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Thanks to family and friends who stood with us in trust.

Our thanks to the directors and producers who rejected this script.

Thanks to the people of Piravam and Pazhoor. [Raining, Radio playing] Akashavani, Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha.

The news read by Gopan.

The Headlines

The low pressure over the Bay of Bengal...

…is likely to cause downpour and storms in the State

The low pressure over the Bay of Bengal has turned

and will possibly get closer to the east coast of Kerala….

[Radio stops]

♪ [Chorus female] ♪

♪ [Chorus male] ♪

♪ It’s such an infight and pushing and heaving each other… ♪

♪ The two-legged creatures are fighting for a little cash ♪

♪ For some reason, money is the master here, my woman! ♪

♪ Do you know anyone here who is not greedy, my woman! ♪

♪ [Chorus female] ♪

♪ [Chorus male] ♪

♪ In a single cart, one bullock locks horns with the other bullock ♪

♪ If they go on like this, they will surely fall into a ditch losing all focus ♪

♪ It’s a terrible mess here and there too, my woman! ♪

♪ Is it any use staying alone and separate, my woman! ♪

♪ [Chorus female] ♪

♪ [Chorus male] ♪

♪ Is there a benefit if the fingers of the hand act separately? ♪

♪ Is there any use then for the hand? ♪

♪ If the five Pandavas think separately, ♪

♪ Is there any use going to battle? ♪

♪ Think, think, with your mind, with your mind, my woman! ♪

♪ Without unity, remember, definitely it will not work, my woman! ♪

♪ [Chorus female] ♪

♪ [Chorus male] ♪

[Deep labored breathing]

[thunder claps]

Child, you pull that shawl over your head.

Don’t get wet from the spatter…

this rain is untimely.

Ufff

[deep labored breathing]

Son?

Bhaskaretta!

[Young woman]: Shhhhhh…

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

Hallo… halloo…

Are you hearing?

What sort of breathing is this?

Look, that boy went out unable to sleep.

-Brother… -What’s it?

-You be quiet. -You go, woman!

Indeed!

We did expect this!

Will Dad be okay in a day or two?

Or, should we take him to the hospital?

I doubt that.

If they get him in this condition.

They will put him on the ventilator.

Should we do that?

Dear people,

Bhaskara Pillai of Puruvamsham house at Hastinapuri 4th ward…

…is seriously ill.

Everyone please pray sincerely for his soul for a moment.

Victory to Mother India.

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

[woman]: Why have you put all this into WhatsApp groups?

Here’s Dad!

[man]: He might be bed-ridden but he is very healthy.

[man]: Didn’t he tame elephants at one time!

Son, Arjun,

I have informed the facts to our Sangh Shakthi group.

You let your elders know about the condition here.

Minimol, how many days do you think Bhaskarettan will last?

[young woman]: Mom, will you please get Dad away?

Will you please come?

[man]: Son, you don’t worry.

By tomorrow Bhaskarettan will be up and about.

Wait and see!

Mom, please!

Husband! Come with me. Come, I say!

-[man]: I was just giving him some confidence. -[woman]: Confidence indeed!

You can go. I will call you if needed.

[young woman]: Ummm.

Bro? Dad’s asthma has worsened.

His condition is not good.

Am alone and unsure what to do.

Can you come over?

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

[thunder claps]

There’s nothing at the top. Can see the lack of manure.

There will be something at the top if only it’s fed at the bottom.

[Disapproving grumbles at the state of the tree]

[Car approaching in the distance]

You didn’t pay me for the recharge……but I still did it…

Are you the one who called them all over?

Huh!

[Boy loudly imitating Bhaskaran's labored breathing]

[Loud chewing]

Dad has lost a lot of weight.

There’s no one to look after him!

-Do you know Suma Chechi? -Huh?

We had asked him to come to us for ten days at Onam.

[Suma]: Hmmm.

We had said that during this new moon.

[Suma]: Really?

Do you know what the party workers say?

Sahadevetta, nothing will work without you around.

Don’t have time enough for public service…

So…for one’s personal work…

[Suma]: Mmm… [Sahadevan]: you got that?

Have a piece of halwa.

No, I am diabetic.

There’s nothing in that, Chechi.

We will all kick the bucket someday.

No, I don’t want it, Nakula.

Look, this halwa doesn’t seem to be from Kozhikode?

How should that matter?

Poor Dad can’t eat it.

Ah, Bhimetta, come and eat halwa.

[Bhiman]: I don’t want it.

Come to see if he is dead, huh?

Years ago…

When that poor guy had his teeth in tact

He had asked

To be given one piece of halwa…

[Bhiman]: You folks go and sit elsewhere…

Let Dad listen to Akashavani at least…

[Nakulan]: Even this guy will not be bought a piece of halwa.

[Sahadevan]: You need not talk more.

When Dad gets up, you will be the first to be kicked out.

Go away dude…

I see…

[Nakulan]: Come...

[Bhiman]: Go away I said.

[Nakulan whispering to Sahadevan]: Best not to talk more.

[Sahadevan]: He is drunk.

Dad, forgive please…

What do you think?

What do you think Chetta?

I have hope this time round…

Chetta, you said the same last time too.

This is different…

I have this feeling deep inside… got it?

The local committee is considering me for the next panchayat elections.

Congrats.

Yeah! Will need a lot of funds.

I can arrange that only by selling this ring.

Eh?

You think that ring is for you?

Who else? The eldest brother has the right to the ring.

In that case, its years since Dharmettan’s death.

Nisha, that’s in children from his first marriage.

In the children from the second marriage, Sahadevettan holds the right.

Where are you going?

I will be back.

[Nakulan]: Will play again.

Dad give the mobile.

You have lost the game.

Are you playing again?

[Boy]: Leave it.

[Nakulan]: You be quiet.

Hey Dad, you are out of the game.

[Nakulan]: That’s because you pulled my hand.

Mom, Dad is cheating.

Dad has been cheating for some time.

[Nakulan]: Looks like in a black mood…

Nisha, it’s not our house.

There are people outside.

Didn’t you speak about the ring to Sahadevettan?

Yes, I spoke.

And you came back submitting to him?

Look, Sahadevettan hasn’t received much.

Then why have we come here?

To cook for everyone?

Lower your voice, Nisha, there are people over there.

Take your hand away.

[Sahadevan in calm, persuasive tone]: Calm, Nisha, calm. Listen to me please.

You needn’t speak more.

[commanding] I want the ring.

I don’t want to listen more either.

[shouting in anger]:If you can’t do it, tell me right now.

Look, how can one say this to Sahadevettan?

What a coward you are!

[Sahadevan]: Where is this dame going…

[Sahadevan]: oops, blade… Nisha, don’t cut your veins…

-Shave… -Huh?

[commanding] Shave your moustache…and sit right in here.

Moustache…?

[shouting in anger] You go Dude!

[Sahadevan weeping]

Take this, Chetta…

Water?

[Hand raised, gesture]: No

Chetta, water?

[Quick exhale after drinking liquor]

Enough?

[Throat clearing, spitting]

No, kids. I have stopped.

Why?

I ate some dry tapioca in the evening.

It’s causing me discomfort.

Add some pepper to your drink. You’ll feel better.

No.

Okay if you don’t.

One thing. Day after tomorrow is a Sunday.

Eh?

Shouldn’t we print some flex boards?

Why?

The man is still there.

Looking at his condition…

I think it’s best we print it tomorrow itself.

Look, the boy who works for me doesn’t come on Sundays.

If you want to print this elsewhere,

Vasuettan is okay with it!

But in our press, we have an offer for the season.

That’s why I mentioned this.

When Dad is in this condition…

It doesn’t seem right Vasuvetta…that’s why.

Wait, Nakula. He said there’s an offer in place.

Let’s print a few.

If Dad continues this way… you got it?

That's what I said!

Do you have a new pic of Bhaskarettan?

Do you have?

I don’t. Arjun might have.

A ten feet flex at the junction and at home.

Then, four feet ones at the turnings of the approach road.

And then posters to be pasted on all the lamp posts.

That’s the current trend.

Let’s not be close-fisted in these matters.

You know our people.

You will lose face before them.

Vasuetta, you do what’s required.

So, that’s decided. Okay?

[[Vasu, speaking in an undertone] So that’s one work canvassed.

[chewing snacks]: I know there’s a discount involved.

But who is spending?

The money will come.

Brother, I had something to tell you.

Go ahead.

I want the ring.

[Laughter]

It’s in Dad’s remembrance.

I am not joking.

Who said you were joking?

I just felt like laughing.

I am fatigued after the journey.

Will see you tomorrow.

Ha! What’s up Nisha? Everything okay?

Hmm...

Didn’t work out.

-Huh! -Hey, the water…

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

[gasps] Hold him, hold.

It’s so long since a good pic of Dad was taken.

Who all are these, Vasuetta?

This is Richard Sahib.

The other is Bhaskarettan.

Were all these gifted by the Sahib…

For his involvement in the Independence movement?

Not at all… Sahib gave the house and property

To look after Frank till his death.

Frank? Who’s that?

Dude, the elephant who lived here.

[Nakulan]: Photographer Sir?

How about a pair of spectacles…

Will it reduce the fatigue on his face?

Shall we?

No, no, no, no…

This is expensive talcum powder, Dad.

Brought by Nisha’s brother.

[Whispering] God, hope I get this right.

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

Is this okay?

Okay!

We’ll go for a take.

[Nakulan]: Sit him up straight.

[Nakulan]: His head is not holding up.

Chetta…don’t let him tilt too much…

If so we cannot…

[Nakulan]: We are not doing it intentionally.

Bro, If he tilts, the photo will have to be taken like that…

Don’t complain later.

Are you doing a photoshoot?

Go ahead and shoot.

Chetta, since there is movement, can’t focus.

By the time you get focus…

Bhimettan will come and make trouble.

Make it fast.

Kid, it’s not to make him stand for the elections…

By the time you focus, he will reach the other world.

Dad, open your eyes.

It’s Nakulan, Dad, it’s to take a pic, Dad.

Will do something different.

Bhaskarji, smile please. Just once…

Take it even if he doesn’t smile…

Just one click. Ah!

Take it, dude!

You! Don’t play with dirty water!

It’s only for now, Dad.

(The child plays with soap suds joyously)

Chetta, the balance money?

You can keep it.

-Did you get it? -It’s in the first aid box.

-I’ll take it. -Ummm.

-Brother! -Huh?

How about the fitness and permit of that vehicle?

First, you get the money I mentioned.

After that, with my influence… got it?

Yes.

I can’t see anything after getting in from the sun.

-Bheemetta… -Yes?

You didn’t buy the tamarind?

Oh, I forgot, sister!

Oh Oh!

Would a mango do?

Nisha, could we do with mango for the fish curry?

Yes, Chechi.

That will do? Will get it pronto.

If you need a mango, then will get you one.

[Radio] To those listeners waiting for beautiful songs…

[Whispering] Why is she always cleaning up the brass items?

Arjun…stop…

What?

Go and give this to Minimol.

Ok...

Dude, button up your shirt. There’s a girl there.

[phone-in program on the radio]

[RJ]: Thank you so much Maria…

[RJ]: Listeners like you are our treasure.

[RJ]: Tell us about your family, Maria?

[Caller]: Husband and two kids.

[Arjun]: Hallo?

[RJ]: For whom are you requesting this song?

[Caller]: For none… please play a song you like Subhash Chetta…

[Minimol]: Pour it in here and leave…

[Arjun]: Yeah…

[RJ] Glad to hear that.

Hey…be careful… you are carrying hot water…

Turn Dad over… need to sponge his back…

♪ Dunno why but ♪

♪ In my blood now ♪

♪ There is a sugar surge ♪

♪ Is it by eating the sweets you give with your eyes ♪

♪ Or is it by eating the rasagula of dreams ♪

♪ Don’t play all the time… ♪

♪ You do your best in killing me whenever you get me ♪

♪ Have you thought what will happen if someone sees this? ♪

♪ Stop this nonsense game! ♪

♪ Calling out your name a hundred times an hour ♪

♪ The little bird in my heart has a throat ache. ♪

♪ Why do you bounce me like this like a ball? ♪

♪ I am only a little white bird. ♪

♪ But if I am angered I can be a syringe! ♪

♪ Dunno why but ♪

♪ In my blood now ♪

♪ There is a sugar surge ♪

♪ Is it by eating the sweets you give with your eyes ♪

♪ Or is it by eating the rasagula of dreams ♪

♪ My heart flutters but to meet you at night ♪

♪ I waited many a time with a lantern. ♪

♪ Stringing grape flowers of kisses ♪

♪ You cover me with many strands ♪

♪ And make me mad with love ♪

♪ Dunno why but ♪

♪ In my blood now ♪

♪ There is a sugar surge ♪

♪ Is it by eating the sweets you give with your eyes ♪

♪ Or is it by eating the rasagula of dreams ♪

♪ Don’t play all the time… ♪

♪ You do your best in killing me whenever you get me ♪

♪ Have you thought what will happen if someone sees this? ♪

♪ Stop this nonsense game! ♪

[Door opens]

Not done yet?

Yes, Chechi… done…

Hmm..

[crows cawing]

Why are the crows flying like this?

Must be the arrival of the Lord of Death!

[Thunder claps]

Ah! Uncle!

Nisha, Look who is here!

Nakula, you have put on weight.

That’s just this shirt!

[Nakulan]: Nisha…

Ah!

[Nakulan]: Here’s Uncle! You come here.

Uncle, why have you come on a boat?

You didn’t know there’s a bridge now?

This Kesavan doesn’t forget old matters.

Uncle, it’s been so long!

Geetha, get Uncle some tea.

Get the kindi (a spouted brass water vessel).

-Kindi? -Yeah, I need to wash my feet.

Please use the pipe.

[Sahadevan]: Get tea and some snacks.

[Kesavan uncle]: Kindi was better!

[Nakulan]: Its water that comes through the pipe too!

Uncle, you please wash your feet.

[Kesavan uncle]: He doesn't seem to be in good health.

What’s this?

Warm water.

Warm water?

Should we have given cool water?

You should be giving neither cold nor hot water.

It’s water from the holy Ganga river…

…dripping from the matted locks of Lord Shiva.

By the time we manage to collect that…

Dad will have a parched throat…and… you got it?

[Kesavan uncle]: Don’t say more. It’s compulsory.

My Dakshayani died after drinking holy water from the Ganga.

Anyone will die after drinking water bottled up for ten years.

Don’t stand and listen to this guy’s mad words. Give Dad water.

Give him.

Nothing that happens here is right.

[Bheeman, mockingly]: Yeah, make it right!

[Nakulan]: Uncle, we’ll put things right.

Nisha…

Shall we have food?

Come.

Come.

[Nakulan]: Did you break your fast at Parassinikkadavu?

[Kesavan uncle]: Oh yes, fast was broken even before that.

[Nakulan]: Nisha, serve him the leg piece.

Is this country chicken?

Doesn’t uncle eat that?

Who said that! Serve, serve!

Didn’t I tell you? He simply loves fenugreek flavored chicken curry.

Doesn’t anyone want fish curry?

[Nakulan]: It’s full of ammonia.

You serve here!

Did you light incense sticks in brother’s room?

No, is that a problem?

No, just that he doesn’t get the smell of the chicken dish.

[Nakulan]: Yeah, that’s it.

Uncle…

I wanted to talk about something.

You go ahead…

Shouldn’t we make a decision about assets division?

That’s been decided early on.

I meant about the ring.

It’s been agreed that I get the ring.

Who agreed?

Is it enough that you and wife say so?

Nakula, don’t you try this sort of conversation with me!

You haven’t grown that much.

Sahadeva, stop arguing.

We’ll discuss and arrive at a consensus.

I am here now.

No discussion needed for this matter.

Dad has given you your full share.

To Dharmettan, who was trampled by the elephant…

Dad gave the coconut grove behind the house.

[Sahadevan]: To the guy who sits outside and eats and didn’t die…

Dad gave the elephant.

He gave you money.

Arjun got the house.

What did we get?

A dirty property no one wants.

It’s still overrun by weeds.

Have we ever complained?

I am the eldest in the house, and I suffer silently.

I have sat alone many a time and wept loudly.

Do you know that?

[Sahadevan]: My followers ask me, Sahadevetta, what share did you get?

[Bheeman]: Nothing indeed!

[Sahadevan]: I stand with a bowed head.

[Nakulan]: If you had not got into politics and cultivated that land…

You would have harvested gold there.

Know that?

Don’t talk about being given an elephant!

Elephant indeed.

The temples don’t use him because he is an African elephant.

I cannot take it for timber logging work…it knows only English.

You should have made use of your studies.

Don’t you teach me?

If it’s about Dad’s wealth, everyone has an equal right to it.

We know what to do with Dad’s wealth.

No need for opinions from his first wife’s family.

What’s this brother?

Did you hear what he said?

Uncle, did you hear his words?

Our mother might be different…

But don’t we have the same father?

You sell your own property and drink…

Then steal coconuts from the same property and drink again…

Your head should be smashed.

Sorry…

I was overwhelmed…

So this is what is in your mind.

And this guy is behind all this manipulation.

That's true...

Wait till I get you…

Bhima, collect yourself.

Dude, I have cleaned up your shit so many times.

Bring some of your shit here in a bucket, I will clean it up.

[Sahadevan]: There’s a limit to dirty talk.

Don’t talk about how much shit and piss was cleaned, kids…

[Nakulan]: There he goes again.

I will show you all.

Bhima, we’ll find a solution.

What solution? There’s no solution.

He has no education or sense.

And talks about excreta when one is taking a meal.

Nisha, feed the kid before the meal is served.

Don’t let him hear all this.

[Phone notification tone]

[Whatsapp audio] "Sahadevetta, show yourself here …don’t delay this."

Mukunda, I will be there in two days.

[Nakulan]: Kid, splash with your hands. [Kid]: Dad, don’t let me go…

[Nakulan]: No I won’t. You splash.

[Nakulan]: Splash with your legs. Raise the legs high.

[Nakulan]: Shall I let you go?

[Nakulan]: Shall I?

[Sahadevan]: Kid, are you learning swimming?

[Kid]: Yes, Uncle.

[Nakulan]: Mind your step.

[Sahadevan]: Do you know, kid?

[Sahadevan]: Uncle had once saved your Dad from drowning.

[Nakulan]: Stay calm

[Nakulan]: Change your wet clothes and go home.

[Sahadevan]: He’s smart.

[Sahadevan]: One can see that he will be a future Minister.

[Sahadevan]: The memories of those times are such fun.

[Nakulan]: What? The time I almost drowned?

[Sahadevan]: Nakula, if we become enemies, the ring will go elsewhere.

[Sahadevan]: We are at least born to the same mother.

Oh!

[Sahadevan]: Among my brothers, the one I like most is… got it?

[Sahadevan]: Isn’t it better to get half of it, rather than splitting it further?

[Sahadevan, frustrated]: This guy…

The ring should be with the two of us.

You just be with me, I will deal with the rest.

The truth is, I don’t trust you the least.

Why is that so? I’ve transferred some money to your account.

It’s an advance.

[surprised] An advance?

I sold the ring to a Tamilian.

[shocked] Sold? How? It’s still on Dad’s fingers.

He is a collector of antique ornaments and diamonds.

He said okay just as he saw the pic of the ring.

And gave an advance too.

Seems like he’s bought the same kind of ring before.

[curious] How much did he quote!?

Thirty lakhs when we hand over the ring.

What advance did he give?

Five lakhs.

[in disbelief] If he agreed to give thirty lakhs seeing a mere pic…

Then it’s not enough to get an advance of five lakhs.

This guy! Here, dry your hair.

Look, we’ll get only so much for it.

[Tamil] Sahadeva… we had finalized this and done an advance.

[angry] How can you change things?!

Agreed. We had finalized and taken an advance.

But when we asked round…

When we asked round, there is more on offer.

[Nakulan, determined] Look, thirty lakhs will not work.

Fifty lakhs is being offered. We will agree at forty lakhs.

Isn’t it?

[assertively] We are okay with forty lakhs, are you?

[Tamil] Does this change of mind feel right to you?!

[Tamil] The ball is in your court now.

[Tamil] Forty lakhs? Okay.

The ring should be here in two days.

Boss, I will talk later.

Okay.

Look, how we got a ten lakhs more.

You cruel one, I had got him to agree for fifty lakhs.

You told me thirty, right?

I told you a lie.

Never mind, we have forty…

But can we give it in two days.

This is not Kottarakkara Unniyappam.

How does it matter where it is from?

It has enough clarified butter in it.

Here, Uncle, eat!

Bimettan had gone off then. He has not been seen since that.

Where will he go? He must be lying around somewhere, drunk!

Chettan, you should not have told so to Valyettan.

What Valyettan? Arjun, don’t you bring out sentiments now!

He sold off his entire share. Now we should give a share of this too?

-Uncle… -Yes?

Whatever it is, we both want the ring.

We both?

Why?

Do you have objection? Say now if you feel so.

Don’t call me for advocacy later.

You don’t want the ring, right?

[commanding] Dude, say No!

[hesitant] I am okay, let the brothers take it.

He has a generous mind.

You should speak with Bhiman, whatever it is.

That, you will do, right?

-Me? -Yeah…

There’s one thing.

Richard Sahib has it written down that…

…the ring cannot change hands while your Dad is alive.

This was followed all these years.

You waited all this while. Now wait a little more.

It’s been years thinking it will happen tomorrow.

Uncle you know… last Onam we had even printed a card saying Dad had died.

The boy from the press delivered the card to Dad himself.

Howzat? There’s a limit to which one lives.

How many times have we come like this…

…and waited for Dad to die?

I am on loss of pay leave.

Don’t blaspheme son.

Blasphemy….. (Mutters in a low tone)

Uncle, please check how his time period is, in astrology.

We’ll know what’s going to happen to him.

(The months of the Malayalam calendar being mentioned in order)

It’s Karkidaka Rashi… (Cancer sign in western zodiac)

Isn’t it Monday, today?

Hmm

The signs read that Chettan’s time worsens from midnight today.

How worse can it be?

Did you call to tell us this?

Don’t you undervalue my predictions, I tell you.

Uncle please explain.

Tomorrow morning from 3.50 to 4.00…

…Chettan will go through a bad time.’

It’s a difficult time, indicating death.

All of you be careful.

O God, I do promise you a pyrotechnic offering.

If Uncle is so sure…. Huh Brother?

Nothing else to consider.

We must plan things. Dad should lack nothing.

You come.

Brother, but nothing has happened to Dad.

Didn’t you hear what Uncle was saying all this time?

What?

Dude, Uncle’s predictions are precise.

Uncle has predicted Dharmettan being trampled by an elephant.

And see what happened? He died on the third day.

The elephant really messed him up.

That’s all true… but…

No buts here, it happens!

Brother spoke the truth.

Yeah…

You call your Dad and tell him the matter.

[Kesavan, inner thought]: Will these people now deceive me and put me down?

[Kesavan]: Son...

Uncle, you take rest.

We have to perform the death rites tomorrow.

All of you come here.

Nakuletta…

Everything will be fine. Don’t you be tensed.

We should send Dad out like a King!

[Sahadevan]: We should get Achan's photo to the Deshabhoomi office...

[Nakulan]: I have already prepared the matter for the press.

[Sahadevan]: The ash and bone ceremony could be on the fifth or seventh day.

[Sahadevan]: We'll do that with Uncle's consensus

[Sahadevan]: The 16th-day ceremony will be on a Sunday.

[Nakulan]: Looks like rain, do we need to put up a canopy over the pyre?

♪ Even for enemies, on this earth, like this ♪

♪ Lord Siva, let there not be such a destiny ♪

♪ All the close kin running to hand a man over ♪

♪ To the Lord of Death as fast as possible. ♪

♪ Even for enemies, on this earth, like this ♪

♪ Lord Siva, let there not be such a destiny ♪

♪ The oldie to whom the Death God gave a ticket ♪

♪ Lies breathing with much difficulty ♪

Little Grandad, why is the tent being built before Big Grandad dies?

Suppose we don’t get tent makers when he dies?

Oh.

Oh, so I should built a tent before you die, right Little Grandad?

Huh?

♪ He is neither there nor here ♪

♪ So make an offering to appease the God who defeats death ♪

Uncle you should be there to pacify me.

♪ This won’t work they say and cry O Death God take him away ♪

3 packets of incense sticks… 2 lux…

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

Sahadevetta, will you buy some parotta and chappathi?

There’s some chicken curry left.

We cannot eat meat from tomorrow.

This is a house of mourning, not one of celebration.

How many do you want? Fifty will do?

♪ The oldie lying amidst his greedy kin awaiting the Lord of Death, ♪

♪ doesn't want to die, but his people find it crucial ♪

This is only three flexes.

We hung one.

Already?

Nakula…

What?

They hung one already, it seems.

♪ Chithran has not called out his name ♪

♪ The Death God has not started his journey ♪

How is it?

Stylish.

This is handwork, not ChatGPT or any AI.

Why not one for you?

Huh...

♪ The kin wanting the oldie to die quickly… ♪

Nakuletta, did you buy the incense sticks?

Sahadevettan is going to market. Tell him.

Child... Mind the brass lamps.

Make sure the wick doesn't burn out.

I have cleaned them right as I came.

♪ The mad human mind is crazy after wealth. ♪

♪ The mad human mind is crazy after wealth. ♪

"Shreemath Bhagavad Geetha"

♪ They stuff cotton in the nostrils, ♪

♪ tie the jaw and limbs with cloth pieces ♪

♪ Cut a coconut to create a burning light, and white cloth as shroud. ♪

♪ A lamp at the head, and ash scattered around as tradition. ♪

[The buzzing sound of the electric saw]

[Arjun]: Brother...

What are you doing?

What is it?

What will people say to this?

What can people say?

Do we burn Dad with coconut fronds?

Sahadevan won’t do that.

Uncle, if you don’t make him understand facts… got it?

Arjun, son…

Don’t you speak!

It’s because of you that they are doing all this nonsense.

You do what you want.

Didn’t you hear what that tiny kid said?

I won’t stay here a minute more.

Uncle, where are you going?

I was thinking of going home.

Uncle, are you trying to escape, leaving us alone?

Uncle, if you go, who will lead the ceremonies?

I didn’t think of that.

Dude, make that quick.

[Bhaskaran breathing deeply, labored]

[crows cawing]

[Sound of tree falling: Loud crash and rustling]

-Darling… -Mmm?

What are they doing over here?

The people are laughing at them.

Should not have called them over.

[thunder claps]

No! It’s because they came…

….we are able to be together in peace.

I think they came to make Dad die.

I am scared they will kill Dad if he doesn’t die.

-What updates? -Nothing.

-Did you check his breathing? -Yes.

Uncle, it’s past 3.30.

Only the second span of the night has passed.

There’s still time left.

I think we are going to be embarrassed before the townsfolk.

We should have thought once before we jumped into this.

Nakula, you be quiet.

All of them grown up now.

Is it a bad job cleaning their shit?

No one wants any one’s help now.

Phony pigs!

Eh!

Brave nationalist Bhaskara Pillai!

That’s my Dad! When was this?

[thunder claps] Dad!

[sobbing loudly] My dad's gone...

[sobbing loudly] Dad, you’ve left me!!!

Dad...

[raining]

[gasps] Where’s my Dad, folks?

Dad is sleeping over there.

[Nakulan yawns]

You dogs, you did all this without Dad dying?

Who said my Dad will die?

Uncle!

Child, the prediction said your Dad will die.

I will kick you….

Let me tell you I don’t need predictions for when you will die.

You mind your business.

We children will decide Dad’s matters.

Did I then drop from the sky?

[Chaotic angry conversation]

[Woman] Uncle please come and restrain them!

[Bhiman] Who switched off the light?

What is that sound!?

That noise is from Bhaskarettan’s house.

Minimole… there’s a fight going on next door.

- Minimole… - Yes, Dad

Come out…

Hey you…who are you running through my grounds?

Stop there…

[Chaotic conversation amidst fight]

Let go dude, Dad’s gone.

What?

Didn’t Dad die, Nisha?

Huh?

If it’s aggravated, an injection in the buttocks would be needed.

Okay Doctor.

Doctor, is it okay to continue the current medication?

Yes, that should do.

His breathing is labored. Saturation is low.

So you might need to buy an oxygen concentrator.

Nothing to fear.

He is under sedation, don’t wake him up.

Get a concentrator here as soon as the shops open.

Or shift him to the hospital in the evening.

[Nakulan, undertone] Uncle…

[Doctor] Shall I leave then?

[Kid]: Hey, a mask!

Ahh kid!

I have set everything. Don’t make any changes.

Just pour some water now and then.

If you have any doubt, here’s my number.

Call me.

Nothing to worry now. Dad should be fine.

Shall I leave?

Is such a big machine required for a few days?

That’s what I am also thinking.

Bro, the bill.

Let me see…

Sixty-nine Thousand Rupees?

No discounts?

Next time round, Bro.

So, no discount, either.

Will you take it back after use?

No.

Bro, my umbrella?

Give that umbrella here.

Ah!

It’s your umbrella, brother?

Yeah.

Please take me with you till there.

Come here…

[Bhiman, undertone] Get that money right away…or…

[Sahadevan]: If you put back some of that I paid you...

[Sahadevan]: This machine cost….got it?

[Nakulan]: Yeah, got it.

Chetta, Chetta, do you want something?

Poor thing, I think he is hungry…

Do one thing, get some rice gruel and coconut chutney.

I will bring it now.

Whom are you looking for?

Must be Bhimettan…

Probably not…

The children have not slept well since you have been ill.

They are good children.

Let us go out now.

Chettan, you don’t worry.

Nothing will happen. You will get well.

Let’s sit outside.

Let him get some fresh air.

[Kesavan uncle]: Don’t you look at me like that…

I said what should be said.

Can we kill him?

[Bhiman]: Forgive me, Dad.

[Tamil] Still he is alive?

He will die, but…

We cannot take the ring before he dies.

[Tamil] How does it matter to me you Dad dies or not.

[Tamil] My problem is not that.

[Tamil] You didn’t tell me all this when you took the advance.

Yeah.

Boss, give us a two days’ time.

Dad will die.

[Tamil] Yeah take it.

[Tamil] But from the day of the advance till I get the ring…

[Tamil] …the interest will increase.

[Tamil] Did you get that?

You didn’t say anything about the interest earlier…

[Tamil] You only told me your Dad was about to die.

[Tamil] Cut the call.

If he doesn’t die, we’ll be ruined paying that interest.

Looking at your attitude, one would think I am the God of Death.

Uncle, don’t you understand?

Children, I understand your condition.

Now it’s become my prestige issue that Chettan dies.

There’s a Grandad at Chelakkara.

We are fed up of one Dad! And you talk of a Grandad.

It’s just a Grandad! Chathan! (Little Demon)

Chathan indeed! Don’t make me speak more.

Uncle, you go on!

Just give him a male goat!

So that’s more money gone vide the male goat!

If you can’t give a male goat, leave it.

But give a broiler chicken at least, child!

You should make it happen.

Uncle! Will it get done?

Yeah!

It’s a little mature.

That’s the variety.

What sin has Bhaskarettan committed?

The God who gave life should surely take it back?

Chechi, when you go to the temple tomorrow, make an offering.

I will do.

I will give you the money.

Chechi you still believe in black magic?

It’s not black magic.

Are we not praying to God?

How is that black magic, Nisha?

Chechi, when Grandad dies, will you give me his mask to play with?

Huh?

He open his mouth to spout nonsense.

Get out from here.

(Verses evoking black magic)

Do you believe?

Yes!

O! The brave one with a thousand hands…

O! The one who loves to drink blood!

Come! Come! Come!

I invocate…

I invocate…

Are you not seeing?

Riding on the buffalo and bearing the rope of time…

The angry one out to destruct!

Grandad, are you able to breathe well now?

I will increase it a little more.

Don’t you hear the sound?

[bubbling sound from O₂ concentrator]

Uncle!

Oh! There’s smoke coming from Grandad’s mouth!

Uncle, I didn’t know you were so powerful!

Cotton?

I will get it!

We should appease that Chelakkara Grandad!

Here’s the cotton.

Put some cotton into the nostrils.

(Bhiman’s weeping becomes loud)

[Kesavan uncle] Tie the toes together.

Shouldn’t we do all this after bathing the body?

No. Chettan’s soul is wandering around here.

It’s said the soul can enter through the orifices of the body.

Oh! Then let’s place the cotton immediately.

Here! Hold it!

The soul left the body somehow.

If it re-enters…

Shall I put this into the ears too?

Do what you are told to.

So aren’t we taking it for the bath?

Yes.

Hey, shouldn’t we take the ring out?

Yes.

Sahadevan and Nakulan can take out the ring they have a claim to.

All other metal objects should be removed from the body.

Dad!

Chetta, turn.

Turn it and it will come out.

Means to the left, like you open a tap.

To the other side.

This guy is…

Move, I will do it.

He keeps holding it…

Turn and take it out…

I am turning it…

If you cannot then just pull it out.

You are not taking it out?

It’s not coming out.

Nisha…get the soap.

Do you want the bathing soap or the washing soap?

I will get the Lux.

Let’s try the soap.

Oh!

[Hindi] Look, you keep it there.

How many times do I tell you?

Keep it there…

Straighten up that…

What, what? Did you call me?

Chetta! We have made the pyre leaving 4 ft from all four sides.

Okay…okay…

You can perform the ceremonies at the front.

And you place the body from the West to the South, right?

Right.

That’s all ready, huh?

I am leaving, take care of that!

It’s quite some time, not starting the ceremony yet?

Swami, is there no consideration of clan, person and justice these days?

You all remain assured that everything required is happening inside.

Chetta, don’t behave like this even to a dead body.

Looks like there will be trouble if it’s delayed anymore.

Look, people have started talking.

We cannot keep the dead body anymore.

Uncle, the ring is not coming off.

The body has swollen up.

All that won’t work. Bring the body!

How can we do that without removing the ring?

If you delay it more, the people will break your bones.

Uncle, that’s not possible. You give us an idea.

What idea? We cannot cut the finger.

Uncle, if you say so…

I just spoke in a flow.

[Kesavan uncle, undertone] Will these guys sell it?

Try.

Chetta, the people have started talking.

We cannot keep the body for long.

Uncle, we are taking him for his bath.

Did anyone ask your opinion?

We decide the matters here.

This is my house.

I don’t require your permission to opine.

Did you hear him? It’s his house it seems!

Yes, I can also speak out in Dad’s matters.

Don’t explain more. I know your intention.

Look, kid!

Without removing the ring…

…there’s no way the body leaves from here.

You mind your own matters.

Then, I need a share of that ring.

What?

Huh?

[phone rings]

All this time, I was taking care of Dad all alone.

Were you all here?

Don’t you dare talk unnecessary things!

I won’t think you are a sibling. I will kill you.

Sahadeva, let him go.

Didn’t I ask you?

I will tell everyone…our Dad’s finger is to be chopped.

Lord Shiva!

Sahadeva, let him go.

Arjun, come here.

Come, listen to me.

All of them are mad.

It was that Raja on the phone.

Chetta, you call him back.

You talk to him.

Put on speaker.

What’s it Sahadeva…I will send someone by noon.

You keep the ring aside.

Okay?

Raja Sir, a small issue.

That ring is not coming off.

Very tight.

Is that so?

Then burn the ring with your Dad.

Huh?

Burn, he says.

Won’t the ring melt?

It’s diamond, right? It won’t melt in fire.

You don’t know even this?

Are you teachers?

Did you get it?

Call me after everything concludes.

One minute, Boss.

He has cut the call.

It’s almost the inauspicious hour. Check them.

Vasuetta, is everything ready for the ceremony?

Everything is here.

Bhaskaran is a lucky guy. Look how sad his children are.

Yes, his children were very fond of him.

[Verse from Ramayana]

"How come your lovely face is downcast, my son"

"Are you very hungry?"

Bhaskaretta

Don’t stop… continue…

(Reciting of Ramayana verse continues)

It was early in the morning.

You must find time to come to the committee office.

Looks like it won’t stay within our hands.

Mukunda, speak with clarity.

Ullasji is trying to manipulate things.

If there is an opinion vote, you know what can happen!

Is that fair? We had decided this early on.

To whom are you talking about fairness?

Sahadevetta, you don’t get worried.

Call Dinakar Ji.

Somehow get it done.

The rest we will manage.

Don’t talk now.

Mmm.

Let me leave then.

Okay.

(Reciting of Ramayana verse continues)

What happened?

Will tell you later.

The ring won’t melt, will it?

The Boss was right, I checked on Google.

Okay, okay.

Swamy!

That’s not a swamy, it’s the mahout!

[fast paced lottery annoucement with music]

[fast paced lottery annoucement with music]

[fast paced lottery annoucement with music]

-Who’s that? -That’s our Suhasini.

Our Bhaskarapillai’s elder son Dharman’s missus and wife.

[weeping] Dad!

He had promised to give me some property when he came last.

He passed away before doing it.

You will be upset. But be brave.

Hmmm.

You will be upset.

But be brave.

I will.

Are you taking your medicines regularly?

I am cured now. No medicines.

You will be upset.

I will be brave…

You go and sit there.

Please… move…

thank you…

You will definitely be upset.

Chetta…make it fast.

We have to burn another person at six.

[hindi] Please speed up.

Sahadeva, son, we don’t have to wait for anyone else, do we?

No.

Lets cremate him

Yeah

We cannot keep him for long. He will decay…

Take your Dad away, children.

(Wailing all around as the dead body is being taken for cremation)

Someone please take him away.

What did you all do to my son?

Son, Asoka… get up…

Mom will buy you lollipops…

I want Grandad’s ring…

He is a sick child. Why not give it to him?

Take the body away!

[Lights a matchstick]

Till the 16th day ceremony is over this lamp should burn.

Take care of that.

When my Dharmettan died…

…I was the only person sitting on this mat.

Now, when Dad died, I am the one who is doing this.

That’s all in the past, sister. Let’s forget it.

You can say that. I won’t forget that even in my death.

When my husband was in hospital trampled by the elephant…

….I begged the husbands of the women here for some money.

If I had five lakhs, my husband would have been alive now.

Sister, don’t cry!

Where are you going? Sit there.

You can’t go till the 16th day ceremony is over.

The lamp has to be kept alight too.

It’s only that I lost it when I thought of old matters.

What did they say?

Did you come here at midnight to know this?

It won’t work.

So you didn’t ask?

I did ask. They are hand-in-glove.

I am supposed to inherit the house.

Then why run after that?

Let them take it.

It’s dilapidated structure. Don’t call it a house.

Tell me that after you marry me.

She’s at it again.

So what’s your issue?

You want the ring, right?

Let me try again.

Don’t squabble, Minimole.

My periods have been delayed by two weeks.

So?

How?

Minimole, don’t joke.

Could it be something else?

Couldn’t you have been more careful?

Me?

You are not sure, right? Let’s do a test.

In the midst of the tension about Dad…

…wanted to tell you after I confirmed.

What!?

Two lines… what do we do now?

I don’t know. You do what you want.

Look, stop there.

Let me go. I want to sleep. Am tired.

Tired? Huh?

It costs seven hundred per liter.

When our party comes to power, we’ll sell it at four hundred.

Oh! You will include it in the rations I suppose.

Sahadeva, stop all this and discuss things which will work…

Disdain doesn’t suit this cloth!

You all have been making me do things which cause disdain.

Uncle is right.

We need to plan everything accurately.

The number of claimants is going up.

And the expenses here.

Only today, I have spent so much.

When we share, we must account for this too.

I too have accounted for money spend.

What!!

I settled all expenses including the tree-felling and the cremation.

Look, I have done the accounting.

How about the tent, the chairs and the lights?

I am going to sponsor the idli and sambar too.

Sahadeva, stop it.

Both of you won’t sit still anywhere.

Don’t argue.

No one wants idli and sambar these days.

The trend is Masala Dosha.

Don’t stop at Masala Dosha.

Let’s do a dance and song recital too for the 4th day ceremony.

(Laughter)

I am going to sleep or else tommorows's rituals will be delayed

Tasty peanuts.

Ha!

What’s it!

Uncle, the peanuts are for those who are drinking.

Don’t take those away.

It’s only a few peanuts!

Write that down in your accounts.

Such a stingy guy!

He offers such counters!

Bhima, wear that kusha grass ring on your finger.

This finger?

Yeah

Now wet your hands and call the crows.

[claps]

Stop, you!

No one is performing a cabaret here.

Your clapping will only drive away the crows already here.

Take that boy away.

Or I will throw him into the river.

Let it be, son.

Bhīma, you go on and clap.

[claps]

Can’t see any…

[crow cawing]

There is one…

Dad!

The flame has snuffed out. The crows are not coming.

Chettan’s soul is wandering hereabouts.

Ask Dad to go away.

It’s just a bluff. He is blabbering.

Bhīma, science doesn’t lie.

What will we do now?

Pray!

Normally there are so many crows here!

(Mumbled thinking aloud)

Uncle, this is not an unnatural death to do all this now.

Shhhhhhh.

Chettan had some unfulfilled wish.

He is very angry.

What wish?

We brought the halwa, and it’s not our fault he couldn’t eat it.

We even cremated him in his coat.

Try to find what Dad’s wish was.

Child, this is not WhatsApp.

Let me tell you this.

Unless the crow pecks at the offered food,

Picking the bones from the pyre will not be allowed.

How is that possible?

Uncle, the crow will eat it when it’s hungry.

Let’s go about taking the bones out of the funeral pyre.

Not possible.

There’s a system for everything.

The first thing to do is to pacify the soul and send it away.

I cannot wait till Dad goes away.

How can that be Chetta?

It’s important his soul attains salvation.

When there’s meat and fish next door…

…which crow will come here to eat sweet rice?

And there are folks who will still try to feed them.

All of you will do this mumbo jumbo through the years ahead.

You may not believe in this, but I do.

Why are you insisting that a crow should eat this?

If this is the case, the souls in Antarctica will never find salvation.

I don’t care about souls in Antarctica.

I have only this to do for my Dad’s soul.

Till Dad eats, I will feed the crow.

Sahadeva, you are going round protecting rituals.

And is this what you do in your own Dad’s case?

Ask!

I have said what I wanted to.

And if you insist on taking it out…

You can do it on the fifth day!

You have to show that much patience.

Check!

-Mom? -Huh?

Will Grandad come as a crow?

Will you keep quiet and sleep?

Let Dad’s soul wander around…

…or go hungry… or whatnot happen!

It’s the era when humans send rockets to the moon…

And these guys worry about soul and salvation.

You tell me if you are scared.

Scared?

Do I look like I am scared?

We’ll wait a bit and then go and take a look.

I simply cannot continue here.

How many people do I have to feed each day?

My fate!

With Dinakarji’s blessing, I want to lead in the chariot…

In the Battle of Kurukshetra…

That’s my humble… hope you got it?

Don’t be tense about that…

Hey what are you doing?

No, I was talking here…

Do give me 3-4 days’ time.

I will get it to you.

I just want your full support, Dinakarji.

Good night ji.

Shouldn’t you say ahead?

To whom?

Your….

So you are really scared.

Of course…

Will the money come from your home?

Mmm.

Where are you going? Not sleeping?

You sleep!

It’s so hot! No rains either!

You didn’t sleep?

Chettan, you didn’t sleep?

I was not sleepy.

Isn’t anyone sleeping?

Death is the Great Sleep.

When a death happens in a house…

…their people are not slowed to slumber…

…by the Goddess of Sleep.

You just try to sleep…

No! Not needed.

[Suhasini]: My son, drink your medicine.

[Suhasini]: Smart kid.

[Nakulan]: The pyre has burned down, eh Chetta?

♪ O! Crow ♪

♪ The holy crow who bathes everyday ♪

♪ There’s no other crow to call you to food ♪

♪ O! Black crow why don’t you come and eat ♪

♪ We made a rice offering, why don’t you come and eat? ♪

♪ Are you so old and grey that you are hard of hearing? ♪

♪ Why didn’t you hear when we clapped hands? ♪

♪ Are you too lazy to come down from your home in the sky? ♪

♪ Did someone lock you up and you couldn’t open the cage? ♪

♪ Is it because there is no mango tree or a plantain shrub ♪

♪ In the grounds for you to come and sit. ♪

[crow cawing]

Give me the flowers.

Give me the Ganga water.

[Nakulan]: Can’t see anything.

Now do one thing.

Nakulan and Sahadevan …

Pick up the bones and put them into the pot.

Can’t you just give?

It’s men who do these things.

[Nakulan]: Can’t see the ring.

Which side would the hand have been?

This…

Here also

On both sides.

That’s enough. The pot will be full.

Now do one thing…

Take that pot and place in front of Chettan’s photo.

Chetta, You are not coming?

We will come… you go ahead.

We have some work here.

Children, don’t claw like dogs, come away.

Aww…

Now immerse this in the river or sea on the 16th day.

Forgive me Dad.

You took away the ring and play acting now, you dog?

Everyone here knows who does the play acting, you dog.

I won’t think you are my brother, let me go. I will bite you.

No… don’t hit me! Ohhh!

Nakuletta! Sahadevetta!

Nobody dare come closer. Stop there.

I will kill everyone.

You… get up from my chest…

I am suffocating…

He cheated me of an asset worth fifty lakhs. Got it?

Chetta, get up…

(Chaotic shouting)

Nakuletta, break his skull open!

Vasuetta, separate them…

Don’t make this an issue…

-Vasuetta… -Bhima!

Let go… let go I say…

Come here… if you have courage… come here…

Cheat… have you hidden the ring anywhere?

Dude, are you going to kill each other for that ring?

He stole the ring and he is now playacting!

You hit me, huh?

I will make sure you lose your job.

I want to see you beg.

My job is already permanent, man!

If I can get you a job, I can take it away too.

Don’t talk about getting me a job.

You took my wife’s gold as a bribe.

Which brother will do this in this world, you beggar?

Telling me you wanted to put it into the share market….

…you took all my gold to give it to this guy?

You ruined everything, huh?

Nisha, a job is safer than the shares.

I will show you man!

Nisha…

Nisha…

…stop there darling…

I know you stole this, man!

Don’t think you can swallow it all alone.

Go and do what you can!

You go inside, woman!

Chetta!

What do you want?

What should I tell you?

Please listen to me.

Nisha…

I don’t want to hear anything.

Why should you feel any difficulty in this?

You wrecked an asset my father worked hard to build.

You could have asked me….

Yeah, and you would have asked me to talk to your Dad.

I don’t need to plead before others.

When the father and son made specific demands…

…I didn’t see this pride…

Look, what should I do now?

Shall I fall at your feet?

The loss is all mine at the end.

I just cooked and served so many.

My dear, if we go now from here…

We will lose that ring.

I will find that ring and put it on your finger.

You can decide what to do with it.

Let go!

Kid, tell your mom not to go.

Sorry Dad, I am also bored here.

Go, kid!

Nisha!

Asoka!

What’s it Grandad!

Wondering who pinched that ring!

Is it you?

Me? Would I be here if I got it?

So you have that much intelligence.

Still, who would have taken the ring?

I know who took the ring.

Huh, who took it? Did you see that?

I did see that.

Whom did you see?

What will you give me if I tell you?

This Grandad will give you just what you want!

The person who took the ring is none other than Bhaskaran Grandad.

[Asokan laughs]

I saw Grandad’s soul come and take the ring.

[Asokan laughs]

Hey, come we’ll wrestle.

Did the kid speak the truth, Chetta?

Does it pain?

You think it’s a comfortable feeling?

Was it you who took the ring?

You have also lost trust in me?

If I had taken it, wouldn’t I have told you?

Did you tell me when you took Nisha’s gold?

Did you give me anything form it?

If you ask such unnecessary question another time…you got it?

Go on apply the medicine!

[tamil] I am not able to trust you.

It burnt down, Boss.

[tamil] Whom are you saying this to?

[tamil] Look, even if we put it into lava, the diamond stays fine.

Then where did the ring go?

[tamil] The ring on your Dad’s finger… is it in my underwear?

[tamil] I am telling you for the last time, bring the ring to me.

And if not?

(Wild laughter)

[tamil] I'll come to you place.

Boss, you are the one who said burn my Dad.

All we got after that were some bones.

I have collected that into a pot.

If that’s what you want, I will get that to you.

[tamil] Bro, I still have trust in you.

[tamil] That’s why I am telling you…

[tamil] There’s a chance of the diamonds sticking on to …..

[tamil] Break your Dad’s funeral pot and see.

[tamil] For the last time, I will call you after two days.

[tamil] Remember all that I told you.

Eat…

No…

am not able to tolerate these smells now.

I feel nauseated.

If you cannot do it, say that. I will go and talk to everybody.

No, not at all.

Look, they have some infighting going on.

Let’s wait till the 16th day ceremony.

I will choose the right moment and present it.

Nisha,

No one has gone near the pyre.

I checked the entire footage.

So what that Raja said is right.

So, I have decided to fight this out.

So, I will be the person…to pick up the ring from Dad’s funeral pot.

So there’s manhood in you now!

I have a great idea for how to take the ring from the pot.

The idea is great! But will the Gods get angry?

Geetha, haven’t you read what Bhagwan Krishnan said in The Gita?

It’s not the path, but the target that’s important.

60% of the people this Panchayath belongs to our community.

Isn’t that so?

Yeah.

I will win the elections with a huge majority.

Isn’t that too a sure thing?

Mmm.

The central government is going to bring…

…a big development project to our Panchayath.

In that there’s a six lane road.

Once this lane happens…

…there will be petrol pumps, shops, toilets and so on…

…on both sides of the road.

It’s a ten crore project.

If I become a member, I will take a six crores from that.

If things happen as I plan… then who will you be?

You are really intelligent.

Don’t say that.

God gave me a little more of intelligence, that’s all.

No electricity?

Not likely.

Minimol’s house has electricity.

Oh, the elder sister.

The Goddess of Sleep must have blessed her.

[Water dripping]

Urinating?

Uhhhh…

scaring people?

Nothing, Uncle.

Then why is your stomach bloated?

That’s because of the banana that I had in the morning.

Come and turn!

What’s that noise?

That’s because of worms.

Charcoal?

Nisha!

Cuticura!

You are tickling me.

Huh?

I took Grandad’s pot!

You are playing with Grandad’s pot, you ass!

[Asokan screems] Mom!

Where’s the ring?

How cunning he is!

Dad, I have marked it!

Dad, please forgive.

Dig deep, Grandad.

Child, say the truth. Did you actually bury the pot?

I did bury it Grandad!

Blame me for sending you.

I had marked it with a dry leaf.

I will give you a tight slap.

Dear God, I will now need to dig up this entire ground.

I remember everything till last night.

I forgot the things before that.

You forgot only the things before…

…you do remember the things after it, right?

Not sure he will say anything with clarity.

Grandad!

What happened afterwards… I forgot that too!

[Asokhan laughs]

You are a fool… don’t you laugh!

(Murmuring in frustration) I'm such a fool to trust him.

[Asokhan laughs]

I dug up the whole ground but didn’t get a thing!

So where did the ring go?

Grandad, move a bit!

Do you want to play cooking?

Which pot is this?

[car horn]

Come Dinakarji. I have been inviting you home since long!

It’s today that I got the fortune to receive you at home!

Sahadevan come over there. I have something to tell you.

Turn the car!

What was the fight that happened here the other day?

The entire locality is talking about that.

It’s nothing else.

My brother and I were discussing something in fun and…

No no no…don’t make it up…

I know everything.

You were fighting on your father’s funeral pyre…

…and for material gain. It’s not a small matter.

That…

Sahadevan, you do know it’s against our culture to forget our elders.

See, your image has plunged already.

What are you trying to say, Dinakarji?

Come here…meaning…it’s nothing else…

The party decision is to not consider you this time as candidate.

How can you say this at the last minute, Dinakarji?

I have already asked for votes from some people.

Moreover, how much have I given you?

Those funds have already been contributed…

…into the flood funds of Pokhran.

Isn’t it said… Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavanthu?

How about my speaking to Sureshji one time?

I don’t think it’s of any use.

The opinion vote was against you.

Zero.

Mukunda?

Not fruitful!

Don’t worry. There’s plenty of time.

Let it go this time.

So let me go.

Come over some time.

When the PM comes for Suresh’s daughter’s wedding…

So all of you cheated me!

What dialogue is that Sahadevetta?

Aren’t you in service of society?

This is a war of virtues! There are certain rules to it.

You call Sureshji anyway.

Look, don’t lose hope.

Don’t!

It’s me who is telling you.

Mukundetta, let’s go.

I will call you some time.

Come! I will call!

[Phone ringing]

[Phone ringing]

Why didn’t you pick up Raja’s call?

I have decided not to sell at the moment.

I am not in a mood to hear your comedy.

It’s either the ring.

Or including the interest for the advance

…eight lakh rupees…to be paid into his account.

Eight lakh rupees?

Yeah! Or he will come here. Tomorrow.

I don’t want any share.

If you have the money, give it.

Let’s avoid this guy.

Are you listening?

Nakula?

Whether you believe it or not…

The ring is not with me.

If I had that, I…got it?

This is how you should chop.

Where did you learn this Bhimetta?

I worked in a hotel for a while, sister.

Oh!

Have they teamed up again?

I will take a quick bath.

Chetta, I have something to tell you.

Tell me brother.

We should open Dad’s funeral pot.

Since no one else got it, the ring should be in it.

When I saw you together in the evening…

…I expected you would come with a new crafty plan.

Go man! Go and do what’s needed for tomorrow.

Chetta, the ring is inside it.

We cannot immerse it in the river without taking the ring out.

So you still have not had enough.

Let me tell you something.

On the auspicious day tomorrow, if you make an issue...

If we make an issue?

Will you whack me?

I will whack you.

Bhimetta, stop making an issue. Please listen first.

What’s this? Have you made an art of infighting?

Shouldn’t we all have to live here?

What’s this folks?

These guys want to mess up Dad’s ashes before immersion tomorrow.

Look, if you three are going to make a fuss here…

I have been tolerating you all as elder brothers.

Why is this pot being opened now?

Isn’t this a sin, Sahadeva?

Okay, don’t then.

The advance eight lakhs received for Dad’s ring...

…will have to be returned with interest.

If not, that Raja will come here tomorrow.

Raja? Which Raja?

Raja from Coimbatore.

It’s to him that the ring is sold.

It’s with the money he gave…that we…all these days…got it?

Uncle, it’s not a small thing.

We’ll lose face in front of the people.

What is there to lose face about?

This is our internal issue. Don’t you interfere in this!

Oh, so it’s become you and us!

Minimole, come.

Vasu, hey!

Suma, are you not coming?

Suma Chechi!

You should not have spoken so to Vasu Chettan!

You go and apologize to him, then.

What everyone has been eating…

…including what’s hanging there!

That’s Raja’s money.

The game will change if Raja comes.

You have been making a great show here.

Have you been contributing anything?

Bhima, should you be so adamant for such a small thing?

Bhimetta, the ring will bring benefit to everyone.

Chetta, we don’t have that much to contribute.

It won’t be as bad as fighting on Dad’s funeral pyre.

If the ring is there, let’s open and see!

Look well…look well…

See if there is anything shining?

Chechi, I will check.

Why not we break this and see?

It’s not here!

Got it?

Not there?

Grab a handful from it and eat.

Let your greed conclude by that at least, you dogs.

I know I am not useful to anyone.

But let Dad’s soul at least be in peace.

Having been cursed by your Dad…

Never mind how much money you make…

You will never be any good!

Not only when alive, even after their death, they want us to prosper.

Children, can’t you stop it here?

Let him come.

We will find a way.

If the money is given back, won’t his issue finish there?

Let’s not fight each other and die in its name.

Even if you need to sell all this, no one should come here.

The ceremony should be done well.

Take this.

I bought this with money I have cheated from you.

Take it.

No Chetta, we don’t need this.

I will arrange the rest.

We are not sheep or cattle, guys.

We are human.

Why don’t we have the unity that they have?

♪ Unknown to the sky the wet clouds and rain depart ♪

♪ The garden is enticed to wear tender leaves and dew ♪

♪ That song blooming on our lips ♪

♪ The love song we forgot half way ♪

♪ From the star land afar someone sends a fondness ♪

♪ On the honey mango tree where the koels sing ♪

♪ There’s a little swing which swings as high as it will go ♪

♪ Wanting to swing again and again ♪

♪ When the sand in the courtyard parts to reveal footsteps ♪

♪ We seek our childhood ♪

♪ From the star land afar someone sends a fondness ♪

♪ When we traverse the pathways of pain ♪

♪ And melt in the sultry heat of our heart ♪

♪ We have no handkerchief to wipe our tears ♪

[Bhiman claps]

[Bhiman claps again]

[Bhiman claps again]

[Everyone claps]

[crow cawing]

♪ Even if sorrow and fights meld ♪

♪ We seek happy relationships ♪

Children… Dad is happy!

♪ From the star land afar someone sends a fondness ♪

♪ Unknown to the sky the wet clouds and rain depart ♪

♪ The garden is enticed to wear tender leaves and dew ♪

Swamy… the masala dosha is a hit. This is a first in our place.

The children said we should serve idli and sambar.

But I changed it to masala dosha.

There should not be anything wanting in Chettan’s matters.

♪ That song blooming on our lips ♪

♪ The love song we forgot half way ♪

♪ From the star land afar someone sends a fondness ♪

(Chaotic shouting)

After making my girl pregnant, you are enjoying a meal here?

Don’t come near me… I will hack everyone.

Dad…don’t make an issue.

Who is your Dad? Didn’t he die?

We’ll make a solution for everything!

After all, we are relatives.

Who? Who is your relative?

-Vasuetta! -That’s not what you said yesterday!

It so happened.

Please pardon. Put down the weapon.

If your daughter likes him, he will marry her.

And if you make a noise here about this, I will kill you.

I will kill you before that.

If you touch my brother, I will cut your head off.

Without a head, you…

Got that?

Didn’t you mean that?

Keep your manners, Vasuetta. Don’t make people talk.

Oho! So you are all in this together?

I will show you…

I will show you…

Before he does something foolish, go and block him, Chechi.

Vasuetta, stop there.

Don’t do anything you shouldn’t do.

What will I do?

Even then, why should I kill him and go to jail at this age?

So what was that!?

Now the girl will walk out without our spending a paisa.

You come.

When you come tomorrow, get that sickle.

Indeed I was.

I sharpened that spending six hundred.

Since things have progressed to this level…

…should we make this death ceremony tent into a marriage tent?

How far is she in her pregnancy?

Two and a half months.

From where did you get the time for all this?

He is the one who has really inherited Dad’s character.

Wear a shirt now onwards!

[laughter]

[Everyone laughs]

Can you give the full amount?

Bhima, why are you talking nonsense?

You said you needed it only in instalments?

If you want the money fully, I have to ask Sir.

No No No… this is enough.

Okay okay..

Can you give me a cover?

Will give you a rubber band.

Next month we will see again.

OK, Alright

(Muttering) Such a nuisance from Kerala this early in the morning.

Sir

Who was that? Looks familiar.

That guy who sold the fifty lakhs worth ring for three lakhs.

That Kerala guy.

Oh it was him! I didn’t understand it was he.

It’s three years now Sir.

You said a similar piece was coming in.

What’s happened to it?

It was almost here, lost it the last moment.

Pardon, Dad.