Original subtitles

Hurry up, Pethappa. Just dive before someone comes.

C'mon dive, Pethappa.

Just wait. Don't rush me.

Hey, Saibol…

What?

Hand me the bomb.

Take it.

THE WELL

I feel tired. C'mon, let's go.

Bathing in this water cures all my ailments, Salidappa.

Is this tender coconut water or water? I can't tell the difference.

Hey…speak louder. I don't think he heard you.

Is this tender coconut water or water? I can't tell the difference.

Mani, you go first.

Come out.

Come out.

I've warned you not to come here, you piece of shit!

You better run. Get lost!

Run away, Salidappa.

Come out.

How dare you glare at me!

Come here.

Brother…

–Brother… –Come here.

I am the village priest's son.

Oh! So you're his son. Then, you should've come out first.

You better run away.

C'mon, hurry up.

Don't act scared. Come out.

Come here.

Turn around.

–Turn around. –I have a boil on my backside.

Just run, Pethappa.

Come here.

Hey…stop.

–Brother, please don't-- –You dare run away?

Please let go, brother.

Hey…

–I've warned you enough. –Please don't, brother.

So disobedient!

Please don't, brother. Let go. I will not come--

I have a submersible electric pump in there.

What if something untoward happens? Who is answerable to your parents?

We won't come here anymore. Please let go, brother.

Don't ever come here again.

–Scram! –Get lost, baldy!

Run, keep running The horizon is within your sight

Run, keep running With speed and all your feet's might

Fly, keep soaring as high as an eagle

Leap and flow like a mighty river

Your force should pierce through air

March ahead Let the sound reverberate in all directions

Thorns could prick our feet

As we pick up the pace We don’t care about muck in the way

Let the troops come in We will show them our strength

Impeding obstacles Let’s overcome and run

The spirit of humanity pervades

Put your wishes out there Big and small

Even the ‘study guide’ for that matter Read through and toss it away, doesn’t matter

Do charity and lead a virtuous life Educate the generations to come

Let's spin the top And make a dent on the earth

Let's fight over Whose dent is deeper

Like a waterfall We will cascade down the hill

We hunt for a pan to cook the quail egg

In a daring ball game We show our courage

There's nothing called a quick shower

The well's water Ain't for one's reflections to hover

We show no hesitation to bend the rainbow

For our life to prosper Obstacles and reluctance there's none

Run, keep running The horizon is within your sight

Run, keep running With speed and all your feet's might

Fly, keep soaring as high as an eagle

Leap and flow like a mighty river

Your force should pierce through air

March ahead Let the sound reverberate in all directions

Thorns could prick our feet

As we pick up the pace We don’t care about muck in the way

Let the troops come in We will show them our strength

Impeding obstacles Let’s overcome and run

If I hadn't mentioned my father's name

he might've stopped with a beating

You are to be blamed, Pethappa.

Did I give birth to you?

Why are you blaming me?

It was your suggestion to swim in the well.

We could've gone to the lake instead.

Pethappa, we don't own land.

But, you do.

If you had a well, we wouldn't have had to suffer this humiliation.

What do you say?

It was your antics outside the well that caught his attention.

We could've had a jolly time swimming otherwise.

If it was your well you could do anything.

No one will dare question you then.

I have throbbing pain because of the beating.

I got a beating too.

I didn't weasel my way out like him.

Fine, let's go to the lake from now.

You're more interested in the mango than our problem.

No!

Pethappan's mango looks bigger.

Take it and get lost!

Please wait. Don't go.

–I hope you choke on the seed and die! –Please wait.

Father…I'm going to fetch water from the river.

Okay--

Really! As if you're going to fetch water…

He will follow you as if to help!

And we sit and watch this!

I wonder what kind of husband material he is!

It's such a bore. Love and its nonsense.

It's just typical adolescent behaviour.

These jobless fellows keep peeping.

A bunch of bald-headed men!

Pethappa…bring me some water.

My vision seems blurry.

My arms and legs ache.

If you turn off the TV, you'll be fine.

I fetched four pails of water this morning.

It's all empty now.

Here, take it.

Fetch some water please.

Grandmother…

Grandmother…

Do you want to keep living this Life? Have you given it a thought?

Won't you do anything for me?

You've lived your life.

So nothing matters anymore.

Shouldn't I live my life now?

Live your life. Who stopped you?

Dig a well for me then.

He starts nagging--

There will be a drought and our fields will be ruined. Wait and watch!

You'll regret it then…

that you didn't dig a well.

Even villagers who don't own lands, have their wells.

While we don't even have an irrigation channel in our land.

Keep depending on the rains, old lady.

And then forever we'll only drink the water that people use to wash themselves.

Keep some distance while you sit.

Just in case it splatters.

I have an upset stomach from eating mangoes.

Even breathing seems hard.

This is unbearable.

I feel the same way.

What a relief…

Saibol, how about you?

It is unbearable.

He would have eaten the mango and the seed.

Here, take it.

Hey, be careful while you throw the line.

Saibol is out there.

What if something else gets caught in the hook!

It doesn't matter. I'm fine with anything edible.

Hey…give that to me.

How about Kondan, 'the castrator's' well? Shall we go there?

Hey!

He catches those who come to his well and castrates them.

That's why he's called Kondan, 'the castrator'.

Were you thinking he was castrating goats?

If we go anywhere near his well we will be dealt with.

How about the President's well?

We have to forego the food we've been getting.

Keep quiet.

How about uncle Govindan's well?

That won't work out.

My grandmother has already warned him.

Your uncle is the only one who owns four wells out here.

I have an idea.

What is it?

Go on.

Let us ask your uncle Govindan…

for workers to dig a well…

and get it dug in your land.

You went to wash up. Didn't you?

How do you come up with such ideas?

–Let go of me. Don't mess with my saree. –Please come, grandmother.

–Let go of me. –I want to tell you something, grandmother.

Let go of me. I'll come. Where are you taking me?

Please come, grandmother.

–Where are you dragging me to? Tell me. –I'll tell you, grandmother.

–Why are you dragging me like this? –Please come, grandmother.

You better tell me now. C'mon, speak up.

Uncle Govindan had an electric shock and has seizures.

–Let's go see him. –Oh, no! I saw him only yesterday.

Get on the bicycle, grandmother. We'll go see him.

I'll keep to my pace. You follow mine.

Keeping to your pace will be like riding in a slow-race.

I'll walk at my pace. You keep up with mine.

The bogeyman is on his way in a train…

Oh, already here!

I'll walk at my pace. You keep up with mine.

You seem fine.

Did you come running? You're out of breath!

I need men for digging a well, uncle.

In whose land?

In our land.

Don't go. I'll jump into the well otherwise.

Shall I?

–Son, don't! –Hey!

–Hey! –Look at how I dive headfirst.

–No, wait. –Shall I?

Hello…Narayana.

I need to dig a well.

Sure, when do you want it done?

Is the commission based on the depth of the well or the total cost?

Is the well for our land?

Why would I ask a commission for my land?

The well is for my aunt's land.

It can be easily done to make the water gush out.

Tell them the cost will depend on the depth of the well.

Propose a deep one then.

Okay, hand the phone.

Hang on.

–Take it. –Okay.

Tell him the details.

Hello…

I am Narayanan, the well digger--

Place the device on your ear.

How deep a well do you need?

Have you checked the groundwater movement?

How did you convince her to come here?

Just like that!

She's my grandmother. Of course she'll listen to me.

So, her life is in your hands.

I don't care.

I want a well. That's it.

Have you checked the groundwater movement?

Have you checked the groundwater movement?

What are you saying?

Hello…hello…can you hear me?

Oh, God!

Was that my phone?

Yes, it's mine.

I have nothing to do with that old woman, uncle.

Hey, you!

You were my darling. My only daughter.

You were washed away by water.

Tragedy befell the family and we were cursed.

Water became a death trap for us.

How do I keep him away from water?

Where is this boy?

Hey, you!

Hey, boy! Where have you gone?

Hey…Pethappa.

Where have you gone?

Pethappa…

Where are you, dear?

Pethappa…

O, Goddess. Please protect us.

Where did this boy disappear?

Pethappa…are you here?

Where did you go?

Where would one go at this time of the day?

I had to relieve myself. So I went up to our fields.

It took you so long to just wash up?

As if the lake is right next door…

to return in a jiffy!

You could have let me know.

I just went to wash up. Why would I tell you?

Why are you asking?

Hey…

C'mon…

As if you pooped from your head!

How can you speak such things while I am eating?

How can one continue to eat?

Water can be a cause of danger for you.

What if something untoward happens. Stay away from water.

After what happened to your mother we're a little weary of water.

Please try and understand.

My darling…

My dear… please wait.

Hey…

Pethappa…

Pethappa… please eat.

Please eat, dear.

Please eat.

Where did the food go?

Who would have eaten it?

Where did the food go?

O Mother…

Why did you do it?

My grandson is at fault.

I am helpless.

I didn't play along.

O Mother… Why did you eat the leftovers?

The whole family is cursed now.

In the upcoming festival I'll make a votive offering of cooked rice and…

a sacrificial rooster.

O Mother, please forgive us.

Please forgive us.

Please forgive us.

Hey… I found it.

I found it.

None of you believed me. Come here.

Take a look.

Come here.

Won't you believe me?

–Let go of my hand. –Come, take a look.

–Hey… –I found it.

Hey…

–Take a look. –What is it?

Really!

Annoying!

Take a look. I told you so. Didn't I?

I found it.

Hey…ensure the tyre pressure is full.

This will do for you !

Where is he?

Did he leave already?

Hey… I have to pay.

Have I ever taken money for fixing a puncture?

Pethappan hasn't come to fish. Rather looks like he's holding the water in place.

Hey, Pethappan…

Even the fish have figured out that you're Rasammal's grandson.

No wonder they're acting cheeky.

He's been eyeing our fishing line.

I don't think the fish will take his bait as long as his grandmother is around.

Salidappa, throw the dry twig into the fire.

Pethappa, don't worry. You can have my fish.

His grandmother is the reason he couldn't bait a fish.

Why not kill your grandmother?

I was kidding. Just wanted to see your reaction.

Any ideas on how to kill her?

Insecticide poisoning?

There'll be frothing at the mouth.

Pethappan will get caught.

How about electrocuting her with a live wire?

It will give out a burnt smell.

You are right.

Toss it.

It's not burnt.

It must be done.

How about 'Kolinji' juice?

How will a juice work?

Pay attention to what I'm going to tell you.

My grandmother's sibling

ended up a loafer.

He went in search of better work prospects and returned home with a woman.

My father has to thank his lucky stars

because the couple couldn't have children.

With this in mind my father

planned to usurp all the property.

C'mon, go on.

My father and I used to visit them every week.

Finally…

I figured out my father's plan.

He struck down two 'Kolinji' fruits!

Crushed it and made a juice!

My grandmother gulped down the juice.

It just took the time of eating a mango.

What happened then?

Drink it.

Grandmother…

Grandmother…

I'll go to the ration shop today.

Keep the card ready please.

Grandmother…

When did you last ride pillion on the bicycle with grandfather?

Oh, are you feeling shy?

I'm surprised.

I'll remember that.

Grandmother…

Grandmother…

Why do you keep me away from water?

Take the card and go right now to the ration shop.

The four of us… will do it together.

Pethappan and I will be in the front.

Mani and you at the back.

It will be perfect.

Why should I? I'll take the front and you be at the back.

Clever indeed.

Okay, let's do it.

I agree with you. I'll stay in the front. You take the rear.

Perfect!

What are you both discussing? I'm clueless.

Pay attention now.

When Pethappan's grandmother is laid on the funeral bier…

the head will be towards you and the feet towards us.

Which is heavier? The head or the feet?

Pethappan is walking this way.

He's walking at such a fast pace. Maybe his grandmother is dead.

I told you. Didn't I?

Yes, you did.

So, you better go by what I suggested for the funeral bier.

What happened? Is your grandmother dead?

Did my recommendation work?

C'mon, what happened?

His silence makes me think she was dancing after having the meds.

Tell us what the hell happened, Pethappa?

I came prepared for the funeral. Look, I'm wearing my best pair of slippers.

Nothing happened.

What! She didn't die?

She didn't die?

I wanted to gather information. So I took it easy.

She is hiding something from me.

I don't have the heart to kill her.

What should I do now?

Hey…

Work has piled up. Ravi is waiting to hand it all to you.

Hurry up!

–As if a meeting is the need of the hour! –Please wait, brother. I'll come along.

C'mon, let's go.

Hurry up.

Until school reopens

the only place we'll get to eat meat is at the chieftain's house.

Hurry up, boys.

Boys, listen.

If your work is shoddy like last week's…

I'll feed you only the bones.

Even last week you gave us only the leftovers.

I'll break your jaw.

Eat now.

They order us to work right after feeding us.

He ate heartily. But grumbles when he has to work.

Hey, Salidappa…

You mixed the milk porridge and mutton curry. Are you okay?

Yuck, I think he had spinach yesterday. I can see the waste.

If the coconut tilts it indicates the presence of groundwater.

Okay!

So that's how they know where to dig a well or a borewell.

What are they watching?

This is a scam.

A scam?

Why do you say so?

My science teacher showed us this at school.

Then why do the educated still follow this method, Salidappa?

They might not have studied science.

Hey…

Can we just try this once, for my sake?

It's just a coconut.

What are these boys up to?

Hey, Pethappan. All of you come here.

Come here.

Grandmother is calling us.

What is it, grandmother?

Wait, I'll be back.

Why did the old woman call us?

Give it.

UTTERING A CHANT

The coconut is tilting!

Did you see that?

The coconut will tilt when it senses water.

We don't have water to even clean ourselves and you are out there looking for water.

Can I try once--

Get lost! Try it with a vessel of water at your house.

C'mon, do it again.

Pethappa, wait.

Pethappa, wait. Where are you going?

Hey, wait!

Hey, Pethappa…

Please wait.

There is groundwater in your land.

I can't find the smelly shirt. Where is it?

Let's see how much he's got?

My father seems broke and in a state worse than me.

Where are you going?

To earn wages for you!

Loafer!

Hey, Pethappa. Please wait.

Hurry up.

Sit.

Let's go.

Hurry up.

You go first.

There seem to be no customer around!

Is everyone flying these days?

Let's see.

Do you need a puncture fixed?

Wait, let's eat some fritters.

Okay. Let's go.

Let's go.

Park near the shop.

Pethappa, lock the bicycle.

Can I have a fritter please?

Here…

It's such a tiny piece!

Really?

Have some.

I'll tell you.

The bicycle?

I'll tell you.

Wait.

They'll be giving tickets now. Hurry up.

Hey, Rasamma!

Why are you walking down the thorny path?

Why aren't you using the bicycle?

Hey…

Wait, you old woman.

Hey, old woman!

I've been shouting at the top of my voice…

and you pay no notice.

Balaji said he'll pick me up. But he didn't turn up.

So I'm going by myself.

Step aside. Who's next?

–How many tickets? –Three, please.

Take it.

Where are they?

–Will there be bedbugs inside? –No.

Have you found it?

Not yet.

Did you see?

Did you mean him?

Get down.

Careful.

Hold it.

I'll ask your son to drop me at home. You can leave now.

We could have bought spicy puffed rice.

Yes, it was tasteless.

That's because you always have a cold.

Keep quiet.

Let's go.

You are unable to

sit in one place and chew the cud.

You are roaming the streets shamelessly.

And the looks she gives!

Like she could gulp down all the water meant for the fields.

You keep eating and filling your stomach.

But you give less milk.

Who will take care of the calf after you?

How about writing off 50 cents of land?

Look at how he jumped.

Can you?

If I had a horse I would too.

Doesn't the villain look like Kuttakunju's father?

Yes!

Saibol, did you like the--

You dare park your bicycles in my space!

Suffer!

Hey…is the tyre punctured?

A flat tyre?

Check yours.

Mine is punctured too.

How come?

I don't know how this happened.

Okay, let's go.

Let's go.

Fold the stand.

Do we have to walk now?

Let's try filling air.

Hello, mother.

You threw away my phone the other day. Wasn't that enough?

I had to walk into so many shops to repair the phone.

I could have walked up seven hills instead to pray to the deity.

The idiot in the shop tells me to put the phone in rice.

Is my grandson visiting you often?

No, why are you asking?

I don't know. But, I've been having bad dreams lately.

Bad dreams?

Why? Did something happen?

He's gone crazy about digging a well.

You have to change his mind.

Mother…he is at an age where he won't listen to anyone.

We wouldn't know what movie he is watching at a theatre right now.

I see nothing wrong in his demand.

Why won't you support him?

How can I? Why don't you understand?

I agree.

Tell me what to do.

Somehow divert his mind. You'll be blessed.

Okay…I'll see to it.

Got it?

Don't take it to heart.

You will not have peace of mind then.

Got it?

Wait…

Look at me.

I'll make sure your grandson stays away from water.

Do you get it?

Just drop this subject.

Do you understand?

Go.

Just forget it.

Forget it.

Yes, I have.

Forget it.

Can we go to the well?

Why? Weren't those beatings enough?

Do you want more beatings?

I can't join you henceforth.

He met my father straightaway and complained.

If we want to play in a well, it either has to be the one with crystal clear water…

Or…

It has to be the one which will be dug in your lands.

The well with crystal clear water has water snakes now.

Hey…

Is the tyre punctured?

I don't think it's a puncture, brother.

I think there is an air leak. Can you please inflate the tyre?

I only fix punctures.

I don't inflate tyres--

It's a puncture, brother. Please fix it.

We don't have even a paisa in hand. Let's go.

You shut up!

Please fix the puncture, brother.

How do we pay if he demands?

I know him well. I'll manage.

Careful--

The stand doesn't support, is it?

Try again.

Sit down, Pethappa.

You are going to squash the pump, brother.

What?

There's no puncture.

So, the air has leaked.

There is no puncture.

Please check again, brother. I'm sure it is punctured.

Try again, brother.

Pethappa, do you have a safety pin?

Why do you need a safety pin?

Do you have money?

–No. –Then, give me the pin.

How many times do I try!

I don't see a puncture.

Pass it on. I'll do it.

I found it.

I found it.

I'll keep finding more.

I found it.

I found it.

Hey…he is crying.

What happened now? Why are you crying?

He was about 10 years old.

A dusky complexion…

His name was Balaji.

I went around looking for him.

But, nobody knew.

Like the wind he used to freely roam around.

But today…

I live in the memories he has left behind.

He was at an age when one would want to spread their wings.

So, I let him be.

Nine of them went.

They had a good time.

But, only eight of them returned.

My son was missing.

I searched high and low for him.

Do you want to know what everyone said to console me?

They said "your son will definitely come back".

But my son…

could be patient just for two days.

He came up.

That day…

Two out of the eight…

If you come out you'll get us into trouble…

so you remain inside.

They tied a rock around him and sunk him down the water.

My son who understood my pain…

came up.

But…

He would've thought…

he didn't want to be my son.

He asked me to let him go.

And gave me a pain that I can never let go.

I got a phone call from where I registered a complaint.

When you visit the maternity hospital…

to see the new-born baby there is a feeling of excitement.

That's how I felt at that moment.

But when I reached there…

What is this?

You said you found my son…

But you're showing a 40-year old man.

This is not my son.

Would any father say such a thing?

But, I did.

I said that he wasn't my son.

Do you want to know what the doctor said?

Must be an orphan. Keep the body in the mortuary.

The villagers made up their own stories about my son.

The bicycle my son rode…

the air in the tyre will know…

My son is still alive somewhere.

The air my son breathes…

I feel it everyday.

It tells me he is alive.

We left work halfway. Do you think he'll give the number?

He is more trustworthy than your uncle.

Brother…

Brother… can we have the water diviner's number?

I serve you all piping hot food and

you boys act smart with me.

Go on… Complete the work first.

Then, I'll get the number.

Leave.

Useless fellows…

8…

2…

3…

4…

9…

8…

5…

8…

Hey, Mani.

2…

I won't tell you.

Hey…

Hello.

I am calling from EB Kumar's house.

How much did you charge for locating groundwater movement in the neighbouring land?

Who is speaking?

I'm at the chieftain's house. He gave us your number.

I am calling from brother Ravi's phone.

Ravi?

Is he the one who cleans the dung?

What is it? Tell me.

We want to locate groundwater movement for digging a well.

What will be the cost?

Which village?

Korangu puliyamaram.

Okay… Is it agricultural land?

I have no idea. But when we dig the well, water should gush out.

How much will it cost?

It will cost 1000 rupees.

One thousand rupees!

Tell him that's okay.

Tell him it's okay.

Tell him now.

That's okay, brother.

O Lord, everything should go well.

O Lord.

Keep quiet.

Brother, please carry on.

That spot is where your grandmother relieves herself.

He wouldn't know.

The coconut method is working.

Is he going to hunt birds with that catapult?

Hey…hold him. Give him a hand.

–Brother, did you trip? –Please be careful.

Hey… I didn't fall down.

I slipped on water.

Our first win, Mani.

Let's dig the well right here.

This is the spot, boys.

Dig this spot. Water will gush out…

Your grandson used the water diviner's service and didn't pay.

He got hold of me through Ravi and took the money.

How much was it? I'll pay you back.

I don't want the money.

I know a person. Let's have a talk.

I've given him the details.

Don't go to sleep. Come and join us.

Okay.

You keep saying 'okay'.

Let me ride.

Sit properly.

Do you think it's possible for us to dig a well?

C'mon, it's not essay writing in English for us to study and prepare.

It's just digging a well. Let's do it.

This peepul tree is supposed to be the landmark.

Stop by the eatery. Let's enquire.

Let's go, Pethappa.

Brother… where does the well-digger live?

Go straight…

the road will fork into two…

you'll find a garbage container and the stench of rotting.

Keep following the stench…

Then, take a right turn and keep going.

You'll reach the village of 'shameless people'.

Turn right and keep going round and round…

it will be slushy with overflowing sewerage.

When you look at the far end--

I don't want these eggs. What the hell do you think?

Please buy some eggs.

Brother…

Brother…

Where does Narayanan the well-digger live?

Hey…

Who are you?

Why are you looking for me?

We are from Korangu puliyamaram.

We want to dig a well.

How deep?

It should be deep enough to dive in headfirst.

What?

Deep enough to get water. That's it, brother.

Has the groundwater movement been located?

Oh, yes.

At your place the depth has to be at least 60-feet.

How many of you will come to work?

About four of us.

How many days will you work for?

We have to start digging on a full-moon day.

It will take 15-20 days to complete the work.

Fifteen days!

Will you also build the steps inside, erect the wall--

Yes, we will do everything.

Will you erect the wall high enough for us to dive in?

The mason will do a good job.

How much will that cost?

Why are you asking such questions?

Okay, brother. Goodbye.

Hey… when do you want it done?

I'll let you know after we dig the well. You can come and have some snacks.

We have to dig the well before school reopens, Mani.

There are catfish in my uncle's well.

When it gives birth I'll bring the baby catfish.

Catfish have a macho moustache.

Then how can they give birth?

You are right.

Hey…look there. Kuttakunju is fishing.

Pethappa, that's brother Ravi. Stop the vehicle.

Have you located the groundwater movement?

Oh, yes!

Now, I can dig a well in my land.

You can only dig your nose.

What do you mean?

You can dig a well only if you have land, no?

The old lady and your uncle are on their way to sell the land.

Where, brother?

They are on the way to Pokangadu. Hurry up.

Pethappa, let's go right away!

Are the documents in order?

Yes, we can go ahead.

How many acres?

Twenty cents short of three acres.

The house sits on nine cents of land.

We have road and sewer access.

Sit down.

Is the old lady hard of hearing?

Sit down, mother.

Is the parent title deed with you?

Yes, she has all the documents.

We brought the copies for you to take a look at.

It's agricultural land.

Do you think the neighbouring owners will object?

They will not, sir.

The land owner is right here. Who will dare to stir up trouble?

You will.

People like you who will not keep up their word.

I just wanted to help you. But you speak in this manner.

Come to the point, sir.

Listen…

Six hundred rupees for a feet.

Are you willing to sell or not?

What is he saying?

He said the current rate is three hundred rupees for a feet.

He says he's proposing a good rate.

He says the value will go down with time.

It seems, people are selling and moving out of town.

It seems they are selling their land for rock-bottom prices.

But, he is proposing a good rate for our land.

He just spoke two words. Why did you speak so much?

She's lost her hearing. Yet, she remains focussed.

Okay, you speak.

Please make a good decision.

Mother…

Your grandson's life comes first.

Who crashed in?

Break the old lady's head, Pethappa.

Don't, Pethappa. Listen to us.

They say it's a sin to harm a toothless old lady.

If something untoward happens you will suffer without food.

As if I get to eat a hearty meal now.

Better keep quiet.

Please don't, Pethappa.

Wait.

I've cooked hot rice. Please eat, dear.

Hurry up. Hop on.

What happened?

He broke the pots. Not her head.

Let's go.

Why did he break the pots?

He should have cracked open the old lady's head.

After 24th and 25th…

It's a full-moon day.

One, two, three…

We've got three more days.

We can do the digging.

Grandmother.

Grandmother.

Grandmother.

Grandmother.

How do you know it's being sold at the farmers' market?

I noticed the crowbar shop when I went with my grandfather to buy a basket.

Why should we believe you?

Shall I bring the basket to prove it?

We know you bluff. Swear on your mother.

I swear on my mother I'll bring the basket now.

Hey…

You said you saw the shop. Swear on that.

Swear on your mother again.

I swear on my grandmother.

C'mon, swear now!

Swear on your mother.

I swear on my grandfather.

Wait.

That's enough. You better swear now!

What if the shop is not put up when you go?

So, you don't mind your grandparents dying.

I don't mind.

He's not going to swear on his mother. Salidappa, go ahead and curse him.

The person who is making false promises…

–he, his mother and everybody-- –Please don't.

Will die.

I'll do it now.

I take it back.

C'mon, do it!

I swear on myself…

Oh… that's our Puncture.

Take it.

I felt very sad listening to your story the other day.

Can I have some more?

You haven't found what you've been looking for.

Yet, you seem happy. How is that possible?

Man can bear any pain. Nothing is unbearable.

As long as we don't lose heart we have nothing to lose.

Take it, Pethappa.

As if your uncle Govindan wouldn't have crowbars.

I'm sure he's got plenty.

Why not ask him for one? He wouldn't say no.

Instead, you want to waste money.

There's no need to ask him.

We just have to rough him up a bit. Then he will gladly give it to us.

No way!

He was the one who persuaded your grandmother to sell the land.

There's no point talking to him.

Let me know if you can't do the job.

I'll tell my father and he will get it done.

Really?

Your father will ask for a bottle of alcohol. What do we do then?

As if your father is a man of integrity.

Let's think about how to raise the money.

To buy the bottle of alcohol?

Hey!

No, about buying the crowbar.

Instead, you speak rubbish.

Do you have brains in your head or is it just clay?

Clay!

Clay?

Clay?

Brother…

Is anybody home?

What?

PRAYER FOR LORD GANESHA

Hail Lord Ganesha the Protector.

What is it?

Brother…

We are making an idol for 'Ganesh Chaturthi'.

We are collecting donations.

The festival is three months away.

What is the hurry for an idol now?

Brother…

Like the North Indians we plan to make a big idol this time.

That's why we're collecting donations earlier than usual.

It's an idol of Lord Ganesha sitting on a lion and lifting a mountain in his hand.

Brother…

It's an idol of Lord Ganesha sitting on a mountain and lifting a lion in his hand.

Brother…

The idol is from Bombay.

From Bombay?

Wait here.

Keep it.

This is just two rupees.

What is it? Note down my name.

You better not come near the temple.

You worthless scrap!

Brother…

Brother…

Is anybody home?

Let's catch a bus and go to the farmers' market.

Buy the crowbar.

Dig the well and…

dive headfirst into the well.

I think he will reach by then!

Go on.

Grandfather…

We need money for digging a well.

Sorry!

We are making an idol for 'Ganesh Chaturthi'.

Give us some money.

Is he saying 'yes' or 'no'?

Why is he nodding his head vigorously?

Be loud.

Grandfather…

We are making an idol for 'Ganesh Chaturthi'. It's from Bombay.

Give us some money.

I'll use this money to buy the crowbar, Mani.

We will, Pethappa.

It will be just enough for the bus fare!

Three full tickets and and a half to the farmers' market.

Three full tickets and a half?

Yes.

But there are four of you.

Look, he is so short.

Short?

Looks like the offspring of a vampire!

Where is it?

Can't find the shop we came looking for.

It should be around here.

Let's find it.

Look there.

They have soap holders.

Why don't you buy some okra?

No, sister.

This is the location Kuttakunju gave.

But there is no shop here.

Hey…

Look…

Let's go.

I've got ropes to restrain cattle, nylon ropes…

and all kinds of ropes. Come, take a look.

What do you want?

Brother…

How much is the crowbar?

Do you have money?

As if we will leave without paying?

Pethappa, you pick one.

Hey…

Place it back.

Right now!

Brother…

Please tell us the price.

There are various lengths. Which one do you want?

Please tell us the price, brother.

One hundred rupees for 1-foot.

Wow!

This one must be 1-foot?

Oh, yes! You'll get one slap.

Please tell us the price, brother.

The one you are holding is 5-feet.

The price is five hundred rupees.

Five hundred rupees!

That's a huge amount. What do we do?

We'll come back to buy it. You'll be here, right?

Bring the money first.

Please don't sell it to anybody.

We'll be back.

I have ropes to restrain cattle. Come and buy.

I don't think they'll leave.

It's worth Rs 150.

What? Rs 150?

Brother, it's a new bicycle.

What? A new bicycle?

The tyres have no tread. The brake pad is worn out.

I have to fix it and that is an expense.

Brother, please consider. Take it for a better price.

I can do one thing.

I'll dismantle the cycle and give the parts to you.

Sell it at a scrap yard.

You'll make some extra.

Please don't, brother.

Give us Rs 500. That will do.

Rs 500?

Please consider it, brother. Take it for a better price.

This is Rs 150.

Keep it.

Just Rs 150?

Please consider giving extra, brother.

Here is an extra Rs 10. That's it.

Such a thick–headed fellow!

Oh, no!

Hey…

We've got only Rs 260.

How many ever times you count the amount will be the same.

I only had a bicycle and I've sold that too.

There's nothing left. What do we do now?

Pethappa, you wait here.

The three of us will go home and come back.

Let's go, Mani.

Could it be rat droppings?

Take it, brother.

We bought the crowbar.

What do we do for the spade and head pan?

There are so many fools in our village.

We'll find more like us.

I'll search the house and you try to find something out here.

Be discreet.

Don't be seen.

Saibol, you check inside the house.

Yes, I forgot.

Saibol, I found one. Let's go.

Wait…

Hey…who are you?

What are you up to?

Aren't you Manikam's son?

You're a thief just like your father.

Look here.

Your father is the reason for this scar.

Get lost!

Run away, Saibol.

Of course I am Manikam's son.

Stop.

Don't make any noise.

Lord Jesus, we admit to wrongdoings.

Nothing should go wrong now. Please protect us--

Hey… look for something that'll be of use to dig the well.

Something that we can carry.

Instead, you talk to Lord Jesus--

Who is there?

Let's hide.

Who is it?

Who is it?

In the name of Lord Jesus I command you…

Protect me from the evil spirits lurking here.

The Satan who is hiding here…

My Christ knows your hiding place.

Come… kneel down.

You better come out.

Will you not come out?

So, you won't come out?

Wait and watch. You'll come out now.

Come…

Come, kneel down before the Cross.

In the name of the Father and Son…

Amen.

Amen.

Salidappa, run. Don't get caught.

Hey, let go.

Pethappa…

Where are you? I last saw you lying in bed.

Where have you gone?

The door is locked.

He's locked the door. Where has he gone?

Pethappa…

Hey, Pethappa.

Pethappa…

Open the door.

Where have you gone Pethappa?

Pethappa…

Boys, please don't do it. Listen to me.

Hurry up.

We have to dig deep.

C'mon, Saibol.

I don't know why they want to do this?

He doesn't listen.

Please open the door, boys.

Please don't do it, Pethappa.

Please don't…

Pethappa… please stop.

Please listen to me, Pethappa…

Please don't…

Pethappa…

That's it. I'm done.

Me too.

Fetch some water.

Hurry up.

Get it.

Oh, no!

Boys…

Stop…

Boys…

Stop…

Instead of digging that spot we've been digging here.

What are you saying?

My grandmother made a fool of us.

Let's close this one.

Give the crowbar.

Your grandmother took her revenge on us.

Salidappa, I don't care whether we can dive in headfirst.

We will dig a large well to avenge her.

Yes, I agree with Mani. Fetch some water please.

Grandmother.

Grandmother.

Grandmother.

Wake up.

Boys…

Come here.

Mani…

Is he crying because we dug the wrong spot or

because his grandmother died?

Even I don't know.

Why don't we quietly bury her in the hole we dug?

Mani is right.

Right from the beginning he's been telling us to kill her.

If I tell you to eat shit, will you?

Will you? Tell me.

Stop it, Mani.

Why don't you tell Salidappa to eat? He definitely will.

Why put the blame on me?

Don't bring me into this. Both of you go to hell.

In anticipation of her funeral

you were the one who wore a pair of new slippers.

I know you stole the new pair.

Pethappan knows who stole it. Why don't you ask him?

Let me go, I'll ask him

Shall we inform the villagers? I am scared.

No, they'll hold us responsible for her death.

Saibol himself will accuse me of killing her.

But we didn't kill her.

Uncle Govindan will tell the whole village that we killed her.

He knows that Pethappan and his grandmother don't get along.

Yes, Mani is right.

I'll break your jaw.

I really mean it.

They'll say we plotted to dig a well…

and plotted to kill her as well.

Uncle Govindan will spread this rumour around the village.

Shall I cover up the hole then?

No need.

She's my grandmother and I know what to do.

Just do as I say.

Looks like she's just a bag of bones.

But she weighs a ton!

Pethappa, lift it up.

Wait.

Pethappa, hurry up.

Pethappa, run away.

What's happening?

Pethappa, run away.

Saibol, run.

Grandmother.

Balaji…

I found him.

I found him.

I found him.