Ismat, hand me a safety pin.
Oof!
These shoes are so tight.
Whoever designed these shoes for girls deserves to be smacked with them.
Safia, are we going to have to listen to you moan all day?
If you dress me up like this, then yes, you’ll have to put up with the moaning.
Let me have a look.
- Mom... - Hmm?
We are meeting Ismat sister’s future in-laws.
Why am I being dressed up?
So that they don’t realize that their future daughter-in-law’s sister is a barbarian!
Isn’t it?
Why am I being dragged into this?
Stop complaining now!
It won’t be the end of the world if you wear tight shoes for a couple of hours.
Why do you hate your daughter so much?
I am taking revenge for the pain you caused me during childbirth.
What girl weighs 4 kilos?
I should have been a boy.
You are no less than one!
Thank you, Dad… but clearly I am not one.
Otherwise, I wouldn’t be tortured thus.
If we are done groaning about tight shoes, can we leave?
- Selfie? - Yes, let’s do it.
Mom, a bit lower please.
- Salman, you stand here. - Yes? Okay.
Smile!
I had no idea you were back home for the holidays.
Why haven’t you visited us yet?
Well…
I guess it’s her turn next, huh?
If you wish, I can find a good boy for her!
What do you say, Safia?
Certainly, Roohi Aunty! I leave myself in your capable hands.
Aw, really? I will get to work right away.
She’s kidding right?
Such a rascal! Inzy, did you hear what she said?
- Mummy, - Huh?
- Did you bring Ludo? - Be quiet!
Sister, why do you want to marry Inzy?
Who else should I marry?
Is there a line of suitors waiting for me?
And if I have to get married, I might as well marry someone with a steady job.
Why get married at all?
What’s wrong with getting married?
- Do you really want to know? - Yes, I do.
For men, marriage is like winning a lottery, but what do women get from it?
They get to cook for their husband, wash his clothes, listen to his boring stories,
Laugh at his stupid jokes, comfort his delicate ego,
Listen to his moaning and groaning, run his household, birth his children,
Birth his children, raise his children,
Deal with his annoying family, serve his parents, ignore his affairs,
Nod at his every whim, nurse him through his old age, and when at last ...
He dies, weep at his coffin, and pray at his graveside.
- Is that all? - Oh, and...
When a woman dies, do you know who’s supposedly waiting for her on the other side?
- Who? - Her husband !
So that she may resume her life of service, this time forever.
If this is paradise, send me elsewhere. How can hell be worse?
- Hmm! - Saffu, go away and let her work!
I was only making sure she understands what she is signing up for.
Zareena, don’t pay attention to her or she will soon have you filing for divorce yourself.
Not every relationship is messed up.
Look at Mom and Dad.
- They may not be a perfect couple… - Careful!
But it seems like they share a deep secret, something no one else can understand.
I may not be lucky enough to end up with someone who can share my life’s passions.
But at least I will have someone who can share life’s burdens.
Besides, marriage provides me with an identity. If someone asks you who you are...
You’ll be able to answer : I am an engineer. What will I say?
At least, now I’ll be able to say : I’m so-and-so’s wife, the mother of these children.
You have the opportunity to forge your own path, Saffu.
But this is my destiny. And truth be told, I am happy with it.
I want this life, and if Inzy can offer it to me then,
Long live Inzy! Goodnight!
They say that a daughter is meant to be the repository of a family’s pride.
The ornament of the wedding pavilion, the radiance of the bridal bed,
The glory of her in-laws’ home.
Girls get crushed under the burden of these expectations.
We must reject this system!
We won’t be intimidated, won’t beg, won’t bow our heads.
We will become a voice that cannot be silenced,
A spark, that cannot be extinguished!
We turned down the proposal.
If I permit a modern, educated daughter-in-law to enter our household, she won’t care for us...
Rather, she would steal our son away!
Must you always spout such nonsense, Taj?
An educated daughter-in-law would rather help in the household expenditures.
Besides, you need two incomes to run a home these days.
- I’ve to agree with Taj. - That’s because I’m right.
If you don’t believe me, look at what’s happening at Sameena’s home.
How much does your son earns, Taj?
- Barely enough to keep the kitchen fires burning. - Really?
What is the guarantee that an uneducated daughter-in-law will behave any differently?
- Well that... I suppose, is a matter of luck. - Exactly!
Welcome, Bhai Yazdani!
How are you, Salman?
Come here, son.
So Salman... how is the business doing?
All is well, Bhai Yazdani.
By God’s grace, we have all we need.
I see.
Saying “cake” doesn’t sweeten one’s mouth, nor does moving the hands of the clock change the time.
‘We have all we need.’
How many... Put more pressure!
How many times do I have to say this, Salman?
Stop banging your head against this wall.
You keep toiling, huh...
Hour after hour, day after day, to service a debt you can never hope to repay.
What is the point?
Why do you care, Bhai Yazdani?
I pay your loan installments timely.
Oh, what will I do with your meager payments, Salman?
Sprinkling a few grains of sugar in a pot of milk doesn’t turn it into the pudding I want...That’s enough!
Small businesses are like paper boats on a raging river.
They are doomed to drown, today or tomorrow, so...
I’ve counseled you in the past and I’ll do so once again.
Sell your shop to me.
Granted, it’s your family’s legacy, but don’t go down with the sinking ship.
Let me also repeat myself,
I will not sell my shop. Here is your loan installment.
Goodbye!
How long will you protect that flickering lamp of your self-respect, Salman?
The changing times are like a storm that’s heading your way.
One gust and… poof!
May God be with you!
Let’s go!
What a jerk, totally ruined the mood!
Four, five, six…
Here you go, Deepak. Your salary for the month.
And, when will you be back?
Once my sister is married, then I’d like to spend a few days with my mother, if that’s okay.
I haven’t seen her in a long time and she hasn’t been well.
Keep this as well.
Take it.
And as Raftar says - Go safely and return safely!
What’s the matter?
Nothing is the matter. I am making tea.
One cup for you, and one for myself.
Where’s the strainer?
Huh? It was right here.
Now tell me, why are you worried?
It’s nothing new... Bhai Yazdani had stopped by.
Asking for the same old stuff - Sell me the salon.
He owns six properties in the bazaar, and his hunger isn’t sated.
The hunger of greed, can never be sated.
Forget about it, why should we let him ruin our mood?
Here, have some tea.
Must be strong, just like you.
Actually it’s sweet, like you!
And the best couple award goes to my Mom and Dad!
Here comes the imp!
- Hey? - Click now!
What a strange world is this...
Darkness is nurtured in the shadows of brightly-lit buildings,
Hunger grows in fields,
The cruel stride with chests puffed up, while the gentle ones...
Lower their gaze, afraid for their lives.
Mom!
It’s so late... Haven’t you done enough for the day?
Just a couple of hours more. It’s a huge one, Saffu!
This needs to be delivered in 6 weeks.
By God’s grace, this is the first major work order in a long time.
You call this grace? I call it being stingy...
Can’t God be a bit more generous?
Please think before you speak, Saffu.
Anyways, never mind.
You were going to show me your college photos.
- Oh yes! - Let’s see them.
- This one is Lata, right? - Yes, and this is Usha.
And this is my friend, Amit.
Amit? This is a boy?
Yes Mom! He’s a boy.
This is our Robotics Club!
Robot.
- Robot? - Yes, that’s a Robot.
Saffu, do you build these?
No, we just test them. But one day, I will build one too.
So, what will this Robot you build do?
Serve my mother!
I’m at your service, Fatima-ji.
What would you like me to do? Should I finish this zari work?
- Knead your legs? - Saffu, stop!
Give you a massage?
1,2,3, go...
Leave it be, let the wind blow, let the storm rage, pay attention.
Pay attention my friend, pay attention!
Listen to me, don’t preach,
Strain this wisdom into your brain,
I am no ordinary rapper, I am the king of this music.
Pay attention my friend, pay attention…oooo!
Doesn’t sound like it has the potential to go viral.
Something... We need something else.
A new writer!
- Then you write it. - Get lost!
Hey bro, cut the crap and do the rap!
We have to get this right. Focus on that !
- Any suggestions, Uncle? - Maybe increase the tempo.
Give it a shot!
Let’s do it.
1..2..3...Go!
You aren’t well, Salman. Let’s go to the doctor!
Don’t make a fuss, Fatima!
- Dad, please don’t go to work today.
Then who will run the salon, my child?
How does it matter if it’s closed for a day, Dad?
But I’m feeling fine only.
Nothing is more important than one’s life.
How has this become a matter of life or death?
If I keep taking time off, there will be nothing to live off!
It’s just a bout of acidity... I’ll pick up something from the pharmacy along the way.
Here you go, Dad.
- Dad, I’m coming with you. - Yes, take her. I’ll be more at ease.
We will get some pills from Sharma’s pharmacy.
- Okay. - Done.
- Brother, two orange popsicles please! - Dad!
My child, ice cream relieves acidity. Makes you feel better.
- Believe me! - It’s pointless arguing with you.
Take your money.
Let’s have it.
- Don’t tell your mother. - Ok, I won’t.
- Hello, Raftar! - Hello, Salman!
- Good morning, Raftar Uncle! - Good morning, my child.
- Are you home for the college break? - Yes!
- Let me. - Take this.
- Dad? - Hmm...
Your beard is looking a bit scraggly. Let me trim it for you.
Dad, it’s only 10 a.m.! No customer will come this early, come.
Could you just... massage my head, instead?
- It’s hurting. - Sure.
- Dad... - Hmm...
How much money have you borrowed?
Why do you ask?
You and Mom are so tense these days.
What nonsense!
Dad, do I look like a fool?
I know that my college expenses are also putting a strain on you.
If you want to worry, then worry about your education,
Leave the rest to us.
- Saffu... - Hmm...
Home feels empty without you.
I’m so glad you are back.
Just for my break, Dad. I have to go back in a few weeks.
I know, my little one!
But I won’t be sad, when you leave either.
I’m proud to tell everyone, that my daughter goes to a college in Delhi.
And she will soon become an engineer.
You are the shining light of our lives, my love.
Thank you, Dad! I will never let you down.
Does it feel better, Dad?
Dad?
Dad!
Raftar Uncle!
Who is with Salman Ahmed?
Sir, we are.
He’s had a stroke. At the moment, his left side is paralyzed.
Doctor, will he be okay?
We’ll have to wait for the CT and MRI reports.
- Doctor... - He can possibly get better with time.
- Nurse, update me every hour. - Ok sir.
- Mom! - Hmm.
I’ll stay here with Dad.
Okay, I’ll stay too.
Sister, don’t worry about leaving her alone... I’ll be here.
Have some tea, my child.
Raftar Uncle, what’s the story with Dad’s loan?
Every poor person’s story is the same.
Take a loan to tide over bad times, and then spend the rest of your life trying to pay it back.
Salman borrowed some money from Bhai Yazdani during the lockdown.
When the salon reopened, no one could pay for their haircuts.
You know your father well... He gave free services!
And asked them to pay him later, when they can.
Then he needed money to pay for your college.
Again, he had to borrow some more money.
Bhai Yazdani offered it to him on a condition and your father accepted it.
What was the condition?
The salon is mortgaged.
If he misses a single installment, Bhai Yazdani can take over the property.
“With our heart’s blood, we wrote our tale”
“By our tears now it’s washed away”
“Joy follows sorrow, that’s life's flow,”
“And sorrow follows joy, this too we know”
“With our heart’s blood, we wrote our tale”
“By our tears now it’s washed away”
“Joy follows sorrow, that’s life's flow,”
“And sorrow follows joy, this too we know.”
“With our heart’s blood, we wrote our tale...” - Careful!
“Our dreams were so vibrant”
“Our lives so beautiful”
- “Our hearts so full of hope” - Click!
“That fate would continue to be kind”
“Our hopes lie scattered”
“Our dreams lie shattered”
“With our heart’s blood, we wrote our tale...”
- Am I speaking to Safia Ahmed? - Yes?
We haven’t received your fee for the next semester.
By when can you submit ...
- Do you have any openings? - No, we have none.
Sir, I need a job desparately.
- Sorry, I can’t help you. - Sir please.
Please leave.
Sir, it says on your webpage that you have a job opening for salesperson.
- This is my application... - Yes, but we aren’t hiring women for it.
- We need someone with more work experience. - Sir, I’ll do my best, sir
I have no jobs to offer. Could you please not bother us?
“Flowers don’t bloom anymore,”
“Gardens lie desolate.”
“The mornings are stifled,”
“The evenings are parched.”
“The nights are dark,”
“The lamps have been extinguished,”
“With our heart’s blood, we wrote our tale”
“By our tears now it’s washed away”
“Joy follows sorrow, that’s life's flow,”
“And sorrow follows joy, this too we know.”
Do you have these medicines in stock?
The total is 1200 rupees.
We have only 900.
Uncle, we’ve got only 900 rupees right now.
- Could we pay you the balance, in a couple of days? - Yes, of course.
- How’s Salman doing? - He’s a bit better.
- Alright, take care. - Thank you Uncle!
Mom, if the salon doesn’t reopen, how will we pay the loan installment?
How do you know about the loan?
Raftar Uncle... I insisted he tell me.
Don’t worry about it. I’ll think of something.
Like what, Mom?
Your zari work won’t be ready for a while and you won’t get paid for it till then.
We are barely getting by on Ismat sister’s earnings.
We have to figure out a way of keeping the salon running.
I know.
Life is a struggle that never ends.
And in this battle, every victory is incomplete,
Every defeat temporary.
The question is not whether you win or lose,
But whether you stand up and fight or run away from the battlefield.
I’m not the kind that runs away!
Why do I keep forgetting things?
Saffu, there was a small box of pearls we had bought for the zari…
Saffu?
Oh my God!
- You will cut men’s hair? - Yes.
It won’t take them a second to figure out you are a girl.
Let me give it a shot.
There’s no scope for chances.
- That’s not going to happen. - Alright then.
So tell me, what’s your plan? How are we going to save the salon?
She’s right, Mom.
And what choice do we really have?
She won’t be alone. I’ll be there to support her.
If anyone can pull this off, it’s our Safia!
- How much for this? - 200 rupees madam.
I’ll give you 150.
- How many do you want? - I’ll pick a few more.
Are you here for a haircut?
Can I cut your hair?
Are you here for a haircut?
Saffu, stay in touch.
I will, Mom.
Good morning!
- Good morning brother. - Hope all is well!
Really, I swear!
- Good morning brother! - Morning!
- Where’s Deepak? - He’s gone to his village.
Village?
Who is this?
This is Safdar, Salman’s nephew. He has come from Delhi to give a hand.
- Oh! - Whatever.
He had sent him to a doctor and then to a ‘Maulvi’ who said he had a remedy.
Tell me, is there a better place than our city? - No.
- Kasgaon? - No.
- Akbarpur? - No.
- Chandausi? - No.
- Tanda? - No.
- Gurgaon? - Are you going to get a haircut?
NO.
‘Maulvi’ asked him to bring kohl, camphor, onion seeds, walnuts and some mustard oil,
And promised to make him a tonic...
That would restore, the pride of his conjugal bed.
Will you get a haircut?
No son, thanks.
- Make some space for me. - Could you please get me a cup of tea?
Get tea for us.
- Hello Taj, where have you been since morning? - Don’t ask me.
He was probably denied permission by the head office.
Who has the nerve to ask for permission? I just slip away when I get the opportunity.
And how are you doing, Sundar?
Oh Taj, have you heard?
Mahesh's wife went to the tailor and said, ‘I need a shirt with a fitted collar for my husband.’
When the tailor asked for size, she replied,
‘I don’t know the size, but my hands fit perfectly around his neck!’
If no one wants a haircut, what are you doing here?
Did you see that Raftar?
If Salman was here, we would have been snacking on samosas.
Instead we are getting scolded here... Huh!
Raftar Uncle...
I understand, my child. But listen, they are regulars.
They use this place as a hangout, to forget their sorrows for a bit.
And in the process, they are adding to my woes.
How will the shop survive if no one is getting a haircut, Raftar Uncle?
My child, these people are used to Salman.
They think he will be back soon enough so why have your hair cut by this boy?
They will adapt. Just give them some time.
Don’t worry, I’ll talk to them. Have faith in God!
Mom, keep this money for the monthly expenses.
Did you put aside some money for your beauty parlour supplies?
Yes, I did.
Here she is...How was your day?
It was fine mom... Just another normal day at the salon.
Also, nobody recognized me.
How did it go?
Nothing happened.
- What do you mean? - Nothing happened.
C’mon, you deflected Mom’s question. Don’t do that to me!
Don’t even ask, Sister. Dad has gathered the oddest bunch.
There’s an old man Taj, who is searching, not a wife for his son, but a daughter-in-law for himself.
Then there’s one Jameel, who suspects his wife is having an affair.
And Sundar, who is constantly teased for being hen-pecked just because he listens to his wife.
And oh yes, what were their names?
These two buddies Suresh and Mazhar, have this question-answer routine going all day long.
- Oh no, the power's out again. - Oh yes!
And this guy went to a religious scholar who gave him a potion...
That will supposedly make him... a beast in bed once again!
Gosh Saffu, just stop and go to sleep!
- Who is your best friend? Gautam? - No.
- Peter? - No.
- Anwar? - No.
- Sukhdev? - No.
- Me? - NO.
Hello, Raftar Uncle!
- Aman! - Hey Aman, how are you?
Where have you been?
Babu Bhai was visiting his in-laws and had left me in charge of the garage.
Oh, okay.
I need a hair cut. I don’t see Salman uncle.
He isn’t well, son.
Who is this?
This is Safdar, Salman’s nephew.
‘This is Safdar, Salman’s nephew, he has come from Delhi... Aha! Aha! ‘
He is from Delhi!
Didn't you want a haircut?
- Yeah, but not by a novice. - I know what I’m doing.
Can’t risk it!
- C’mon, just give it a shot. - Hey! Didn’t you hear me?
Weirdo!
Oh, Raftar Uncle, there’s a fundraiser next week for an NGO that works on domestic violence.
Oh nice!
Our band is going to perform there!
That's great!
We have also written a new song.
Well, let’s hear it then.
Oh sure, let’s hear it!
- Right now? - Yes, right now!
Aman! Aman!
Alright then!
Young Prince! Please move.
‘If they ask you who you are tell them that you are the oppressed one’
‘The helpless one, the pitiable one.’
‘Torn apart by beasts, Erased by the world.’
‘If they ask you who you are, tell them that you are their sister,’
‘Their mother, their daughter The one who lies on their bridal bed…’
- Something like that. - Wow, you've nailed it,
Thank you.
- Well done! - Thank you everyone.
Little Mastero, what’s the matter?
What do you mean?
Didn't you like the song?
I didn't like it, so what?
Why didn’t you like it?
Why should I tell you? Is there any compulsion?
Fine, if you must know, then listen…
It’s cliched, an old and worn-out thought, well past its expiry date.
Must women always be depicted as ‘helpless’? Can’t they be ‘rebellious’?
Is a woman only someone's mother, sister, or wife?
Does she have no identity of her own?
I can write better words than these in my sleep...
You? Can you write better words than these?
Yes, in my sleep.
Alright then, let’s see you do it.
Why should I? Is there a signboard at display,
That anyone can come and test my writing skill.
What’s in it for me?
Oh ho, what’s in it for you!
I took you for an artist, but you are actually a merchant.
Okay, so tell me. What do you want?
Will you get a haircut?
Ok, it's a deal. If I like the song, then yes, I will.
Alright. What was your first line?
- ‘If they ask you who you are.’ - If they ask you who you are...
‘If they ask you who you are Tell them your name is Rebel.’
‘Come friends, come companions Let’s make some noise.’
‘Let’s make flowers bloom in these flames. It’s our task to shake things up...’
‘If they ask you who you are...’
‘Tell them your name is Rebel.’
Awesome... one more verse?
Okay!
‘This is our tradition, this is our history,’
‘That the tyrant loses, that we win,’
‘Peace will reign, gardens will prosper,’
‘When the blood stops flowing...’
‘When tyranny comes to an end, Our task is to bring about that day...’
‘If they ask you who you are...
‘Tell them your name is Rebel !’
- Brilliant! - Amazing!
You turned out to as a Boss!
It’s your turn now.
Now you must get a haircut.
Oh Hero!
- Where is Salman? - He’s recovering at home.
- He’s not well. - Oh no!
Well, good and bad times come for us all. We all have our cross to bear.
At times, you stumble upon treasure without asking. At others, you receive nothing even if you beg.
Nevermind!
With God's grace, may he recover quickly.
Who is taking care of the business?
I am.
- And who is this young man? - Safdar...
- Salman’s nephew. - Okay!
So, will the nephew be paying the installment this month?
Those are 8000 rupees.
And how much should it be?
- 10,000 rupees. - Which means you are 2000 short.
If you aren’t familiar, then Raftaar can tell you about the conditions of the loan.
- I need few more days. - Not possible!
We may go back a long time, but a deal is a deal.
What will the horse eat if it befriends the grass? Tell me?
The installment must be paid today!
Does he know how to cut hair?
-Yes he does. - Yes, he is really good.
Go for it.
Hey, what are you staring at?
Such arrogance does not become someone who doesn’t have a shirt on his back.
A little trim on the neck. Come on now, quickly!
Aah! You jerk!
Listen to me you little fool, tell your Uncle Salman,
That if the remainder of the installment is not paid by the end of the day,
He’d better make arrangements to return the entire loan amount of 2 Lakhs within the week.
If not, he will have to hand me the shop.
Out of my way!
You vulture!
- Here’s your balance. - What is this? Pocket change?
Add this.
Count them.
Hmm.
Before I leave, let me explain a basic principle of this game.
As the indebted struggle to make their payments,
The sweat from their brow turns the earth beneath their feet into quicksand.
Eventually they all sink beneath the weight of their debt.
I will be biding my time.
You listen to me carefully.
A protruding nail, is destined to get hit on the head with a hammer.
- Stop. - Stop your rickshaw!
- This side, this side. - Yeah, that’s it.
- Pull over, yes yes. - Stop!
Sorry Boss, didn’t mean to scare you.
Oh, why did you get so frightened? Are you a girl or what?
Anyone would be scared if they are surprised like this.
Sorry... okay, so Safdar meet Gaurav. And Gaurav that’s, Safdar.
Boss. I sang your words for the band and they all loved it.
Will you write songs for us?
- No. - You will get paid.
Get paid?
- Yes, you’ll get paid. - We were never asked or paid.
- Okay done. - Great, let’s catch up soon!
Let’s go, Uncle.
Hello!
This is Juhi, this is Sunny, and this is Safdar!
Waiter, tea and bun for all.
Hey bro, your song is great.
- Finally some decent lyrics. - Hey, my writing isn’t that bad.
Oh yeah? Why do the women in our song weep all the time?
Hey, that daughter-slaughter line was yours.
Hello! You wanted my suggestion, which I did. That doesn't mean I agree with it.
Safdar, why such a talented guy like you is cutting hair and not going to college?
Circumstances.
- What circumstances? - Let it go Gaurav, you won't get it.
- Oh crap! - Did you just receive a marriage proposal?
My aunt has come to visit. Dad wants me there, I'll have to go.
- So tell him, you are at a rehearsal. - Are you crazy?
How can I tell my dad that I can’t come home because I am at a music rehearsal?
You always challenge patriarchy. Why not now?
Not every battle can be fought all the time. It gets exhausting.
Thank you, Safdar. At last, found a sensitive guy!
That’s the poet in him!
Alright Juhi, you take off.
- Yeah I’ll leave. - And we’ll go rehearse our new song.
- Let’s go. - Boss, you come along too?
Not today, maybe some other time.
You guys go ahead, I'll stick around for a bit.
Alright Boss, had a great time today!
- See you tomorrow! - See you!
- Bye ! - Ok bye !
Another cup of tea with cream on top.
Knight up and across.
Check and mate!
Are you crazy? Weren’t you scared?
Not at all! No one even bothers to look at you.
Usually, we need to plan how we go out.
When and where to go...
What to wear, etc. etc.
But this was totally different.
No worries about time, no consideration for the surroundings, no restrictions on attire.
- I had a great time, to be honest. - I would have been terrified.
Okay, I have to get ready.
What is this new thing? I never liked you going to the salon,
And now, this band, playing music...
- I don’t know what you are doing. - Mom...
I am only writing songs and once in a while, have to attend their rehearsals.
- But what's the need for all this? - I need it!
My mind gets tired from cutting hair all day and listening to so much of that nonsense.
- I need some release too, mother! - And if the band members find out?
Relax, Mom! Have faith in your daughter.
Has anyone in the salon figured it out? Nobody, right?
- Yes, this is the same shop. -Yes, let’s go in.
- Jameel... - Hmm.
If someone invites you home to discuss a marriage proposal...
- At least, they should serve a proper feast. - Hmm, indeed.
Swear to God, perhaps if I had plunged into the broth,
I might have found a piece of meat too.
- Oh Taj, don’t stress so much. - But still…
This is just the beginning, of a series of invitations you will receive.
If you don’t serve great food, then there is no dignity in you.
- I want respect. - Absolutely, its important.
Move your phone aside.
- Tell me, if I’m I wrong? - You are right, respect is important.
If you are done clicking selfies, then let us talk in peace?
- Don’t stress brother, all will be well. - Did I say anything wrong, brother?
- You are absolutely right. - What kind of miserliness is this?
- What’s going on! - Brother...
You are inviting us to offer a marriage proposal for our son but without a proper feast?
Instead, keeping us hungry while you keep taking all those photos.
People should think carefully before inviting someone, isn’t it?
Taj, don’t worry, there will be more dinner invites coming over to you.
Stop taking pictures and let us talk!
- How much? - 50 rupees.
There's no space here. Where are you trying to squeeze in?
- Move over. - Which dessert do you like the most?
Gulab Jamun.
- Jalebi? - No.
- Maalpua? - No.
- Nan Khatai? - No.
Raftar Uncle! Your God seems to have finally blessed me.
I told you, everything is by the grace of God,
And the result of your hard work, my child.
The world is the underworld, and I’m it's don.
Everyone knows who I am, son.
You might be a dude, but my attitude.
If I show you your place and become rude,
Then stay away, I'm a thief under the influence,
I am the devil of hell, not a heavenly beauty,
Don't mistake me for a fake, look at me closely,
I may seem like a hero but I'm more cruel than a villain!
Hmm, nice...
Sounds fine.
- But you don’t seem exactly impressed. - No, I liked it.
Boss, everything is cool with me, but there's a rule with me.
Don't lie, don't weigh your words,
Bitter truth is welcome. Don’t hold back.
If you are a true friend, reject falsehood,
So open up your heart, And tell me what’s in it.
You asked.
- So listen. - Hmm.
You think you gleam like gold, but your rap has grown old.
It's worn-out and senseless, your writing is a hot mess
- Do change your style, craft something worth.... - Yeah yeah,
I get it! No need to say more.
You asked!
Was it that bad?
You sound like everyone else. What’s the point?
Huh... Fresh, new perspectives.
But no one wants new perspective.
This is what sells, Boss.
That may well be, but an artist’s value... Lies in standing apart from the crowd!
That's why you're, the Boss.
- Would you like some tea? - Yes sure!
- Where did these two vanish? - Huh?
They must be flattering someone to seek their favor.
Mukki Sir, he is a music company agent.
A well-connected guy!
Listen kids, you have no idea who Mukki Sir really is.
We do, Mukki Sir.
- You are one of the great music experts of our time. - Totally!
Mukki Sir, I think that you should drop your own album.
Album? Me? No way!
A man must know his own worth.
I admit that I have been born with an inherent musical gift
But do you know what my real talent is?
Hmm?
Mukki Sir is a jeweler!
Which lump of coal has the potential to become a lustrous diamond,
No one can judge better than Mukki Sir. You may ask anyone!
Please pay some attention to these lumps of coals as well, Mukki Sir.
My boy, when a coal begins to turn into a diamond, I will come, looking for it.
Till then, work hard!
“If they ask you who you are, tell them your name is Rebel”
“That you wake up with courage and go to bed with audacity”
“That you won’t fold your hands,”
“Won’t bow your heads”
“If they ask you who you are, tell them your name is Rebel”
“That you wake up with courage and go to bed with audacity”
“That you won’t fold your hands, Bow your heads”
“Sell your souls, or fear anyone”
“This is your message to those who oppress you, If they ask you who you are, ”
“Tell them your name is Rebel! Tell them your name is Rebel!”
“Our tradition and our histories stand tall The tyrant stumbles but we don’t fall”
“Peace will reign, Flowers will blossom soon”
“Tyranny is erased, pushed from view”
“When the world sings songs of love’s true tune”
“This is our task, this is what we do”
“If they ask you who you are, tell them your name is Rebel”
“That you wake up with courage and go to bed with audacity”
“If they ask you who you are...”
“Tell them your name is Rebel”
Trap on!
Trap guys!
“Uprising stirs within our hearts With the fiery passion that our chest imparts”
“Gather close, companions so dear Let flowers from these flames appear”
“Turn this world into a beautiful place Salute the hearts filled with love’s grace”
“If they ask you who you are, tell them your name is Rebel”
“That you wake up with courage and go to bed with audacity”
“If they ask you who you are...”
“Tell them your name is Rebel”
Trap boy!
“Destination set, our vision aligned
A place where love and friendship intertwined”
“No highs or lows, no classes defined A realm where every life is enshrined”
“Amongst us are many, Dreaming beyond the norm”
“With aspirations wild, in their truest form Stepping ahead, we go on this ride”
“Crafting a world where love alone can abide With Almighty’s power by our side”
“Tell them your name is Rebel”
“If they ask you who you are, tell them your name is Rebel”
“That you wake up with courage and go to bed with audacity”
“If they ask you who you are...”
“Tell them your name is Rebel”
Once more!
Thank you!
Thank you, friends, everyone.
Let me introduce our band members.
That was beatboxer Sunny,
DJ Juhi,
Supporting vocals by Gaurav...
I am Aman...
And this is our lyricist... SAFDAR!
Oh, come on Safdar!
Come on the stage!
Safdar! Safdar!
Hey Safdar! Saf...
Has Deepak returned from village?
Not yet.
Then who is managing the salon?
Safdar.
Safdar? Who is Safdar?
Saffu?!
Dad, you were unconscious,
and Deepak didn’t return from village.
Someone had to take the salon over, right?
No one would have let Safia cut their hair.
That’s why I had to become ‘Safdar’.
Dad, did I do something, I shouldn’t have?
No, my love.
You haven't done anything wrong.
Infact, I’m so proud, that...
my little girl Saffu, who used to walk holding onto my finger...
Is now all grown up and taking care of the household.
Well done, my child!
- Mom... - Hmm?
When did you realize that you and Dad were going to work out?
Right away, though everyone tried to stop us from getting married.
They came up with various arguments,
Saying he is an uneducated barber, questioning his status... so on.
Didn’t you wonder if they were right?
The mind wonders, Saffu, but the heart knows.
The mind sows doubts, but the heart discards them, chooses its own path.
Come, let’s go!
Friends, I have written a hit song.
It’s called "Wikipedia".
Sunny, give me the beat.
‘What can I say about myself, read about me on Wikipedia.’
‘People are learning about me today, tomorrow, it will be the media.’
‘I've already blocked the haters,
‘You may ask, why did you do this?’
‘What do you think of yourself?’
Hmm, how is it?
Hmm, ok.
Wow Gaurav, how do you manage to write such trash so consistently?
Trash?
Hey, this is commercial stuff. The song will go viral, trust me!
All that’s fine my friend, but Safdar has also written something.
Let's hear that too...Huh?
‘Account for dreams in the verse of your tale,’
‘Answer life's questions, let courage prevail. Claim as your victory the answers you find,’
‘Let the sweat on your brow show the strength of your grind,’
‘Persist, don't falter, let your spirit not wane,’
‘Round the next corner, your destiny lays claim.’
Yes! What do you all think?
I agree...
This is thousand times better than that commercial garbage.
Okay then, you only guys do what you want to.
Hey, why are you upset?
What’s the matter with you guys?
It’s ‘Safdar-Safdar’ all the time.
We are the ones who put this band together,
and put in all the hard work.
And now you are dissing me for this Johnny come lately!
- Not at all… - Oh hello,
Show some respect.
Be quiet or I'll punch your face.
I’ll break your arm if you try to touch me.
Oh yeah? Just try it.
- Sure, let’s do it right now. - You will break my arm?
- One minute... Calm down Gaurav!
- You’ll break my arm? Then come on, try it. - Calm down, calm down.
- Leave me, I’m just trying to talk... - Sit down, please sit down.
Hey bro, why are you running away? Don’t you want to break my arm?
- Hey Safdar, come on, break my arm. - Please sit down Gaurav.
Come on Safia, think of something, How do I get out of this situation?
- Calm down. - You will break my arm?
- Calm... - Don’t stop me, Aman!
Are u crazy?
Safdar, Safdar!
- Juhi? - Yes...
Give me a minute.
Open the door.
One minute, please.
Open up, I have got something for you.
Here you go, sister!
Gaurav, there’s no band without you.
- Why would we sideline you? - I don't know anything.
But either Safdar goes or I will. You guys decide who you want.
Hey, stay with your band!
I have no interest in being part of it.
Hey... Safdar!
Aman... let him go.
What a mess!
Aah! I can’t lift it any higher.
Push harder Dad!
After surviving a major illness, you hesitate to lift your arm?
Okay, now bring it down slowly.
Fatima...
Why don’t you rest? You’ve been at it without a break since yesterday.
There is a lot left to finish.
I have to deliver it by tomorrow morning.
So I’ll be working all night.
Why don’t you ask Zaidi Sahib for a day or two more?
I can talk to him if you wish.
Zaidi Sahib may well agree... But what about Bhai Yazdani?
His installment is due tomorrow.
Fatima!
- Yes, coming! - Fatima!
- FATIMA!
- What ...? - ISMAT!
- Oh God! OH GOD!
How did this happen? Hold on... you,
Saffu, Ismat, come down quickly!
- Saffu, Ismat! Come down! - What’s going on, Mom?
- Careful, let’s take you go out... - Mom!
- Where are the girls? - Saffu!
- Dad! - Saffu, take him outside first.
Ismat... Oh God!
- Take him outside, carefully! - Fatima, you be careful too.
Please go!
- First, take your Dad outside. - Dad, careful!
Ismat, get the rug.... Oh God!
Ismat, get the rug from there.
- Fatima, be careful please. - Toss the rug....
Saffu, can you see what a beautiful pattern this is?
Isn’t it?
Do you know how many days it took me to make this?
Look at this part.
I spent four full days over just this bit.
Stitch after careful stitch...
When I saw the design take shape,
I allowed myself to hope...
that our luck was changing.
Perhaps God has other plans for us.
Whatever will be, will be.
I was counting the days till this one.
But truth be told, I’m a little saddened too.
I tried to caution Salman,
Those with tails made of cotton wool should stay away from flames.
He didn’t heed my advice.
What’s the point of locking the stable, once the horse has bolted?
Dear nephew, it’s all very simple.
Either return the entire loan amount in a week, or hand over the shop.
And remember what I had said?
A protruding nail, gets the hammer treatment!
I’ll be back in a week. Have the keys ready.
[Azaan in the background]
Careful... slowly raise your leg... gently.
That’s right, gently.
- Gently. - Oh!
[Azaan in the background]
Hello, Aman bro!
- How are you, Vicky? - All good!
Where did you vanish?
I called a bunch of times, texted you.
Why didn’t you respond?
Nothing, I was just dealing with a small problem.
What happened?
It's a personal matter.
So tell me.
Can I focus on my work first?
I’ve come to talk about work too.
Go ahead.
A talent hunt has been organized.
The winning band will get to release their single with the music company.
Raftar Uncle pulled some strings and we have been invited to participate, Boss!
Wish we can win this talent hunt!
But it’s not going to be easy.
The theme of the song will be announced on the spot.
We have to compose and perform it, right there!
So, we need to practice ahead of time, right?
So close the shop and let’s go!
Close the shop...Why?
It's a great opportunity.
Yes bro, you're right. It's a big opportunity, don't miss it!
Vicky, come tomorrow for your hair cut.
- Sure! - No, sit down!
What are you doing?
What are you doing?!
It is time to pick up the pen instead of scissors!
Vicky, get up buddy!
Aman, now you're taking it too far. Told you, I'm not interested right now!
You are the one taking it too far !
Why are you being so fussy?
- Vicky, I told you to get up! - Bro, don't worry!
Bro, leave it...I won't even think of cutting my hair until your show.
- Are you crazy? - You are the crazy one!
It’s such a big opportunity, to fulfill our dreams and all you want is this stupid salon!
You are an artist...
No, I'm not...an artist. And I have no interest in becoming one!
It's your dream, you pursue it. Write your own song!
Why are you harassing me?
Looks like you are getting arrogant about your talent.
What do you think? Our band can’t survive without you?
Go to hell and take your damn songs with you!
You will remain a barber forever!
Dream big, Boss!
Otherwise you will waste your life grinding away like your Salman Uncle!
Hey Aman!
What did you say? My life will be wasted like Salman Uncle’s?
What you call a wasted life has kept the kitchen fires burning in his home.
It has allowed his children to fulfill their dreams.
I’m proud of the way I live my life!
At least, I live off my own labor.
And not leech off someone else’s talent!
Hey you…
Chuck it!
You had a fight, means?
- Means, we had a fight. - But why?
Buddy, if you keep pampering him so much, then this is bound to happen, right?
You be quiet... Aman, please explain?
I don't want to work with him!
We don’t need him.
Who will write the songs then?
Gaurav.
I can only do beatboxing.
Don't want to get involved in these squabbles.
Gaurav, put your ego aside for a moment and think,
Who is a better writer?
Safdar won't write for us!
That’s final!
And if you can’t pay the installment?
We’ll either have to come up with 2 Lakh rupees within a week or hand over the salon.
Two lakh rupees... Oh God!
So what will you do now?
Not sure...
We thought that the payment for the zari would tide us over but that went up in smoke.
At least, all of you are safe!
You haven't told anyone about me, right?
Not yet.
Please don't. I will tell them myself when the time is right.
And when will this right time be?
I don't know.
You will tell Aman, right?
I don’t know.
Is there anything you do know?
All I know is that I’m an ordinary girl,
Who is doing her best, but despite all her efforts, she has failed to save the family salon.
And now she doesn't know what to do.
Does she have permission to be confused for a while?
Welcome all to the Rapstar Talent Hunt! The biggest platform for aspiring rappers!
Everyone is here to win, but for that, they’ll have to do something special and unique.
Here, each band has to pick a theme out of a jar,
Compose a song within 45 minutes, and then perform it on the stage.
The band that wins will become, our champion RAPSTAR!
So all the best to the teams!
- Dust. - Dust... Ok let’s go.
What a terrible theme! Dust, soil, pebbles, stones?
What do we write about? Pollution?
‘You may think you're cool, but you're a bloody fool.’
‘Cross my path with heed, or I’ll rub your face in the dust, indeed.’
Can we please call Safdar?
We were writing songs before Safdar came along.
Gaurav, keep going.
‘I’ll grind you to dust, make your arrogance inert,’
‘I'll dress you like a fool and take you to school...’
Crap!
‘I’ll grind you to dust, make you forget to rap dress you... fool.. take you.. school... crap!’
No pressure, Gaurav, but time is running out.
Gaurav cannot write this Aman, let’s call Safdar.
Forget it!
Then you forget about winning this show!
I won’t call him!
If you’re not going to do it, then I will.
Forget our egos, let’s do our best to win this.
Let’s call him, Juhi.
Juhi??
“Give your heart the green signal.”
“Wave the banner of Love.”
“Whether it’s an accursed Saturday or a benighted Tuesday”
“In places far and wide, proclaim to one and all:”
“Sisterhood is great!”
“Make some noise and stir things up, ”
“Sisterhood is great!”
“Wave the banner of Love, Sisterhood is great!”
Folks!
Why is Safdar dressed like a girl?
Let’s talk about that later. For now, focus on the song.
“Men have usurped the world, constrained us”
“Hid us behind veils and the four walls of home”
“It's time to patch up the holes in our hearts”
“Unbury ourselves and rise to new heights!”
“And rise to new heights!”
“Make some noise and stir things up, Sisterhood is great!”
“Wave the banner of Love, Sisterhood is great!”
You take the first three lines and then I’ll take over...
“Announce the defeat of patriarchy, my love”
“Tell them that crossing us will prove costly”
“Defenseless no more, we are now powerful”
“You ruled for centuries, but it is our turn now.”
“Pierce those dark clouds, Sisterhood is great!”
“This truth is universal, Sisterhood is great!”
“Make some noise and stir things up, Sisterhood is great!”
“Wave the banner of Love, Sisterhood is great!”
Wow, 8-9-8. Team Flowerbenders have got 25 points.
Up next, we have The Baaghis... Let's give it up for them!
“I was raised in the dust, I’m made of that dust”
“When I bleed my blood too will seep in that dust”
“I was raised in the dust, I’m made of that dust”
“When I bleed my blood too will seep in that dust”
“I refuse to fold my hands, I insist on exposing lies”
“I cast aside my chains, I turn Hate’s poisonous tide”
“The tyrants turn petitioners”
“They themselves sit in judgment”
“Falsehood is crowned”
“While Truth is scorned”
“But the times change, all Kings fall, Worldly rule doesn’t last forever”
“I use Truth as my sword, My tongue as an arrow”
“Your blows don’t matter, My conscience shields me”
“I was raised in the dust”
“I’m made of that dust”
“When I bleed my blood too will seep in that dust”
“When I perish, when I die Bury me in the dust”
“Bury me where life is still valued”
“Where people fight for their rights”
“Where heads are held high where the world is still ours”
“Where the indigent live, where tears flow,”
“Where wounds fester, where desires ignite.”
“Where storms break out!’
“Where rebels are raised!’
“I was raised in the dust”
“I’m made of that dust”
“When I bleed my blood too will seep in that dust”
“My blood too will seep in that dust”
And this year's champion Rapstars are... The Baaghis!
Let's give them a big round of applause!
The real hero of our victory is…
Our lyricist, Safdar... wohoooo!
Hurray! Yes! We won!
Oh, I bow down to you. You are truly a Boss!
Yes, coming.
Sorry friend, you've done so much for us, but we couldn't do anything for you.
Don’t worry, not all stories have happy endings.
Wow, my gems! You rocked it today!
- You stole the bloody show. - Thank you, Mukki Sir.
We have been offered a contract.
- Contract? - Right.
And what will that get you?
They’ll put you through the wringer for a couple of years,
Squeeze you dry, toss some pocket change your way.
And then bid you farewell!
Look, you have a chance to make it big, which is why I am making you an offer.
Sell me the rights to your song!
I will give you a decent price, and also take care of band promotions!
What is your plan for the song?
Brother, why do you worry about that? Grab this opportunity!
Just sell the song to me and let me take care of the rest, name your price.
- 5.25 Lakh rupees. - Instead, how about 1 Crore?!
Wow... Life is set!
Take 2.5 Lakh rupees in cash... Instantly!
If that makes sense to you,
then say...yes...or... no!
Don’t think too much.
Aman.... think it through.
Look, I don't have a lot of time.
- Aman ... - Just a minute.
Okay Mukki Sir, it’s a deal!
Here you go, Bhai Yazdani. Full loan amount, 2 Lakh rupees.
All at once?
Fate seems to have come to your rescue after all.
Not fate, it’s because of Safia.
We will take your leave now,
Goodbye!
Dad, one minute.
Yazdani Sahib...
A protruding nail might get hit on the head with a hammer.
But the blow doesn’t break the nail,
It gives it the strength to punch a hole even in solid rock.
- Let’s go Dad! - Yes my dear.
This chapter is over. Now what?
Now what? Back to college.
But bro, you will continue to write lyrics for us right?
Yes, ‘she’ will!
You will, right?
- Let’s see. - What?
You'd better... Boss!
No no, a little higher... Yeah.
What do you think, Dad?
Is there anything in the world greater than ‘Love’?
No.
- Wealth? - No.
- Fame? - No.
- Devotion? - No.
- Delight - NO.