Instead of giving water to the bullocks that brought us this far,
he is giving alcohol to a stone.
Madness!
Don’t say that, maama (husband)…
That's the mountain God.
He guards this forest and mountain.
You keep rambling nonsense.
Look here, everyone.
Let's not travel tonight.
Let's stay here.
What are you saying, Grandpa?
Leave me. I'm just going to talk.
What's your problem?
If I don’t deliver these goods by morning,
it will be a big loss. Don't you care?
For you, business and income is important.
It's not important to you if we reach there safely or not, huh?
Why, Grandpa?
Are you afraid?
Yes.
I'm afraid.
I'm scared when I think about that bend.
Just because someone told a story,
you all still believe it.
What else would you call it, if not madness?
Let’s listen to Velu.
Haven't you heard about that bend?
-Let's go in the morning-- -Listen up...
I wasn't just giving alcohol to a stone.
I was asking for permission...
which I didn’t receive.
The omens aren’t in our favour.
Not only that, today is Friday,
we definitely won’t be able to go tonight.
I won't let anyone either.
-Listen to Grandpa, please-- -Hey!
Grandpa, what if I shatter your belief?
I’ll cross that bend tonight and show you.
Shall I?
If you’ve got the guts, go alone.
No one’s coming with you.
Not even a cart.
Go!
-Are you coming or not? -maama--
Maama...
Please stop, maama.
Take your hands off.
-I'll show that old geezer today. -You heard what he said, no?
Let's go back.
Wait, maama...
What's the reason to get so angry?
The whole lot is mad.
-Please... -Hands off!
Why follow me? Should've stayed there itself.
Who else would I go with?
-Look here... -No need...
Hey, look at me.
Alright, come.
Come on, don't be angry.
Grandpa wouldn’t say that for no reason.
There must be something at that bend.
You're crazy!
This is the bend your grandpa was talking about.
Listen...
What? Are you scared?
But I'm here with you.
Come.
Maama...
Look over there.
Looks like there are brave people in this place too
Hey, lady!
Don't go over there.
-There is a ghost. -Stop it, maama.
Maama...
Thazhu thazhu thazhu...
Manichitrathazhu!
Nagavalli has taken Kerala by storm.
Manichitrathazhu keeps the audience on the edge of laughter and fear.
People of Kerala are flocking to the theatres,
eager to know who Nagavalli is.
Didn't you see the movie?
Yes.
Who's Nagavalli?
It's Shobana. Mohanlal figures it out in the end.
Argh! Switch off the mic and talk!
Ah, let's play music for a while.
[Varuvanillaarum song from Manichithrathazhu]
Sir, where were you working before this?
Thenmala… I was there for three years.
Oh, okay. Is that your hometown?
My hometown is in the east.
Rajakumari in Idukki.
There’s a place called Rajakumari in Idukki?
Yes, yes. There's Rajakumari, Thankamani.
-Right, sir? -Yes, that's right.
Is this movie a hit?
Yes, super hit.
Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi...
Is there a theatre here?
Yes, sir.
Bhadra Talkies.
But they won’t screen this movie there
Why's that?
They won’t show Yakshi (female ghost) films there.
I don't understand.
Sir, is this a punishment transfer?
No...
-Why? -No one voluntarily transfers here.
It’s a cursed place...
Cursed?
Oh, no!
This is the checkpost, sir.
-You may get off here. -Okay.
The amazing film that has won the hearts of the people
and is filling the talkies in Kerala,
Manichitrathazhu!
Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi and Shobana
-Hello? -Coming
come together in the fantastic movie,
Manichitrathazhu!
-Anybody here? -Who are you?
I'm joining today as the new FO (Forest Officer).
Oh! Sir, I'm Hamsa. Good morning -Good morning.
-It's alright, I can take it. -That's fine, sir.
It's our new sir.
Facilities are very less, aren’t they?
Sir, in this place, this itself is a luxury.
-Is that so? -Barely any cases here.
What’s the geography like around here?
Three kilometres past the check post
is Kalleli village.
It’s one of the most sparsely populated areas in Kerala.
Oh, alright.
Kalleli is surrounded by forest on three sides.
Beyond the forest is Tamil Nadu.
-But that road is tricky, sir. -Hm?
It’s an old forest path cut by the British to transport goods.
But...
But what?
Sir...
The British left because they feared Sumathi.
About a kilometre and a half past the check post,
there's a bend.
It's called Sumathi Bend.
The story goes, even foreigners couldn’t make it past that bend.
I’ve been working here for over a year and a half, sir.
There’s truth in what people say, sir.
No one from the village dares to cross that bend after 8 pm,
no matter how urgent it is.
We close it before dark.
We reopen only at 6 am the next day.
People believe in such stories these days?
It’s no story, sir.
Many have lost their lives on that bend.
And some have seen Sumathi too.
You just got here, sir.
You’ll come to believe it soon enough…
Afraid.
Brave.
Argh!
-Mom. -Hm?
-Mom! -What's it?
Is there really a Yakshi at Sumathi Bend?
Mom!
Fed up with this guy!
Don’t bring me porridge anymore
when your son’s in the toilet.
What a nuisance!
-Appu! -Uncle collapsed hearing about Sumathi.
You'll get it from me!
Appu...
Appu!
What is this…?
Ganapati Homam?
So many mosquitoes here. Step aside.
You're old enough to get married.
And he's still a scaredy cat!
I'm not scared to get married.
You go ahead and marry me off, Dad!
And then I've to take care of her expenses too?
Won't even let me eat in peace!
Hey!
Don't say that. When have I not let you eat in peace?
I was going to eat right now!
-How shameless! Got an earful, no? -This Dad! Go keep this inside.
What did I do?
-How can he always be scared! -You, daughter of my sister! Come here!
I didn't get scared this time either.
You got scared, Uncle.
It's not easy to scare me.
What did we hear then?
It was a hunger cry.
How believable!
Mom, give me some porridge.
Mom.
Mom!
Alli!
Mom!
Looks fine from the way he's coming.
Brother!
-Shashi, did anyone fall at the bend? -No.
Oh, thank goodness.
Everything is alright.
Tea is ready.
It’s scary when it’s time for the sacrifice ritual at the sacred grove.
The power gets stronger.
Pappan, stop it! So early in the morning!
Is what I’m saying the problem now?
I’ve been asking the Panchayat for a new road forever.
But no one cares.
The PWD rejected all that long ago.
The Government decided one road
is enough for the people of this village.
Oh!
Here we go again.
-Ambadi... -Good morning, TTC.
It was just the roof of the theatre.
Roof...?
It's a theatre print.
So why not watch some theatre as well?
Only then you'll get the theatre feel!
-When did TTC take this? -Four days.
Just pay the rent for two days.
-Will give you in the evening. -Okay. Bye, bye!
Bye.
Hello, Pappan, what's up?
Ambadi, it’s stuck again.
-What? -Vedam.
Vedam?
Looks like it's stuck here too.
'Rathinirvedam'.
Look here, Pappan.
This cassette is completely worn out!
Give that Jayabharathi some rest!
Be quiet.
-As if! -Please fix it.
-Hello, good morning, -Did Giri chettan come?
-Saw him leave in the jeep this morning. -Oh, did he.
-Here's the key, Vijayan chettan. -What’s this, Pappan?
More respect than usual.
-The cas-- -It'll come...
Don’t say anything. Just keep walking.
He has a sacred amulet in his hand.
-Amulet? -It is 'Rathinirvedam' cassette.
So...
do you also sell amulets?
Kind of...
'Rathinirvedam' movie cassette.
Oh!
Then I can’t blame Pappan.
You think your father has seen it?
We think we’re slick enough to pull anything off.
But we’re wrong.
Our fathers have seen it all and done it twice.
We haven't even done half of what they've done.
Count the spoons.
Aashan!
Blessings...
Since you gave me the amulet,
my fear’s gone.
I'm very brave now.
-Really brave, huh? -Yes.
Then can you cross that Sumathi Bend
alone at night?
These things are not to be joked about.
We’ve lived peacefully for generations because,
long ago, the Nayyedis
invoked her and confined her to the across that bend.
That’s why she blocks the view of the bend.
I'm off.
Kids these days.
Tomorrow, the sacrificial ritual needs to go well.
Cut the palms and go to the grove.
Also...
Everyone be careful until the sacrifice ritual is over.
That's when the power gets stronger.
-Giri! -Yes.
Where did you manage to find him?
From Gavi.
Some ritual work at a Maadan grove.
What's wrong, Chemban?
Are the signs not good today?
Huh?
Sir, your lifeline seems faint.
Huh?
Hmph.
Don't worry, drink this.
Everything will be fine.
-The troubles will end. -You may go.
Alright, sir!
Who were those people?
The guy driving the jeep is Giri.
He’s like the all-in-all of Kalleli.
With him was Chemban,
he does the ritual work at the grove.
Oh, okay.
Stop, Giri.
-Stop, man. -Stopping.
Chemban's father and mother both passed away on that bend.
His father was an old sorcerer
and he’s got some of that talent too.
Also, the omens that Chemban foretells often come true, sir.
Let's go.
Hang it up high.
Make sure the whole village sees it.
Just screen Manichitrathazhu, Bhadran.
Let the entire village get spooked.
We'll make some money too!
You think people who don’t step out after 8 pm,
are going to come to see a Yakshi movie,
He's coming, Bhadran.
Didn't we tell you, sir?
About the girl who crossed the bend and ran away?
That's the guy who helped her back then.
It's too sweet.
Just press this and it won't be too sweet.
Appu, right?
Don't laugh too much.
When your family finds out, only we'll be there for you.
But Aashan knows about them.
Eh? How?
Listen...
People understand when they see you
respect and revere her dad.
That's true. Whenever you see Dad,
you overdo it, Ambadi.
Can I give you some free advice?
Marry someone better
and escape from this damned place.
What's wrong with me, huh?
-Nothing at all. -Eat this, it'll help.
Look, here comes another one who wanted to escape this place.
Over there.
-There's your uncle. -Her plan failed.
But my brother-in-law managed to escape all the way to Japan.
-Everyone's here! -Talking bad about me?
Not you, about brother-in-law.
Sir...
we told you about the problems with the bend, right?
A lot of people have died there.
Sir, the night the girl ran off,
someone was found dead there.
That is his wife and daughter.
Sreekutty... Come on, let’s go for a walk.
What about me?
You should go with Ambadi.
You little brat!
Let's go? Come on.
Alright, then.
Come.
Hi Suja.
How are you, dear?
-I'm good. -I'll pray and come, okay.
What’s wrong, sis?
Oh, it’s nothing, Appu.
Why did you quit your job at the talkies?
Even though it was small, it was still an income, right?
Anyone can say anything to a woman
whose husband has died.
Who? Bhadran?
Sis, starting tomorrow,
come work at the cassette shop.
It won’t be a big salary,
but it’s something.
-What do you say, Ambadi? -Sure!
Come to the shop tomorrow.
-Alright. -Okay.
We need to ask him about this.
No need.
No matter what we say, it’ll just lead back to the same old story.
Let's wait, we'll get him.
Sir, that’s the family of the girl who ran away.
That's Bhadran who was supposed to marry her.
That girl has a brother too.
He's in the military.
Whenever he’s on leave and sees Appu, they end up fighting.
The thing is...
After Sumathi Bend, they’re the biggest problem here.
-Vavakuttan. -Hey!
Listen, she is here.
Who? Seetha?
No.
-Suma? -No.
Then?
Thulasi P.P.?
No, man.
Alli!
Oh... her...
-And where's she? -Over there.
What's up?
No new fights?
Not yet time.
Let the flag be hoisted.
But your husband isn't here, no?
Where's Mr. Military?
-New posting is in Srinagar. -Whoa!
He’s coming on leave next week.
Next week?!
Why? Are you scared?
I'm not scared.
He listens to whatever Bhadran says, ready to kill or die.
You know the truth, right?
No matter what you say,
I’m on your enemy’s side.
Such a nice friend.
Until what time is the festival?
Way past midnight, sir.
Once the flag is hoisted, it’s a complete celebration.
Then Nayyadi tribe will be here by evening.
Nayyadi tribe?
They're tribes from deep within the forest.
They're the ones who do the sacrificial ritual.
And in the end, the one who makes the sacrifice will tell
the village’s horoscope for the next year.
O radiant Mother of our shrine, Light of our village
It's the day of your temple festival
Chariots roll and torches blaze, Drums echo deep in our hearts
Elephants march in regal grace, Their forehead crowned with shiny decors
A river of flowers flows without end Petals raining in hues divine
We fast with devotion, We dance in your name, O Goddess
Drums roar, trumpets cry
The full moon climbs the sky To rest like a glowing bindi upon your brow
Drums roar, trumpets cry
The full moon climbs the sky To rest like a glowing bindi upon your brow
You are draped in garlands
Your presence woven into every beat
We call out, step down from celestial seat, walk among us, O Goddess
Drums echo deep in our hearts
Elephants march in regal grace, Their forehead crowned with shiny decors
Drums roar, trumpets cry
The full moon climbs the sky To rest like a glowing bindi upon your brow
Chariots roll and torches blaze, Drums echo deep in our hearts
Elephants march in regal grace, Their forehead crowned with shiny decors
A river of flowers flows without end Petals raining in hues divine
We fast with devotion, We dance in your name, O Goddess
From Thenkasi, A tide of vermilion has arrived
From Thanjavur, a silk saree, A river of gold to embrace your form
The air is thick with music,
The rhythm turns wild, intoxicating
Let the dance go on, Let the steps fall like rain
Let the fever of joy Spread like wildfire through the town
Drums roar, trumpets cry
The full moon climbs the sky To rest like a glowing bindi upon your brow
Drums roar, trumpets cry
The full moon climbs the sky To rest like a glowing bindi upon your brow
You are draped in garlands
Your presence woven into every beat
We call out, step down from celestial seat, walk among us, O Goddess
Chariots roll and torches blaze, Drums echo deep in our hearts
Elephants march in regal grace, Their forehead crowned with shiny decors
A river of flowers flows without end Petals raining in hues divine
We fast with devotion, We dance in your name, O Goddess
[Oracle performing]
God...
This should be buried at the bend tomorrow morning
Sure.
You, born under the Ayilyam star, be careful.
Some destinies will come looking for you.
Don’t be afraid when they do.
Hey, listen to me for a second.
Let’s stay here tonight
and leave together in the morning.
Shivettan, if I wait till morning, I’ll be late.
I have another program scheduled in Kollam tomorrow.
If I leave now, I can reach there early.
I can rest there and attend the event fresh.
How can you go at this hour?
What age are you people living in?
All this is just old folk tales! Stories made up by our ancestors.
Yakshi in the bend! Ghosts at the grove!
If I leave now, I can catch a vehicle from the check post.
Listen, let’s go together tomorrow, Murali.
Don’t go at this odd hour.
Oh Shivettan, don’t worry like that.
We’ll meet in Kollam tomorrow.
I was born in Karkidakam under the star Karumpooradam.
No Yakshi is going to touch me.
Alright, see you tomorrow in Kollam.
He’s impossible.
Come on, quick! Sarath, good night.
Good night.
Come, quick.
-Hey.. -Keep this inside too.
Drop her home on the way, too.
Okay.
Master, bless me.
Bro, you can use these sugarcanes.
Hello, master.
Take care.
Ta ta.
Hey Chemban, why you look strange?
I feel scared...
It feels like
something terrible is going to happen.
Weren’t you scared to cross the bend?
But you still came, didn’t you?
Shivettan...
What happened?
I fell into a pit and hit my head. See...
-What happened? -No, you are alright.
I had a nightmare, Dad.
One tight slap!
Damn his nightmare!
Don’t worry. Yesterday’s oracles in the groove just startled you.
My dear boy, no yakshi will come near you.
Why would a yakshi haunt a guy who’s already home by 7?
Go have a bath quickly. There’s a feast today.
Yeah, feast!
You’re drenched in sweat.
-Scaredy-cat! -Go freshen up.
Hey, load all the stuff.
-Who? Me?! -Yeah.
Good morning, Vijayan uncle.
He and his style...Hmpfh!
Shall we set the banana leaves for the feast around 11?
They took a guy from the bend to the hospital this morning.
From the bend?
One of the drummers from last night’s festival.
His head was bleeding. He was unconscious too.
How many times have we told people not to use that path at odd hours?
Anyway, go load the rest of the stuff.
-I’ll join you there. -Okay.
Load everything inside.
Watch your steps.
-When did you come? -What’s up, Sridevi?
Be seated.
When will Mahesh come?
You all used to be like a family.
Now, he doesn’t even speak to you.
You can’t blame them.
They’re the ones who suffered the loss.
And to make it worse, Appu supported all that.
Forget it, Appu. Don't worry about it.
Easy for you to say.
Only I know how heart breaking it is to watch your ex's wedding.
Look, they're tying the knot now.
-Giri chettan, should I howl? I'm ready. -Just sit quietly.
Then we'll say we were actually cheering.
Poor Appu!
He's upset.
Let's drown our sorrows by serving the feast. Come on.
-Coming. -Ambadi...
-Come on man! -I said I'm coming!
-Hey, come serve sambar! -I'm coming!
What's the update, Bhadran? How's that drummer guy?
Not dead.
That was just reckless!
Who would go that way on a sacrifice night?
Has anyone ever made it through that bend
at such an hour, Pappan Chettan?
-True that. -No... there are a few who made it.- Need sambar?
A few boast of walking that road.
On the eve of a wedding...
right Appu?
That's all in the past now, right Mani?
For you it might be in the past.
Then he made up
some fake 'elope' story to fool the villagers.
Wherever they killed her and buried the body,
the truth will come out someday.
Let go of that matter, Bhadran. Have food.
The wedding's over, right? Now it's just the feast. It'll happen somehow.
-Okay, I will. -Brother, serve sambar.
Brother, serve a poppadum here...
Hey...!
No problem. The swelling will go down in two days.
Use a collar cap for a week.
Whoever hit you, this was one solid punch.
This side of my teeth hurts too.
No issue. That tooth will fall out soon anyway.
Ouch!
It's fine.
Stay quiet.
She's come home after taking someone's beating!
They should've broken your other other cheek too!
Arrogant girl.
Why's this crowd? Clear out if you don't belong.
Let us take this girl's statement first.
What statement sir?
The marks on my girl's face, isn't that evidence enough?
Arrest him sir!
Her uncle has complained that
due to your family's enmity, there was an attempt to kill the girl.
-Is that true? -Enmity?
Attempted murder?
Girl, tell them he hit you.
Let him rot in jail for five-six days.
What's this, father?
He didn't hit me intentionally. It was accidental.
Don't make unnecessary cases and scenes.
We will record her statement. Let the girl speak.
-Appu didn't hit me out of enmity. -Then?
I only remember asking for a poppadum.
When I opened my eyes, I was here.
Do you want to file a complaint?
For not giving poppadum?
No, for not eating poppadum!
She has no complaint, sir.
Are you deciding that?
-Hey... -Shekharan...
It was just an accident.
You should forgive him.
How are you feeling now?
-To Pujappura jail or Viyyur jail? -Start the jeep.
Madhu sir is here.
Now we can read your palm print on her cheeks now!
I didn't understand, master.
All five fingers of yours are perfectly imprinted on her face.
But she's something else.
Even when Shekharan pressured her to file a case, she refused.
Bhama got a teaching job at our school.
She's about to join. Anyway, a good beginning.
Wonder when all this happened.
This Ambaadi chettan is behind all this. Didn't you tell him to hit him?
No, that's not how it was!
If I tell him to hit, should he immediately go for it?
Shut up!
They clearly don't want any case or commotion.
But I doubt Bhadran and Mahesh will let this go.
"In stead of creating a ruckus,"
"just send her without anyone knowing."
"Did you ask who it is?" -"She is not opening up..."
Lower the volume a bit, Rajan!
We got such a perfect opportunity,
yet couldn't put him behind bars.
My dear Bhadran,
she didn't listen even to her own father.
Then what could Shekharan do?
"Shush! Utter rubbish! You b****! A criminal's offspring!"
I should call her those names! My own daughter...
What could I do sir?
Who knew she’d turn around and say she has no complaint?
As if that wasn't enough, there was Sridevi too...
She's always on his side.
For three-four years sir, I haven't slept peacefully...
The agony of a father who doesn't know if his own daughter is alive!
That night when he told that fake story
about her leaving with someone passing the bend,
the whole village believed it.
But I will never!
My wife died in pain,
not knowing what happened to our daughter.
I need to find out what happened to her, sir.
I must find out!
In that case, the right person is coming here for you.
Benjamin sir.
The new SI.
A real troublemaker! This is punishment transfer for him.
He's the right man for us, Bhadran.
Let him come.
No, you can't go that way now.
You open the check post.
Let me see if it's possible to go or not.
Don't you understand what I'm saying?
Who's this fool?!
Who is it?
Don't know sir.
He's asking to open the check post.
Let me see.
Check post closes at night.
Opens only in the morning.
What's this? Any court order?
Or are elephants coming down?
This is a local custom.
I'm the new SI taking charge here.
We'll change these local customs gradually.
Any problem opening this now?
No sir, it's just that...
Just open it.
Okay.
You were about to mention the woman at the bend, right?
What was her name?
Sumathi.
Sumathi!
Can I have her?
This will be tough work, sir.
He wants to have her, right? - Yes...
Let him go get her then!
Yeah let him go get her!
[Humming a song] Come, let's go... let's go
[Ramayana Katte song from Abhimanyu]
It is enough that only one person sings here. And that is me.
Sumathi! This is for you.
Come, let's go... let's go
Ah!
Listen...
Is there any workshop here? My vehicle broke down.
What kind of place is this? Not a single soul around...
Don't you want Sumathi?
Mom, I'm leaving.
Okay.
-Mom. -Yes?
What's happening? I don't understand.
I'm going to her school
to discuss her academics with her teachers.
After all, brother-in-law isn't here to keep a check.
Oh, responsibility.
Responsibility, you see.
Don’t bother with his antics.
Go and get me my coffee!
To hell with his dressing up!
You go and drop her, dear.
Alli, go with him.
Alli, come. Let's go.
-Uncle... -Yes.
Are you coming to check on me
or to look at that Neckbrace teacher?
Neckbrace teacher?
Yes, the one you slapped.
Vavakuttan's sister.
-Bhama. -Quiet!
Your grandpa will hear.
After you twisted her neck,
we all call her Neckbrace teacher.
[Sigh.]
What can I say? My timing was a little off.
By the way,
is that Vavakuttan still a pain?
That’s all he ever is, Uncle.
Is it? I'll fix him.
-You come. -Okay.
He wouldn't listen, sir.
Pull it up. - You should have seen him.
Up! Up! Careful!
It’s an old jeep, sir.
Could have been a short circuit.
We had told you, right?
Not to go at that time.
Sir,
did you see anything else?
What else should I've seen?
Even if he did, you think he’ll admit it?
After all, he's in khaki.
It's because he's new.
Rajan sir, when you get time,
tell him our stories.
Also ask him to go to Aashan
and have him tie on an amulet.
Are you mocking me?
So what if I am?
Hey! Let it go, sir.
-Sir. -Let it be, he’s drunk.
Come on, Chemban, let's go. - What kind of a man...
Let's head to the station, sir.
Come.
Hey Mr Sophisticated!
Sumathi grabbed a new idiot!
-What's this, man? -Uncle!
Sir!
Eyes on the road, rascal!
Watch your mouth! There's a child with me.
Hey! He's our new SI.
He's one of our guys, sir.
Let him go. Go on!
-Go! -Come, sir.
Alli, you're late.
I should've just walked.
Next is the pledge.
By Vavakuttan.
Uh, oh!
No, no.
I mean Bhasi Sudhakaran.
Come to the class!
I'll show you, loser!
India is my country.
-India... -All Indians.
-All Indians... -Are my sisters...
Are my sisters...
Oh!
This guy!
All Indians...
All Indians are my...
Are my sisters and brothers.
All Indians are my...
Vavakuttan, it is "are my sisters and brothers".
Are not my brothers and sisters...
You dog!
What happened?
Toothache!
Why are you getting angry for that?
-That's my t-shirt. -Is it?
Hey... ouch!
Can you turn that song off, Kuttappi!
Yes, yes.
The boss seems to be angry, Kuttappi.
Yes, he does.
Appu.
Teacher! Are you going to school with that belly?
Can she leave her belly at home and come?
How far along are you, Teacher?
Due next month.
If you want a smooth delivery, better leave this place soon.
Sumathi, Sumathi! You know, right?
Stop scaring her, man!
Don't worry, Teacher.
By the way, how's the pain?
Wait,
how did you know he had a toothache?
Toothache?
Don't tell, please!
Didn't your friend tell you how he got the toothache?
-No. -In the morning,
he took a good hit from Vavakuttan.
You got all dressed up and went to get beaten up by a little kid?
Nice one!
Oh, he’s only little in size. That was a heavy blow.
He was lying unconscious on the ground.
The teachers and kids picked him up
and put him in the staff room.
How shameful!
He regained consciousness only after about ten minutes. Right?
Barely ten minutes.
Anyway, I came because...
Someone’s here with me.
To say sorry to you.
Who? Vavakuttan?!
Waiting at the bus stop.
Look.
Go on.
Who's it?
Don't know.
-Shall I put this? -Yes.
[Doore Kizhakkudikkin song from Chithram]
Listen...
I'm sorry.
-About your neck. -Hope you're okay.
I expected your father or your uncle.
Didn't think even in my wildest dreams you'd send Vavakuttan to hit me.
Oh, I didn’t send him or anything.
-Sorry. -It's okay.
I’ll just think of it as tit for tat.
Also, please don't tell Mr Military.
Mahesh chettan already knows.
It's fine though.
Is it...
-Do you want a cassette? -No need. Alright, then.
Hey!
May I ask you something?
If you're done with that
thing around your neck,
can you lend it to me for a few days?
Got slight neck pain.
I stayed near, drawn by nothing more than a glance from you
I lingered close waiting for your voice to brush the silence
You, a delicate bloom, and I, watched you in awe
From the moment I saw you, You’ve been the rhythm echoing in my heart
Restlessness coils within me, longing to pour my love into words
When you pass by, a thousand wings flutter inside me
You don’t see it, how completely I’ve drifted into you.
Your eyes, they pull me in, like magnets drawing in sharp needles
I stayed near, drawn by nothing more than a glance from you
I lingered close waiting for your voice to brush the silence
Oh, no!
"You won't let me?"
Is it over?
Did she turn into Nagavalli during the day too?
-It's not over. -You come here!
-Get out! -We bought tickets!
Girl, I'm stuck with my heart on fire
As if it's pierced by a sweet thorn
I plunged into love’s flame, like a fly chasing it
If you were to smile once, I would rise like a kite caught in your breeze
I stayed near, drawn by nothing more than a glance from you
I lingered close waiting for your voice to brush the silence
You, a delicate bloom, and I, watched you in awe
From the moment I saw you, You’ve been the rhythm echoing in my heart
You think it's closed?
-It's okay. We've five more minutes. -Giri etta, just step on it.
I'm stepping on it!
I'll change it.
-Quick! Go, go! -Keep quiet, man!
-Fast, fast! -Sir, please don't close.
Sir, don't close!
Don't close!
Should I open?
No, close it.
Don't be scared, man.
At least we didn't end up in Sumathi's mouth!
Sir, we're really hungry. Got anything to eat?
What is this, a hotel?
Sir, we've got stuff.
-Arrack, arrack! -Oh, you have!
Then, we got some wild meat. Come.
Whoa! Wild meat!
Such a nice bunch of forest officers!
What's it, man?
-Bhadra akka! -Oh, it's you!
What happened, Bhadra akka?
Didn't see you at the grove for the sacrificial ritual.
Sir, Bhadra akka is from Sumathi's hometown.
-Sir. -Hm?
Did you like our village?
Yes, of course. It's nice.
What I liked most about this place
is the Yakshi story.
Is it real?
It's not a story, sir.
It's true.
Where Sumathi Bend is now,
there was a group who was sent to fight the British
with weapons and dark forces.
Their leader’s son married Sumathi
and brought her to this village.
No one has ever seen her without a smile on her face.
She had that kind of smile.
When they found out she was pregnant,
the group celebrated like it was a festival.
She was also very happy seeing all that.
But that joy didn’t last long.
That group wanted to strengthen the power of their clan
and take control of this village.
For that, they had to sacrifice a pregnant woman.
That poor girl… she had no one.
She had no idea about all this.
They brought her to the sacrificial altar,
saying it was a prayer ritual for the baby.
But when she sensed something was wrong, she cried out.
And they all acted like they couldn’t hear those cries.
Without a shred of mercy,
they sacrificed her.
Even at that moment,
her hands were cradling the baby in her stomach.
Sumathi, who had turned into a ghost,
couldn’t be contained by that group.
After losing both her child and her life,
she rose against them as a powerful force.
She makes sure that others spirit would harm any of the villagers.
She became the guardian of this town,
watching over that bend.
Akka,
why are you telling this story now?
We were sitting here peacefully.
Let me tell you one more thing.
There's more?
There's a bond between you and that bend.
A big calamity is coming for you.
This whole town will be against you.
What a pain!
You sleep, sir. I'll check.
Hello!
No going over to the other side tonight.
Come back tomorrow.
Or you can sit here.
Hey, hey!
Wake up, Ambadi.
Get up! Mahesh has come in a car. Wake up, man!
What's it, man?
Mahesh is in that car.
What Mahesh?!
Mahesh who? Car what?!
Are you mad?
Here.
Look over here.
Oh, no!
Mahesh.
Is there no war now?
Do you want a war?
No... no need.
Who are you?
My name is Mahesh.
I'm from Kalleli.
I'm in the military.
Oh.
Sir, I'm the new FO here.
Sir, where is your posting now?
In Srinagar.
Sir, do you want some black tea?
No, thanks.
Let's go?
Alright, then.
Appu.
I'm here for a month.
But this time, I'm not leaving without knowing what happened to my sister.
And then we will meet again.
Should've given him one!
Go, give and come.
Why simply create an issue.
Let's go.
Where were you the night Malu ran away?
How many times have we asked you this?
If you know where she is, go and tell them.
Unnecessarily creating issues!
Giri chettan! Don't stir up issues now!
I only know what you guys know!
-That could be true. -But one doubt, Appu.
Why did Malu specifically come to you
and say she likes someone
and plans to run away?
To screw me over!
That's why this whole town is on my case.
He's terrified to cross that bend even in daylight, let alone at night.
Kuttappi, you!
-It's true, no? -It is.
Since you're the most honest idiot in Kalleli,
all the drama’s your problem!
This damn bend!
Hey...
You need to pull up their case file tomorrow.
Sure, sir.
Hey, boy!
Want a drink?
No, alcohol is bad for health...
What's wrong?
This isn't right.
This is a home.
Not some liquor shop
And moreover, he's a policeman.
That's more than enough to tarnish our reputation.
We are okay with that bad reputation.
I need to know what happened to my sister
I'll do anything for that
Is this the way?
Then why can't you ask Appu.
Isn't he your best friend?
Wasn't he closer to you than me, Mahesh ettan?
Then let me handle this matter
I've even put aside the case where he hit her.
I didn't come this time for nothing
Mahesh...
It's raining heavily.
I should leave.
Your wife didn't seem happy about my visit.
No, nothing like that, sir.
I'm not that much trouble, you know.
Consider this my gratitude for the alcohol you served.
I'll find out what happened to your sister.
I don't believe she just easily went past that bend.
I learned what that bend was capable of on my very first day here.
Like everyone says, there's something wrong with that bend.
[woman crying in pain] Mom....
Don't worry, we're all here
Mom...
It's okay! Everything's okay!
Do something quickly.
I can't bear this pain, mom!
Don't cry, my girl, don't cry.
What happened?
It's going out of my hands.
I'm trying to save at least one life.
But I don't think I can even do that.
We need to get her to hospital fast.
Or we'll lose both lives.
Mom!
Mom, it's unbearable!
Mom!
I can't!
Let's take her to hospital.
I'm ready to die trying.
Do you have the courage to drive?
-That... -At this hour?
Chemban, are you crazy?
-You... -We will take her, Master.
-It's okay even if we die. -But...
Let's take the risk.
-Murali... -Let me start the jeep.
Hey, let's do it.
Appu, come on. Don't overthink, come.
Come.
Mom!
-Hey, careful. -Stop.
Watch out.
Watch her head.
-Slowly. -Hold properly.
Where’s the shop money? Give it to me.
We'll need it at the hospital.
Be careful. If anything happens to you...
Don't worry, I'll be careful
If anything happens to you, should I open the shop tomorrow?
Get in fast.
I'll answer that when I return.
There's a Yakshi waiting there.
Not just two lives, seven lives at stake now.
Go safely and return.
Come on, quick.
-Close the door. -This old hag is just scaring us.
Start the car, Giri.
[Crying in despair and pain]
Mom...
[Screaming in pain] MOM!
It's alright, dear. You're okay.
You'll be fine.
Mom...
-I can't bear this pain. -Please don't cry, dear.
Giri, faster!
Right.
Don't cry, girl. We'll be there soon.
Brother Ambadi, I can't take this...
I've got you. You'll be fine.
Giri, look there!
Stop! Stop!
-What's that? -The road's blocked.
Go check.
It's alright. Don't cry.
Just go and look.
You're alright, dear.
Giri, brother...
Can't we take the Illikal stream route?
Through the jungle? In her condition?
We've got to try something.
What is it?
I'll be back in a tick.
What's the matter?
Problem is, we can't go further.
Oh no.
We knew this might happen when we set out, didn't we?
Come on, let's move this tree.
Grab it.
-Hold it. -Got it.
Move it.
Hold tight!
Mom...
Put your back into it!
-Properly grab it! -Pull!
MOM!
Ambadi...
Lift it up.
-Hold tight. -Come on, Ambadi!
Come on, lift it!
Ambadi!
Push, Ambadi.
Lift it!
Chemban brother, it's not budging.
Try again, come on.
Push!
-Up! Up! -Ambadi, once more.
Dear...
Deepa...
Giri...
-Appu... -Come here.
Come. What... what happened, Uncle Vijayan?
Hey...
Oh no.
Where is she?
Hey...
Dear...
Teacher...
Giri, bring that torch!
Dear...
Teacher!
I said bring the torch!
-Dear... -Where's she gone?
-Teacher... -Teacher...
Teacher... Teacher...
[Deepa crying]
It's from there.
It's from there! The sound is from there.
-Come! -Bro, come.
Come, let's go and check.
Come.
Dear...
-Teacher... -Deepa teacher...
-Teacher... -Teacher...
Teacher, where are you?
Bury this in the bend tomorrow morning.
-Teacher... -Teacher...
Deepa teacher...
-Teacher... -Dear...
Teacher...
Deepa...
-Deepa... -Deepa teacher...
Watch your steps, Vijayan uncle.
-Teacher... -Dear...
Deepa teacher...
-Teacher... -Teacher...
Teacher...
Deepa...
Teacher— [Deepa cries in pain]
DEEPA [crying]: Mom...
-From there! -It's from there.
-Come. -From that side.
-Come, come! -She's there.
Come.
There, there.
Mom...
-Teacher... -MOM!
Hey, what's this?
What is it? [Deepa's cries for help]
Hey!
You guys go and search there.
Don't waste time. Hurry up.
You go there, and we'll search here.
Be careful, Ambadi.
Teacher...
Deepa...
Teacher...
Teacher!
Teacher...
[Deepa's sobs]
Teacher...
Ambadi...
Teacher...
Appu...
Hey...
Ambadi...
[Deepa's loud cries]
Teacher...
Appu...
[Deepa's cries intensify]
Teacher...
DEEPA [crying]: Mom!
HEY!
TEACHER!
Teach, step back from there.
Ambadi...
Appu, come here quickly.
Teacher...
Teacher, stand straight.
Teacher...
Oh no! Teacher, step back!
Deepa...
Dear...
Deepa...
[Deepa crying in the distance]
Teacher...
Vijayan uncle...
-What is it, Vijayan uncle? -She's here.
-Huh? -Dear...
Are you here?
Don't you want to deliver your child?
Brother, bring Vijayan uncle. Chemban chettan, here she is.
-Appu... Ambadi... -Where the hell are these guys?
Dear, we searched for you everywhere.
How long have I been calling your name?
My dear— [Vijayan screams]
Oh no!
OH NO!
Chemban chettan...
Chemban chettan, come here.
Oh no! She has no head!
OH NO!
Vijayan uncle...
Uncle...
Who's that?
Teacher...
Vijayan uncle, get up. Come, let's go.
Come on, stand up.
Come, let's go.
Head!
Let's go quickly.
Chemban chettan...
Teacher...
Hey! Hey!
What is it?
Chemban chettan, here... here... teacher!
What?!
I saw teacher jumping off the waterfall.
Chemban chettan...
Ambadi, listen!
-I saw it with my own eyes! -Nobody is here!
There's no one.
Don't stay here anymore. Come, let's go.
-I saw her jumping-- -Come, just move!
Teacher...
Appu...
-Teacher... -Appu...
[Deepa crying]
Teacher...
Don't be scared, teacher.
Come, let's go to the hospital.
HEY!
Teacher is here.
Giri chettan...
Ambadi...
Appu...
Appu... Appu...
-Where's Appu? -Where is he?
-Teacher jumped off the waterfall. -Where's Appu?
-Appu... -Appu...
Appu... hey...
Appu!
Hey, Appu!
Dad... there... there...
The infant... torn...
Hey...
I saw her jumping off the waterfall. [Arguments]
Hey! HEY!
All these are her tricks.
Huh?
Let's not stay here anymore. Come, let's go.
Yes, let's go. Let's go.
What's that?
-Let's go and see. -From there! -Come, come! -Come on, quick!
Chettan, be careful.
You are the light that shows us the path
You are the mother-guardian who protects us in dense wilderness
You are the Goddess who guards the whole village
Ever since the sacrifice ritual at the grove, they’ve been saying something ominous will happen at the bend.
Anyway, God saved you.
Teacher,
do you remember what happened at the bend?
No.
But...
But somewhere in my memory, there’s the face of a woman.
Anyway, I'm really impressed by Appu and their courage.
Especially at that time, through the bend. -Just amazing. -Yeah, that's true.
He wouldn't even step outside the house at night. It's true when the time comes, courage naturally awakens in people.
And where are they?
Are you chewing it?
She ripped her stomach...
A few more seconds
and it would've snapped in two.
Oh, God.
I've never seen a fever like this
in my entire medical career.
Me neither!
It's a medical miracle.
Exactly.
Sister, did you keep this under a stove?
He's too hot.
Only I saw...
Don't worry, son. Nothing happened.
I saw it...
What more could have happened, Aashan?
Oh, dear...
Giri chettan...
She ripped her stomach...
Took the baby out...
And left...
I was all alone.
Oh, my goodness.
He has been saying the same thing since last night.
Until the forest officers came in the morning
and took the mother and baby to the hospital,
we were scared stiff, Ashaan.
Don't go around telling anyone what you saw or what happened.
It was death that narrowly slipped away.
This was merely a sign.
Something far bigger is coming.
With a stick.
She ripped her stomach open with a stick.
Took the baby out.
What's up, Mr Military?
Your aim's off.
Should the Kerala Police take over?
Over here! Come on!
Bhadran!
Come on!
It’s a wound from a wild pig’s tooth.
If you don't take this,
it'll get infected by the tenth day.
I looked at your sister's case file.
The police investigated the case in 1991 and 1992.
They closed the case because they couldn't find anything substantial.
From what I know, I can tell you one thing.
But it'll make you sad though.
Don't bother looking for her anymore.
Like you all believe,
I don’t know if the boy killed her
or the Yakshi at the bend got her.
But I can tell you one thing.
Your sister hasn't left that bend.
The deaths at that bend
weren’t because of Sumathi.
She does block those who
try to pass through that bend.
She scares them into taking another route.
You know why?
So that no one else
suffers the fate
she and the child in her womb did
at that bend.
To finish off the Britishers on their way to the forest,
Bramarakshas was conjured at that bend in the 19th century.
But...
Now that bend is a sinister maze, sir.
She will not let anyone enter that bend.
Nor will she let any power
escape from that bend.
While we were driving the van,
a tree suddenly crashes down right in front of us.
Crashhh!
Everyone was scared to get out.
I didn't bother about anything. I got out.
Sumathi got nothing on me!
As I kept walking ahead, Sumathi pops up right in front of me.
-What could I do? -So, you actually saw Sumathi?
Of course!
Come here.
This close. Face to face.
You're so brave.
-Being brave is nothing. -Teacher's coming! Run!
Kids are just...
Well, can't blame them either.
These days, I'm Kalleli's hero.
Oh, is that so?
What's the hero doing here?
Are you here to talk about Alli’s grades?
No, no, no.
No, I’m here to talk with you, Bhama, about upgrading my life.
What do I need to do for that?
Bhama...
you just need to do one thing.
I want to marry you.
Eh?
I’m not good with those movie kinda dialogues.
I really like you, Bhama.
I know that Military and team won't allow it.
But still...
I want to marry you.
Aha! That's such a nice wish.
But it won't happen.
Bhama...
Even if no one allows,
we can run away, okay?
There's time.
I'll think about it.
My heart speaks only to you
You fill my heart with endless song
Like the moon that lights up the sky
Like the breeze that caresses the sky
You cradle my nights with bliss, my beloved.
Even the stars tilt their gaze towards you
The listening trees hush, mesmerized in your song
Your gentle voice fills up my soul
And my heart trembles, it burns, who else is there for me?
Who, if not you?
For you and you alone, my words flow
With it, the eternal language of my soul
My eyes are like dew drops
While listening to the songs you weave
With shadows you caress my fingers
You add colours to my dreams of love
You have lit a spark in my heart
And filled it with desires
My heart speaks only to you
You fill my heart with endless song
Like the moon that lights up the sky
Like the breeze that caresses the sky
You cradle my nights with bliss, my beloved.
Isn't it them? - Yes.
Yes, Sir. It's them. -Stop the car!
Being the worker, you should ask about it. - Yeah... Oh,no!
What are you doing here, huh?
Anyway, your parents won't agree.
Sir, we just came out to get some fresh air.
Fresh air, huh?
Let's not discuss this now.
Come closer.
Come closer, let me tell you something.
Aha!
What are you up to over there?
Don't worry, dear.
We were your age once too.
Looks like the military guy will have his hands full.
All thanks to the Kerala Police for facilitating that.
Carry on.
Get down.
Vijayan uncle, you've got guests.
Ah! Come on in.
Come, come.
Shobha, look who's here.
Yes, coming.
We'll come straight to the point, Vijayan uncle.
We came to invite you for a wedding.
Wedding?
Whose?
Our daughter, Bhama's.
It's happening soon.
So, what about the groom?
The groom is from this village itself.
Bhadran.
Ah, that's good.
He also needs a life.
May all the problems end with this.
So, there aren't many days left.
The thing is,
according to her horoscope
they said there will be some issues
if we don't conduct the marriage soon.
That's why we decided to conduct it soon.
She also has a job.
That's good.
Shobha, get some tea.
No need. We're leaving now.
We need to go to a few more houses.
The date is almost here.
Come with me.
-Alright, we're leaving. -Go on.
Okay, then.
Don't hold on to the past.
If this ends it once and for all, let it.
You should be there in person to conduct the wedding.
You'll be there.
-Giri chettan, beef roast. -Appu...
What's your problem?
Chemban chettan...
do you know why they came to my house and invited us to the wedding? So that you’ll go to the wedding. Why else?
No!
He was screwing me over.
He knows we like each other.
So he can use my father’s help
to pull off the wedding without a hitch.
Go call her and run away with her.
We'll get you guys married.
He’s still recovering from the last girl who ran off.
You want another one?
You won't be able to pull that off.
Let it go, man.
-Chemban, bro. -Yes.
Tell me some other way.
Do you've the courage?
Courage...
Do you?
Hey! Look here.
I've got a traditional medicine that can give you courage.
Medicine for courage?
Come on, bro, don’t joke around...
This is the medicine I told you about.
Shivoham.
Shivoham?
The Aghori monks take it.
Harih Om...
Shiva Om
Chemban chettan, can you give me also some courage?
-Touchings are over. -I also want.
I'll give you all courage.
Don't be greedy.
All good now?
Let's go then.
-Get up. -Where to?
To kill Mahesh.
He's in the military, he's got a gun.
No need, then. Let him be.
Not him.
-She’s the reason for all of this. -Who?
Sumathi.
Then, let's kill her first, that Sumathi!
But she's already dead, no?
Get off my lap!
We call Sumathi back from the dead and kill her all over again.
Exactly, that's it.
-Let's march forth! -Come on. Appu, if she shows up in front of you,
grab her from behind, I’ll knock her teeth out.
Courage has arrived.
-Let's begin. -I'll drive the jeep.
Go sit at the back.
Get off! I'm the hero, I'll drive.
-Where's the entrance? -Only I know the bend.
Full speed ahead!
Make some space, Ambadi!
Got any Shivoham left?
Wanted some touchings with the alcohol.
Are we home?
What happened?
Start the jeep, Giri chettan.
-Start! -I'm trying.
It won't start.
Won't let it start.
-Who? -Sumathi won't start it.
I'll make Sumathi start it.
Get down!
Even if we've to push the jeep, we'll cross the bend.
-Hey, hey, hey! -Come out!
Sumathi!
Come out, you! You're the one who ruined my life.
Yakshis are supposed to hang out in Devil Trees.
Why the hell are you sitting at this bend?
Come out if you have the courage!
Hey, hey!
Don't swear at the Yakshi's dad, man.
Why are Yakshis fatherless?
Let him swear, Chemban chettan.
It's all because of her that my poor boy is in this pathetic state.
Come on, swear!
Bloody Sumathi!
Listen, listen...
-I'm not scared of anyone. -I've something to say.
-Come on, say it, man. -Sumathi.
Has he gone mad?
Stop ghosting us! We need to know!
Come out.
Look at us standing in your bend!
Where are you? Are you scared and hiding?
Give me something to drink.
Drink...
Hey, don't throw it!
SUMATHI!
Some idiot ran away with a guy crossing this bend
and people said I killed her.
Because of all that, now my girl’s marrying someone else!
I'm very sad, Sumathi!
-Enough, Appu. -Let's go.
Appu, enough let's go.
I've more things to say.
We can go to the jeep and tell her.
-Come. -Let me go.
Let's go.
Where's that coming from?
Nice...
-Sumathi... -Chemban chettan.
Let's go please.
Come.
Come on, Kuttappi.
This is the lemon Chemban bro pierced.
Oh, no! Smoke!
What's happening, Chemban chettan?
-What's this? -Where are you?
Chemban chettan...
Let's go.
Stay close.
Remain close, okay.
Kuttappi!
Where are you?
Chemban chettan... Let's not get lost, Ambadi chettan.
Oh, my God!
Don't kill us.
We accidentally came to the bend.
Chemban chettan, do something!
What are you doing here, sir?
We should be asking you that.
What are you doing here?
We picked all five of you from the bend this morning.
Not a single one was conscious.
What were you doing at the bend last night?
Where did you all find the courage from?
Chemban chettan gave us something for courage.
What?
Sir, after we ate that Shivoham Chemban chettan gave us,
it filled us with courage!
After that, all I remember is going to the bend.
Bend?!
When did we go to the bend? Best.
What's this Shivoham?
It's a concoction mixed with herbs, sir.
Like an herbal tonic.
Ah, yes.
We call it marijuana tonic around here.
People will call it all sorts of things,
marijuana tonic and what not!
But for me it is Om Shivoham.
Sir, honestly, we thought it was offering from the temple. Let it go, sir. Please....
Sir, we didn't know what it was.
I swear.
Do you go mad at night?
No, sir.
Do you?
I heard of the problems.
Just talk it out and settle things.
It won't be resolved like that, sir.
We shall leave then.
Drop them home.
Okay, sir.
-Thanks a ton. -Come on.
What?
Bhama Teacher is getting married, right?
Yeah, couldn't handle the village pervs anymore,
we decided to marry her off.
My uncle is really upset about this.
Let him be upset for a while.
We’d marry her to a tree before letting your uncle marry her!
You know who she’s going to marry, right?
Our Bhadran chettan!
What does your uncle even have? Just a tiny cassette shop.
Hey, a movie theater is much bigger than that cassette shop.
Vavakuttan, hurry up!
The porridge will get over!
One minute.
I’m coming.
Vavakuttan...
If we don't help Bhama Teacher and uncle now, who will help us when it's our turn?
Huh?!
What did you just say?
If you don’t come now, we won’t even get water. -One minute. I'll come now. -Oh, damn!
What did you say?
Vavakkuttan, you didn't understand what I said, right?
[Lathiri Poothiri song from Nokkethaa Doorath Kannum Nattu]
Uff!
-Uh, oh! -Ugh! What the hell!
One minute.
I've been carrying this around for three days.
My sister asked me to give this to your uncle.
Here.
Never mind, I'll keep it.
If he’s your uncle, he’s my uncle too, right?
I'll give it myself.
Why are you late?
I'll explain.
Mom...
Ah! What a surprise, Vavakuttan!
I didn't come with Alli.
I actually came to drop off Srikutty.
Then why are you standing there? Come in!
No need, no one invited me.
Anyway, our family doesn't have
the habit of barging in uninvited.
Vava, please come in.
Here I come, dear Alli!
Dear Alli?
I have some things to say.
You all know my sister isn't interested in this wedding, right?
And my sister actually likes you.
So you better look for ways to stop this wedding.
Eloping might be the best option.
Elope?!
No, you go ahead and try asking my parents for her hand!
No job, no income...
All you have is this bloody casatte shop and you want to marry her!
Don't say anything about our cassette shop!
This is our livelihood, you know!
As if it's cassettes you're boiling to eat! Get lost! Where are the headphones? Let me listen to some music.
Vava, give him that letter.
-Letter? -Yeah, here.
My sister asked me to give this to you.
And brother-in-law, if you need anything, just call me.
What?! Brother-in-law?!
Brother-in-law!
Hey Vavakuttan, since we're on the same team now,
let's go out and have some tea and lentil fritters too.
-I'm coming too. -Come on, everyone!
Sreekutti, come.
Hey, Vavakuttan, why are you here?
Come, I'll drop you home.
It's okay. I'll walk home.
Ah, Appu!
Didn't you get the wedding invitation?
Yes.
Don't hold onto old grudges.
Ambadi, won't you come?
For the wedding, right? We will have a 'blast!'
Right?
Go.
Come sis...
Before Prakashettan died,
he had borrowed 50,000 rupees from Bhadran.
When he couldn't repay the debt... Prakashettan...
I took the job at the cinema talkies to somehow repay that money.
But that wasn't...
Bhadran's intention.
I didn't quit that job just because of my issues with you, Appu.
And he... he...
He was even trying to abuse my daughter.
I'm scared of him, Appu uncle.
Why are you scared?
Bhadran won't come near you again.
I'll make sure of that.
Let go of it.
If you tell this to the villagers now,
it'll ruin that woman and child's life.
Don't you have a woman who loves you?
First try saving her from him.
What can I do, Chemban chettan?
Now my father is arrangging the wedding for them.
Your father, that beardo,
is too fond of arranging everyone's weddings!
Tell me if there's another way.
Another way...
There is a way. Come.
Hey, get inside.
What?
Mahesh, don’t ruin her life just to settle a score with me.
I'm having Bhadran marry her
so she won't be ruined by marrying you.
And yes, I do have scores to settle with you.
Aren't you the one who took my sister away and killed her?
Mahesh... I...
Get lost!
How sad!
Still, involving that child was cruel.
So sad.
Who's this?
Her name is Suja, and the child is her daughter.
And their details?
Don't know where Suja's hometown is.
She was brought here after marriage. Three years ago, her husband committed suicide due to debt.
Then she fell on hard times.
What's her job?
I thought of committing suicide many times.
But now I want to live.
I want to live for her.
I need to educate her and watch her living a good life.
Was she working at your shop?
Yes, sir.
Any shady business, man?
Anyway, come to the station after lunch.
Come.
No, Appu!
Are you out of your mind?
-It's him! He did that to Suja chechi-- -Appu!
What are you saying Bhadran did?
She died leaving a note saying she couldn't repay the debt.
This rascal is the reason Suja chechi...
Why are you making me look like a villain in front of everyone, Appu?
Are you making up these lies
just to stop me from marrying the woman you love?
You scoundrel! Putting on an act, are you?!
Calm down, you!
Stop there.
Which girl is he talking about?
Vijayan chettan, people are watching.
Appu, come. Let's talk at home.
Are you and Sudhakaran's daughter in love?
-We are, but-- -Vijayan chettan, what are you doing?
Move away.
Because of him,
that family was once humiliated before the whole village.
I won't let that happen again.
I'll conduct that girl's wedding exactly as scheduled.
Chettan, enough.
-What's going on here? -Appu, come.
-Disperse everyone! -Hey, leave, all of you.
Move, chechi.
Go home, everyone.
-Just go. -Go!
Wait, don't go.
Come here.
Wasn't that woman working at your cassette shop?
Sir... it's him.
Yeah! It's me!
If she is here like that,
after wedding, I'll never have peace of mind.
Oh yes, without peace of mind nothing else matters.
To get that peace,
I'll give the villagers a suicide note
and the department a postmortem report today evening.
Now go tell this to the villagers.
Let's see who they believe.
What’s this now?
He came to the shop saying he wanted to meet Appu chettan.
I only came because my sister told me to.
This wedding is not going to happen, no matter what.
I'm worried if she would harm herself.
My sister is a naive girl.
You go home. Let's see what we can do.
Teke him from here.
Come.
And what about him, your loser father?
Who the hell does he think he is?
He’s more eager to get this wedding done than our own family.
He’s putting up the pandal, bringing out utensils, chopping vegetables, what not!
Who is he to arrange weddings for every girl in the village?
Tell that bull of a man to better stop this charade!
Got it?
Oh! What a surprise, Vijayan uncle!
I’m not sure if this is the right time to say it, but I’ll say it anyway.
I came to invite you to my sister’s wedding.
So please come with your whole family.
You will come, right? Okay?
Ta-ta.
-Good God! -Hey, wait for me.
I gave my word that I would conduct that girl’s wedding.
If you cause any trouble in between...
I can’t work. I’ll sweat like crazy.
Chechi has been scraping coconut for so long now.
Banana leaves are ready.
-Chemban chetta, are we about to begin? -Yes. Need to set up the appetizers!
Hey Kuttappi, come on, let’s start!
That’s for the pickle.
By that time, the guests will start gathering here.
Okay then, see you.
Okay.
He’s not going to stay quiet for long.
He will come here, no matter what.
Let him come.
He won't leave here in one piece.
Haven’t you set up the lights yet?
Chetta, I’ll get the lights on even before you ask. -The lights need to be switched on at night. -Of course.
Where are you going?
Go! Just get lost!
He's here to help with the feast, not to ruin your daughter’s wedding.
Oh, bring it on then!
This wedding won’t stop just because you want it to.
Then why are you so scared? Don’t you trust your own daughter?
Let me deal with him now!
No, uncle. Come here.
He’s here for the wedding.
Appu, go inside.
Check on the feast arrangements.
-Come on, man. -Hmph! Just go!
That man’s gone mad. Total loser!
-Add a pinch of salt to the payasam maybe? -No appetizers, Chemban chettan!
What about some mango peel pickle?
-Will that work? -Stop staring and get to work!
I warned that weed-head!
You’re doing the right thing, boy.
Everything is God’s plan.
With all your dignity, arrange this wedding.
But let me tell you one more 'right thing'...
These two have been in love for quite a while.
Before they elope together, it’s best you get them married off quickly.
Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Dad...
-Master! Master! -Master, my foot!
-Stop right there, Meenakshi! -What nonsense did you just pull?!
What now? Let things settle down!
What?
“What” what?!
Oh Lord!
You’re seriously heartbroken, aren’t you?
Get lost, you.
I’ve helped with so many weddings of girls who ditched me.
I’ve even served food at their wedding feasts.
Let her go!
Hey, stop.
I can’t bear this pain anymore, Chemban chettan.
I really love her.
Here...
Let this sorrow burn and vanish.
Take it.
Shall we go talk to Bhama?
Talk to her?
Isn’t it her wedding tomorrow?
-Let her stay happy. -Appu...
What else can we do now?
Let him go.
Anyway, come... let’s drink.
There, Vijayan chettan is here.
Not a single drop left for us!
It isn’t honey that stirs in my heart,
But glowing embers, the ache of longing
There are no blossoms in these eyes,
Only a ceaseless downpour of tears
It isn’t honey that stirs in my heart,
But glowing embers, the ache of longing
There are no blossoms in these eyes,
Only a ceaseless downpour of tears
I wear a smile, Yet sorrow slices through my soul
This tender heart is weighed down by A stone carved from grief
Even when I close my eyes, Your face stands before me
Unfading, unforgotten
Yes, she shone, As vivid and fleeting as a rainbow
Forgetting her is tough, we know
Love burns like a sea, wild and aflame
Don’t despair, Don’t lose yourself in sorrow
We are still here with you
If she has turned away, then let her go
Leave behind the thoughts of her
The gentle cuckoo hides behind closed doors and weeps
But when company draws near, He brushes off the tears and smiles
He is so lovestruck, a heart undone by a twist of fate.
Even a whisper of touch could shatter him
Tracing your face in my memory, weeping in silence
I climb to the hills, gaze at the moon, and cry out your name
You were the cherished bird in my heart, don't fly away I remain, a forgotten branch untouched by the breeze
Even if you fade into distance, you still return
As a flower in the wilderness of my dreams
Appu chettan, there’s something--
Listen to me, Appu chettan!
Get lost, you!
Don’t despair, don’t lose yourself in sorrow
We are still here with you
If she has turned away, then let her go Leave behind the thoughts of her
It isn’t honey that stirs in my heart
How’s it going? Why are these guys here?
Ignore them.
I need to tell you something, Mahesh.
-About Appu? -No.
About Suja and her daughter’s death.
It wasn’t suicide, like all of you think.
He killed them.
He did it to cover up the atrocities he committed against Suja and her daughter.
Behind turning the murder into a suicide,
that was Benjamin’s cunning plan.
He altered the postmortem report.
Don’t despair, don’t lose yourself in sorrow
We are still here with you
If she has turned away, then let her go
Appu, come here. I said come.
Let me talk.
Let me dance. Leave me alone!
Come.
-Let go of me! -Damn his dance!
Carry on.
Why did you bring me here?
Once you’re done with your antics, go, take her home.
What?!
Loser! Take Bhama home with you!
I’ll handle the rest.
What did you say?
Are you serious?
I promised them I’d arrange her marriage.
And I am arranging it with you.
Get lost, you!
Hey, stop staring, take her and get out of here!
Come, come!
-Come here, man! -Nailed it.
-Appu chettan. -Will it be a problem if we escape?
Vava... Oh, no, my daughter...
Oh no! Our daughter is missing! EH?!
-Bhama... -Why didn’t you take care of her?
Sudhakar... - Come...
I was with her the whole time.
-She was here! -Bhama...
-Where is my daughter? -Bhama... - Your dad's plan.
-Oh! -Bhama...
Brother, my daughter is missing. - This ain't dad's plan.
Missing, huh?!
It’s his doing! That guy Appu’s!
What are you saying, Dad?
Appu is right here.
Eh?
-I’ll kill him… -Sudhakaran…
-Sudhakaran! -Stop him, Mahesh!
My daughter wouldn’t go anywhere without this rascal’s involvement!
Someone grab him and get him out of here!
Where’s my daughter?! Don’t create a scene.
Hands off me!
[Chaotic arguing]
-Come here! -Move away!
I said move away!
If your daughter ran off, go find her!
But if you lay a finger on my son...
-Sudhakaran… -We’ll chop off every hand that touches him! -Chettan! -YES!
-What are you saying?! -Beat them up!
-Aha! -Oh no!
He was just kidding!
Hey…
Let go of me!
-What the hell! -Back off!
Move away, you.
What are you all doing?!
Don’t… don’t let him escape!
Get lost.
Dad!
Beat him to pulp, Kuttappi!
Enough eating, go smash them!
Listen to me!
Hit them!
Oh, my mother!
Where’s your sister?
Get lost, you.
What did you say?
What did you just say?!
You idiot! How many times did I call you to go with my sister?
Did you listen? Too busy with your damn dance!
My sister left.
What?!
Where’d she go?
She’s at the forest office.
Go there.
Listen to me.
Hey, I know everything.
I'll handle this.
Get out of here.
I said go.
[Indistinct arguing]
Hit him.
No.
Not here.
You're not doing that, Bhadran.
If you're scared,
here... take this.
What's wrong?
What happened?
Tell me what's wrong!
Suja... over there... did you see her?
Loser, haven't I told you many times not to come here?
Didn't you finish him off?
Come here.
COME HERE!
You little brat!
You just watching the show? Come beat him to death.
Come on, man.
Appu...
Open your eyes, Appu.
We need to get out of here as fast as possible.
We're not going anywhere.
What are you saying?
They'll kill us.
Let them do whatever they want.
We mustn't repeat Malu chechi's mistake.
Whether your family agrees or not,
we're living in this village.
I'm scared, Appu ettan.
I am here with you, right?
We'll see.
Sudhakaran...
Sir, he's kidnapped my daughter!
Just hear me out once.
Sir, stay out of this. This is our family matter.
Please stop.
Just shut up!
Don't make a scene.
What are you doing, Sudhakaran chettan?
They just fell in love and eloped, didn't they? If this happened in your family, would you just stand and watch?
He deserves this beating.
This guy is trouble!
This scoundrel has caused problems in our family twice now!
We'll never give our daughter to him!
Calm down, Sudhakaran.
Sir, you just mind the forest matters.
We know how to handle our family affairs.
I stepped in to resolve the issues.
Was there ever peace all these years?
Oh no!
-What's wrong? -Look there!
Malu chechi.
Did you all claim I took her away and killed her?
Chechi...
Was I the one who helped you run away?
No.
-See! -Exactly!
Now everyone's at peace, aren't they?
All these years you falsely accused me!
Shut your mouth.
Dear, please tell us.
Where have you been all this time?
Who did you go with?
Tell us, girl.
Tell us who he is, girl!
Come on, dear.
That... he's right here.
AH!
I knew it had to be some scoundrel from this village who took her!
Who is he?
Spill the truth!
Tell us the truth, dear. Who is he?
For heaven's sake, just tell the truth!
Tell us, dear. Who is he?
Hamza sir?! Disgusting!
What?!
She's my wife.
Is that true, sir?!
Did you like our village?
Yes, it's lovely.
I understood the village's problems.
Try to resolve them through discussion.
You, sir?
What a small world! Really sorry. Please, no one should touch me.
-Sir... -Yes, dear.
You could have told me at least.
Actually, I came here to openly discuss everything with everyone, resolve the issues, and then bring her back.
Only after coming here did I realise
our elopement was the village's biggest problem.
Dad...
Please... please forgive us.
-Dad... -Brother...
Haven't you realised by now that everything we believed was wrong?
What's the point of arguing and making scenes now?
Please accept them, dad.
Why are you being so stubborn, dad?
Shekharan, you should agree.
I'm okay.
-Master... -Yes.
Find an auspicious date for the wedding.
Lucky you.
Uncle!
Even if things turned out good, the risk we took wasn't small.
You're right.
At least everything ended well.
Now they'll probably hold the wedding soon.
We'll see.
Sir...
Still, you shouldn't have done this to me.
Couldn't you have at least given me a hint?
Appu, I tried telling you several times.
But you completely ignored me.
You did it on purpose, right?
On purpose?
Yeah.
Remember when I saw you helping her cross the bend that day?
Hold this.
Don't you remember?
Hari...
Please come.
Yes dear, coming.
I'll be right back.
But... bend... who...
Brother-in-law...
Don't dwell on the past anymore, okay?
No, brother-in-law.
Whatever,
when I was lying at that bend last night,
weren't you the one who came to save me?
ME?!
At the bend?!
Yeah, I am an army man.
But not that brave. Mahesh...
Coming, dad.
Don't worry.
I'll handle this.
She's waiting for you down there.
Go.