Original subtitles

I am Brinda

Many years ago, my name used to be Bimla

Bimla Manjhi

I used to live in a little bustee near a coal mine in Jharia

Me, my mother and my father

Both my parents worked in the coal mine

My grandmother Savitri Manjhi used to work in Delhi as a domestic help...

...at Akhilesh and Nalini Chaudhury's Maharani Bagh home

She was now my only living relative

Let go of me!

Please let me go.

Quiet!

Is Savitri Manjhi in?

This is her granddaughter.

Mother!

Is Savitri Manjhi there?

Yes.

This child is her granddaughter.

Oh! Please come in...

- Savitri! You have visitors! - Go on in...

...this is your home now.

HOME AND THE WORLD

Now, I'm Brinda Chaudhury...

...wife of Nikhilesh Chaudhury,

...graduate from Lady Shriram College, Delhi.

- Shehnaz, please remove all this. - Right away, ma'am.

At present, I'm a proof reader for Oxford University Press

I work mainly from home

And I prefer that

This home that Nikhil and I have made together...

...is very, very important to me.

Nikhil, at eight

With Savitri, his nanny, the Dalit woman who raised him.

His nanny. My grandmother.

Ma'am, lunch is served.

What's this, Brinda?

Please sit properly now!

You'll have to go to boarding school after this...

...and eat with everyone else there.

My name is not Brinda!

So, what is your name, dear?

It's Bimla!

I'm not going to any stupid school!

Granny, call someone from the village...

I want to go back. Please!

Come on! Off to the kitchen with you!

Enough of eating at the table!

Here-

Oh, alright!

Squat if you must.

Just get some food inside you.

Just rice?

Have some fish? Huh? Fish!

Let it be Shambhu.

No fish?

What then?

Some yogurt?

Curd! Huh?

I am Nikhil, Nikhilesh Chaudhury

Publishing Editor of 'India Online'

I'll have to rush from here to another meeting...

...about a hospital project that's very close to my heart

And then home...

...where I'll be meeting my childhood friend Sandy again

Anything else?

Well sir, you wanted to pursue the story on Bastar.

Right...

And...and sir, you also wanted to build up public opinion...

...regarding the construction of the hospital...

...on that disputed land...

...instead of the religious building.

Yes, we need to do that...

...but we need names Reshmi!

Who've you roped in?

Sir, Varuna Roy.

Varuna Roy has agreed to write a story sir.

Fantastic! Who else?

Akash?

Yes, sir. So...

...we've spoken to Shweta Devi.

...and she's agreed to give us the tribal angle on it.

Okay.

And I believe, er...

...Vishal has also spoken to Mr. Shyam Benegal.

That's right.

We're hoping that he will write a piece for us.

Good... That's good.

Hey, guys! Check this out.

Sandip Jha is coming to Delhi.

That Hindu historian?

Yeah, the guy who's been talking about the temple.

Right.

Er...why is he coming here?

God knows!

"Dr. Sandip Jha has been invited to teach for a whole semester...

...at the Bharat Seva Mission University in Faridabad.

The subject of his lectures...

...which will be thrown open to the public once a week, will be the...

...The Relevance of Hinduism in Nation Building."

- God! - Holy cow!

Pun intended sir.

Ooh, he's hot!

He is.

Nice!

Always was.

You know him?

- Right through school and college. - Really?

And guess where he'll be staying, guys?

Where?

In my home at Maharani Bagh.

- No! What are you saying! - No!

Nikhilesh Chaudhury?

That 'India Online' guy?

Eye of a bloody buffalo!

They're the ones turning public opinion against the temple!

And Dr. Jha's planning to stay with the publisher?

But Chaudhury is his childhood friend.

How can we interfere?

Besides, Sandip-ji is not a card holding member of our party.

Just a sympathiser.

Guess what Sandy has written?

This guy will never change!

"Nikhil, you cradle snatcher! Married a chit of a girl!

And you haven't even shown me your bride yet!

Afraid I'll whisk her away?

Sorry buddy! I'm not staying at that university guest house...

...so far from town.

I'll hole up with you for the whole semester.

Won't throw me out, will you?"

Whisk me away? Not that easy!

You don't know his track record Binnie.

In college, girls fell for him with unfailing regularity!

Was devislishly handsome too!

Isn't his last name Jha?

That's from Bihar!

But he writes in Bengali!

He speaks Bengali fluently.

Much better than you!

Spent years in Calcutta!

We studied together in St. Xavier's from Class 1...

...right through high school.

I'm Sandip

Sandip Jha

I’m visiting Delhi after a long time

For such a long spell, I mean

My college years were spent in this city...

...where my friend Nikhilesh and I did our Masters in History.

Nikhil and I will be meeting after a long time...

...20 years at least.

About 3 years ago, he suddenly emailed, saying that...

...he'd married a girl much younger than him.

What did he say his wife's name was...?

Greetings!

- Brinda! - Sandip-ji!

Why ‘ji’? Call me Sandip!

Better still... Sandy.

Please come in.

Why the formal 'you'?

Still better...speak to me in Bengali.

My Bengali is perfect.

And I'm your husband's oldest friend.

I know. Do come in.

- Shehnaz, please send his bags up. - Yes ma'am.

So, Uncle and Aunty...

Live mostly in our country home.

Oh!

The pollution here...

...really aggravates Father's asthma...

Tea?

Shambhu-da!

Shambhu-da is still here?

That's great!

But I don't drink tea.

Coffee.

Seems Nikhil hasn't briefed you at all!

Hey! Shambhu-da!

How are you?

As well as can be expected at my age.

And Amma? Inside?

Savitri-di is no longer with us.

Almost 2 years now...

Really? What happened?

Old age, what else?

What will you have?

Black coffee, of course?

See, Brinda?

Shambhu-da remembers!

I've made some beef kebabs for you.

Want some now?

Or at dinner?

10 years too late, Shambhu-da!

Gave up beef years ago!

That’s a new one now!

Very well, I'll send your coffee.

- When will Nikhil... - It's not like he didn't...

- Sorry! - Sorry!

You first.

It's not like he didn't brief me at all.

Then I must test you!

What did he say? That I'm a terrible person?

Of course!

And that you studied in college together in Delhi...

...and before that... - In Kolkata.

- Right. - At St. Xavier's.

You used to live with your uncle...

...um...at Harrison Road!

Yes, with my father's brother.

Though I spent most of my time...

At Nikhil's place!

She’s that little tribal girl! Amma's granddaughter...

...whom Nikhil’s family had adopted!

Your friend has only been talking about you...

Yes, after that we...

...got into college. By then...

...Nikhil's father had moved to Delhi as the Education Secretary.

I ended up spending more time here than at the hostel.

And your parents?

Where do they live?

Somewhere in Bihar, right?

In Chhapra. (rural dialect)

And you? Where are you from?

From Jharia. (rural dialect)

But I was very young then.

Oh really?

And now? (rural dialect)

All grown up?

Shambhu-da made these for you.

Said you love Bengali-style fritters.

Wow! Cauliflower fritters!

Good old Shambhu-da! Hasn’t forgotten a thing!

Nice!

So, where is Nikhil?

At a meeting.

You know the disputed site in Bastar's Ilaampur...

...where the religious structure was?

They want to build a hospital there.

Nikhil is going to be a nuisance, I can see that.

But this woman adores him obviously.

He has to meet a couple of doctors about that.

Should be home soon.

Nikhil hasn’t changed!

- Long live student's rights! - Long live! Long live!

- Down with the principal! - Down with him! Down with him!

Sandy, we'd discussed this!

Get these out of here!

But why attack the principal?

Goons from 'Bharatiya Chhatra Sangh' vandalised his office!

If Ramanujan's essay isn't taken off the syllabus...

...they've threatened physical harm!

Being a peace-loving man, he took this decision!

Peace-loving? My foot, sir!

He's a coward!

Maybe...

...but you don't have an issue with the principal!

Your fight is against BCS.

Listen! My advice is, call off the strike.

Start a dialogue with the top student leaders of BCS.

Convince them that an overwhemling majority of students...

...wants the essay back.

Dialogue is always the best way out of any controversy.

Dialogue sir? Dialogue!

What they need is a sound thrashing!

Otherwise they won't get it sir!

I'm all for dialogue sir.

- What the... - Now, Sandy!

I think we shouldn't call the strike off just yet.

Actually, the strike is a symbol sir.

A symbol of peaceful protest by the student community...

...for their rights. - Exactly!

Besides, calling it off might set a bad precedent.

Why not continue both until the problem is solved?

Thank you sir.

- Let's go. Come Sammy. - Damn!

Why don’t you visit our village home sometime?

You’d enjoy it!

Get to know your own country ma’am!

There's a world beyond your Maharani Bagh drawing room too!

Come for the Dusserah festival!

It really is something to see!

A 20 ft. high Ravana effigy is built.

Everyone from the village joins in the festivities.

It’s a lot of fun!

Fun and feasting all night long!

There he is!

- Nikhilesh! - Here already?

- Come on in! - Right away...

It's been so long since I've seen Sandy...

Angry, hot-headed, leftist Sandip...

...whom I couldn’t bear not to see for even a day!

Going to meet him today after almost 20 years!

Just how much has he changed, my childhood friend?

Childhood friend?

Or political adversary now?

Or my... Nemesis?

- Sandy, you scoundrel! - Nick!

Just look at you!

A pukka Hindu nationalist!

Of course I'm a Hindu nationalist!

And I'm proud of it!

But what’s with this gray hair? You old man!

Old man for sure.

- Old man, young wife? - Absolutely!

So, has the young wife offered you coffee?

No worries on that score.

Shambhu-da remembered all.

From black coffee to cauli-fritters.

Very good!

Thank you.

Will you "drink" some tea?

I'll "have" some tea, yes.

Please sit.

So...?

I was telling your wife about our Chhapra home.

I see.

Remember the time you, Samira and I went there?

Hm...

How terrified Sammy was seeing that huge Ravana?

They made it 30 ft. high in their honour!

How long it took to burn down!

Terrified just by the Ravana?

What about the buffalo sacrifice? Forgot that?

Sammy? Sandy! Sandy!

What's wrong?

Water!

Quick!

So...? How did you like Sandy?

Not much.

Really?

He’s usually quite a hit with women!

Well, to each her own.

Sorry, he's your friend...

...but there’s something about him…

What?

What does he think, huh?

He’s the only true patriot?

The one true Hindu?

Know what he said today?

"Get to know your own country ma’am!"

"There's a world beyond your Maharani Bagh drawing room too!"

World beyond, my foot!

So bloody arrogant!

He's right Binnie.

How much do you know of the world outside?

I don't need to, thank you!

I'm switching off the light.

Have to finish a whole pile of proof by morning!

Good night.

Good night.

Still addicted to black coffee Sandy?

I can't drink coffee anymore. Acidity!

Naturally!

You Bengalis with your delicate stomachs!

Tell me something...

You married this tribal Dalit girl...

...who's also the granddaughter of a domestic...

..were you trying to prove something?

Go on!

Prove what?

What a great liberal you are!

Why?

Don’t think she’s suitable?

In fact, I thought you found her quite attractive!

Oh, of course!

A little too attractive!

But...didn’t she have some other name earlier?

Did you guys name her Brinda?

Mother did.

Maybe she felt that at boarding school...

...with an old-fashioned name like Bimla...

...she'd be at a disadvantage.

So basically, you Brahmanised the little Dalit girl.

Right?

Swallowed up her tribal identity within your upper class society.

You could say that.

That criticism could be levelled at our family, yes.

But in all fairness...

...my parents probably didn't know...

...how else to raise her in our family.

You know how Mother is!

Binnie became a project for her.

Everything she'd do for her own daughter, she did for Binnie.

And to atone for that, you went and married her!

But is that the only reason?

You're not that impulsive!

You’re beginning to sound exactly like Binnie.

See, just before she died...

...Amma felt that without marrying Binnie off...

...she couldn’t die in peace.

No sir.

It might happen in your society.

If she were still in the village...

...she would've had several children by now.

But she doesn't live in the village Savitri!

She lives here!

And Nikhil says he'll get her a job in his office.

After all this education...

That's the problem madam...

You taught her to read and write...

...made a fine lady out of her...

...but will any boy from your society marry her?

And now that Bimla speaks English, reads books...

...will any boy from our Dalit community suit her fancy tastes?

Dear God! What a burden for me at this age!

Not satisfied with her parents’ untimely demise...

...she wants to be the cause of my death as well!

She won't even let me die in peace.

So, it was the tears that did it!

Whose tears had such a disastrous effect?

Your Amma's? Or Brinda's?

Do you really love me?

First you tell me...

...you really can't tell?

What about your Suzy?

Your beloved Susan from Oxford?

It didn't work out. I've told you so many times.

Then tell me you've forgotten her.

'Forgotten' would be a lie...

...but I rarely think of her unless you bring her up!

Hmm!

See! These are Suzy's photographs...

I hunted for them among your drawers.

And now I'm going to burn them.

Want to see? Wait!

Now?

Now all outward signs of her have been reduced to ashes.

But what about the memories inside? How will you burn that?

No!

You're not allowed to think about her! Never ever!

My little madcap!

Listen! I have no regrets about my decision.

But you could have said no.

Very convenient!

You’d have got out of marrying me!

Seriously, Binnie...

...you never really got to know any other man.

You went to an all girls' school.

And then to an all girls' college.

If not, you might’ve liked someone else.

I still might.

What will you do if I fall in love with someone else?

So you've really forgotten Suzy?

Suzy is fine.

Married...

...has a daughter too.

She sent me photos a few days back.

Binnie hasn't seen them yet.

Thankfully!

Where did you go the other day?

I know where.

Look Nikhil, I’m saying this as a friend...

...stop all these protests now!

You've no idea what you're getting into!

It's too dangerous!

Do you think...

..the majority of Indians will accept your secularist madness?

And if I ask you as a friend to stop your nationalistic activities...

...in the interest of the nation...

...will you listen?

I know you won't.

See Sandy, nationalism means different things to different people.

- For me nationalism is... - I know.

Ever since college.

But Nikhil...

...if you don’t bring yourself down to the level of the common man...

...if you can’t identify with their faith, their beliefs...

...even their superstitions...

...however irrational they might seem...

...if you can’t embrace them with all their shortcomings...

...how will you serve them?

That's the whole point, isn't it?

To serve the people?

You really believe this, don't you?

Aspiring to be Tagore’s ‘Gora'?

My personal beliefs are not important, my friend.

What one needs to believe at this point in time...

...that's what matters.

Ma'am?

Take these clothes for washing please.

Check the bathroom too.

Make the bed and clean the room...

...before Sandip-ji returns. Okay?

Yes ma'am.

Those were the days!

Spent hours here skipping classes... making out with girls.

Seems like a lifetime ago!

Hey! How's Sammy?

We kept up through emails at least...

...but I completely lost touch with Sammy.

I read her columns once in a while.

Quite an activist!

She's fine.

Yes, she's a very serious columnist now.

Social activist too!

Didn't Sammy get married?

No.

But she has a 6-year-old daughter.

Without marriage? Implant?

That's right.

She wanted a child without the complexities of marriage.

So...she chose to be a single mother.

Sammy is really something!

Never did understand the Indian value system.

Whose value system?

Yours or your grandfather's?

Or, are they the same now?

Sammy! Nikhil! Let's go. Sun's going down.

It'll get cold after this.

Sammy, come on.

Not yet Sandy! This is bliss!

I'm going to take a leak.

Sammy! Come out in 5 minutes!

Sandy! Wait... I'm coming too...

Come on then...

Sandy! Nick!

Are you guys done?

Sandy...

Hey madam! Who're you looking for, huh?

Sandy? No Sandy here. But I'm Randy right before you, see?

And Andy too!

Don't be shy, tell the lady your name.

Andy.

And this guy here, is Gandoo (bugger)... Sorry Gandy!

- "What are you hiding in your blouse, girl?" - How dare you! Bastard!

Get out of my way!

No cursing in English now!

- We just want to be friends. - Let go of me.

- Nick! - You look so hot in these wet clothes!

What's happening? Get out of here!

Who's this hero now?

Shame on you!

No mothers and sisters at home?

Sure, but they're ugly!

- Not hot like this one! - Get out of here!

Bloody rascals!

Oh God! It’s the young landlord!

- Enough, Sandy! Let's go. - No Nikhil!

I'll break those filthy hands they touched Sammy with!

Take her home!

Nick, my towel...

Bloody rascals!

Want to touch her, do you?

Cowards!

Get lost!

Bastard!

Good you broke his arm.

Break the other one too.

- Break it! - Please don't, lord...

How dare you raise your filthy hands on my guest!

Go on, beg pardon!

Please forgive us lord.

Fall at her feet, you bastard!

We touch your feet sir...

Not his feet! Hers!

Go on, beg forgiveness!

- Beg pardon, you swine! - Forgive us madam...

Throw them out!

Pick him up.

- Get out! - Up!

I must beg pardon too, my child.

You were disrespected here.

But I must also tell you this...

...don’t act so rashly in future.

This is a village, not a city!

You must be careful of how you carry yourself!

Understood?

See girl, if you own a gold necklace...

...will you flaunt it in front of thieves?

Keep your riches safe for your real lord and master!

That's the whole point, isn't it?

So tell me...

...why haven’t you married yet?

I have no wish for kids. Unlike Sammy!

Although, I don't know how many bastards I may have fathered accidentally!

On a serious note, no time. Busy serving the motherland!

Will you write... for 'India Online'?

For an enemy publication?

Write what?

- Tear you to pieces? And you’ll print that? - Absolutely!

It's equally important for our readers to know your point of view.

But what I'm really curious about...

...is your transformation. How did that happen?

Back in college, you were leaning towards armed revolution.

You said you were losing faith in the constitution...

...that it was just for the rich, the poor got no benefits from it…

It's largely true Nikhil.

I’m still inclined to believe that.

Ultimately you joined the Maoists.

Next I heard from you was from Chhapra.

What happened exactly?

Careful!

Red salute comrade!

I was asked to shoot a man.

Apparently, he was an informer.

Did you kill him?

If I hadn’t, they would've killed me.

So! You have blood on your hands now.

But how did you get out alive?

How come they didn’t finish you off?

The police rescued me.

Police?

Hmm...

Grandfather's connection.

The irony of it!

The very system I was fighting against...

...turned out to be my saviour!

I see.

Now I know the real reason behind your Hindu nationalism.

Basically, you signed a bond to your grandfather, right?

It's easy for you to talk Nikhil!

What the hell were you doing then?

Punting on the Thames with your white friends!

F--ing bloody 'memsahibs' at Oxford!

Grandfather at 81... 81!

A man crippled with arthritis...

...who hadn't stepped out his house in years...

...went all the way to Ranchi to convince the Police Commissioner ...

...to get me out!

How he did it, whom he bribed and how much...

...that's not important!

The point is, he did it!

It was only after I went back to Chhapra...

...and started working for the Village Council...

...that I finally came to know my own country!

Got to know the real India, understand?

The India that armchair socialists like you have no connection with!

Two separate bloody continents!

Anyway...

I realised one thing about myself.

The unquestioning obedience demanded at a Maoist camp...

...was impossible for me to accept it.

And the unquestioning faith demanded by your brand of Hinduism?

You don't have a problem with that Sandip?

Yet...read Rigveda's "Nasadiya Sukta", the Creation Hymn.

Full of questions!

"Whence was it produced?

How did it come into being, this creation?

The gods came afterwards with the creation of the universe.

Who then knows whence it has arisen?"

Such a liberal, such a noble religion!

How on earth did you manage to Talibanise it?

See, the Rigveda talks about a formless, supreme being.

But how does that help the common man?

People need a form they can actually see!

You're right.

Simple!

An idol at whose altar they can submit their hopes and prayers!

At whose feet they can sit and sob their hearts out!

Correct!

Sorry...I'm interrupting you.

Coffee. Best have it while it’s still hot.

Awesome!

Look Mohan-ji...

Annapurna, the goddess of bounty is here before you.

Yes! Annapurna incarnate!

But I’m afraid I'll have to abstain, Brinda.

I made your favourite snack!

Today is Ram Navami, the 9th day of Lord Rama's festival.

What?

Yes, we've already offered our prayers at the temple.

Hail Lord Rama!

Sir has been fasting since morning.

After this he'll go to the temple...

...and offer his prayers.

Only then will he touch any food.

Oh!

- Brinda, meet Amulyo Dutta. - Hello ma'am.

Very bright!

I've been noticing him for the past 2 months.

He's a freshman at the Bharat Seva Mission. With philosophy.

I've asked him to take a look at Nikhilesh's library.

Of course! Whenever you like!

His library is always open.

Thank you ma'am. That would be really helpful.

I need to read books from the opposite camp as well...

...books on secular thought, I mean.

Don't you become a secularist yourself now!

We need bright, modern young men like you in our movement.

Thank you sir.

Please sit.

As I was saying...

May I...join you?

Of course! You'll be an inspiration.

Please join us.

Our queen Bee! Please join us.

It’ll be a pleasure for us all! Do sit!

To return to our discussion...

We need to empathise with the needs of the common man.

You're absolutely right sir!

Lord Rama and his wife Sita have become a part of their daily lives.

How can abstract concepts...

...take that place in their hearts? - Never!

Can they even grasp the core concepts of our ancient texts?

When Sandip-ji speaks, there is such conviction in his words!

If only Nikhil would speak about his beliefs this strongly...

Why doesn't he, I wonder?

Off to the temple?

Yes.

Care to join me?

Do you really believe all this?

All what...?

Going to the temple...offering prayers...

I was told you were an aethiest in college?

Gandhi too, was a barrister. Used to wear a 3-piece suit. So?

So, your trips to the temple are symbolic as well?

You didn't eat breakfast.

Will you have some when you come back?

I may...

But only if you join me.

I had breakfast a long time back.

But I can give you company...

- Okay, let's hear Sammy. - What's essential right now...

...is visitng the actual site ASAP.

We went just once. That too, 2 years ago!

- Exactly! - Mishtu, finish your milk!

I agree with Samira.

Dr. Binoy Sen has written a letter to Iqbal and me.

- He's waiting for us to come. - Seema, make sure to call him.

The condition is really bad there!

A modern well-equipped hospital is a must!

Absolutely!

And we can't plan anything concrete...

...until we get the patient profile from Dr. Sen.

Hold on... Hold on. But what about security?

I mean, it's a Maoist zone! Isn't it?

Jitesh Konar is taking care of that.

Who's he?

The local District Magistrate.

He's very much with us.

How's that possible?

How can the DM go against the government?

Exactly!

He's one of those rare idealistic chaps sir.

Believes in the idea of a secular India.

Okay, so tell me who all can make it...

...and I'll get the travel reservations made.

Leave me out. No point in a crowd.

I'll handle all the paperwork from here, okay?

Okay sir.

And the rest of you?

How soon can you travel?

- How about Monday? - Yup, Monday.

Cool.

Aren't you going to teach today?

What if I don't?

What will you do instead?

What if I spend the entire day chatting with you?

Got scared?

I'll leave in 10 minutes.

But when I have a day off, let's go somewhere...

Haven't been to Hauz Khas in ages.

Will you come with me?

I'm rediscovering Delhi.

Seeing these places through your eyes is something else!

Surely you've been here before?

Yes, during my college days.

Too busy with my love affairs then!

Hardly paid attention to the surroundings.

Do you fall in love every now and then?

Yes, I do have that reputation.

Hasn't Nikhil told you?

He has.

He said girls kept falling in love with you at college...

...with...er...'unfailing regularity'!

Did they? Anyway, all that's in the past.

Where's the time now?

Besides, people become picky with age, I guess.

I'm not attracted very easily these days.

I was mulling over your words the other day...

What words?

I use words all the time.

That's what professors do.

Didn't you say, people need a god they can relate to?

That Rama and Sita have become a part of their lives?

That's true, actually.

It's the same with Radha and Krishna.

There's this song, you know...

'My in-laws are a thorn in my flesh, my love

All happiness lies with you

But the sound of my anklets give me away, my love

My anklets give me away...'

Hmm...

Radha longs to go for her tryst with Krishna...

...but how will she go past her in-laws?

A problem in every home through the ages!

You know, Brinda, it's only in Hinduism...

...Hinduism as practised by the common people...

...that God has been turned into family...

...a part of everyday joys and sorrows.

That's how they identify with the Divine.

Not by worshipping from a distance.

What a beautiful thought!

Beautiful, of course...

But God and adultery...

In Bengali, we call it "forbidden love".

Sounds far better than adultery!

Why? Don't you think adultery is a...fact of life?

Let's go.

Beautiful!

For you.

No, no! Why?

No reason at all. Here -

Just wanted to see it on you.

Thank you.

Here! Insect repellent...

You'll need it in the jungle. And keep this torch.

And my laxative? I'm doomed without it!

Honestly!

And your antacids!

You and your stomach!

Not another word about my stomach!

Worked very hard to earn these disorders!

Where's the hospital file now?

I kept it right here...

What's this?

Sandip-ji gave it to me.

Just because I took him shopping.

So embarrassing!

What's embarrassing about it? He's such an old friend...

Maybe, he meant it as a belated wedding gift.

Here it is!

Expensive too, you know!

I felt so awkward!

What're you looking at?

My beautiful wife.

How long is your tour?

Huh?

Tell me how long your tour is!

About a week.

That long?

There's no plaque on this mounted basil...

...but the platform looks like it's from Orissa or Bengal.

Do you think...

No, I mean...

Don't you think there should be fidelity in love?

See, the words 'love' and 'should' are mutually exclusive.

There's no 'should' in love.

"The heart has its reasons...

...that reason knows nothing about."

Haven't you heard that before?

Bee...

I have to get back home.

Bee...

I needed a word with you...

Open the door please...

The mobile you are trying to reach is out of coverage area.

Please try after some time.

This mobile phone is...

Don't be afraid.

I just wanted you to keep something for me, that's all.

What?

What is this?

See for yourself.

A pistol!

Can you please keep this away safely?

I'll ask for it if I need it.

But why would you need it?

Self-defence. Why else?

Is there a threat on your life?

Isn't there?

Everyone opposing the temple is not like Nikhil.

The opposition has lumpen elements...

...like any political party.

It'll be easier for them if I'm out of the way.

But that's not likely while I'm in this house.

So there's no need for this right now.

I'll ask for it if I need it.

I...feel afraid.

Why?

Be careful...

Promise me...?

See? I've put my life in your safekeeping.

What is there to fear now?

From now on...

...only you can kill me.

Clouds envelop the sky...

...dark, so dark

Thunder rumbles... the rain pours down...

My heart fills with rapture

Clouds envelop the sky...

...dark, so dark

The night is black... Lightning flashes...

The wind roars...

...in passionate fury

The night is black... Lightning flashes...

The wind roars outside...

...in passionate fury

Without my beloved, my life ebbs away...

Clouds envelop the sky...

...dark, so dark

Thank you very much.

Come guys.

Nice!

I hope you'll be comfortable here.

Oh absolutely!

- Thanks Jitesh. - Thank you so much Jitesh.

- Welcome. - Really!

Jitesh!

Very nice!

- Thank you so much. - Sure.

- See you. - Pleasure.

- Good night. - Good night.

The meeting is at 10 AM sharp tomorrow.

Okay.

What about Shweta Devi?

I'll bring Shweta-di and Dr. Binoy Sen along.

- Don't worry about it. - Great!

So I'll be off now.

Thanks for everything Jitesh.

- Good night. - G'night, g'night.

Yes sir.

Trying Brinda?

Yeah. Thought I'd let her know we've reached safely.

Tch! Can't get any network!

You won't.

I tried calling Mishtu several times.

Impossible!

There's a security outpost just outside the jungle.

We can call from the landline there tomorrow.

Okay.

- Sandy still at your place? - Yep.

What! Why?

You're out of town...

...he should have moved to the university campus!

Where are you going?

Ma'am?

Ma'am, the gardener wants to ask you something.

Ma'am?

First tell me, who's funding this project?

We could've got state funding...

...if the hospital were built elsewhere.

But you people...

But that defeats the purpose Shweta-di!

Unless a secular structure is...

Be quiet Jitesh!

Right now I'm least bothered about India's secularism!

I'm only interested in a good hospital for the tribals here.

Do you know every year... Thank you!

...how many women die at childbirth...

...just because of breach cases?

We did have an experienced midwife here...

...in Binoy's clinic.

Tell them Binoy.

Yes, she was an excellent midwife.

She could turn the baby's head in the womb through massage.

Unfortunately, she died...last year. Malignant malaria.

These are the problems here.

But this can't continue!

We need a good hospital immediately!

But, without definite funding I can't waste my time in meetings.

I have a lot of other work, I'm sorry!

I think Iravati something to say...

She's the legal representative of a couple of big NGOs here.

- Okay. - I see.

Tell them.

There are 2 NGOs who can...

...probably bring in international funding.

And...they have expressed their interest...

...in this hospital project.

What kind of international funding?

That's a dicey area to start with!

I know, sir. But they're talking UNESCO or UNICEF.

And that's about... as clean as you can get!

Okay.

I think it might be worthwhile to meet them.

Um...can that be arranged while we're here?

Well...that might take a few days...

- When're you coming next? - We...

I don't think we should leave it for next time.

Coordinating with everyone again... is very difficult.

- Quite right. - I agree.

Nikhil...

...can we extend our trip by a few days?

Yes?

You must be Dr. Chaudhury.

Greetings! I'm Amulyo Dutta...

...Dr. Jha's student.

Oh, I see.

Actually, ma'am had said...

...if I borrowed some books from your library...

...you wouldn't have a problem. So...

No problem at all. Please sit.

Don't see your professor around.

Where is Sandip?

Sir is at the university.

He has a public lecture today...

Ma'am is there too.

Er...does she know you're coming back today?

Said you were returning tomorrow.

That was the plan.

But I finished early. So I thought I'd surprise her.

Still standing? Please sit.

What were you reading?

Oh! Here -

Irfan Habib! Goodness! Romila Thapar!

But you've marginalised these so-called leftist historians!

Sit.

No sir.

Dr. Jha says we should read more books from the opposing camp!

Else, how will we debate them?

Really?

Very well. Read whatever you like from here.

Would you like some tea or coffee?

No, sir. I don't take tea or coffee.

Dries up the body.

Really?

How late we are!

Amulyo must be waiting.

Come on now...

- We do get some books from the university. - Right.

- But the problem is... - Waiting long Amulyo?

Look who else is waiting! Surprise!

You?

When did you come?

Weren't you supposed to be here tomorrow?

Most unfair!

I wouldn't have gone out if I'd known!

No problem... I was chatting with Amulyo.

Been to a temple?

- Yes... - Bee!

I was saying...

- Hey! When did you arrive? - Just now...

Couldn't manage you... but I've converted your wife!

She came for my lecture today.

Then we went to the temple together.

So I see...

She's our queen Bee now.

Inspires everyone!

- What do you say Amulyo? - Absolutely!

You know, sir...

...whenever ma'am is in the audience...

...Dr. Jha's rhetoric is at its best!

Then she starts asking such difficult questions...

...that even Dr. Jha is hard put to answer!

So? How is your hospital coming along?

When does the construction start, huh?

Well...it's work in progress.

You guys talk. I'll head upstairs.

I'll come too...

...take out the washing for Shehnaz...

Amulyo, you're going out now with Dr. Jha, right?

Don't forget my book from the mission library.

Okay ma'am.

Did you visit the temple...

...out of genuine belief? Or was it for Sandip?

I knew it!

What?

That deep down, you're jealous! Possessive!

I asked you a simple question Binnie.

Don't answer if you don't wish to, but...

Simple question, my foot!

You're always out to prove...

...how liberal, how superior, how generous you are!

In reality, you're just like all other men!

Possessive and chauvinistic!

Yes, I am possessive about some things...

...that's true.

About my laptop, for instance...

...where the hospital plans are...

...or this pipe...

...that Father gave me after I returned from Oxford.

But I've never thought of you as a possession Binnie!

You might be my wife, but you're a separate human being!

I've never tried to own you.

These are just words!

Remember...remember once you said that...

...I never got a chance to meet any other man before I married you?

Or I may have liked someone else...?

Well, it's true what you said!

I do like someone!

Now that I've met Sandip, I do like him!

And we've become good friends.

You can't tolerate it. And I can see that!

If that's what you think, then...

...I'm sorry I gave that impression.

That was not my intention.

What I could never have imagined...

...is that what I will have to consider now?

Is Binnie then...

Dr. Jha says that...

...our country should definitely be a Hindu state...

...because see, the majority religion is Hinduism!

No one is forcing non-Hindus to stay here.

If they want to eat beef, let them move to Pakistan, he says.

But Amulyo...

...at the time of the Partition...

...although you weren't born then...

...for that matter, neither was I...

...the Muslim families who stayed back then...

...instead of going to Pakistan...

...they made a decision in favour of secularism, didn't they?

They chose to live in a secular country called India.

Now, if that same country is declared a Hindu state...

...don't you think it's a terrible betrayal for those people?

Many of them are probably not alive...

...but their descendants are still here.

- You may not know them personally, but... - I do.

You do?

Who's this?

My friend Junaid.

We live in the same neighbourhood.

Went to the same school too.

During the Eid festival...

...they'd send us the most delicious food...

...no beef of course!

I don't touch that food now.

Really? Why?

Food cooked in a Muslim home...

...where they cook beef too!

How is it possible to segregate?

Goes against my beliefs sir.

I see...

We've been such close friends since childhood...

...but now there's a kind of...wall...

...a wall between us.

Amulyo, say if India were to become a Hindu state...

...then, according to you...

... Junaid would have to move to Pakistan.

Would you really like that?

You wouldn't get to see your friend.

You could, but there'd be a lot of hassles.

Passport... Visa...

How often do you meet usually?

Say, 3 or 4 times a week?

That could become once in 3 or 4 years!

But that's not too bad, is it?

A small sacrifice to make for one's religion!

What do you say, huh?

Binnie?

What's wrong Binnie?

Unwell?

Migraine.

Really? It's come back after a long time!

Why're you smoking then? It'll get worse.

Happy?

Close your eyes and lie in the dark for a bit. Should get better.

I'll be in my study if you need anything.

By the way, don't see Sandip anywhere. Is he back?

How should I know?

Am I his keeper?

Hello?

Who's this?

Yes, we are going ahead with the hospital project!

Any problem?

Hello?

Hello!

Aren't you coming to bed?

No, I'll take a bit longer... You go to sleep.

Sir, should I bring up your dinner?

No, I've eaten. Thank you Shehnaz.

Very well.

Do what you must...

I'll get going now.

How long will you be in Bastar?

Say, 3 months?

- 3 months! - It would take that long.

I'd like to observe Dr. Binoy Sen's work in some detail.

Told him I'd do that before I do an in-depth interview.

I'll also visit some tribal villages with Shweta Devi.

We tend to be too theoretical...

...don't get to experience subaltern life at first hand.

But you've not been keeping too well...

...what with all your digestive problems...

...and ulcers! Is it wise to travel alone?

I would have come along, but...

...leaving Mishtu for so long...

Impossible!

And in any case, I'd like to be alone for a while.

- Anything wrong? - What d'you mean?

Now what?

Nick?

What?

Nothing...

While you're away, ask Sandip to move to the campus.

- Did you hear me? - Hm.

You won't be able to ask, I know.

- Want me to? - No.

Hello?

Who's this?

What?

Nikhil...

Don't threaten me!

Tell me your name!

Don't have the guts to say your name...

...and you're trying to make threats?

Go on! Tell me your name!

Disgusting!

Threat call?

I'm used to it.

Heard you're leaving again?

- Where're you off to now? - Bastar.

But you went just 2 months ago!

There's work.

Don't take these threat calls lightly, Nikhil.

You're treading on dangerous ground!

I'm telling you for your own good.

I wouldn't want anything to happen to you.

- We've been friends for so long... - Yes, but we've grown apart.

There's far too much between us now.

Oh! I needed to ask you something...

...but we've hardly met lately.

I'm going to Bastar for 3 months.

Are you planning to continue to stay here...

...in this house?

No. In fact, that's what I'd come to say...

...I'm shifting to the campus. They're very insistent.

Besides...

...I've a feeling I've overstayed my welcome.

This is the problem.

Malnutrition.

They hardly get anything to eat.

If they had food in their stomachs...

...half their ailments would disappear!

But they do get enough rice once a year.

During the harvest season.

That's like a festival for them.

Only rice? No lentils even?

So, no source of protein at all?

Let me tell you about an incident then...

An old tribal woman had invited me for a meal once.

When I reached her home...

...I found that on a plate made of leaves...

...she had laid out a mound of rice...

...with some coarse salt on the side.

I was new here then.

Naively I asked her...

...what should I eat the rice with?

She said, "Why? Eat it with your fingers child."

I've never been able to forget those words Nikhilesh.

That incident shaped my entire life and work.

It's true, I don't believe in violence...

...as a sustainable means to an end.

There, there...we're done.

But I can't turn a patient away, no matter who!

A sick person is a sick person!

I see you do surgeries here too...

...what kind of surgeries?

Minor ones.

Whatever is possible with local anaesthesia.

Lancing abscesses... setting fractures...

...and you just saw me take out a bullet from this man's arm.

Now we'll put in a few stiches.

Come - Manglu! 4 sutures here!

What's wrong with the child? Bring him closer.

He has fever.

Let's take a look...

He has really high fever!

Take a deep breath...

Once again...

Again...

The monsoon clouds hang low

Empty is my abode

The monsoon clouds hang low

The monsoon clouds hang low

Empty is my abode

The monsoon clouds hang low

The storm rages yonder

Rain surrounds my world

My beloved is away

My heart is filled with longing

Thunder strikes at my heart

In Nature, ecstasy abounds...

Peacocks dance in joy

Birds and beasts call out to their mates, delirious with love

My lonely heart breaks

The darkness of deepest night...

...is rent with lightning

The mobile you are trying to reach is out of coverage area.

The poet Vidyapati asks...

...O Radha, how will you bear this long separation with Krishna?

I think...I'm not emotionally ready for a child yet.

I see.

But you have a history of ectopic pregnancy.

Last year you had conceived in the fallopian tube. Remember?

Luckily, this time, it's a completely normal pregnancy.

I definitely think you should have this child.

Er...where is your husband?

He didn't come with you?

He's not in Delhi right now.

Hmm...but you should take a decision about this together.

It should be a joint decision.

You have only one fallopian tube left Mrs. Chaudhury.

There might be problems in future pregnancies.

I definitely would advise against abortion at this time.

Okay?

Mind your head.

The baby will come any day.

But she hardly has the strength to bear down.

No C-sections here.

Midwives are the only option.

Here Budhni, keep this rice.

Make sure you eat it. Understand?

I'll get you more when this is finished.

I knew you'd call me.

I couldn't take it anymore either Bee!

- I've thought of calling you so many times... - I'm pregnant.

What d'you mean!

Are you saying the child is mine?

Is that why you called me?

I don't know whose it is.

Does Nikhil know?

Haven't told him yet.

Thank God!

No need to tell him.

Get an abortion done before he comes back.

Let me know if you need anything...

I did see my doctor...

I have a history of ectopic pregnancy.

She won't do it.

Then we'll have go to someone else!

There's no dearth of doctors in Delhi.

Want me to find out?

It's too late for that.

- Can you take me away? - What!

Take me to Patna with you!

I can't face Nikhil.

How's that possible?

You're someone else's wife! On top of that, a Dalit-

What I mean is...

Listen, listen Bee!

I have a career, an image!

At this stage in my life, it would be political suicide!

How could this have happened?

I thought...we were careful.

Listen!

Don't tell Nikhil anything at all.

Let him think the child is his.

He'll never ask for a paternity test!

So...cheat him?

Who said anything about cheating?

You really don't know whose child it is.

Maybe it is Nikhil's!

Sir! Sir! You're here?

I went looking for you at the guest house...

- We're busy Amulyo... - Sir, please...

- What is it? - Sir, they've beaten up Junaid!

Who the hell is Junaid?

Sir, my childhood friend Junaid Ali Khan.

Lives in my neighbourhood.

They beat him up because he couldn't say "Jai Shri Ram" (Hail Lord Rama).

Who's "they"?

Some Hindu boys from our neighbourhood.

I'm very scared sir!

Why didn't he just say it?

Could have saved his skin!

He tried sir.

I went to see him.

He couldn't pronounce it properly, poor thing!

Those guys have threatened him.

They'll finish him off before the festival of Eid.

Please do something!

Can't our party help control them?

Think the party has the time, Amulyo,...

...to deal with each individual case?

Don't you read the news Amulyo?

Something or the other keeps happening everyday! In fact...

Here!

"Indian Mujahideen attack on Hindu pilgrims on their way to Amarnath.

12 pilgrims killed in bloodbath!"

It's a world gone mad.

Understand?

Nothing anyone can do!

Hasn't Dr. Chaudhury returned from Bastar yet?

Just because he couldn't say "Jai Shri Ram"?

The boys who beat him up are your age, right?

I can't understand this generation anymore.

On the one hand, there's so much progress in science...

The microchip has been discovered...

Stem cell research is leading us towards immortality...

The human genome has been developed...

And yet... this madness about religion!

How does religion even feature in their lives?

In what way does it serve them, tell me?

No point talking to Sandip. He won't be able to do anything.

Won't do it!

He was my student... I know him.

He's brilliant and persuasive...

...but he has sold his soul to the devil.

His political ambition won't allow him to do anything.

Do something...

Go to the Human Rights Commission.

Another student of mine works there...

...I'm writing a note for him.

But I hope you've filed a complaint with the police?

No one has to do anything anymore sir.

It's all over.

What do you mean?

They've killed Junaid.

He was returning by train after his Eid shopping.

They'd known about it beforehand.

They beat him to death on the train.

The other passengers sat and watched.

No one protested.

His brother Alam had a narrow escape.

He's the one who let me know.

I loved him.

Brinda?

Does Nikhil know?

Has he called?

Did he say how he was and when he's coming back?

He's alright...

...doesn't know when he's coming back.

Doesn't...

And you still didn't say anything?

Has Sandy been here?

Once.

Better not come too often.

See, Sandy is an old friend of ours.

But, as a human being...

When does Nikhil usually call?

In the morning. Between 9 and 10.

I need to speak to him urgently.

Don't know if you've heard...

...a boy called Junaid...

...Professor Mitra said...

...he was a close friend of one of Sandy's students.

Some goons beat him to death.

We need to organise a protest immediately!

Do you have the number Nikhil calls from?

I do.

Rekha-ji, didn't you have something to say to Dr. Jha?

I do.

Sandip-ji, our party has nominated you as a Member of Parliament.

We hope you'll accept this offer without any delay.

About time you dealt with your friend...

Or do you want our party cadres to tackle him?

The outcome won't be very good.

You too, know that very well.

Binnie!

You didn't you tell me anything!

We spoke so many times...

...yet I had to hear it from Sammy!

I would have come back much sooner!

You were busy... I didn't want to disturb you.

That's no excuse!

No matter how busy, this is my biggest priority!

This is our child Binnie!

Our first child!

Too proud to call?

- Just waiting for you to come back Nikhil! - Sorry to be late...

If we have to protest against Junaid's murder, it has to be done immediately.

You're right sir.

Everyday lost is...one more day of forgetting.

Agreed.

Well? Nikhil?

Hmm...

I think...

Maybe...a candle light march?

- Yes... - A silent candle light march.

Good idea!

At..uh...India Gate?

- What about tomorrow night? - Yup.

But can we get people together at such short notice?

Absolutely! The social network pages are full!

Everybody will come!

You have no idea, Nikhil...

...what the extent of the outrage is!

We should get some singers.

No...I know that it's a silent march, but...

- ...we can still have songs, right? - Sure.

Songs are fine. But no slogans please!

How about banners?

- We should say what we're protesting against! - Absolutely!

- I've made a few... - Could you please show us?

Let's see?

Looks good, huh?

Nice!

Not bad!

"So long as the Sun and Moon do last Junaid, your name too, will last!"

Did you see Dr. Kapoor?

I could take you tomorrow morning...

I've been there.

What did she say?

All good?

You seem very low Binnie.

She didn't agree to an abortion.

Abortion!

Why?

Binnie?

Because I don't know...

...I don't know whose child it is.

Sandip's!

Maybe...

Oh my God!

My God!

I'll leave soon.

I'm looking for a place to stay. As soon as I get it...

There's the money Granny had saved...

Besides...I still have my job.

I could stay in the guestroom until then...

...if that's what you want.

Do you love him?

What then?

It was infatuation.

I see that now...

You were right.

I had not known any other man.

I got carried away...

I know you can never forgive me.

But still...

If you're not in love with anyone else...

...why do you want to leave me? Leave this house?

Would it be so unbearable to live here with me?

Forgive me!

Forgive me please!

I don't know what came over me.

Forgive me please!

So many times I've felt like asking Sandip to leave...

Why didn't you?

You had every right to!

Because I'm selfish.

I wanted you to see Sandip for what he really is!

Yes, he's very charming!

Brilliant! A great speaker...

But there's another side to him.

An immoral, ambitious, ruthless side!

Maybe I should have warned you.

But I couldn't Binnie. I just couldn't!

But...the baby?

The baby is my Binnie's.

Isn't that enough?

There's a candlelight march tonight. For Junaid.

Why don't we go for a vacation after that?

Would you like that?

I would.

If no one heeds your call, march on alone

March on alone, march on alone, march on alone

If no one heeds your call, march on alone

If no one sings along, O luckless one, if no one sings along

If all are mute and turn away, afraid to join your song

Lay bare your soul, And sing out your heartfelt song all alone

If no one heeds your call, march on alone

The world is about to change where oppression has no place

This is the final, deciding fight

Sing 'Internationale' Rise, for the time is come!

Anti-nationals leave India! Leave India! Leave India!

Sing ' Internationale'...

Sammy? Hold this please!

Let me see...let me see!

Are you badly hurt?

Want to go sit in the car?

No problem... Carry on.

Sing 'Internationale' Rise, for the time is come!

BEWARE! BEWARE! BEWARE!

MUSLIM LOVER! YOU HAVE SHAMED THE NATION!

WE WILL GET YOU NIKHILESH CHAUDHURY!

Get out of here! Get going! All of you!

Oh, deep in my heart I do believe

We shall overcome, some day

We shall live in peace

Hello. Hello?

What!

Are you sure?

Hello?

Yeah, okay.

Sir! Let's go home please!

I have information there's going to trouble here.

- I'll look into it... - Please sir! They just called me!

We shall overcome, we shall overcome We shall overcome, some day

Excuse me... Let me through...

Some day...

- Ma'am! - Amulyo...?

- Where's Nikhil? - At India Gate.

Call Dr. Jha immediately! There'll be trouble India Gate!

What're you saying!

A party member called me... asked me to leave immediately!

They'll be bringing bombs.

- Bombs! - Yes.

I tried to get Dr. Chaudhury out.

He just dismissed me.

- What should I do Amulyo? - Call Dr. Jha!

- Only he can help! - Okay...

I'm going back. I'll try to get him out.

Or, I'll go to the office... Trouble might spread there too!

Please call Dr. Jha! I'll see what I can do.

Sandip...

Bee! So late?

I'm very worried!

Please do something!

Amulyo has information!

Information?

What information?

There's trouble brewing!

Nikhil is in danger Sandip!

At India Gate? Impossible!

It's past 11.30.

The meeting must've have been over a long time back.

No...

Calm down...calm down... Listen! I...

I'm coming over. Please Bee, don't stress...

Get out of here! Stop right now!

Back off! Back off at once!

Oh, deep in my heart I do believe

We shall overcome, some day

Quarter past 12!

Nikhil said he'd definitely be back by 11 PM.

Just look!

There's so much hate mail piled up!

Nikhil hasn't even opened them!

I'm scared Sandip!

Don't you see? He's on their hitlist!

They want to finish him off!

Oh God!

Not just hate mail...

...there were threat calls too!

Heard them myself.

I've repeatedly warned him not to take them lightly!

Would he listen?

It's too late now...

...beyond my control.

What d'you mean?

You won't do anything inspite of knowing?

Nikhil's your friend!

Your oldest friend!

That's why I tried so hard to warn him!

Now whatever happens will be the mandate of the majority.

The fallout of Nikhil's precious democracy!

Nothing anyone can do.

Yes, tell me...

I understand, but...

Hear me out...

Yes I know, but...

Listen to me... Very well, let me speak to him.

Listen!

No need to take his life...

...just scare him off.

Let's see what happens.

Yes, yes! Take it from me.

If that doesn't work then...

...we'll have to find some other way.

It's not like he's fleeing Delhi!

Who was that?

Who were you talking to?

For heaven's sake!

So many of people in a party that one has to handle!

You know all of them?

Come on, sit down.

Had dinner?

Why are you so tense?

Have I said I won't help?

Hello...

Am I speaking to the Commissioner of Police?

Good evening sir. Sandip Jha here.

Sorry to...call you so late.

Yes, yes, I'm fine.

Actually, I'm worried about my friend Dr. Nikhilesh Chaudhury.

You see, he was at the...candlelight march today...

Oh!

The march is over?

But Nikhil hasn't come home yet...

At the police station? For questioning?

Oh, I see. Just a formality...

No, actually...his wife was worried.

So...he should be home soon, right?

I will tell her. Thank you.

Thank you so much sir.

Yeah, good night.

That was the Commissioner of Police.

Nikhil's at the police station. He's safe.

Need further assurance?

Thank you.

Half past one...

Nikhil isn't back yet...

No.

Shouldn't we inform the police?

I had called the Commissioner.

Nikhil's at the police station.

He'll be back soon. Nothing to worry about.

You go to bed Shambhu-da.

I'll be here till he's back.

Nikhil!

Wait! Stay here!

- Why can't I come? - I asked you to wait!

Hello...

Maharani Bagh Police Station?

When did all this happen?

- Around 2 AM. - 2 AM...

Okay, take photos from all angles.

- Ma'am... - Cover every angle.

I must report this to the Commissioner.

We'll need his instructions to begin the investigation.

Come ma'am...

Yes, Mr. Commissioner? Right...

I'm at the scene of crime.

Yes, I've spoken to Dr. Jha.

Why don't you come tomorrow morning?

- Excuse me... - I'll call you later.

- We're leaving now. - Okay.

We've placed the body in the study.

A security person will remain with the body at all times...

...until it is taken for post mortem.

- Thank you sir. - Good night.

Ma'am, please have this juice...

Ma'am...

Sir, she hasn't eaten anything since last night...

...not even dinner.

This juice...

Brinda, have the juice at least.

You need your strength now.

Where's Shambhu-da?

He's been sitting outside the study since then...

Please have it ma'am.

I... I never wanted this to happen Bee.

Not this!

I just asked them to threaten him. Didn't realise that...

...that they'd actually...

Nikhil was my friend.

Our politics was different, but...

...he was my only...real friend!

I have no one left now...

...no one.

Ma'am! Ma'am! Would you like to say a few words?

- Ma'am... - Not now please! Not now!

A few words on Dr. Chaudhury...

Please ma'am...

Excuse me!

We're reporting to you live from the scene of crime...

Shambhu-da, here...

Excuse me! Excuse me please... Please...

One second...one second...

Please, please! Please leave Mrs. Chaudhury alone...

...I will do the talking.

Any questions...ask me.

That way please!

I'll be right with you.

Please...go up and rest, hm?

- Come on. Come. - Sir, sir...

One at a time please...

- Where did you find him sir? - In the porch.

- But did you see anyone leave? - By the time we reached there...

...he was gone.

So...I called the police. Immediately.

When the police came... Excuse me! Excuse me...

- Come in sir...this way... - Please! We need answers sir.

- He's in the study... - You went to school together, right?

Nikhil and I were very old friends...

...very close friends.

We had mutual respect for each other.

- What kind of a person was he? - Tell us something about Dr. Chaudhury sir.

- He was a fearless journalist... - Just a minute sir...

...who always raised his voice against the evils of society.

And I admired it!

But your politics and Dr. Chaudhury's were entirely different sir!

Didn't that ever come between you?

Yes, our politics was different but...

...that never came in the way of our friendship.

But that's quite unbelieveable sir!

Why?

We studied together right from class one!

Sir, did he have any enemies sir?

Unfortunately, he had alienated a lot of people during...

- ...the course of his career. - Who did he alienate?

- Which people sir? - ...including Maoists.

Maoists?

Yes, Maoists. He knew some of them quite well.

- What d'you mean? - What're you trying to say?

Oh yes!

He had connections with them while working in Bastar.

Was your party involved with Dr. Chaudhury's murder?

Absolutely not!

What're you saying!

But your party politics was completely different sir!

Our party members admired him deeply.

So, who's responsible for this?

Difficult to say...

...and I don't want to speculate.

But as I said, it's possible it's the work of Maoists.

Like I said before...

...while Nikhil was in Bastar...

...he did have a connection with Maoists.

And uh...during that period he was...uh...interviewing...

...Dr. Binoy Sen.

Your party has nominated you as a Member of Parliament sir.

Sir, are you planning to accept?

Yes, it's true I've been nominated...

...but I haven't submitted my letter of acceptance yet.

But why haven't you presented the letter yet?

Look! I assure you that...

...I'm ready to do anything for my country and my people.

But for that, it's important for me to come into power.

What're you...

- She killed him! - He's dead!