of a few days…

Staying steadfast can earn you good education and freedom, too…!

Mrs. Joshi, you will have to vacate your place….

My replacement in office already has a cook….

But Appa’s education should not be interrupted..

Appa is a brilliant student, no doubt…. ! He always surpasses my son …

Senior clerk in our office wants to let a room…. Rent is affordable.. …You can stay there…

I have told him to prepare a rent-receipt on Appa’s name….

But why the rent-receipt on Appa’s name ? He is still young…

In no time he’ll become a responsible man! A rent-receipt on a woman’s name… is rather awkward…!

Keeping the practical matters in the man’s hands you will be free to continue with your catering jobs …

So, let your son learn worldly wisdom from this age…

But sir, when do I learn worldly wisdom?

Why do you need to learn it at all ?

Mother, what difference does it make…… whether the room is on my name or yours…

There is no difference…!

But don’t forget, I happen to be the bread-winner!!

After I became District Collector, we shifted to Govt. quarters… Later, I built this bungalow…!

My mother did enjoy these homes…

Yes, grandma lived here happily …

But she never had her title on any home…! She even used to express her angst….

Understandable…. I admit…!

Remember, once you received a letter from your village… regarding your name on a temple land…..

You showed no interest….

……but grandma grumbled…For her, it was important to have one’s name in governmental records…..

O Almighty…… O Almighty…..

But we are not the participants….

Please, have a look at this, Sir… We were shooting…

This is the spy camera hidden in my glasses… This is the lens and here is the memory chip…

So, will this be on TV tomorrow? -Yes, Sir…

Today’s generation knows no limits…. Then police have to intervene…!

It’s not safe, especially for woman!!

These youngsters stay away from home for studies or work …. give in to urban temptations & take to vices….

Our kids staying under our nose won’t dare …!!

Is it not too late? What are you up to?

Almost winding up….

Planning to serve bitter-beans for breakfast to your grand daughter…?

It’s not a laughing matter….

If she refuses to eat the bitter-beans… Will you send her back ?

You & your sense of humor …

Good that Mini is not financially dependent….

I cannot comprehend, where is the hitch? I feel worried….

It’s natural… But how can we loose heart?

I understand….

A broken relationship brings scratches & scars and unforgettable sorrow.

I wish it could be avoided….

See…. Our daughters are honest, just and humane… What else do we want?

Has anybody lived a life without ups & downs like a straight line…. ?

Let our children face life….

Let’s have faith that they will choose the right path…

We shouldn’t judge- right & wrong…

No confrontation…..

If it’s a mistake…. they might realize on their own….

Circumstances change…. thoughts change…. Emotions change….. Don’t you agree?

Yes, I do…. And in any case, we are there for them…

Wind up now…. -You go ahead… I’ll follow….

Vimal, don’t beat around the bush…. Say it frankly....

My mother-in-law thinks that one shouldn’t forget their difficult times….

She taunts me as a spoilt girl from rich family even if I buy a quality rice….

Sugar- only from state-owned shops! Can’t even utter ‘cardamom’ or ‘saffron’ !!

Constant nagging….

Do you have a complaint about Appa-saheb (your husband)? - What are you asking ?

Then why this grumbling about staying separate? Will she leave her mother-in-law alone at this age?

Only because the poor mother slogged, your husband is a District Collector.

Don’t you flaunt as district collector’s wife ?

A woman should become economically independent if she has to boast about her independence!

Visiting your parents for festivals is different…. you will be pampered….

But it is a shame to return due to quarrels….

Learn to adjust…. -But I can’t tolerate!!

A woman has to compromise… Look at your elder sister….

Married off in a village in an orthodox family…. She never complains..

Better go back tomorrow….

Vimal, will you be able to stay here after your brother’s marriage?

Why are you drinking chilled water at this hour? Want some warm milk ?

Getting good sleep?

Madhu is back… -I’ll open the door…

You smell…. Are you drunk?

Tai, please…. Don’t throw judgmental looks… That was a rave party….

That was Chaand… my cameraman….

We were on an official assignment…

But did I ask anything? - Your eyes are full of question marks!

MATRUSMRUTI (Tribute to mother)

(Off Screen) I might have breakfast here…. Then might take Mini out for lunch….

Mini….. get up….

Suresh is here from Mumbai…

Mini is still asleep….

Mai ? - In the kitchen

Oh, Sadanand…. Don’t try to convince me on phone… I know you well…!

Let’s talk when we meet…. See you in the evening…

Oh…. OK… If you’re not in town… next time may be…!

Kukee has a theatre workshop today… How will she open up before me ?

Ok… bye…. Later…

What sleep…. !! I thought you are an early bird!

Sorry…. Nobody woke me up….

That’s OK…

Don’t come in my way…. Tea will spill out….

Sorry…. But why are you shouting?

Thank you….

Kukee….. hurry up…. Bath is ready…

I leave on time… Hurry up…

No….. -Then hurry up…. !!

Tai, please, you will spoil my ironed dress! -Oh… sorry…. !

Where is Kukee heading ?

Theatre workshop in her school… Did you forget?

Oh… Sorry…!

I’ll take her… I am going to the passport office with Sameer….

Madhu, please, keep Mai’s soiled bed-sheets aside…

Later, I’ll wash those separately…. !

Mother, tell Tai to change Mai’s clothes…

I know…. But she has just woken up…!

Do you mean, everyday we’ll wake up to this stench?

How will you treat us when we become old? -Let’s discuss it that time!!

Sorry…. I forgot to put the rubber mat below the bed-sheet….

Actually, the maid does it everyday…

I have brought adult diapers…. !! - Oh, Mini… Don’t be…..

Sis, I have been observing… You are constantly saying sorry…sorry!

Why is that? - Sorry….

Ok, Kukee’s workshop will finish around 3 pm. I will be free by then.

If I can’t, I will let you know... You pick her up.

And if Sadanand tries to contact… What am I supposed to do?

He has that habit….. He suddenly bumps into you… He likes to embarrass people….

Late…late…late…

Aunty, say ‘Red’ - Red

Pee in the bed… - Shut up you brat.

She has become really rude….

Aunty, I will be ready in 2 minutes.

Mom, can’t you even pack my bag properly? You brought salwar-kurta but forgot dupatta.

You didn’t bring tab or video games….

Don’t you talk to me in this tone. Understood?

Sis, go home or don’t go home.

I am at home.... !

Then why cry ?

Mai…have you finished? - Yes.

Let us go for a bath. - Where are you going?

Lets go.

Hi… - Hello celebrity girl.

How are you? – Good. How are you? – Fantastic.

Lets go… - Ohhh…bye.

What are you doing? - You have to take bath…

What are you doing? - Mai…you have to take bath.

What are you doing? - Mai, sit here.

Shall I sit ? - Yes….

Come Mai…

Turn…

Will just be back… - No problem. Take your time.

How are you Mai…

Old… don’t remember…Your name?

Suresh…Suresh Masurkar. Sadanand’s friend.

I used to sing songs for you…

‘Radhe, Radhe’, Govind (Krishna) calls out

So long…you don’t visit now….

Should we go? - Yeah, lets go.

Should I come?

Mai, you stay here. I am going for work.

Bye, Mai - Good bye, dear….

Mother……. - What is it ?

We won’t be home for lunch.

Ok. What about Mai’s medicines, food?

It’s all done. Just give her tea if she asks… Just a minute.

Namaste…. - Oh … you are leaving already ?

I have to reach Mumbai by evening.

Why drag others into this…. … - What wrong did I say…

Mini, what do you want to do?

I wish to be alone, invisible and sit quietly.

On the banks of a lake…

Where tranquility finds the refuge for herself…. ! Poet Anil…

You remember?

If you remember… ….. how can I forget?

Take me to the travel agent’s office.

I was going to Banglore for a conference….. Need to cancel….

And then we go to the University. Need to return some books.

What about your appointment? -Why not cancel it online?

The bookings are made by the college, …they have their account with travel agency…etc.

Ok….

Listen, you talk to De’Causta. Don’t drag me into that negotiation.

No no no…or tell Sharma. Let him manage.

Ok, Bye.

When is your appoint.... - One sec…

When is your appointment?

Sorry….. See…it’s so difficult to drive in your Pune.

Hope police are not that strict in Pune… Two calls already……just one more.

Should I go? - Please…

Ok, it’s done. Thanks.

Hey…. !…look….

Kothrud Traffic Police Department (General chatter at Police station)

My…. car…

You must have parked at a wrong place. - Very true….

Ohhh…Babaji (the saint)…

I am seeing such a photo of Babaji for the first time.

Isn’t it special? - Of course!

You know…this Baba is not a fraud. He doesn’t believe in any caste, religion etc.

He has only one religion…humanity! That’s why I am his disciple.

Exactly, my thoughts.

Latkar, give this gentleman his car keys.

Don’t park at a wrong spot again. - Never again. Thanks.

Since when have you become so devotional?

I see God everywhere….

I can see God even in you… So I bow to you.

What is Sadanand’s argument?

The usual…his big philosophy of individual’s freedom …

You live your life…I live mine.

Isn’t that better? What’s wrong with that philosophy?

Freedom is bigger responsibility.

For that you either have the same level of understanding or the same set of mutually agreed rules….

It’s difficult…to drive in Pune. Better to take a rickshaw.

But you can carry many things in this ‘mobile home’ named car…..

That comfort is also luring.

So, university now?

But you are leaving the university behind…!

‘Radhe, Radhe’, Govind (Krishna) calls out

‘Radhe, Radhe’, Govind calls out

Ma’am, Verrier Elwin’s book is not here. A visiting Australian scholar needs it urgently.

Ohhh really? I thought it’s there….

No…. it’s not…

I will go back and get it. - Please, Ma’am….

I am really sorry. - Its ok.

See, Vimal, you might ask, why am I saying so ? But I am not scared of the officer.

Sis, I know, you are not scared….

Oh, are you back? See, Mini is also here.

Yeah, but I’m leaving again.

What do you mean ? You come here and sit.

Come, sit for a while.

You……You are Suresh Masurkar, right?

Yes!

We had met at Mini’s house warming.

How is our son in law? - He is ok.

Kukee must be in 5th standard … - Yes.

So she can still have a brother… It’s not unusual to have big gaps between children…

Take this…

Coconut barfi (sweet)? - Yes.

It’s her specialty…

Nice.

Mini, Mai has lost her memory completely… She didn’t recognize me!

Must be so difficult to take care of her. We are also on the threshold!

Only the Almighty knows each one’s end.

Mini, on such short visits to your parents…. why bring Mai along?

Sis, Sadanand is out of station, so she brought her.

Aunty, I will leave now. I have to go to the University.

Food is ready.

Why have that unhealthy outside food? Eat here.

So glad that you met me here. I had no time to visit you….

I will go back in a day or two.

How are bro Mana and his wife?

Oh! They are a happy! No botherations…. Now a days…it’s the mother in law who suffers!

Now, you talk of ‘suffering’….. !

Your mother’s mouth will melt down by answering Mai’s questions !

Mother, just ignore her. She doesn’t remember a thing.

What brought you here?

A broker wants to buy a portion of our ancestral house….

Ok… but what do our brother & his wife have to say?

They stay there… But some portion is on our name.

Yeah, but I think we should surrender our rights ….

Why hurt our brother?

It amounts to breaking all ties with our ancestral home? What do you say Suresh?

I don’t agree. Sell your portion separately means breaking the house into pieces….

Why not? Why shouldn’t we enjoy the benefits of our rightful share ?

Do we want to break ties with our brother forever?

Good price from the property will allow me to stand upright in front of my son & his wife….

A needy person invites humiliation from kith & kin….

Vimal, you are unknowingly protecting your brother's children and not your own... !

You are lucky to always have it your own way….

No way! When my own insurance policy matured I wanted to go on all India tour….

He simply refused…!

How I longed playing badminton wearing canvas shoes….

But his mother said- She won’t tolerate such fads…!

I bought shoes after she died.

But you finally got them.

Appasaheb, you say, one should change with times….

…but if it is a woman you won’t let her change…..

…… under the pretext of family tradition, prestige, kids or whatever…. !

Why don’t you want that to change?

Let me call Madhu’s feminist journalist friend. She will appreciate you!

I’m sure, you would speak to her on women’s behalf !

Suresh, you don’t listen to us. Bachelorhood is not a solution…. !!

In your old age, you might wish for a Saudamini like Sadanand has!

I have to rush now.

Aunty, I will leave.

They didn’t eat. - It’s better not to interfere.

Ok, now where do you want to go?

Will you please tell me when your appointment is?

Mini…what appointment ? There is none.. !

Sadanand called…. I was worried about you, so I came….

In the evening, I’ll go back …!

I need to get that book from home. But Sadanand might be there.

I don’t want any confrontation now.

He is not at home.

He has gone to a hill station….. He said- he needed a break.

Really?

Great!

Let’s have a lunch first and then we will go.

I will be back.

Why are you feeling so devastated? You should answer that question to yourself.

Yes....

I try to remember…

..... Just like you can’t trace the point of day ending and night beginning….

Similarly…..

…. I don’t know when the relationship was strong and when it started withering….

But if it doesn’t last, it must be temporary. It wasn’t mine– that’s what I tell myself.

I broke that weakening thread….

Because he wanted it that way….

I gave up.

Now that I have taken the decision, I am at peace.

You mean, you didn’t want to break it ? - That’s right….

Anyway, I was a hindrance to ‘them’…!

What about Mai?

I don’t think Kukee and Mai can face life without me.

Wherever I go, this baggage of mine will follow.

But that’s his responsibility, too.

That’s how responsibility works – The one who feels it, owns it.

Otherwise why would you have come here?

If he asks and Mai goes happily with him…. ….. I won’t mind.

That’s her home too.

Part of the money to buy our house came from selling their ancestral home….

I know… I remember your house warming.

I appreciated Sadanand for having everyone’s name on the name-plate…

Mai angrily asked, why she was not added to the name-plate !

You are not eating… Have some desert.

Tiramisu?

Excuse me…

2 Tiramisu…Thank you…

Sadanand has changed the lock!

What are you saying?

I will be back.

What does it mean to set up a home?

All these things are not just things.

I loved my home.

I think, I would die without it.

What was I asking for?

Clean communication, transparent trust… Is it not possible between two people?

Don’t you know, Mini…..

He is a fascinating person, but he cannot love anyone.

He is not that….. fearless.

I think someone has cast a spell on me.

And I want to come out of it.

I want to run away but where do I go? Wherever I go, that home is not mine!

I would have asked you to come to Mumbai with me but I know your answer would be a no.

Honestly, I can’t cast a spell.

I feel disgusted about my wretchedness…. my body, mind, intellect.....

I want to wash everything and feel clean….

(Cell phone rings)

Why did you tell him that I am in Pune? (Suresh talking on phone…)

You may go. I will take a rickshaw.

No, you wait. I will come back.

The forest… dense and dark

Sorry? - This is Urmila Nadkarni…now Kulkarni… of course…!

When have you come from the US? - 4 weeks ago. Now it’s time to go back….

How are you? Can I hug you?

Wonderful…! Lets have coffee.

Actually I am in rush. - Just 10 minutes. Come on.

I am so happy.

So am I.

How are you?

You seem to be doing well in the USA.

Yeah, reached forties but still so confused.

Do you work there?

I used to…Initially.

Got married just in 2 months of knowing each other. Unknown country, …. unfamiliar man…..

He didn’t want me to work… so….

We don’t have kids. Perhaps I didn’t want any….

So…the usual …. fights, ….. boredom. … loneliness….

But he earns a lot….. ….. and that’s enough for a marriage…!

I give him that credit. He earns….. I look after the house…. Enjoy myself….

We’ve learnt to tolerate each other…. We don’t fight anymore.

What do you mean? Aren’t you happy?

I don't know....

You know…. Happiness is no more an issue for me…

Tell me about you…

I can’t digest this…..

Why don’t you leave him ?

Even in the US…. it is difficult to be a single woman.

And where do I go?

Once you have lived there, it's not bearable here. It's so unclean here.

You know what I have been doing for the past 4 weeks? I went to all the touristy places, shopped a lot.

Updated my Instagram…..

Have you completed your Ph. D. ?

Yes!

My husband is a CA. I have a daughter. I earn well.

Visit me if you come to the US sometime. Many universities have Asian study departments.

I am sure you know that. Come stay with me.

What can I tell a career woman like you? You must have travelled the entire world by now.

Sky is the limit for you…

Do you meet Suresh? What about Kusum, Bela…

No. Everyone is busy in their own worlds

Oh my God….. I have to go. My brother in law has tickets for a classical music concert.

I am so happy to see you. Do you remember the fragrant blossom of the tree in the temple?

What a feeling, when a small flower used to come swirling in front of us…. ! It felt the same way today….

You didn’t tell anything about yourself.

Did you let me speak ?

I will call you before I leave.

Sameer, look there…

Where? - Don’t look suddenly.

Peter and Siddhi…

Who Siddhi?

Don’t you know? That MTV VJ…

You know what she said in an interview the other day? - What?

I try my best not to repeat any experience in my life.

Really? Wow. Good game.

Shut up.

Don’t you want to say anything about last night ?

Yes! I am very happy.

They will be telecasting the special rave party report today….

No other news channel has it. Chand’s hidden camera did wonders.

Chand! What a name!

You want someone to curse for your fight with the passport officer!

What’s the connection?

Are you jealous of Chand? - Jealous? What’s the connection?

Don’t repeat. There is a connection.

Is there any respectability to your job?

You don’t pull the trigger now.

There is so much risk in it. - Any work done with honesty is respectable.

My aim is not to remain inside four walls to cook and bear children.

I am not saying that. You can do whatever you want. I have no objection.

How presumptuous ! Who are you to decide what I do or do not?

Sorry…. I didn’t….

Pradeep-dada bought a new house in Boston. I don’t think he will come back.

Good…. Why come back?

What do you mean? I want to come back.

What for? Corruption, filth….

My parents are here…my home is here…

If you see homes there…. (USA)….

Does only architecture make a home?

When I was in school, my dad shifted 10 places, so which house should I call mine? Tell me….

Well…will you finish?

Sorry…

I asked, will you finish the sandwich? - Oh that? You haven’t eaten anything…

Lets go. Kukee’s workshop must be over. She shouldn’t have to wait long.

In US, your brother’s children will go to day care. We won't have to babysit them.

Listen, after I drop her home, I have an assignment with the CM!

Good, Kukee, Chand and CM… …. they are all waiting for you.

Lets go, come on.

Congratulations. Good job!

Credit goes to Madhu.

No no, it's yours too. I mean both of you.

I know, how civic humans both of you are!

Devil! See you. Bye.

Aunty….

My teacher wanted to see you.

Come, sit quickly. If she sees me I will blow up like a balloon.

Ready? Is Chand aboard?

Hi Chand uncle. Aunty, where is Sameer?

Oh, so he is Sameer and I am your uncle?

Hello. …. Wow……

Have you found the book? - Yes.

What now?

First …cancellation of cancellation.

I am going for the conference to Banglore. - That’s good.

Now, the search begins…! Sky is the limit if you look at it like that.

Then?

Then life starts again as new.

With whom?

With myself. And with Kukee.

That means the choice is still open !!

Why should I shut the door to my life?

Then it's ok.

Kukee, Mai, your job, neighbors, people, relatives… …Quite difficult?

Tell me, which search is easy? South pole, radium, non-violence?

Ok, ok…the most difficult one is.... .... search of yourself!

Yes, but there will be a new discovery at every moment.

Should we leave? Kukee must be waiting.

If you need anything…

No need to word it…. - I know….

Ok, I will drop you …. …. or are you taking your scooter?

No, it is still with the mechanic.

Sorry…

Will you do me a favor? - Yes, I would.

Even before listening to what I would ask for…

Yes. Anything you say…tell me…

Can you find me a house through your acquaintances?

I have an empty apartment in the suburb…

No....

It's empty…that’s why… - No.

It's a great apartment.

Will you take rent from me… - If you insist, I will.

No. I can’t afford that rent.

You are talking both ways.

I won't need your 3 bedroom apartment... Just a small one bedroom flat is good for me.

We can lock the other 2 rooms.

Will you just listen to what I say? - Ok, I will….

Will Appa agree to this?

He won't initially….. He would say that I am not a burden for them.

But later he would understand. I need to have my own home!

Why are you so quiet?

What do you mean by ‘my home’?

It means the place from where no one can throw us out.

This is Madhumati Joshi with Cameraman Chand, People’s Choice….

You just missed the program.

Which one?

The one about Rave party. Madhu presented it.

Aunty was looking so dashing…!.

She was so desperate for you…!

Sing a song- ‘Let mother come’… Perform a dance- ‘Let mother come’…

Now, cling to your mother…

These youngsters…. stay away from their homes. There is nobody to discipline them…. or care for them….

Then out of curiosity or to flaunt modernity, they get into addictions. ….

Don’t know what she is saying…

They don’t understand the difference between freedom and indulgence…

Responsibility, discipline, self-control are redundant values now!

Mai…

Where are you going? - How was your workshop?

Where are you going?

How was your workshop?

Great! It was fun. We did interesting improvisations.

Where are you going?

Wait…

Take Pradeep’s study table down for Kukee…

You have to finish this before evening….

Appa…..

Lighting of that room is getting redone. They are installing a reading lamp for you…

But Pradeep’s room…

Let's see when he comes…

What about Mai?

She is comfortable in this rocking chair…

But that’s your reading chair. Your inconvenience…

What inconvenience…?

The one who forgets one’s promise becomes a wolf in the next birth. Last month on 10th….

Thank you for saving me from becoming a wolf…

Mother, we will go for shopping. We want to keep a promise!!!

Mother…. that dress. Let's go and get it…

Kukee…cone?

Let's go.

Mom, my classmate Rohit said…. …. his mom and dad got divorced.

Are you and dad also divorced?

No….

Not yet….. !

Mom, when are we going home?

Anytime you say. Let's go. Finish your ice cream first…..

Not grandma’s home. That home…Dad’s home.

Why? Don’t you like at grandma’s home?

I like it but on festive days….. Shouldn’t we have our own home ?

Let's consider this our own home for some days and live here.

Some days? Meaning how many?

Till we rent a new house…

But why are we staying at other people’s home now?

Oh, they are not ‘other people’…! They are your grandparents, …. my parents.

But your parents’ home is not yours or mine….

And my parents’ home is also not yours or mine…..

Mai’s home, which is my father’s mother’s home is also not yours or mine…..

Then which is my home?

The one we will make now… will be our home.

If your mother’s home is not your home then how can my mother’s home be mine?

Mom, I worry about everyone. Mai doesn’t remember anything. She is very old now.

You don’t worry about her dear. We are all there for her.

See, the place where we feel at peace, can laugh freely, can sleep quietly, that is our home.

Can someone have more than one home?

Like, mom’s, dad’s, grandma’s, uncle’s, aunt’s home but still ours?

Yes! It can be.

Even a friend’s home?

Sometimes, people living under one roof start feeling differently about various things.

They are unhappy with each other…

Then they can’t laugh freely or sleep quietly in that house.

They don’t feel like living there.

What’s the point of living under tension?

Isn’t it better to make another home ?

Will dad come to our home?

Yes, he will.

We will also go to his home.

We are not quarrelsome people….. We won't stop talking to each other.

Like my friend Rucha says…. don’t talk to me for 12 months…..

…. and next day she comes and says…. 12 months are over. Let's patch up.

Similarly, will you and dad also patch up?

May be!

Hey! Your ice cream is dripping.

Mini, Mai is lost. - What ?

I told you she is old.... !!

She doesn’t remember anything….. What if she gets lost?

Did you search for her? - Yes, we did.

How can we find her now? - Will you keep quiet?

What if she dies? - Don’t talk nonsense.

Where to find her now… - Will you shut up now…!!

Mother, did she talk to you…?

I went inside for a moment and she was gone.

Yeah… around 80- 84….

She must have started walking to go home.

But can she find the new house? What if she starts searching for the old residence?

What if she enters an unknown house?

God knows, what she remembers! What if she goes to some temple?

Should we go to the police ?

You go that side. There are old houses there. And you go search at senior citizen’s parks.

She must be around. She won’t go far.

I am really confused. But what to do ?

This is queer…. How we keep a constant track of her?

Our children’s responsibilities are ours, too.

Why should a modern girl like Mini carry this burden ?

Do you agree with this?

You think Mini is doing this because she is orthodox?

Even an ascetic, if he is humane, finds it difficult to liberate himself from relations and responsibilities…

Mai muttering- Radhe Radhe….. Govind Radhe….

Who are you?

Mai, I am Kukee…

Kukee, please get me seated in a bus to go to my village.

I want to go to mother’s home.

Where?

It's festive season, now. I have to go to my mother’s home.

Mom….. grandpa….. grandma…

Mai….

Lets go.

Are you feeling ok ?

Mai, no one is there at your village…!

Everyone is there. Mother, father, elder brother…

Mini, consult a psychiatrist about Mai’s haunting memory. …

Mini, one should not take such a person out of home at all.

Who knows, how I will age ?

Have you informed Sadanand?

Sis, come with me for a moment.

Come… - What?

This is Pradeep dada’s room. It's yours and Kukee’s, now….

There is a program on the 6th…..

I am not here…. Going to Banglore for a conference.

Like it ? - Great…!

Early morning prayers on Radio

Is your mom awake? Are you going to sleep again?

Want milk? I will get it…

Telephone rings

This is Kukee…

Is that for me? - No…

I am fine.

Grandma, Pradeep uncle’s phone. He is calling on Skype…..

I had just fallen asleep. Why are you shouting?

Hi Kukee….. - Hello.

How are you ? Where is your mom?

Inside. In your room.

In my room? But I am in Boston…

Will you call her?

Hi…

Hi sis!

How are you?

I am ok.

Is there anyone else around?

No. They are inside.

Are you really ok now?

Appa had called me…

He told me… you have left that home forever. Is that true?

Sis, I can understand the pain you must have felt with this decision.

I know, You will never hesitate to compromise…..

But compromise should be in details, not in values. That’s what our parents have taught us.

Oh, that’s the real story…

Sis, don’t tell this to mom and dad yet ….

….. But me and my girlfriend are living together.

We are not married yet.

It is not to make it easy to part….

But the bond is so strong that we don’t need any sanction from outside.

We trust that this bond won't break … at least in this lifetime.

We are learning the responsibly that comes along with a relationship.

I hope, mom and dad respect this.

Dad must be making tea for mom right now.

After retirement he pampers mom till the point of embarrassment.. !

If Madhu wants to study further in journalism, let her do it.

You convince mom and dad not to force her for marriage.

Tell Sameer that he can stay at my place if he comes here.

We hardly live for 100 years and spend 50 years in sleep.

And if we spend 25-30 years in struggle… then when do we live for happiness?

Sis, say something…!

You are crying…!

Come on…cheer up!

Wait…I will be back.

What more do we want from each other? Just a bit of understanding…that’s it.

Our happiness and sorrows are unique but similar as well.

The one who understands this, is your own person. Others are strangers.

I hope, I am not crossing my limits?

When we know that we are surrounded by people who accept us the way we are…

…. our eyes get wet, not because of agony but because you feel contented…!

Do you want to talk to mom and dad?

Not right now.

I have just come back from office. Tell Kukee that I will talk to her later.

I couldn’t wait to talk to you, so, called you immediately.

Here is a greeting to wish….

WLCOME HOME !!!