Original subtitles

A small house on a big field.

Not a soul in sight.

Just him and I.

To laugh as loud as we want with nobody to hear us.

Or, a blanket fort on an infinite, endless terrace.

Or it's the tarpaulin tent that the neighbour's watchman makes when it rains...

where him, his wife and their little girl would cosily cuddle and sleep.

A place like that.

[tuition kids reciting tables]

Sometimes, it's the field...

sometimes, the terrace...

and other times, it's the tent.

Sometimes with Sidharth.

Sometimes, with Deepthi's brother Deepak.

Sweet, sweet, Deepak.

Other times, it's Prabhu Deva.

The home in my dreams keeps changing.

The boy in my dreams keeps changing.

The stuff we do in my dreams keeps changing.

But everytime I wake up, it's the same question in my head.

"What is wrong with me?"

♪ I've got a new perspective I've got a new playlist ♪

♪ My walk is new, my shoes are new ♪

♪ If I tell them it'll cause a scandal Gossip spreads like wildfire ♪

♪ Why, oh, why did I ever grow up? ♪

♪ Got a thousand prying eyes on me Got a secret I'm telling nobody♪

Deepthi!

Hurry up! I'm hungry.

How much did you score?

Sixteen. - 16 out of 100!

You walk like a boy, you talk like a boy, and you've failed like a boy.

Ramya, why are you dancing?

You failed in Maths, Physics, and Chemistry!

You should be in remedial classes. No dancing this year.

Filthy girl, are you on your period?

She's incorrigible.

Your daughter refuses to seclude herself when she's on her period!

Can't you stay out on the porch like your mother?

Don't enter the kitchen!

Don't touch that. It's an offering to the Gods.

Oh, no! Will the food spoil now that I've touched it?

Help me! God took my sight away.

Don't touch me or I'll have to shower again.

Brat!

Eww, don't touch me. Now you're tainted.

Appa's home.

You only scored 97%, you abject disappointment!

Miss, you should get her interested in mathematics.

She's a smart child. Her progress is in your hands.

I can't believe she rejected me.

I can't take this. I want to die!

Come on, Sidhu. It's okay.

I'm here for you.

Sindhu, I'll tell you a secret. But you cannot tell anyone. Okay?

You absolutely cannot tell R. Ramya.

The prayer boy Siddhu was upset that she rejected him...

...and I felt bad for him.

Look, the despo is here. Sit closer, girls.

She stole your leftovers and now she wants to eat with us?

She's a slut, dude.

So Varun and Srinidhi told their parents that they're dating.

They all met at a mall in Hong Kong.

Woah! Hong Kong?

Yup. Varun's family had gone there on vacation.

Srinidhi's father works there, no?

She'd posted photos on Orkut.

Looked bloody cool! - Sounds great.

My holidays began and ended at the neighbourhood temple.

You wish to be like them too?

They can afford to buy admission in private engineering colleges...

Don't be such a prude, Pooja.

Unlike you, Rammi and I aren't goody-two-shoes.

What say, Rammi?

Don't look...

12'o clock, third bench, new student.

Do we know him?

I said, "don't look"!

He's shifted from St. John's School. He was in our maths tuition too.

His name is Nalan.

Arrogant prick. Doesn't talk to anybody.

He's cute.

Eww! Cute?

You have the weirdest taste.

I like his veiny arms.

Veiny arms? The things you notice, Rammi!

Your Bengali boy had veiny arms too? - Shush!

Who Bengali boy?

She never tells us anything. - It's not like that!

A Bengali boy asked her out during summer holidays.

He even gifted her a book.

I told him I need to focus on my studies. - That doesn't sound like you.

Rammi! Your Amma.

Salutations to the Teacher.

You forgot your lunch again!

Come on, Ramya.

Sorry, Ma.

Come and collect it from the staff room during the lunch break.

If you forget next time, you'll go without lunch.

Okay, Miss.

Salutations to the Teacher!

Tell your parents to come and meet the Principal and collect your cellphone.

Did she snitch?

It's only his first day, Ramya!

What are these parents thinking?

They let their kids carry phones to school!

I'd never let my daughter bring her phone.

Our students are well-behaved.

These new kids from fancy schools are the bad influence.

Notorious! I just don't know how to handle them.

They have no fear. Not like our times...

♪ A pretty house with a porch A little nest of our own ♪

♪ Can we live together, forever? ♪

♪ We could snuggle up and sleep Or even laugh and howl and scream ♪

♪ The shade under our mango tree On summer days, our sanctuary ♪

♪ Can we clasp hands--? ♪

♪ Can we clasp hands and stare at the sky? ♪

♪ We could hold each other and cry Live and breathe as one till we die ♪

What the... Ramya!

You won't play and you won't let others play.

What happened?

She keeps unhooking my bra, man!

What now? Periods again?

Thursday Thursday PT period means Thursday Thursday you are perioding. Go!

Sitting under the tree shade instead of laughing and playing!

♪ What more could I possibly need? ♪

♪ If I did, wouldn't that be greed? ♪

♪ All it seeks is unconditional love My warring heart will call for ceasefire ♪

♪ Night after night, I see your face in my dreams Day after day, I want to wake up to it ♪

Rammi, do you have water? I'm out.

What a hot day...

When did you come to class?

Just before the bell rang.

My grandkid is home.

Hi, Granny!

Come in for dosas? - No, we're running late for tuition.

Bye, girls! - Bye.

Go freshen up.

Hi. It's me.

I am Nalan, the new student.

Nalan who?

You there?

Thanks for getting my phone back to me.

You are welcome.

Okay, take care...

I keep bruising my right knee over and over again.

Amma says that's just how some wounds are.

Your mother glared at me today.

She doesn't suspect you over my missing phone, no?

I can't click on the link. Granny is around.

Wish I had a room of my own.

When my father died, my mother and brother cried a lot.

But somehow I just couldn't cry.

He's brought rasagullas!

Rakshana B. - Present, miss.

Rakesh Rao. - Present, miss.

Ramya S. - Absent, miss.

Want some Milo? - No, Granny.

Why didn't you come to school? - I have a bad cold.

Granny says it's because I drank coconut water after sunset.

Hey, if you don't mind, can I tell you something?

Sure, what's up?

Cat got your tongue?

I love you.

♪ You and I We fly into the sky ♪

♪ High, high, high Into the sky ♪

♪ Like a pair of birds in love We soar across the sky ♪

♪ Beyond our pain and inhibitions ♪

Hey, R U Der?

When will the power return? My daughter has an exam tomorrow.

What?

Another three hours before they restore power.

Sit on the porch and study.

Hai. Dis is Ramya. Dis is my cel num.

Nw v cn talk even whn Im nt online.

♪ My love, let's fly away to our secret place ♪

Your skin is so soft.

I shaved my hands for the first time. For you.

Do you watch porn?

When did you get your first period?

What shampoo do you use? Smells amazing.

I went as far as third base with my ex. You?

I want to live in a cute little home with you.

I'm going crazy here without you.

Yeah? What would you do if we were together now?

All night, I long for dawn so I can come see you in school.

Rammi!

Always on your phone.

Break's over.

Study for your test.

What's gotten into her?

Always on her bloody phone...

Why is your name not marked?

You're not coming for the excursion?

I'm not going if you're not going.

I'm never talking to you if you're not going.

Come?

Please?

Please?

Please?

Ma'am... Ma'am!

Ma'am, excursion fees. - Nalan Thanigachalam, right?

Yes, Ma'am.

Finally, I will get to see you wearing colour.

Finally, we'll get to be alone.

Going to the loo?

Come, let's all go.

They are your friends afterall. You could just tell them.

This school is not like your previous school.

You won't get it.

Fine. Whatever.

Such huge mountains, such a big town, such a vast forest.

And yet there's nowhere for us to be together.

Forget about everyone else.

Imagine it's just you and me.

Just you and me?

Just you and me.

Rammi, what song begins with 'La'?

Stop gawking. Say something.

Song starting with 'La'?

Girls, this way.

Boys, follow me.

They're putting boys and girls in different hotels?

I came here just for you.

I'll make it happen.

Don't you trust me?

What happened? Where did you go?

Nothing...

I just miss you.

Tonight, we will be together.

Yeah, you keep saying that.

Just trust me, no?

['Injarango' from Thenali playing]

Where are you going?

Periods, sir.

My feet have become numb from the cold.

I need to wear socks to bed.

Deepthi wears such fancy coloured bras.

My sister got them from Bombay.

My mum only lets us wear neutral shades.

For what joy do you need coloured ones? Who's going to see it?

Coast is clear.

♪ You and I We fly into the sky ♪

♪ High, high, high Into the sky ♪

♪ Like a pair of birds in love We soar across the sky ♪

♪ Beyond pain, beyond shame We go high, high, oh so high ♪

♪ Breaking free from shackles We go higher and higher ♪

♪ Free from our defects Even higher and higher ♪

♪ Away from prying gazes, my love Let's fly away to our secret place ♪

Told you I'd build us a home.

Howzat!

[cricket commentary on TV]

Switch to Sun Music.

['Unnodu Vaazhadha' from Amarkalam playing]

I love this song.

Let's move the TV over there? - Okay.

Or...

Actually, no. Let it be here.

Floral curtains here. - Okay, done.

Movie posters there.

We should get a popcorn machine and watch movies.

Whatever you want.

I'm hungry.

Feels so right, no?

How could this be bad?

Why do they say this is bad?

I've wondered the same thing, ever since I was a kid.

Before I go to bed at night...

...plays in my head like a movie.

You and me.

The stuff we'd do.

The way it'd feel.

The first time I had 'that' dream, I told my tuition friends.

They spread nasty rumours and mocked me endlessly.

Is it just me?

Is something wrong with me?

No.

I think everyone has such dreams.

In our home anyway, it's not just you.

You'll never feel out of place here.

Oh, shit.

Have they found out?

If they've found out...

I guess we don't have to hide anymore?

This is so wrong! He is a bad guy.

Don't you know why he got kicked out of his previous school?

He is a drug addict!

He got caught with pot. That's all.

It's not a drug. Don't overreact, Pooja.

So you're going to eat pot with him?

What do you care?

Guys! Please stop fighting.

Yeah, Pooja! Just let her be...

Are you coming or not?

I swear I'll tell Amma!

She is such a pain!

Go on, I'll see you in a bit.

Hey, are you okay?

Screw them! You are all I need.

Won't you do this for me?

Please, Granny.

Just meet him once.

I know you'll like him.

He's a really nice guy.

Please, Granny.

You won't even look at me?

What happened, Ma? Why is Jamuna crying?

Grown up stuff. Stay out of it.

Get in there! - But why is she crying?

Is she okay?

Go to the back porch and wash up.

Ramya! Don't come out till she leaves. Understood?

You can't talk to her.

And don't ask your aunt or Janani anything. Okay?

Granny?

What happened?

Granny, what happened?

She had the audacity to set foot into this house...

and tell me she'll only marry that nobody?

Ever since your great-grandfather's times...

the holy procession has halted outside our home to bless us.

The Gods won't stop by to bless us anymore?

Be good, and don't bring dishonour upon our family, sweetheart.

Does your family eat eggs?

I'll fight for us. I'll never give up on you.

Hi...

Deepthi! You come here.

Oh, shit!

Oh, no. It's 'Psycho' Sundari. -Shameless girl!

Is this a school or a motel? Come here!

Call up your mother.

Please, Miss...

You come to school to study or what?

Your parents trust you so much...

and spend so much money on your education.

Srividya, 11-'C'

And Sai Tarun, what class?

[inaudible muttering]

Huh? - 12-'A'

12th Standard!

Your public exams are coming up in three months.

Call their parents immediately.

Tell them to come and collect their expulsion letters.

Please, Miss.

I only kissed him.

But S. Ramya and Nalan did it in the excursion.

What kind of disgusting language is this?

Yes, Miss. The entire school knows.

She also did first base with Sidharth in 9th standard.

You know, that prayer boy.

Sidharth proposed to R. Ramya but S. Ramya went and kissed him.

Excuse me, Miss. - Yes?

Ramya is needed in the Principal's Room.

Which Ramya, sir?

S. Ramya.

Sundari Miss' Daughter.

Come with your bag.

Ma, what are you doing?

Ma, you have no right to--

Excuse me, Miss.

Nalan is wanted in the Principal's room.

With his bag.

The Principal wants all students to wait in the corridor...

while their bags are checked for cell phones.

Where did you get this filthy thing?

What happened, Sundari?

She failed all her core subjects.

No more cellphone. No more cable TV.

No more internet.

She will go to school and return with me.

I trusted her and spoilt her rotten, thinking she was just a child.

Now she will study and do nothing else.

Ma, you're overreacting.

Nothing's happened. Just let me be.

Great. So I can't watch my TV shows?

♪ Wading through this thorny desert I sought shelter ♪

♪ The springwell was a mirage I thirst without respite ♪

♪ Thorns and stones tore my skin I ran and I ran ♪

♪ Bleeding a river, I faltered... ♪

♪ Finally, a silver lining in the dark clouds How I rejoiced ♪

♪ Alas! A windstorm blew my dream-cloud away ♪

♪ Useless god, where's my damned dawn? ♪

♪ Never believing in you again Scram now ♪

♪ Is this your idea of mercy? This bloody hellhole? ♪

♪ Am I a joke to you? Answer me now ♪

Hey, I'm just going to the restroom. Meet me there in five--

RAMYA!

Come and sit in the first row.

You switch seats with her.

Don't keep your mother waiting or she'll get suspicious.

Go now. I'll pass on the message to him.

Ramya!

♪ Home, you were a haven once Why'd you become my prison? ♪

♪ Burning all my bridges I'm leaving for good ♪

Nalan, stop fooling around. Give me the bag. - Brother, don't touch me!

I can't take this. My chest hurts. Please stop him!

You're always blackmailing me saying that. Not this again, Ma.

This ingrate doesn't care that his mother's chest hurts!

You're not going anywhere. I already called up her mother.

Ma, are you serious?

Have I ever asked you for anything? Have I?

I don't even scold you for failing, or for being a useless child.

I toil all around the country to give you a good education.

No tuition today. I'll let you know about next class.

What's with all the yelling?

Same old. Her father is unhappy with her grades.

Nothing else.

Stupid girl. Can't you be normal?

Good evening, Miss.

No tuition today.

My mother will pick me up after work. - Fine, come.

You will not set foot outside the house unchaperoned.

You dare to glare at me? I'll slap you!

No! That's enough... enough!

Don't hit a girl child. You could cause serious harm.

"Enough?"

What's enough?

Nothing was ever enough for you.

You gave birth to a girl child...

Wasn't enough for you to stay home and raise her.

You just had to doll up everyday and strut to school.

After work, you only had time for these tuition kids.

Now your daughter's life is ruined.

Get me a glass of water.

You knew everything all along but kept quiet.

Some mother you are.

Amma must be so confused.

"How can they disrespect someone as pure and chaste as me?"

Any sane person in this situation would think...

"Okay, maybe I got some things wrong."

"Maybe I should just let my daughter do her thing."

But Amma being Amma...

I spoke to the boy's mother.

The things she said!

You seduced him, she said.

And I enabled you, she said.

They've sent him to Singapore to study.

Unlike them, we don't have the means to send you to a school abroad.

We just about managed to get you this admission in middle of a school year.

Everything we do, we do for you.

So you can study well and lead a happy life.

Let this go, Rammi.

Do well in your public exams.

Focus on engineering college entrance exams.

If you get into a good engineering college...

and do your masters in a foreign university...

you can settle abroad like all your older cousins.

There, you can live free.

Financial stability is everything to people like us, no?

Over there, no one will forbid you from wearing shorts...

or ask you to cover up, or judge you for not being traditional.

That's the life I want for you too.

Forget about that boy now.

This is no age to be in love.

While you still live under our roof, you must obey us, and be a good girl.

It's a new school. A new beginning. Stay positive.

All the best, little one.

For once in my life, I felt actual happiness.

You just had to take that away from me.

You can take me to your temples and perform your voodoo.

But I won't change. This is who I am.

I must obey you while I live under your roof?

After school, I'm leaving.

I won't live in your house. I will stay in hostel.

I will do as I like, and deliberately do the things you dislike.

Force me to obey, force me to play by your rules...

and I'll commit suicide.

Stop!

Arjun! No, no, no...

It hurts...

You were in my dream.

Well, it was you...

but not your face. Nor your body.

How did you know it was me then?

Felt like you.

I was a bird, or a fish of some kind. I can't remember...

You had me cut open and tattooed your name to my heart.

I tried to scream, but I couldn't.

All I could do was laugh.

You thought I was enjoying it, and just wouldn't stop.

I was hungry too.

What do you think it means?

Why do you always have such weird dreams?

So this is the last time, huh?

You and me. Here in this hostel.

Until the very end, you didn't hang curtains to let me sleep in peace.

There. Problem solved.

Arjun, stop.

Arjun, stop! That tickles.

Arjun...

Arjun... I'm so scared.

Why?

Don't leave me alone here. What will I do without you?

Ramya, don't cry.

I'm coming back for my graduation ceremony.

My parents will be there too. You wanted to meet them, right?

Come on! Give me a smile.

Arjun, open up man!

Let me into my room at least on the last day. I need to pack!

Stupid Jithin!

Great timing, dude.

Open up, man!

Coming...

Find a new roomie in Hyderabad if this is how you're going to behave.

[Arjun sings] No no no. Don't say that...

Don't say that, my friend. Don't say that Jithin...

You write songs about everything under the Sun but me.

That's 'cause you're my Sun and my moon and my stars, baby.

Every song I write, I write for you.

About you.

You get what I mean?

He is so romantic, isn't he?

Hi, Jithin. - Hi, Ramya.

Happy packing.

Arjun. My senior by two years.

He's the most popular guy in college.

And I, the luckiest girl in college.

It's his last day in the campus. I'm going to see him off at the airport.

What, Ramya? Goodbye sex, huh?

I have a big surprise planned for him.

Cream rolls from the bakery where we had our first date.

Vintage editions of his favourite sports magazines.

Where is the first stop? - The bookstore.

And for each of the 126 days we were going to be away from each other...

Here are your cigarettes. - Thanks, brother. You're the best!

So, when are you getting married?

I've been ready forever. You should try and convince him.

Why does he need convincing?

You are such a darling. Only a fool would turn you down.

Don't you agree, Selvi?

That he's a fool? Yup. - Selvi!

You're always taking his case.

Yeah, buddy. I'm gonna miss you too. Take care, my man.

Now it's all on you, Ritvik!

I'll really miss you guys.

Let's all take a picture.

A photo, buddy?

Of course, we must do one. Mals, Mithra, come...

The Thespians! Yeah!

Ramya, come take a picture with us.

Why? Come, dude...

Let her be.

I love you guys.

Ramya has transport back?

There's five of us already. She'll figure it out, man.

I'll go bring the car around.

Here you go, Arjun.

I got these for you.

What's all this?

All your favourite things.

But then you're not in here. My favourite thing.

Get a room, guys!

Alright, I'll see you.

['Country Girl' by Panatella playing on laptop speakers]

Tell me, Ma.

Yes, I've eaten.

Ma, if it's not urgent, I'll call back later?

You're boring me.

Alright. Put her on.

Hi Granny!

Okay...

Oh, Granny. This is Ramya.

Not Janani! I'm Ramya.

It's Ramya, Granny!

I'm in college now, not school.

College, Granny. College!

Fine, Granny.

Yes. I'll go to school on time.

Fine. I'll be good.

Okay, Granny. Bye.

Has Arjun landed yet? - Not yet. Mom called.

How has he not landed yet? It's a short flight.

Thank you.

Arjun's accommodation is so cool.

He Skype-called Ritvik during rehearsal. His balcony has a great view.

Did Arjun call you?

Yeah, man.

I mean, he didn't call me but I heard his internship is starting today.

Is everything okay?

No, there's an issue with my phone.

Give me his Hyderabad number.

What? You don't have his new number?

Here, you go. 9-88-44...

What the hell, Arjun?

What do you mean, "what happened"?

It's been four days since you left, and not one call from you.

I've been worried sick.

Oh! I "should have called". Why didn't I think of that?

BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE YOUR NEW NUMBER!

Shut up.

You're such an idiot.

Hey, Arjun...

You never said if you liked my gifts.

On the flight?

Arjun, are you being serious right now?

Sel...

You know those gifts I put together?

He left it on the plane.

I gave him a good yelling.

Fine, I do admit...

I was a bit rude.

But he says I'm always overreacting.

I don't know why, I'm just not able to control my temper.

You know it cost a lot, right?

My lab fees for the whole semester.

But it's not even about money.

Am I overreacting?

Do you love me?

No, I need you to answer the question.

If you don't love me, why am I wasting my time?

'No' is your answer?

Fine.

Arjun, please don't say that.

Arjun, I'm sorry.

Hello...

Why are you always sad, Rammi? You have no idea what you're worth.

Are they right about him?

Does he not love me? Is that why he treats me this way?

How can I go from dreaming of a lifetime with him, to acting like nothing happened?

No.

Nobody gets it.

This is something else.

We are something else.

We'll be good.

Rammi, I'm off. I'll see you in the evening, okay?

Bye.

['Mindstreet' by Motherjane playing on headphones]

Screw him! I don't need him.

Rammi, where were you last night?

Oh, I was just talking to Arjun. I lost track of time.

You guys are talking again?

I thought you said he broke up with you?

When did I say that?

What? But you said--

Serious relationships come with problems, Selvi.

You wouldn't know.

What is wrong with me?

Don't forget this.

This time, don't take him back.

Here, eat.

You skipped dinner again.

Not hungry.

You've gone mad.

Akshu asked if you had a painkiller for her period cramps.

Rammi. Rammi!

Are you okay?

It's all over.

I ruined everything.

It's over.

He blocked my number.

He was my soulmate.

Sel, can I use your phone?

I just need to explain myself to him.

If I speak to him, everything will be fine.

None of you noticed that she hadn't eaten in days.

She's severely dehydrated.

I've put her on IV for now. That's the best I can do.

More than a general physician, she needs a psychiatrist.

I can recommend a colleague.

She needs help.

Arjun?

Hi. This is Ramya's roommate, Selvi.

No, no, no. She didn't ask me to call you.

Arjun, I just thought you should know she's in the hospital.

I just said she's in the hospital!

Listen, loser...

She's deluded herself into believing that you're something.

Did you buy it too?

Oh, shut the hell up!

Oh my god, you're so funny.

Thank you.

I'll just wait outside.

Arjun, I promise.

Okay, I'll be a good girl.

I'll eat.

Did the pharmacy guy deliver adult diapers?

Okay...

The doctor said there's no reason to worry.

Just dehydration and fatigue from exam pressure.

Nothing else.

We'll try to bring her home tonight.

Yeah, that's true.

Oh, right on time. She's up!

It's your aunt. Talk to her.

Why won't you talk?

Put the phone down. - What's wrong?

I'll just call back. She wants to use the bathroom.

Are you out of your mind?

What now?

Did 'I' starve myself and get admitted to a hospital?

Am 'I' the one out of my mind?

What the--

Why would you tell the whole world?

Why did you call Auntie now?

Look, I didn't tell anyone anything.

I told her the exam pressure got to you and that we're seeing a psychiatrist.

How can you talk about me to others without my consent?

This is precisely why I left your shitty house.

You've come after me just to ruin my life.

Your warden called me in the dead of night saying it's a medical emergency.

I dropped everything to attend to you.

Your sick, ailing Granny is back home.

Appa had to catch a flight from Vijayawada and rush here.

Auntie is watching Granny while I'm here.

What was I supposed to tell everyone?

Fine, let it go. Not now.

We really don't know what to do, little one.

We feel so lost.

You insist on staying on campus rather than commute from home.

You refuse to come home till you're better.

You never answer our calls.

We can't just leave you here, can we?

You say you can take care of yourself. But as parents, how could we not worry?

We just don't know what to do with you.

Arjun!

Go Arjun!

Ma, that's my junior Mithra. You've seen our performance video.

You're a fabulous singer, dear. - Thanks, Auntie!

Who is this stranger? - Hit him, ma.

Won't you introduce him?

I've told you about Malvika, right? Psychology department.

She's part of The Thespians too. Fantastic actor.

Ritvik and her are seeing each other.

Appa might know her dad actually. Where's Appa?

I wanted him to meet Mal.

Her father golfs at our club too.

Small world, huh? - Indeed.

And that's Ramya. My junior.

Hi!

I think I remember you.

We met at Adi's sister's wedding. - Oh, yeah!

Isn't she Adi's girlfriend?

And that's Partha...

You met him in Hyderabad. - Of course, I remember him.

Hey, where's Arjun?

No idea.

You want some? - Thanks.

Hey, man. - Yo, man.

Congrats. - Thanks.

['Thai Bomb' by Panatella playing]

Can I have a sip?

What's with her?

She looks pissed.

Hey...

Take a look?

Nice. Congrats.

Stop.

Stop what?

She remembers that you and Adi used to date.

What was I supposed to do?

It was so awkward!

And you were dating Shivani then.

She knew about you guys.

In fact, we first hooked up at that wedding your mother mentioned.

I was Adi's girlfriend then.

Didn't feel awkward to do me then, but feels awkward to introduce me now?

Anyway, screw it.

It's your day. Congratulations.

Cheers.

[speaking Telugu] Arjun, where's the restroom?

I'll take you, Auntie. I need to use the loo too.

[Telugu] Nice saree, Auntie.

Oh, you're a Telugite?

No. I'm a Tamizhian. - Oh.

[broken Telugu] Arjun taught me a little bit of Telugu.

The loos downstairs are dirty, so I brought you here.

Oh, that's thoughtful of you.

Ramya, can I talk to you for a second?

I'll just go-- - It's okay, you carry on.

Congrats, dear.

Dude, what's wrong with you? You're still running behind that boy?

Niharika, what is your problem? Why're you so obsessed with my love life?

Look, he's moved on. You'd better move on too.

You're making a fool out of yourself, Ramya.

I'm making a fool out of myself?

Why are you being such a --?

Okay, you know what, I don't know what's the deal between you two.

But I don't think you know about his girlfriend in Hyderabad.

She interns at our firm too, and it looks pretty serious.

Okay--don't.

I see them everyday.

Why would I make this up?

Ramya, I'm sorry.

He cheated on Shivani with you. Now he's cheating on you with someone else.

That's just how he is.

Why is this so hard for you to believe?

Ramya, come on!

Roshni? - Huh?

You are Roshni, right? - Uh. Okay.

Have you seen Arjun? Uncle and I have to leave.

We can't find him anywhere.

[Telugu] Do you know where he is?

Oh, thanks Roshni dear.

Say hi to Adi for me, okay?

Black, black, black...

Black, black, black...

Oh, noooo!

Game over!

Hi, I'm Roshni!

Laughing now, are you?

Are you crazy?

I'm crazy? I'm crazy? I'm crazy?

What the hell is wrong with you?

What do you want from me?

What the hell do you want from me?

I want you to feel pain!

I'm in pain. So much pain.

I want you to feel pain too. - Get away from me!

Go back to your skank with scars all over your face.

Tell her how you got them, who gave them, and why.

Tell her that you're a lying, cheating, two-timing scumbag.

Just once in your bloody life...

...pay for your mistake.

How could you do this to me?

How could you do this to me?

You lied...

You lied...

You lied, you lied...

You lied!

Shut the hell up! What do you mean, I lied?

Didn't I try to leave?

Didn't I try to say that this isn't serious for me?

You just kept coming back.

"I'll slit my wrist, I'll jump off the roof, I'll hang myself".

Your latest tactic is to starve and get admitted in the hospital.

What was I supposed to do?

What could I have done?

You never wanted the truth.

You never wanted the bloody truth.

'Cause you are crazy.

Ramya, are you okay?

What the hell is wrong with you, man?

Rammi, what happened?

Ramya?

I can practically hear their thoughts.

I told you so, you absolute friggin' moron.

She did tell me so.

July 2008, on our Fresher's Day.

I went clubbing for the first time. Our seniors took us.

Told us how to get away with bunking classes...

how to apply blush, where to buy party-wear for cheap...

and very, very clearly...

That's Arjun, a final year student from journalism department.

He's an absolute jerk.

But he's mad cute. - You look away now.

He's a player, they said.

He's known to nail and bail, they said.

He's controlling and sexist, they said.

Interesting.

♪ Did I blindfold my own eyes To see love in yours? ♪

♪ Is this the end of me? ♪

Ramya's into bad boys.

You've been caught!

♪ Will I never see colours again? ♪

"Maybe those other girls were nagging."

"It will be different with me."

"This is something else. We're something else."

You absolute friggin' moron!

Hey.

We're going to hangout at my friend Irfan's place. Do you wanna come?

I think you could use a change...

What happened? Is she not coming?

I invited her, but she said no.

She's so bloody weird, dude.

I don't know, man. It's complicated.

I remember when they were broken up, and she would move on.

But Arjun could never handle that.

My sister and her husband were damn weird, just like this.

The whole world could see that the guy treated her like crap.

But she wouldn't give him a divorce, nor would he let her.

♪ Memories of you taunt me I long for a mere glance from thee ♪

♪ Why are lies so pretty? ♪

Shit, man!

Did your sister finally leave that man?

She killed herself last November.

What?

♪ Guess I'm late to reality That place in your heart was never mine ♪

I'll see you in the evening, okay?

Please eat.

♪ Why seek it elsewhere? You're magic, my friend ♪

Rammi...

You haven't touched your food...

Come on!

Wow, you've cleaned up everything?

♪ Why embrace scars That time won't heal? ♪

♪ What made you choose pain over yourself? ♪

♪ Now don't you blame yourself Let go, my friend ♪

Hey Ramya, where's Arjun?

Arjun, don't leave me!

Relax.

It's fine. Just ignore them.

They will soon find something else to talk about.

Do 4-7-8 breathing. Just breathe, Rammi.

Look, that heroine's just like Rammi, always crying.

♪ If it hurts It ain't love, love ♪

♪ If it beats you No, not love, love ♪

♪ If it breaks you It ain't love, love, love ♪

♪ Love ain't gon' destroy you, love ♪

I told you so.

I told you so too.

I told you so too.

He is such a loser. - I know, right?

But the good times were so good.

Maybe the constant drama and fighting made it seem exciting to you.

Doesn't mean it was a good relationship, no?

Here comes Ms. Freud! - Shut up, okay?

You know, my aunt feared the worst after her husband passed away.

She thought she had no life without him.

But when I went home last holidays, she was a whole new person.

She's got a new haircut, and she's having a blast.

Frankly, she's never been better.

Are you suggesting that we kill Arjun?

I think we should kill all men.

But I like having sex with them.

Alright, class. I'll demonstrate how you can add layers to your acrylics...

how to build up the background...

to add depth to your paintings.

Eyes on me, Ramya.

Or I'm gonna get jealous.

You'll also learn to simplify your objects...

and cut in to create design...

Sir?

An emergency call for Ramya. She's not answering her mobile.

She's to come to the admin block.

Try the landline? - It's engaged.

Go change into something appropriate, dear.

Let her be, Auntie. Come, little one.

Come.

Rammi...

Jaya, I don't want to create a scene. Just tell your daughter to leave.

Uncle, I'm the one who called her. She was Amma's favourite.

My sister wanted nothing to do with this girl.

Why do you think she died? She died of a broken heart.

Uncle, let her see Amma one last time. What's the point of all this?

God knows, the places she's been to....

If she's coming in, I'm out of here.

Uncle, this is my house. She needs to say goodbye to Amma.

Come in, kiddo.

This family has gone to the dogs!

What's the point of us elders if nobody obeys us?

You people have forgotten our ways. No wonder your kids are like this.

I'm out of here. I will remember this.

I swear upon my sister's body, I'll never set foot in this house again...

Shall I call you a cab, Grand-Uncle? - Get lost, boy.

Do you remember, Viji? When you returned from Jamshedpur...

she went to Queen Mary's College and bought your admission forms.

She was such a giver.

There is no one like her. What a gutsy woman.

My girlfriend and I finished engineering and got placed in the same company.

But no! "No woman would marry a boy without a postgrad degree...", she said,

and made me do an MBA.

Now I am bald and unmarried.

She made you lose your hair...

but just wouldn't let us cut our hair.

"Get out."

Those were her last words to me.

I came to see her when she fell in the bathroom.

She refused to even look at me!

Your poor mother struggled to look after her...

changing diapers everyday.

Granny treated the poor nurse so badly, refused to be touched by her.

But that was before she lost all her senses.

In the end, she was in a nightgown.

So much for her purity. They'd only bathe her once a week.

This one time, when I was in school, a lizard fell on me while I was asleep.

She said I didn't dispose my sanitary napkin properly...

...that it was all my fault. That I deserved it.

What rubbish?

No lizard ever fell on you. This happened to me.

Long before you were even born.

You must have heard me telling someone and confused it with reality.

Granny said that to me. Not you.

No, I remember so clearly.

I was in this room, and Granny over there.

Back then, there was a partition here.

I was asleep over there--

Those renovations were made when you were a toddler.

You must have seen old pictures and confused it with your reality.

I know what I'm saying, Ma. Let's just ask Granny--

Granny is no more.

Granny who knew-it-all, who ran our lives, just lying there all meek and quiet.

Now there's no way to find out whether Granny said that to Amma or me.

I only had 30% attendance that semester. But I learnt a thing or two.

Grannies, mothers, aunts and sisters...

when they're unable to break free, they bind us with their shackles.

Breaking free may seem like betrayal, but it is an act of love.

While running away from the place that treats us like our thoughts are crimes...

we might just find ourselves a family.

Not everyone that's family is a blood-kin.

Nor is every elder wiser.

A fact which, as time passes, they make fairly obvious...

Corona Go! Corona Go!

A year back, we were struggling to bury those heaps of bodies.

But right now, my biggest worry is that--

You have heavy sun damage.

You're also developing fine lines quite early.

So at this stage... what's your age again? Thirty-six?

No! Thirty-two!

Hmm. Early ageing.

Time to get started on retinoids. Let's start you off with a skin peel.

5 - 6 sittings. You'll see immediate results.

Are you married?

No, but I'm sexually active.

Any pregnancy plans?

Oh God, I hope not.

But I hate having protected sex.

No.

No pregnancy plans.

Okay, it's advised that you discontinue Vitamin-A three months before conceiving.

Is it safe otherwise?

Oh, yes. Completely safe.

Safer than unprotected sex anyway.

So what's the package cost for the skin peel?

Well, it's usually 28,000 for six sittings.

But now we have an offer going.

Hey, good job with the pitch deck.

You sent me the pitch deck at 4 am!

Do you ever sleep?

Start sleeping at nights.

So tired.

Need to sleep.

Not able to.

Sleep has never been a friend.

But now it really shows.

Shows on my face.

In my aching joints.

Brain hurts. Everything hurts.

I slept so well when I slept next to him.

Irfan.

It's raining just for us.

Shouldn't think about that now.

It's ancient history.

What's with all these memories creeping up on me today--?

Oh shit!

Ravi! We need to go to my place.

I mean... Irfan's place.

I told him I'd come at 5, but I totally forgot.

No sweat. I'll take you there. - So sorry.

Long time no see?

I kept stocking up spinach for you, and it all went to waste.

So sorry, sister. I don't live here anymore.

Oh, you both shifted to a new place?

He... still lives here. And I live elsewhere.

Oh!

Oh, hi.

I tried this key but I guess you had the lock changed.

You said you were coming at 5 but then I didn't hear from you.

I assumed you changed your mind as usual, and forgot to tell me...

"Changed my mind as usual..."

Fine, can I just take my stuff?

Okay, but my--

...friend is here. - Who friend?

But of course you can come on in.

Hi!

Hi...

You know what? I can totally come back later.

It's not urgent.

I didn't mean to interrupt. - Hey, please come.

I don't mind at all.

I've heard so much about you.

Good things, I hope.

Only superlatives.

To the point of being mildly annoying.

I'll go see my cats. - Yeah, of course.

Hey Rammi, not in that room.

The other one.

We've moved the bed to the other room.

Oh...

Okay, cool.

Hello, my babies!

How are you?

Baby girl...

Don't you recognise me?

It's your mommy. - [cat hisses]

Are you well? - Yes.

Are you okay?

She seems nice.

I'm sorry. I thought you weren't coming--

Hey, you don't have to feel guilty.

We had to move on at some point.

I'm digging your new look.

I see you're into splashy shirts now.

No way I could have gotten you to wear Ikat prints!

The house looks tidy.

Back then, I'd keep cleaning up and you'd keep messing it up.

We'd fight endlessly.

I couldn't get you to trim that beard either.

Good that you finally found someone who motivates you.

I'm happy for you.

Ravi?

Let's go, Ramya.

You don't hydrate enough. Here, drink this.

Hey, all okay?

Can you stay on call with me?

Make sure I don't do anything stupid?

Yeah, sure.

Irfan's found himself a glass-skinned chick.

Ouch, I'm so sorry.

She's making him wear hipster shirts!

He looks like a bloody clown!

His plain-grey-tees look good on him.

Are you okay?

I don't know. I'm scared.

Of what?

Did I screw up?

Should I have never left him?

We've gone over this already. You were so unhappy back then.

Stop idealising that relationship. It just wasn't working out.

Anyway, finalised a flat yet? That last option you sent was quite nice.

Didn't work out. - Why?

The owner backed out last minute saying he'd only rent it out to families.

None of the other options fit in my budget.

Didn't I say I'd help out if you're short on cash?

Paro is sweet, but if you had a place of your own, you'd be so peaceful!

Wasn't your ultrasound appointment today?

That was yesterday. But I couldn't make it.

Why?

It's just been a crazy week at work.

That sucks.

How's Mark doing?

He's fine. Why wouldn't he be?

Tell him I said hi.

Babe, Rammi says hi.

Hiya. What's up?

His pre-baby jitters settled yet?

He is the baby. The thought of handling him and the baby...

You'll forget. Just leave it!

...it's giving me the jitters.

He went to buy yoghurt and disappeared for four hours,

then returned home with a new playstation.

What? Doesn't he already have one?

Yeah. And he went on to say gaming is his therapy.

Can't believe I'm bringing a baby into this world with him.

I'm making rasam, eggs and brown rice. You want some?

I'm going out, Paro.

I'd choose death by starvation for a flat tummy tonight.

Paro, still getting shocked by Rammi's weirdness?

Wow! Look at you. You're glowing.

How many months now? Six?

Almost seven. At least you remembered.

The other day, Rammi asked me why the baby wasn't born yet.

Because it's been nine months, according to her.

Baby's not about her, so she wouldn't keep track.

Paro, you hit the nail on the head.

Shut up, you guys.

Seven whistles, I got to go. Bye, Sel! We'll talk later.

Dude, what's wrong with you?

She's going crazy doing intermittent fasting before her wedding.

And I'm pregnant. You want to talk about flat tummy to us?

You're right, I'm sorry.

Fine, you have a nice day.

Share your live location if you're going somewhere after drinks.

What would I do without you?

You'd be dead.

Aw! Look at that baby.

Madam looks so cute!

I want to eat her up.

Bye, little baby.

Bye, Rammi.

I miss you, my love.

['Vaadiya Manadhil Vaanavedikkai' by Susantika playing]

Who's going to call me 'babygirl' now?

Where do our nicknames go when we break up?

You know how in these fairytales, when a prince kisses a frog...

the frog would transform into a princess?

That's me.

I'm that frog.

When we first kissed, I was bewitched.

He healed me.

When I was a kid, if someone had told me...

that someday, such a sweet boy would be so in love with me...

I would have been a whole different person.

But now...I'm like this. - ♪ Here comes the bride... ♪

Wish you nothing but happiness!

What's the next line? - I don't know.

I really tried...

and so did he.

But we just couldn't make it work.

Everytime we got back together hoping to work things out...

the fights got nastier.

Just felt so...

so...

so...?

Bored.

And restless.

Even minor conflicts felt like the end of the world.

Why did an open toilet seat feel like a deal-breaker?

It's never really about the forgotten laundry or the dirty dishes.

That much has become clear to me now.

Irfan does sound like a great guy...

but what you said about him healing you, is probably not true.

If you were really healed...

you wouldn't be jumping from relationship to relationship, so restlessly.

It's impossible for one guy to heal the hurt caused by another.

Maybe they'll just temporarily numb all the pain, the loneliness, the boredom.

But only for a short while.

We must heal ourselves.

Tuck the pleats in neatly...

Yes, Ma? - What happened?

You are coming, aren't you? - Yes, coming.

When? - I said, I'm coming!

The rituals are almost over.

Stop nagging.

Everyone's asking for you. - I'm on my way.

Look, Rammi is here!

Where's she taking the baby?

You came in late, and you've started already?

The baby needs to be on stage for the ritual.

No...

The baby needs to be where she's happy and comfortable.

No? You tell her, cutie.

I'm still waiting for your wedding feast!

Don't make your mother suffer, dear.

She goes from temple to temple, praying, hoping you'll lead a normal life.

Please listen to her.

Don't be a troublemaker.

Wash it in the backyard. You licked the spoon.

Appa : I'm done.

Serve Appa this crunchy one.

Appa, why can't you get it yourself? - Ramya, don't.

You said something, little one?

Should I do it myself?

Kiddo, keep your bank statements ready. I have to file your taxes next week.

It's going to be nil-returns anyway.

Are you seriously watching this crap, Pa?

It's so hateful!

Ramya!

Get in here and help me.

You barely ever visit us. Must you pick a fight when you do?

Why would I want to visit?

To watch propaganda news like a big, happy family?

Oh, should we all live like you then?

As if you-- - Shush!

What's Mingle?

Huh?

Everyone says you're in it.

Uncle Thaachu's grandson saw your profile.

What are you saying? Uncle Thaachu's grandson is on Mingle?

Whoa!

Who would've thunk it?

Let me show you.

This is Mingle.

If I like a guy...

I swipe right, like this.

Or...

I can reject him, like this.

Like you should have done with Appa.

You've put up your photos?

Didn't you upload my photos on a matrimony site behind my back?

Hey, why'd you left swipe that guy?

He looked smart and handsome!

Come on, Ma.

This is all very normal, Ma.

Don't stress.

The hypocrite that found my profile on Mingle is also on Mingle.

Who will take care of you when we're gone?

Who takes care of you?

Appa: I'm out of chutney!

Aren't you scared, Rammi?

All your friends are settled with children of their own...

Won't you be left all alone?

I do get scared sometimes, Mother dearest.

Paro will fly away to Australia in 36 hours, taking all these boxes with her.

The flat will get so quiet.

Might echo a lot.

I got everything I thought wanted, but I still felt so restless.

Now that I know that I don't want what I thought I wanted...

what is it that I truly want?

Can't I be in a happy, monogamous relationship like everyone else?

Am I the only one who feels this way?

Is something wrong with me?

['Pidikkum' by Kaber Vasuki playing]

Hi! - Hey!

What a fancy! - It's nothing.

Come in! Will you have a drink?

Of course, I'm not here to help you guys pack!

Where is Rekha?

She'll come. Come, let's have a drink.

You go ahead. I quit.

What?! Why did you quit?

No particular reason. Just quit.

I wanted to give sobriety a shot.

I wonder if I'm drinking purely out of habit.

I'm just figuring it out.

You see, this is the first time I've been single since I was 15.

So, how is work?

Work is good...

but things are not looking good between Rekha and me.

We are getting a divorce.

What?

Yeah, it's not looking good.

What do you mean, 'divorce'?

I was talking to her just the other day.

She never mentioned anything.

I don't think she's ready to talk about it yet.

I can't believe this.

Yeah.

Did you try---

Therapy? Yeah, man.

We've tried everything, but...

sometimes there's nothing to stick on for.

I don't even remember the last time we had sex.

I mean, forget sex...

We don't even make each other happy.

What's the point?

Do you want me to talk to her? - Nah.

Just be there for her.

I have no clue what she's going through.

Yeah.

Maybe this is for the best.

There's no point staying in a loveless marriage for any reason, right?

Guys, you're out of water.

Shit, man. - Yeah.

Paro : I'll just run downstairs and get it.

Bride-to-be! You stay and pack. I'll go get it.

Brother, add two water cans to my tab. - Ramya...

Can you take a look at my phone? There's some issue...

Oh, you need to update the software.

Oh, how do I do that?

Low battery. Do you have your charger?

Here you go.

Parvathy leaves tomorrow?

Yes. Evening flight.

Oh, right.

You've grown a beard!

She's yours? - Yes.

Aditi.

Come on, man!

You should have named her after me, like in the movie 'Boys'.

Here, brother. It's fixed.

Okay, thanks.

Guys...

This is my friend from school, Nalan.

Hey, man. - Hi.

Nalan?

I'll just gonna go and put this...

Come. We're cutting the cake.

Oh, no!

Don't worry, I've got this.

You're laughing now?

Drama queen! Drama queen!

Now you're laughing.

You are exactly as I pictured.

Oh...

So you picture me?

How are you?

I tried so hard to contact you.

Deepthi said there was no way to reach you.

Hush...

You are such a natural.

I don't think I could do it.

Why didn't you try to get in touch?

Please, look at me.

You thought I deliberately stood you up?

You left.

And I let go.

Don't feel bad. It's okay!

You couldn't have defied your mother and eloped away.

You were just a kid back then.

You were a kid too.

But you showed up.

Your wife wouldn't have a problem? Your being here?

Of course not.

I mean, I don't know.

What's her name? - Vasundhara.

Do you hate your wife?

No.

Is she ugly?

No.

Crazy pretty.

Just like you.

How long have you been married?

Five years this August.

Can I ask you a weird question?

What if our psycho parents hadn't forced us apart?

Would we have lived happily? Forever?

You've changed.

You're nothing like the girl from school I remember.

But just as magical.

Sorry. I have to take this. Can I?

Hello...

Yeah... yeah.

Couldn't find probiotic curd, but I bought everything else.

Yes. I will see you soon.

Yes, huh...

Me too.

I am sorry.

I think she sensed that something was off.

You should get going.

How do you run a kitchen without spice jars?

When does Parvathy want you to move out of here?

She's paid deposit till March. So I have two months.

But she'll continue to split the rent with you until then?

What do you care, Ma?

You're such a miser. - Oh, sure.

You spend carelessly and struggle at the end of every month.

Appa felt so bad seeing your bank statement.

My mother gave me these as dowry when I got married.

I was saving them for your wedding.

But look at you!

I met Nalan.

Who?

Nalan.

Where?

Ran into him at the grocery store downstairs.

His daughter is so cute. He's doing very well for himself.

We spoke for a really long time, it felt nice.

I wondered...

if you hadn't ruined it...

maybe that could have been my life?

In a beautiful house, with a beautiful baby.

So I was supposed to let my 15-year-old elope with her classmate...

and rolled out a red carpet for you?

I shouldn't have had to elope at all.

Looking back, nothing I did was wrong.

All of you made it out to be something so dreadful.

So many girls my age had boyfriends back then.

They turned out just fine.

So many girls my age are unmarried now.

They're doing fine too.

Then, and now...

you're the one with a problem.

I'm not saying anything.

Or you'll just sulk and refuse to talk to me for months together.

Oh, shit, shit, shit.

Why would you leave the windows open?

The cats would get away!

Are you out of your mind?

What's going on?

Why did you remove the nets?

They were dusty so I washed them.

Well, you're not supposed to. I've told you countless times.

There you are... Come to mommy.

Stay safe in there, okay?

Madam!

Are you seriously going out in your underwear?

I'm sure it's around somewhere. It will return when it's hungry.

Madam...

Madam...

Madam...

Madam...

Madam...

Loki, have you seen this cat around? - No, I haven't.

If you spot her, let me know?

Excuse me, what's the problem?

Sir, my cat has gone missing.

But according to society regulations, pets are not allowed...

Hello! Excuse me!

That poor kitten has been crying out all day.

The mother cat will take care of it.

You can't save every cat in the world, Rammi.

I swear I won't bring her home.

Let's just give her some milk once.

'Madam'

"Just feed it some milk once...", you said.

Yeah.

Hi, Ramesh.

Hi, Suresh.

Where is Padma?

She's booking a cab.

You should go with her! - She's fine.

Don't fight with Amma.

It's not like she meant to do it.

Don't let Padma go home alone tonight.

You never, ever made me feel abandoned.

That did me so much good.

I felt so safe.

I don't know how to explain. Can you follow the map, please?

Treat her the same way.

Okay. Let's go.

I'll drop you home.

Come.

Go.

I mean it. Go.

You're all I need.

I don't need anybody else.

I'll never let you go. Ever.

Go.

I'll be okay.

Promise?

Promise?

Promise.

Promise.

Hey, I'm coming with you.

Are you sure? - Yes.

Okay, cool. Come.

Where did you go, Madam?

Actually, we weren't planning to bring her home at all.

We already had four cats at home back then.

She stood outside our window and meowed non-stop.

So tiny...

but her voice was anything but small.

She seemed quite scared...

so we decided to foster her for just a while, then set her free.

But it’s Madam we're talking about.

She'd plonk on my lap and just not budge.

Everytime the front door opened...

she'd panic and scurry into the bedroom.

She must be so afraid now.

At nights, I get woken up by the slightest noise...

out of the fear that she'd call out and I wouldn't hear her.

Then I can't to go back to sleep.

It's been weeks since I slept.

Can you please give me something to sleep?

What happened?

Didn't find the cat? - Please, Ma...

Don't say a word. Just leave.

Don't overreact, Ramya.

My God, Ma. Are you listening to a word I'm saying?

She is an indoor cat, Ma!

She can't survive out there.

She can't hunt. Can't defend herself.

The neighbourhood cats will try to hurt her.

I don't know if she'll even survive the night.

And if the dogs find her--

She won't know her way back, Ma.

My poor baby...

Ramya...

Calm down.

Ramya...

Why do you always ruin my life?

You think you are always right.

Get help, Ma.

Or get out of my life.

Counsellors like you keep visiting our school these days...

to teach us teachers how to do our jobs.

Should lock them up in a classroom with fifty teenagers. Then they'll know.

I have 35 years experience as a teacher, do you know?

I don't believe in all this.

I pray to God. That's enough.

My daughter refuses to talk to me.

So I figured I'd just see her damned psychiatrist.

Please, can you talk some sense into her?

She calls us "toxic" if we say anything.

Or even stops talking to us altogether.

My mother-in-law took her away from me to wean her off breast milk.

I used to hear her wailing loudly for her mother in the next room.

I wanted to run to her and hold her.

But her grandmother who'd birthed four children told me so...

so I listened to her and stayed away from my baby.

When we went to get her ears pierced, I was more scared than her.

But since the elders said it's good for her, I just listened to them.

I only wanted to dust her windows.

How was I supposed to know that her cat would run away?

She kicked up such a big fuss, created a scene...

crying uncontrollably... over a cat.

Wouldn't I feel the same way?

Whether or not I close the windows...

my little girl always runs away from me.

The world is not a safe place for her.

But I can't do anything about it.

I mustn't.

♪ My throat grew hoarse singing lullabies, little one ♪

♪ Learnt too late that mothers don't get lullabies ♪

♪ I'm a spent mule Bore every burden thrown at me ♪

♪ I'm a wrecked car For whom did I toil and wither? ♪

♪ I birthed an empty nest How I suffered in silence ♪

♪ I play-acted the mother's role... ♪ - He's so beautiful.

Look how teeny his fingers are!

His whole face is the size of my little finger.

They told me to give him his first bath.

I almost dropped him!

I got scared shitless.

I'm going to get so many things so wrong.

But no matter how badly I screw up...

Won't you forgive mommy, little one?

Sorry, Rammi. I didn't mean you.

But my poor mother...

I haven't spoken to her in days.

She must be thinking I hate her.

It's just Amma, Rammi.

Go and tell her you love her.

We've said that lie to so many guys!

You failed in Maths, Physics, and Chemistry?

Shameless girl!

You walk like a boy, talk like a boy, finally you've failed like a boy.

She's a slut, dude.

This day marks the end of an era, I should say.

My dear colleague and batchmate from teacher's training...

Sundari Miss, retires today.

We bid goodbye with a heavy heart.

Look, our baby's here. - No student who atteneded her class...

will forget about hemispheres, latitudes, and longitudes.

If there was 100% attendance for teachers...

she'd win it every year.

Though your service is ending, you will always be in our hearts.

Now over to Sundari Miss. -Miss?

Go on.

Very good morning, to one and all present here.

Respected principal ma'am, VP ma'am, my esteemed colleagues...

to my dear students...

it's my honour to be present here at this felicitation function.

Today I would like to share with you all a quote from...

No, trust me. I saw it.

Fine then, tell me.

Shush... Now keep it down.

Are you seriously listening to that hag?

That's my mother.

Oh my God, you're Ramya?

You're 'that' Ramya?

You're like a legend!

Because of you, they only take us to the local museum for excursion.

They don't take us on outstation trips.

She's the chick who got an abortion?

Remember the 'D' section seniors told us what their seniors said?

She drowned her baby in the 2nd floor toilet.

I never use that loo. I'm scared of ghosts.

Great, so I'm a cautionary tale around here.

An example of how a girl shouldn't live her life.

But Amma looks happy.

Girls, all of you should score good marks and study in reputed engineering colleges, okay?

But we're commerce students, Miss.

That's okay. Marry a nice boy who has studied engineering. Okay?

Everything’s changed. And yet, nothing’s changed out here.

Come sit in the back! - Come, Pa.

No thanks. I’m comfortable here. Enjoy the extra space.

My great-grandmother, when she was about my age, died of cholera after giving birth to 8 children.

Then my great-grandfather married her younger sister.

When my grandmother was my age, she was a mother of four.

There was also a still-born child between my aunt and my father.

My mother is sixty years old!

You have grey hairs? How did I never notice?

After school, her mother refused to let her go to college.

She completed BA History in distance learning.

Did her teacher’s training, idled for years…

and joined as a teacher in my school while getting me admission.

She tried her best to give me an education, so I could have better opportunities than her.

Oh, no! He can’t eat sugar.

Could you halt at the bus stop please?

Give me your bag, I’ll pack sweets for you.

I love you, Ma.

Bye, Pa.

You’re amazing, Ma.

Come and sit here.

My mother, my granny and her mother; their anger, their sacrifices, and their rebellion…

has led me to enjoy the freedom that I enjoy today.

To make the world a better place for the girls that come after me.

It's with these choices and freedom that I’ve flown and fallen and risen—

Where was I? Oh yes - flown, fallen and risen to arrive at a realisation.

That all I really need is a home.

A space to be myself, away from the judgement of prying eyes.

Maybe I will never attain that home I long for.

Maybe that place called home doesn't even exist.

But I...

[speaking cat] Where the hell have you been?

One room and kitchen.

The owners are nice people.

They live downstairs.

Just like you wanted, they won't pry if you're single, vegetarian, have pets...

They want a monthly rent of ten thousand rupees.

No overhead charges. You might have to pay extra for water.

You figure it out. They want a downpayment of 50,000.

But we can negotiate that too.

So, is it a done deal?

♪ Times passes and tides shift ♪

♪ The scene will change As will my perspective ♪

♪ The dance will change As will the music ♪

♪ Look at the sky on my shiny, mopped floors Burnt breakfast fills my house ♪

♪ As I unhook my bra I unlock my bliss ♪

♪ None of my foremothers Have tread down this path I walk ♪

You're the new tenant?

♪ None of my old sorrows Can survive the warmth of my blanket ♪

♪ In a world that spies and stifles and judges I'm the queen of my own little garden ♪

♪ This too shall pass Look at the sprawling skies ♪

♪ It will pour for you and for me ♪

♪ So you can live your life ♪

♪ And I can live my life ♪

♪ Everybody lives their life ♪

♪ There's room for everyone in this world ♪