This "Idli Kadai" movie is a fiction based on true incidents and people
which had a deep effect on me during my childhood summer vacations.
DANUSH
We are born somewhere and go away in search of something.
SANKARAPURAM
This is my hometown.
This is my father's idli bistro.
With two wooden benches,
a wood-stove,
a hole in the wall to throw away the banana leaves used for dining,
a grindstone and a pair of mortar and pestle.
There's a story behind these too.
Wake up, dear.
He is my father, Sivanesan.
If he has to serve idli at six o'clock in the morning,
he has to wake up at three o'clock in the night.
He would get ready as if he's visiting a temple, not a bistro.
-Dad? -Murugan?
Dad, shall I come with you? It's a holiday anyway.
Of course.
When the whole village is asleep
my father would walk down that deserted street, all alone.
Like our guardian deity, Karuppasami.
This is his story.
As far as my father was concerned, this idli bistro was his life.
It was his whole world.
One cannot mention my father without mentioning his bistro.
Dad, we brought some batter with us, right?
Why are you grinding it again?
The batter we made yesterday will be used to make idlis now.
We'll use this in the evening.
Most of my memories from childhood
involves my dad manually grinding the batter.
He'd grind it non-stop for two hours.
Even if it is just regular Sambar and chutney, the taste stays with you.
His delicious idlis are famous throughout the neighboring villages.
Hey, Sivanesan…
He is Mr. Arumugam.
He and my father are childhood friends.
People say that we have to do what we love, with passion.
One doesn't have to be a doctor or an engineer or a business man to prove it.
You can just make idlis and be content.
He followed Gandhi's principles in his youth and advocated for non-violence.
He used to proudly tell me that his father was a freedom fighter.
What is ahimsa, Dad?
Ahimsa?
There is a lot of violence and bloodshed in the world, right?
Instead of getting into that,
we have to achieve our goals
through peaceful means.
That is called ahimsa.
How is that possible?
Shouldn't we show our valor?
No problem can be solved through fighting.
Only non-violence is the answer.
Maybe because I've always watched my dad cook,
I studied catering in college.
You don't have to manually grind for two or three hours.
This will do it in half an hour.
It's a grinder.
Dad, let's buy it. We don't have to grind for hours on end.
-I want to try it once. -Sure, sir.
What if there's a power-cut?
No, something is wrong.
It tastes fine. What's wrong?
This doesn't taste like your dad's idli.
Mom!
Son, don't get me wrong.
It doesn't taste the same as the batter or the chutney that I make manually.
A machine can do anything.
But it lacks authenticity.
It has to come from the heart.
No matter how advanced technology gets, my father would never embrace change.
Even though my father's world was small, my dreams were huge.
Thanks to my father's bistro being famous in the neighboring towns,
I wanted to expand his business in towns like Theni, Cumbum and Periyakulam.
And I found investors as well.
Why are you against it?
If my bistro is in so many towns, how can I be present everywhere?
Why should you be there?
Employ cooks and give them your recipe.
I can supervise.
This is a golden chance for me, Mom.
We can make big money.
I don't run my bistro only for money.
I find immense satisfaction in this.
-How can I make you understand-- -Who asked you to stop cooking?
You cook in your bistro.
The same will go on in the other branches.
Then don't use my name for those branches.
If it has my name, I must be the cook.
Otherwise I am deceiving the clients who trust me.
Mom, why is he blabbering without understanding my concept?
This is a wonderful chance. Do you want me to be stuck here all my life?
I am going to Chennai.
I believe I can build a future in that city with my degree.
Murugan, what is this?
No, Govindan's son has moved to Chennai.
Chinnarasu's son has taken up a job in Madurai.
Murthy's son has also migrated to the city.
If everyone leaves this place, then who will live here?
Dad, where have they gone?
Govindan's son has bought a car.
But I have to rely on the only two buses that pass through this village.
I don't want to be a frog in the well.
Shouldn't we also get a better life? Own a car and a bungalow?
That depends on what you consider as a better life.
If you think luxuries like cars, bungalows and ACs give you a better life…
I consider this soil, stream, lake, forest, cattle, poultry,
the pollution-free air that we breathe, the firm land beneath our feet
and our guardian deity, Karuppasami,
as the best life for me.
Does that mean I should only follow your dreams?
Shouldn't I go in search of my own?
If your dream is to leave this village,
go ahead.
Dad, don't hold this against me.
Nothing of that sort, Son.
Every bird has to leave its nest when it is old enough to fly, right?
That's nature. I was the one who didn't understand.
-Have a safe journey. -Eat your meals on time.
Write us a letter if you need anything.
Or make an STD call to Mr. Munusami and talk to us.
-Alright? -Okay, Mom.
M-Murugan.
After you reach Chennai, don't forget our idli bistro.
It shouldn't die with me.
Even after I leave my mortal coil, my soul will linger around here.
Why are you being so morbid when our son is leaving?
-Just saying. -Don't feel bad.
-No, Dad. -Don't mind me.
-Okay? -See you, Dad. Take care, Mom.
Take care of yourselves.
I did not bid farewell only to my parents that day.
I left behind my hometown and my identity.
And it took me all these years
to land this job in Bangkok
after scrapping by in Chennai and slowly building contacts.
Come on, get it done, quick.
Make sure you don't burn this. It needs to look golden, okay?
Apply the right amount. Not less, not more, okay?
Do it like I said.
-Hello? -Hi, where are you?
Test kitchen.
Have you picked up my clothes for the evening?
Yeah, yes.
Good, just quickly come up to my office.
-Need to have a word. -Okay.
-Please sit. -Murugan.
Murugan?
My shouts will only fall on deaf ears now.
May I come in?
Yes.
Did you prepare the Healthy Bowl menu I gave you and placed it on my dad's desk?
Yes, I did.
You are the best. I hope he likes it.
We will be married in 15 days.
Are you excited?
Are you ready for the cocktail party tomorrow?
Dad's going to be introducing you to the who's who of the world.
Why are you being nervous? I'll take care of everything, okay?
I love you.
Okay, now go. Dad is waiting, okay?
Good morning, sir.
Good morning, Murugan.
-Meera said you wanted to see me. -Yes.
I had a few doubts about the Healthy Bowl menu.
It is Meera's idea.
I've already reworked on it and placed it on your desk.
The fact you that reworked on it…
-She doesn't know, sir. -She doesn't, right?
It can pass off as her work.
What will I do without you, Murugan?
Isn't Meera the brain behind it, sir?
Are your parents attending the wedding?
Excuse me, sir.
Sorry, sir, it's a bit urgent.
-What is it? -The cops are here, sir.
Cops? What for?
It's Mr. Ashwin…
-Good morning, sir. -Please come, sit down.
Would you like to drink something?
-No, thanks. -What's the issue?
Sir, your son was involved in an illegal gambling bust.
Because we knew who you were,
we made arrangements for a fake arrest to bring him here to you.
We've also gone ahead and taken care of the CCTV footage
among the other stuff.
We went through a lot of trouble for you, sir.
I appreciate it. Is there any--
They just want money, give it to them.
Sir, we apologize for the inconvenience.
We'll make sure that your troubles are compensated.
We'll be more cautious in the future.
-Thank you. -Thank you.
Please come this way.
Dad.
I'm sorry.
I was just playing with my friends.
It's blown out of proportion because they want to take some money from you.
How often will you repeat this like a broken record?
If you feel like gambling, go to Vegas or Macau
or any of those places where it's legal.
How can you be so irresponsible?
Look at Murugan.
He is doing all the work in your place.
How is it that you don't have the concern he has?
Murugan, did you pick my suit from the cleaners?
Ashwin, he's going to marry your sister.
-Is this the way you talk to him? -No, sir.
I've already kept it in your car, sir.
Great!
You are the perfect employee.
-Ashwin. -Dad, please relax.
I'm just pulling his leg.
I'll enjoy a carefree life for another two to three years
and then I'll take over this company and earn a good name like him.
Murugan, come home in the evening.
Educate me on how to be all you, okay?
Bye, Dad.
I've pampered him a bit too much, Murugan.
His mother passed away when he was very young.
He was unable to accept it.
I fulfilled whatever he wished for, to nudge him out of that depression.
Maybe I was wrong.
Usually fathers like their daughters.
But more than Meera, I have a soft corner for Ashwin.
I cannot bear to see him upset.
I don't know when he will become more responsible.
Sir, you should be strict with him.
Even now, you asked him to go and gamble where it's legal
but you didn't tell him not to gamble.
Any other father would have slapped him by now.
That's true.
Correct point.
When I go home now, he will be the one to yell at me.
You were yelling at me in front of him.
Who the hell is he?
First of all, how is he eligible to get married into this family?
She was stupid enough to love an employee
but you accepted her decision.
On top of it, you compare me to him!
Ashwin.
Millionaires like us
don't get to this status with mere talent alone.
-Murugan is really brainy. -If he is that brainy,
award him as the employee of the year. But you're giving him your daughter.
Our profit has increased by 15% after Murugan joined our company.
If he is with you after you take over our company, it will benefit you, Ashwin.
Murugan is an investment.
Moreover he is a good man, Ashwin.
What's wrong with him?
One day, you'll regret choosing him.
Hello? Mom?
Tell me, Murugan.
Are the preparations going smooth?
Mom, did you try convincing Dad?
You know your dad, right?
We can't reason with him. You focus on the preparations.
If he is so stubborn…
-Where is he? -Right next to me.
-Give him the phone. -Here.
Hello?
Tell me, Son.
Dad, won't you change your mind?
Please, for my sake…
Come to the wedding, Dad.
It is different if you are getting married in our hometown.
It is difficult for me to board a plane and fly across the sea.
I understand we cannot perform such a fancy wedding in our small town.
Murugan?
Son?
-Dad… -Shall I hang up?
Okay.
Take care.
Come on, come on. One, two. Let's go.
Focus, let's go. One more. One, two. One, two.
One, two, let's go. Upper cut.
Alright, let's go. One, two. Punch hard. Punch hard!
Hey!
Hello, Brother-in-law.
Put on your gear. Let's box.
Come on.
Alright, come on, let's box.
How can you be so irresponsible?
Look at Murugan.
Come on, come on…
He is doing all the work in your place.
…when you take over, it will benefit you, Ashwin.
If you hurt my sister,
I'll skin you alive.
I don't know what my sister sees in this guy.
-Hey! Are you okay? -Useless!
Get the car ready, we are going out.
Where are we going?
One guy owes me money. I want to collect it from him.
Is he coming here to give it?
Wait.
It's going to be fun.
Look who is back again.
You owe me money, bro.
Come and get it. Bust him up, guys!
I will take care of this, stay here.
How dare you rat me out to the cops after losing the game?
Sir…
-Where's my money? -Please stop.
-Sir, what are you doing? -Where's my money now?
Sir, hear me out. Listen to me, please.
-You think you can get away with this? -Let's get out of here.
-Sir. -I'll make sure you don't exist.
Sir, please put your gun away.
We are already in a mess. If your dad knows, he'll be upset.
Put the gun away, sir.
Welcome to the family, bro.
What happened? Why are you here all alone?
I don't know why, I feel kind of weird.
Don't overthink it.
There's a party going on. Let's go, come.
-Murugan, come on. -It's my mother.
I'll be right back.
-Mom! -Hello?
Mom, one minute. It's noisy here, I can't hear you.
-Murugan… -Mom?
Has Dad agreed to attend my wedding?
Son, your father is no more.
Will you come and finish the funeral rites?
Son?
Murugan?
I'm very sorry, Murugan.
When is your flight?
Five o'clock in the morning, sir.
-I have to perform the funeral rites. -Yes, of course…
Murugan.
Don't get me wrong.
We cannot call off the wedding.
We have invited many VIPs from across the world.
You are well aware of it.
Just wait here. Two minutes.
Murugan, I am so sorry. I just heard about your father.
It's okay, sir.
Why is Mr. Ramarajan coming with me?
It's okay. He'll just take care of you.
You come back soon, okay?
-Ramarajan. -Ma'am?
Be with him, take care of everything and bring him back safe and sound.
-Okay? -Yes, ma'am.
Murugan, I'm sorry I couldn't come.
Come back soon.
You take care, bye.
Is that your father?
He has a divine look about him.
He was a divine man indeed, sir.
What's on your mind?
I mean…
I visited them only four or five times in all these years.
I should have visited them more often, right?
I kept making up excuses.
So many years sped by without them in my life or me in theirs.
He has left us now.
I can't see him even if I want to, right?
Listen, did you know he would suddenly pass away?
More or less, everyone's life is going the same way.
We are running a race without even knowing why.
For the past 30 years,
I'd go to the field to toil only after eating his idlis.
Sivanesan…
They are waiting for his son, Murugan, to start the funeral rites.
Hey! Ask them to finish their lament and be done with the funeral.
Can everyone be sitting here until his son comes?
-I'll inform them right away. -Go, tell them.
I saw him just the day before yesterday. He was looking just fine.
-How did he die so suddenly? -How long do we wait?
The entire district praises his idli.
Oh, no, you left us…
You'll get the money, don't worry.
Is this Murugan?
He has changed completely.
He got up at his usual time of 3:00 a.m and went to his bistro.
He came back, ate and laid down.
Then I tried to wake him up at 3:00 p.m.
But he wouldn't get up.
Rs. 4,500 is enough.
-Okay. -Hey, Murugan.
I am so sorry.
I don't think you remember me.
Marisamy, a close friend of your father's.
If you need any help, don't hesitate to ask.
-Yes, sir? -Son.
Finish the funeral rites as quickly as you can.
We can't wait forever.
He expects the whole town to wait for his arrival.
Hey, Kasthuri!
Look, the cow has given birth!
The cow has given birth!
Hey, Kasthuri!
The cow has given birth!
-Ramarajan, what's happening? -They have just left for the crematorium.
Don't let him shave his head.
I'll take care of it, ma'am.
Murugan.
The nearby Devaram is my hometown.
I'll go, meet my family and be back in the morning.
Okay, sir.
Kasthuri, Sivanesan hasn't gone anywhere.
He is reborn as the calf, dear.
I have cooked a meal for you.
Okay?
I'll drop in regularly to take care of the calf.
-I'll go home now. -Call him Sivam.
What?
The calf's name is Sivam.
Your mother hasn't eaten in two days. Persuade her to eat.
I have kept her BP pills in front of the TV, give it to her.
Don't leave her to be all by herself.
What kind of a son is he to have abandoned his parents all these years!
Did you plug-in the phone to charge?
Yes, Mom!
Just because your husband didn't call you, don't yell at us.
Always nagging…
What kind of father is he! He should come at least once a year.
As long as I remember, I've been seeing him only on video calls.
If he doesn't work his butt off, you can't dream of a college education.
Mom?
Oh! My dear…
It's okay.
I'm here now.
Okay, don't cry.
-Geetha, Arun, how are you? -Dad?
-Mom? -Who is it?
How are you, Mom?
Who is this?
Your son, Ramarajan.
Ramarajan?
Even I have a son named Ramarajan.
He has a job abroad. Where are you from?
She's past 90, right? She borders on dementia.
She will understand in a day or two.
You come and relax.
Arun, catch the rooster in our backyard.
I'll go in five minutes, Mom.
Eat a home-cooked meal.
Murugan, are you okay?
Yes.
How are you feeling?
I don't know.
Did you get any rest?
-Yes. -Okay, listen.
Don't worry about anything.
I'll take care of the marriage arrangements.
Marriage?
Don't think about anything now.
I love you, bye.
Mom…
-What happened, Mom? -It's 3:00 a.m.
I have to wake up your father.
It's already 3 a.m. I have to wake him up.
Mom, listen to me.
He will get upset if he is late.
-Mom, just listen to me. -Dear…
-Look at me. -I have to wake up your father.
Oh.
Have some water.
Will you take me to your father's bistro?
-What is the groom's name? -Sivanesan.
What, Sivanesan? Do you like the girl?
Yes, I like her.
-Kasthuri, come here. -Coming, Mother-in-law.
Hey, old lady!
She's expecting our baby. Why do you keep making her work?
-What do you want her for? -To make idlis.
That's all? I'll do it for you.
What? Do you want us to make idlis for a living?
We have to earn some money.
Why can't selling idlis be a proper job?
What are you saying, dear?
Why don't we open an idli bistro near the bus stand?
Shall we have our bistro here?
You should use her grinding stones that she got as dowry.
-It's good. -The idli is delicious.
-Let's take some for Mom also, Dad. -Okay, let's do it.
I feel…
I feel as if your father is still here.
Go… go.
Mom, you don't have to live here all alone.
I'll take you back with me.
All alone, huh?
Do you think this is a foreign country to live ignorant of your neighbors?
Everyone here is a relative.
I will breathe my last here.
Ma'am?
Why aren't you up?
What is the time now? You are still sleeping.
Ma'am…
Ma'am!
Ma'am…
Oh, no…
No…
What are you saying?
His mother died too?
Did you talk to Murugan?
Yeah, with the wedding around the corner, I really don't know if the marriage--
No… Don't think like that.
We will bathe you today and dress you up.
-One times two is two. -One times two is two.
-Three times two is six. -Three times two is six.
-Four times two is eight. -Four times two is eight.
-Five times two is ten. -Five times two is ten.
-Dad! -My dear prince!
When I grow up, I'll sell idlis just like you.
You will follow in my footsteps, huh?
I am very happy to hear that.
Have one more bite and I will get you some candy.
Murugan, Ms. Meera has sent a flight ticket for the 7th.
Your wedding is not far away.
Sir, how can I just abandon my parents' home and bistro?
But you can't stay here forever. Shouldn't we leave?
I can't think about anything right now.
Give me some time, I'll talk to Meera.
I really don't know what to tell you.
It's okay.
I should be with you over there now.
That's the right thing to do. But there's a lot to prepare for the wedding.
You aren't here either.
I'll see what I can do with my father's idli bistro and fly back.
Give me some time, please.
You know I love you, right? I'm there for you.
Okay, bye. I'll call you soon, okay?
Bye.
Kayal.
You took care of my parents in my absence all these years.
You don't have to do all this, I'll take care of everything.
I am not doing it for your sake.
Your mother used to tell me to take care of you if something happens to her.
I'm only honoring her request.
She's a real pain!
Ma'am?
Well, how's he?
-The poor guy is-- -Listen.
Just somehow convince him and get him back, okay?
-How can I do that in this situation-- -Then why did you go there?
I'm panicking here!
I'll send you the flight tickets for tomorrow night.
Just somehow convince him and get him back, okay?
Okay, ma'am.
Ash, we have to do something about his father's stupid idli bistro!
It doesn't look like he's going to leave it and come back.
What do you mean?
I'm afraid he won't come back.
I can't even talk to him about the wedding.
Are you mad?
Of course he's gonna come back.
Shall I go and drag him back here?
Don't worry.
I'll orchestrate a good deal for him.
It seems to be a good deal. Give it a thought.
Hey! There's nothing to think about this, son.
Your father's idli bistro will fetch Rs. 4 lakhs if it's a generous offer.
I am offering you Rs. 7 lakhs.
Ramarajan, isn't that a fair deal? Money is not my priority, you see.
Your father's bistro should not sink into oblivion.
It is not just a bistro, son.
It's a landmark of this town.
My heart feels heavy seeing that bistro locked up like this.
Murugan, it's not like you can stay here and run this bistro.
Instead of leaving it as it is,
won't you be happy if someone takes over and makes a good profit?
Just say yes.
I will be honored to run your father's bistro.
Kayal, you know Marisamy, the Parotta bistro owner?
Murugan is transferring his idli bistro to him in front of the Panchayat.
I hate it.
He comes with a blazing torch in his hand
He comes to hunt the wicked on this land
He twirls his mustache with pride
On the crossroads with a purposeful stride
A man with matted locks
He walks proudly
He comes to battle girded tight and ready
Sickle in hand, he comes to fight…
Ramarajan, where is Murugan?
-He will be here soon. -It's getting late.
Since he was living abroad, I think he has forgotten our lifestyle.
How can I work if you hug me like this?
One for the lamb, one for the calf…
And one for the chicken.
Dad, what about me?
Where is he?
-He'll be here. -You keep saying that.
At night, the moon will guide me
The eagle shall protect me From the scorching sun
A lizard gives us good omen
There's no better medicine Than neem leaves…
-What happened? -I foolishly believed
that our sons will continue to live on this ancestral land of ours.
I am worried that our home and bistro will disappear after we pass away…
Where will he go? He will return to his roots…
The sky and earth console me all the way
When we look up with a sigh Soft drizzles fall from the sky
Even the banyan tree that sways Accompanies me every day
When by the stream your feet roam, the mud will guide you home…
What happened?
When my father was alive, I didn't comply to any of his wishes.
So I've decided to take over his idli bistro as a penance.
Forgive me.
Hey… Listen.
How can you change your mind? Are you kidding me?
I've brought the town elders trusting that you will sign.
Are you insulting me?
Hey! How can you just change your mind?
-Do you take us for fools? -What is this?
You agreed to sell, what happened now?
What made you change your mind?
Take your hands off. Take your hands off him.
Marisamy, let go of his shirt.
Why are you doing this in front of the Panchayat?
He wants to continue his father's legacy. Let go of him.
What was that? Murugan…
What is wrong with you?
Have you sold your conscience?
Are you even human?
That idli bistro was like a temple to your father.
But you've sold that without remorse!
I kept telling your father
that he's begotten a son who abandoned him selfishly.
But he replied, "I know about my son.
He will come back one day for sure and will take care of my bistro."
How will his soul rest in peace now?
Do you know to whom you have sold your bistro?
You'd have known if you were here.
Marisamy started a parotta bistro opposite to your father's idli bistro.
It didn't do very well.
He caused nuisance in every possible way.
He was willing to offer any amount of money.
But your father refused to sell.
Now his dream has come true!
I have made you food, eat to your heart's content!
You must be very tired. Get some rest and sleep!
I didn't sell the bistro, Kayal.
I didn't have the heart to.
But what you said is so true.
Any son who doesn't take care of his parents is selfish.
I have--
I have made you food, eat to your heart's content!
You must be tired.
Get some rest and sleep.
-Meera? -Dad.
Did you talk to Murugan?
When is he coming back?
I really tried, he just lost both his parents.
-I don't know what to do-- -Listen.
If this wedding is called off tomorrow,
no one will say that it's because Murugan's parents passed away.
They will only blame you and make up immoral stories about your character.
Meera, talk to him.
Open your mouth, dear.
Eat properly.
Oh, God…
I get so irritated when the phone rings!
Ma'am…
What happened?
Ma'am, he refused to sell his father's bistro.
What?!
He backed out of the sale at the last minute, ma'am.
Didn't you ask Munusami to offer Rs. 7 lakhs for the bistro?
It's not Munusami, it's Marisamy.
-Marisamy. -Whatever the hell that is.
He did offer it, ma'am.
Why don't you talk to Murugan directly?
What the hell!
Why didn't you sell that idli bistro?
How did you know?
That chap offered Rs. 7 lakhs! Why didn't you sell it?
Rs. 7 lakhs…
Is Ramarajan involved in this?
-Are you orchestrating all this? -Murugan, just stop everything.
Forget that bistro and come here, okay? Things are getting out of hand here.
I'm sitting here, having lost both my parents at the same time.
Do you even understand my loss?
I just can't think of our wedding right now.
Why are you being so insensitive?
What are you trying to say? You want me to call off the wedding?
Yes.
Whatever it is, we'll see after six or seven months.
Are you kidding me?
Do you think this is a small town wedding
to just postpone it at a whim?
VIPs from all over the world are attending the wedding.
How can we hold our heads up and face these guests?
I want to know. Answer me.
I just can't part with my parents' house and their bis--
-Your father had a rat hole of a-- -Hey!
Don't you dare…
-What do you know about my father's-- -How dare you!
Hey! What's with the attitude?
We are making you a millionaire for free and you don't want it, huh?
She's pleading with you but you're acting so cocky!
Will you come back here of your own accord or shall I--
Ashwin, give me the phone.
Murugan.
If this wedding is called off, I will become a laughing stock.
Will you come back or not?
Forgive me, sir.
Why is he still loitering around here?
I was told he will go back in a week.
He has not left yet?
Why do you hate him so much?
I can't stand those who leave our motherland and go abroad.
You are just jealous because he has earned a lot by working abroad.
I never imagined that I'd be raising cattle here when I was in Bangkok.
Murugan, Meera pressurized me so much that I was forced
to make a deal with Marisamy.
Forgive me.
It's okay, sir.
You came with me to ensure that I flew back with you.
I don't intend to go back now. You can go back.
Where do you want me to go?
My own mother doesn't recognize me. She asks me, "Who are you?"
I am tired of living across the sea, eating that foreign food
and speaking that alien language.
I don't want that any longer.
Murugan, I'm not saying this for your sake.
The moment I went home and saw the happy expression on my children's faces…
I decided right then that I won't be going back.
Why doesn't he come to me?
I think he doesn't like you.
He will come to you when the time is right.
Murugan, who is Kayal?
Is she related to you? She works so hard.
I know how much milk my cow gives.
I'll punch your throat.
Treat me with respect.
-Why do you need respect? -Shall I tell you something?
Kayal and I were lovers until ninth grade.
Oh!
Shallots, 10 kg.
Tomato, 10 kg. Moringa, 1 bunch.
Beans and carrot, 5 kg each.
Why are we buying all this?
To make idli.
What's wrong with my cooking?
He's a fine one to look a gift horse in the mouth!
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
Oh, God!
It's only been five minutes?
Move aside.
Oh Lord, help me save face.
What?
No, I was wondering how my father was able to grind non-stop for two hours.
I can't even grind it for ten minutes at a stretch.
How can you compare yourself to your father?
Oh, God!
Don't make me laugh!
Hey! Who is working in this bistro?
Sivanesan's son.
Murugan?
He has finally reformed!
He didn't even lift a finger and he is already here to eat.
It tastes good, son.
Sir, it really does taste good.
You haven't tasted Sivanesan's idli.
I'd get to eat it again only if he comes back alive and makes it.
I think we need one more person to help.
The two of us can't do it.
Hey.
You know what I was working as.
What are you making me do now?
Hotels used to make one grind batter if they fail to pay the bill.
Now I understand why.
AHIMSA IS THE BEST WEAPON
I hope he likes our idli today.
It's good, son.
Hey! Taste properly and give us your verdict.
I spent hours grinding the rice into soft batter.
Is the idli that bad?
It is kind of nice, different.
But it's nothing close to Mr. Sivanesan's idli.
Murugan should've just stayed abroad for all the degrees he got.
-Instead, he's here-- -That bistro was better off locked.
He's running it to ruin his father's name.
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
MARI PAROTTA BISTRO
Hey, Kayal.
It's looks like you're having the time of your life.
I've been asking you to marry me.
What do you see in that idli that's lacking in this parotta?
Parotta is bad for your health.
But idli is great for your health.
Is that so?
Is that why you're so voluptuous?
Goodness! I got hooked by that single look of yours.
-Hey! Drink toddy to cool down. -What is he saying?
Ignore him, Mom.
These streets seemed big when I was small. Now they seem to have shrunk.
-You've grown tall now. -They are made for each other.
Why are you staying with that guy? Are you stupid?
Stop roaming around with him, the villagers are already gossiping.
As long as his father was alive, he called you his daughter-in-law.
Stop crying!
Did it occur to him for even a second that we'd be so humiliated?
Do not cry over him.
-What happened? -30 minutes non-stop.
We have created a record.
-You do it now. -I shouldn't have said anything.
It's good, son.
If you want a take-out, stand aside.
Hey!
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
MARI PAROTTA BISTRO
Only that old man was eating here.
Even he didn't turn up today.
We might as well eat all the idlis we made.
Hello… Are the idlis hot?
Did you tell your mother about us getting married?
Why are you doing this?
If you had sold this bistro to me, I would have put it to good use.
Though your father died, at least his bistro had a good reputation.
You ruined that too.
You don't have to uphold your father's reputation.
But don't ruin it.
Stop with this pretense already.
It's not too late.
Sell the bistro to me and go do what you know and what you're good at.
Ignore him.
He is jealous that you didn't sell it to him.
You don't feel bad.
Murugan, close your eyes and pray to our family deity.
What is a family deity, Dad?
A family deity is the God
that our fathers and grandfathers
and their fathers and grandfathers
prayed to, generation after generation.
Their presence lingers on this land and the surrounding areas.
Their breath combined with this God is our family deity.
If we have any trouble and our heart feels heavy,
we pray to our family deity.
Our ancestors will listen to our plea and show us the way to solve our problem.
Dad.
I don't know what to do.
I feel utterly lost.
You are my family deity.
Please show me the way to run our idli bistro.
What an audacity!
The government is at the tip of our fingers.
We have the police, power and money on our side.
Who the heck will come to his aid?
Murugan.
Murugan?
Wake up.
It is 3:00 a.m.
Don't you have to go to our bistro?
What is it?
Do you feel like you are lost?
You are not lost.
What happened to you?
I didn't do anything that you expected of me.
I didn't take care of you or Mom.
I couldn't run the bistro efficiently either.
I've ruined your name too.
I searched everywhere. I tried whatever I could think of.
But nothing worked.
You've abandoned me like how I abandoned you, right?
Why do you search all over the place?
Everything lies within you.
It's in your blood, in your genes.
What my mother taught me…
What I taught you…
I haven't abandoned you. I'm with you every step of the way.
Sivanesan…
Hey, you said the idli tasted good yesterday, right?
Now you taste Sivanesan's idli.
You'll know the real taste of our town's pride!
Your expression says it all.
Hot.
Kayal.
You go home. I'll see you later.
-No, how can I-- -Kayal, go.
Hey!
This is where you belong.
For this?
Did you cancel the wedding for this rundown bistro?
Unbelievable!
Sir.
Whatever you want to say, come inside, we can talk it over.
-Hey, he hit him! -Do you think you're a big shot?
-Don't, sir. -Are you such a big shot?
Sir, allow me to explain. Listen to what I have to say.
You expect me to listen to you?!
-Sir… sir. -I told them I'll bring you back.
But that is not the real reason why I am here.
I didn't like you since the beginning.
I wanted to see the face that rejected us
and disfigure it beyond recognition.
-Why is he hitting him? -Somebody stop him.
Think this is a Michelin star restaurant?
It's nothing but a dilapidated hut.
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
Hey… hey!
Move aside.
Hey, you can hit back?
Come on.
Hey! I told you to stay away.
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
Hey! Stay away!
Stay away! Stay away!
Enough, Murugan! Stop it!
He might die.
Let him go, Murugan.
What are you waiting for? Take him away, hey!
Pick him up.
Hey, Murugan.
You acted in haste.
Will he spare your life?
He will be bent on destroying you now.
AHIMSA IS THE BEST WEAPON
Listen, your son killed my brother.
How long can you justify it?
One day or the other, I will chop him into to pieces.
I will kill every single member of your family.
Whatever happened has happened. I will obey the Panchayat's verdict.
The Panchayat can't solve it. An eye for an eye is the answer.
You better drop it, or else I will erase your entire lineage.
-How dare you threaten me! -Stop it!
Let me see who wins this.
How dare you take a weapon!
-Don't fight. -Let go of me…
-How dare you… -Listen.
If you kill his son,
will this problem be solved?
No, it won't.
It will only continue as a vicious cycle.
You have the power to stop a riot now.
I beseech you with folded hands.
You will be blessed.
Please drop the sickle.
AHIMSA IS THE BEST WEAPON
Picking up a weapon can never solve a problem.
It will be solved only when you drop it.
Won't you respect my words?
Drop it.
AHIMSA IS THE BEST WEAPON
Murugan, you really are something!
Despite being able to fight back, you silently let Ashwin bully you.
I should've been patient, sir.
That's how my father raised me.
You were right about what you said that day.
I shouldn't have hit him. I made a big blunder.
But even when he was beating me up in the middle of the road,
not a single person came to my defense.
What should I do for this town to accept me once again
and stand by my side?
As much as the townsfolk respect and honor your father
they feel the same way about his bistro.
You take over the bistro and run it like he did.
Everything will fall into place.
Sir, this way.
Ma'am, please don't touch.
He'll get infected. Please understand.
It's not a compound fracture.
We've given the best treatment possible.
He will be able to walk within a month.
His third and fourth ribs are cracked. It will heal spontaneously.
We've just supported his neck, don't worry.
Get him the best possible doctors from all over the world.
I want him walking within a month.
On it, sir.
Send him to Chennai right away.
Let him not stay here.
Sir, we did try to do that.
But the doctors said that he is unfit for travel.
We can shift him in another two weeks.
There are no 5-star hotels here.
I have got a mill-owner's farmhouse ready for him.
Go, wait near the car.
-Sir… -I have never raised a hand on him.
Sir, let me tell you what happen--
-How dare you hit him! -Sir--
-Silence, please. -Sir, it's a hospital.
Does it justify you hitting him?
I feel like strangling you to death.
Don't you know his nature?
Run away before he regains consciousness.
I don't care what happens to you.
But he will destroy himself trying to take revenge.
Run away from here.
Go away somewhere. That's good for him and for you.
That man is advising you for your own good.
Why don't you go out of town for a while?
You know that guy.
He is crazy, he won't let you be.
Why are you yelling now?
Do you expect us to coddle him for what he did?
Kayal, you don't know about that family.
He has to live looking over shoulders his entire life.
It is not in our control. So why get tense?
Let's see.
I don't know where this will end.
Shall I leave now?
Go, Kayal.
Shall I go?
Go, Kayal.
Why are you always chasing me away?
You said you wanted to leave.
Do you want me to go or not?
Go.
Cleaning his blessed idli plate!
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
MARI PAROTTA BISTRO
I never expected this from him. How can he do this to you?
He'll pay for this, Ash.
Just one spoonful.
The sambar and chutney tasted just like your father's.
I don't charge students.
-Study well, my boy. -I can see your father in you.
Heard that? You should also grow up like him and make your father proud!
Good improvement.
-Continuous physiotherapy will help. -You'll be okay.
You'll be walking soon.
You are the reason for my bistro being empty.
Your cooking tastes different every day.
Why do I need a master chef? I might as well cook then.
Just one more step. One more step.
"Industrialist's son who visited India had a narrow escape in a car accident."
-Why have they reported it this way? -I think they will drop this matter.
How can you be so naive?
They are just covering their tracks
if something untoward happens to you tomorrow.
Look how crooked their mind is!
Your business has gone down since Murugan reopened the bistro.
Nothing of that sort.
Their antics are hilarious!
What antics?
I mean Murugan and Kayal.
They're having a ball all by themselves.
They are alone in his house.
And alone in his bistro too.
Why is he raising cows, after returning from abroad?
Hey! He firmly believes that his father is reborn as that calf.
-He loves that calf with all his heart. -Check this out!
How come his mother hasn't been reborn?
He has usurped my customers. He has seduced Kayal.
Wait and watch, I'll kill him and go to jail.
Hello.
Why are you sitting here?
It is so peaceful here, that's why.
What are you thinking?
When I was younger,
I aspired for a lot of money, a fancy car and bungalow.
I wanted a lot of things and I chased after my dreams.
I used to work Monday to Friday, waiting for the weekend.
When the weekend was over, I'd start the race all over again.
Like a school student.
I had everything I wished for.
I have nothing now.
But only now do I realize the true joy of owning nothing.
People here have accepted me once again.
They treat me like their own family.
I feel so contented and relaxed. That's why I am sitting here.
It's all thanks to my father.
Do you remember this?
We were lovers when we were in eighth grade, right?
Why are you laughing?
-Nothing, tell me. -No, I want to know, tell me.
Hey! It's nothing, you continue.
You gifted this to me on my birthday.
-I have treasured it with care. -I must have bought you something silly.
How can you call it silly?
Have I kept it safe all these years because it is a silly gift?
Then why have you kept it?
I'm going home.
How can I answer such a pointed question?
Hey, Kayal.
Why have you kept it? Don't go without replying.
The ladies would have gathered at the temple.
My mother asked me to get back soon.
It has been a long time. Dance with us, brother.
Please, come on.
Sivam, go home.
-Murugan? -Mr. Ramarajan.
Yes, tell me.
Gather ten local men and come to Ettaya's farm.
What happened?
-Don't tell Kayal. -Why… What's wrong?
A problem can never be solved by violence.
Only peace can achieve that.
Hit me.
Hit me now!
You hit me the other day. Hit me back now.
Hit me!
I said, hit me!
Hit me!
I said, hit me!
Hit me!
Happy now?
Is it enough?
You've hit me back as a revenge.
Enough.
Let's end it here.
-Enough. -Are you sacrificing for my sake?
-Sir, we've to leave. They are here. -Murugan, where are you!
-Go and look for him. -Look everywhere.
He isn't here. He didn't say anything else.
Bring him with us!
-Hold it. -Come on, come on.
-Quick, hurry. -You go that way and you this way.
Go… Search.
-Search properly, go. -I am searching.
Look behind over there.
-Hurry up. -Look over there.
-Go there and look. -Search thoroughly.
Look, look over there!
Dad, why are you asking me to go to the temple suddenly?
Indulge me, dear. Pray for your brother too.
Okay.
-When did it happen? -I don't know, sir.
They have thrashed him terribly. His face is covered in blood, sir.
Who all know about this?
Only our people here, sir.
Sir, this feels wrong.
For our standards, we shouldn't stoop to this level.
Sir, please stop him.
I'll handle this.
Happy now?
Let him go now.
Are you kidding me?
I didn't hit him.
He allowed me to hit him.
You asked me just now. "Happy now?"
He asked me the same question.
Am I happy?
I feel goddamn miserable!
Ashwin, enough!
He hit you and you have hit him back.
It's over now. Let's go back.
Listen to me.
Leave this place?
Hey! Are you mad? Put the gun down!
Just let me! I want to kill him!
He has humiliated us!
I will be at peace only if he dies!
Ashwin, first put the gun away.
-Ashwin, listen-- -Don't stop me!
Ashwin, this isn't our town.
Father.
Dad, why are you stopping me? Just let me kill him!
Ashwin… Ashwin. Put the gun down!
No! Why should I? Why should I put the gun down?
-I don't care, just leave me! -Don't be stupid, listen to me!
I can't stand the sight of him!
-Ashwin… -He has to die!
What the hell did you just do, Ashwin?
Book our flight for tonight.
Okay, sir.
-Call Meera, ask her to come immediately. -Yes, sir.
You saw a line of cars from a distance. How is that of any help?
Maybe he has gone to a neighboring town.
Hey, you! Come here!
What did he tell you?
He asked me to gather our local men and come to Ettaya's farm, sir.
What else?
Nothing else, sir.
-Vishnu Vardhan's men are the ones-- -Hey!
If you see a car from far away, you'll decide it is Vishnu Vardhan's?
Don't point at a big shot like him without proof.
No, sir.
Hurry up.
Did you check near the lake?
Hang up. Search properly.
Looks like this guy crosses swords with everyone.
Kayal, why are you crying?
-He will be fine. -Sir…
-Who is he? -Sir!
-Move… move aside. -Let me pass.
-Sir! -What is it?
They took Murugan in a car from the farmhouse.
-Where? -The road to the lake.
Are you sure?
-Those outsiders… -All of you go, search.
Go, go…
Hey! Tell me.
Is that so?
Are you sure?
Reverse the car.
Ma'am, greetings.
Wow! Ramarajan.
What a surprise!
Guess you took a side, huh?
No, madam. I heard that you were here.
If you come home for a cup of coffee, I'll be very happy.
No… I really have to leave.
Ma'am, my house is very clean.
My wife and children will be very happy if you visit us.
I won't get another chance to invite you, please, ma'am.
-Okay. -Thank you, ma'am.
Why are you all here? All of you, disperse!
Hey! Did we step inside?
I'm warning you. Leave before the cops come.
Hey! Did we come inside?
Hey!
Similarly, you can't come out.
Hey, you there! Look properly!
Go as far as you can.
Hey!
Sir!
INSPECTOR
Sir?
Vishnu Vardhan's men have shot Murugan.
What! They shot him?
Yes, man.
Before it becomes messy, escort them to the Madurai airport safely.
Sir, the locals will bombard me with questions.
I will be in a royal mess, sir.
-Just do what I say. -Sir…
-You don't know who we are dealing with. -Okay, sir.
So they are the ones who shot him?
Ramarajan, where are your wife and kids?
Huh? They will come.
Okay, Ramarajan. I have to leave now.
Ma'am, sit. There's no rush.
It's already late. You should be glad I came.
Take care.
Sit down, ma'am.
Sit for some time.
Sit down!
How did the information leak?
Where did all of them suddenly crop up from?
I don't know, sir.
There's no way out, sir.
Did you call the police?
I did, sir. They're on the way.
Ms. Meera is not answering my calls. We are trying to reach her.
Send someone to bring her back.
Yes, sir.
Hello?
Okay.
What?
They have found Murugan, sir.
He is alive, but in a critical condition.
Why are you crowding here like this?
It is wrong to form a crowd without permission.
Disperse now.
I want to meet your boss.
-Is he drinking foreign liquor? -Shut up and come.
-Sir, he is the local policeman. -What is happening here?
Well, sir.
The whole town believes that you did something to Murugan.
What happened, sir?
The commissioner has ordered me to escort you to the airport.
If you give me some time, I will handle this and--
Whatever it is, make it quick.
Is there any other route to leave from here?
There is no route that the locals are unaware of.
Even I didn't know the locals support him to this extent until now.
Whatever you say, Murugan was born and brought up here, right?
Ramarajan, where are my bodyguards?
Hey! Shut up!
Hey! Why are you supporting a chap who turned his back on his hometown?
Is Murugan an outsider? He is Sivanesan's son!
No matter where he went, didn't he come back to his roots?
Neither did he forget his homeland nor will our people forsake him.
Listen, Arivu.
If you intend to make quick money, be careful.
Don't try to boss us around.
You'll be sorry then.
We respect only your uniform, not you as a person.
Hey! They didn't shoot him. It was someone else.
All of you, go home. Whatever it is, we can discuss in the morning.
If we leave now, you'll cleverly hide them somewhere untraceable.
If anything untoward happens to Murugan, we will kill you.
Sir, those people refuse to budge. I've tried every trick.
They won't disperse and their anger is escalating, sir.
Just pray to all your Gods that Murugan should not die.
Even I can't do anything.
Where is Meera?
BROTHER
-Hello, mother? -What is happening?
The surgery is going on. They are not providing us any updates.
Haven't they brought him to a well-equipped hospital?
Make sure they give him the best treatment.
-Has he been shot? -Yes, sir.
Money is not an issue. He has to be saved.
-Okay? -Is he dead?
He is undergoing a surgery now.
-Is he likely to die? -Hey!
Why are you updating him of all people?
Move aside. You crude fellow!
You should have died ten years ago!
-Your end is not far. -Go away, you idiot.
What happened to Murugan?
You really don't know?
Your father shot Murugan.
He is fighting for his life in the hospital.
-Hello? -Why is the crowd increasing?
-It's crowded. -What are you doing?
I am handling it.
Hey! Murugan is alive!
He has regained consciousness!
Give me the phone.
Mr. Munusamy just called me from the hospital.
Where is our village leader?
-Coming, sir. -Huh?
Sir, come here.
I'll take him with me and only him.
Let him hear what Murugan has to say.
If he says these people didn't shoot him,
-will all of you disperse? -Yes, sir.
Hey, listen.
Whatever Murugan tells you in there,
you must come and say that they didn't shoot him.
Understand?
Oh Lord, please save him.
May Lord Vishnu, who grew so tall that he measured the world with a foot
stay by your side and protect you from all harm.
Is my face so awful to look at?
Then why are you crying?
Does it hurt a lot?
A little bit?
It hurts like hell.
Don't worry about anything.
I'll take care of everything, okay?
You take rest.
I'll inform the doctor that you have regained consciousness.
Kayal.
Come here.
Sit down.
Stay here.
Hey, Murugan!
-You sure have a long lifespan, man. -What is this wretched man doing here?
Our entire town is on its haunches, thanks to you.
A crowd is causing commotion claiming that Vishnu Vardhan has shot you.
Listen.
Think well before you answer.
Who shot you?
Not them.
Murugan, don't be scared of anyone.
We are here to support you.
Be bold and tell the truth.
I don't know who took a shot at me.
It was pitch dark.
But it's not them.
You heard him, right?
Come on.
You'll survive.
Murugan has said that your father did not shoot him, you can go.
Oh! Thank God!
Ma'am, that shows his magnanimous nature.
Go…
Got the gall to address me by name when I am old enough to be her father.
Listen, Murugan has regained consciousness.
He said that they did not shoot him.
All of you go home.
-Murugan is alive. -He has denied it, what can we do?
Yes… Yes, go.
They wait to create a problem at the drop of a hat!
Sir, you can leave.
Murugan himself has said that you did not shoot him.
The crowd is also slowly dispersing now.
Hey!
Did he say that I did not shoot?
Then were you the one who shot him?
Whatever the truth may be, he said no.
Isn't it in your favor, sir?
But you shouldn't harm him in any way again, sir.
If something untoward happens, you will be the only suspect.
Careful. It's best to let it go.
Also… I was the one who took a lot of risk.
You should do something strong that's beneficial to me, sir.
He will, come now.
Dad.
Hey, Meera. What happened?
-Are you okay? -Where were you? What happened?
Ramarajan and the villagers were holding me hostage.
They said that you had shot Murugan.
If anything had happened to him, they threatened to kill me.
Kill--
-What audacity-- -Is it true, Dad?
Dad, is it true?
Please tell me you didn't shoot Murugan.
Meera, leave it.
There's a lot going on.
Whatever it is, we can discuss it in the morning.
Dad…
We aren't the villains here, right?
-Dad! -Hey! It's-
No!
No.
Is that the truth?
Do you believe me?
Or do you believe those villagers?
No, Dad.
What happened to us was wrong and unfair.
But I don't want us to be the bad people.
I trust you with my life.
As you should.
Go and rest up.
Ignore the fact that he hit me.
They had held your daughter hostage.
They have threatened to kill my sister.
We are so humiliated back home.
All because of him.
But what are we going to do?
-What can we do? -What should we do?
Huh?
What more should we do?
For his father's rat hole of a bistro that is worth nothing,
he is even ready to die.
I have built a huge empire for you.
Doesn't it occur to you that you will fill my shoes after me?
You haven't done half of what he has contributed to our company.
-Enough, let's go back. -Dad!
Do not compare me with him!
He chooses to forgive us, huh?
Is he supposed to be above us?
So if he pities us and says we didn't shoot him, should we take it and run away?
If your empire is more important than me, you go back.
I will not return unless I destroy him completely.
He has come back from the jaws of death.
No dark force will dare touch him.
Murugan is back with us.
You've had a close call with death. You will be fine now.
We will watch your back.
-Don't worry. -We are here for you.
Your father will always guide you.
-You take care of yourself. -We're here.
We'll watch your back.
Don't worry, be happy.
All alone, huh?
Do you think this is a foreign country to live ignorant of your neighbors?
Everyone here is a relative.
Alright, enough. Move aside.
How long will he stand? He has to recover.
-Why is she touching him like that? -This is old news!
Why are you troubling yourself? I can bring him inside.
It's okay. Let her help me.
Look at that!
Actors die of bullet wound in movies.
Don't they die in real life?
-It depends on where they are shot at. -Which spot is fatal?
Hey! Do you think I am a military veteran? Get out of here!
You haven't slept in three days. Go home and rest up.
What's with the long face?
Why didn't you tell the cops they were the ones to shoot you?
What will I achieve by telling the truth?
Our townsfolk would have skinned them alive, right?
Then what?
We should try to solve the problem.
How many times should I tell you?
-Do you want everyone to gossip? -Mom!
-Let's talk later. -Come home now.
-If you come here again… -Mom, just listen to me!
Why should I? Do you know what the villagers are saying?
What they are saying is true.
What?
What they are saying is true.
If you will consent
and if Kayal will accept me…
I'm ready to marry Kayal.
When Kayal draws it, it's beautiful. But when I try it, it looks awful.
She will brag as if she invented this art!
Murugan, I'll guide you. Draw a ling from here to there.
Draw a line from there to here.
Now draw a diagonal line.
Do you know what you're doing or--
I don't have a clue. I was simply trying my luck.
Why do you always park here?
Hello, ma'am!
I'm sorry for everything that happened. How are you?
Who shot you that day?
Please tell me the truth.
I don't know.
Ashwin, are you not eating?
Hey!
Hey, Ashwin.
What's wrong with you? Why are you doing this?
Why are you hurting yourself?
If… you hadn't called off our wedding,
-we wouldn't be in this awful-- -Can I ask you something?
In case
your dad had passed away instead of mine,
would you still be worried about status quo, humiliation, social media?
Or would you have called off the wedding?
How is my father's life any lesser than yours?
Listen to me, what--
What is it that you want, Ashwin? Whatever it is, I'll do it.
I don't have the heart to see you broken like this.
Tell me.
How can I help you?
Why did you hit Ashwin?
Didn't he come to bring you back?
If you didn't want to return, you could have just said so.
Do you even know your brother?
Did you think he invited me with open arms?
But still, you must have suffered a lot because of me.
Forgive me.
Maybe you always belonged here, Murugan.
You take care, okay?
Meera.
Why are you still here? Not ready to go back?
My father is setting up some factory.
We are here for a couple of days. We leave after that.
Bye.
How do I defeat a chap who refuses to confront me and fight?
The more he gives in, saying that I didn't shoot him,
the more I am getting pissed!
It is very difficult to defeat someone who has nothing to lose.
You are my first priority.
Your life is important.
What will persuade you to leave from here?
He isn't afraid of death.
I want to show him the fear of death.
What does he hold dearer than his life?
Destroy that.
Leave.
Sir, how long can we stay here leaving everything to our management?
I'm taking care of it to the best of my abilities, sir.
But we are suffering losses. Let's get back at the earliest, sir.
What do you want me to do?
He is refusing to budge from here.
I'm scared to leave him alone here.
Didn't you see what happened?
Thank God Murugan is alive.
What if he had died!
If I am also not here, who will control him?
But my son is my only priority.
Bring that police officer tomorrow.
Yes, sir.
Why is he feeling bad instead of thrashing him black and blue?
I wonder what they will do to Murugan.
I believe you sent for me. What is the matter, sir?
Murugan's idli bistro.
Does the land belong to him or to the government?
Why do you want to know, sir?
Just tell us.
He wouldn't have the papers for that bistro, right?
Why have you suddenly come asking for Kayal's hand?
Do you expect me to send you a letter before coming over?
I am not planning to get Kayal married now.
She's also getting older, right?
If not now, then when?
Besides that, what do I lack? Tell me.
I own some land. I own a parotta bistro.
And I look as smart as Actor Vijayakanth.
Sir, roadside bistros like this usually do not have proper documents.
They just build a shop wherever.
Listen to me.
It's bad enough that everyone is badmouthing Kayal along with that chap.
And she is roaming around with him without a care in the world.
Who else will marry her, if not me? Tell me.
So can you remove that bistro, claiming that the papers are not in order?
Sir, the people here are in a rage fit enough to kill.
The whole town loves that bistro, sir.
If I poke my nose in this issue, I'll end up in trouble--
-Shall we agree on this alliance? -Hey!
That's all the respect you get.
-Kayal, don't. -What?
Are people talking ill of me in town?
You are the one who set their tongues wagging.
-Get inside. -You think I don't know?
Hey!
-If you disrespect me… -What will you do?
This is for your troubles.
That means bribe mon--
Money knows all languages.
I got it.
-I offered to marry a girl with no morals. -Hey, get out!
-You are testing my patience. -Get out already!
Yes, I will get Kayal married to Murugan.
What will you do?
Nobody would bat an eye even if you die.
But the entire town supported Murugan.
He isn't an outsider!
He is one of us, more than you ever will be!
Will you get out or do you want me to get my broomstick?
Sir, the papers are all in order for that bistro.
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
Hey! What is that supposed to mean?
Yes, sir, I checked thoroughly. The papers are in order.
You were the one who said roadside bistros won't have proper documents.
Sir, what can I do if their records are straight?
Hey!
Didn't you know this earlier?
Are you trying to cheat us after taking money from us?
Sir, I know the big shots who are involved in this.
The secret is safe with me.
It's not too late now.
If I register a case against you for shooting Murugan,
you can't step out of this town.
Think about it.
Sorry, sir, don't mind him.
-He didn't know what he was do-- -Nothing happened here.
-Send me a bottle of that foreign liquor. -Yes, sir.
Does the bistro really have proper documents, sir?
If they come and ask me to destroy this bistro,
should I comply?
What career will you choose?
I want to become a police officer.
You want to be a policeman?
I am so happy to hear that.
That's what he's saying now.
Keep the money. I don't charge students.
I went to school, eating idli from that bistro when I was young.
It is our town's pride.
I just thought if I butter them up, I will make a fast buck on the side.
Do they think I'll let go of our town's landmark?
I hope it won't cause any problem, sir.
-What problem? Shall I tell you something? -Sir?
I got the papers ready for the bistro with the money that they gave.
Will they let you off the hook, sir?
I don't know all that. I have done my bit.
The rest is up to him.
-Does this look good on me? -No, no.
Dad.
Let's go back home.
No need to stay here any longer.
Book the tickets for tomorrow.
Really?
Really, Ashwin?
Great, Son!
Let's go.
Actually, we don't need this kind of crap.
You are beyond this.
We can leave, right?
Ravi, book the flight tickets immediately.
Hey! Come out!
Hey!
Look, Murugan is hitting Marisamy!
Hey! Get hold of him!
How dare you hit Mr. Marisamy!
Leave him.
Don't hit him. Let go of him.
We are telling you, let go!
There's some problem at Murugan's house. Go and check what's happening.
Oh, no! Some men are fighting with Murugan.
-Come fast. -What happened?
Hurry up.
Why are you hitting him?
He's bent on fighting. Beat him to a pulp!
What is the issue?
Don't poke your nose in this, go.
Then what? You think we will keep quiet if you hit our folks?
SIVANESAN IDLI BISTRO
They are hitting Murugan. Get a broom to thrash them.
Are you Marisamy's goons?
Marisamy is the one who started the fight.
Who is that?
Hey! Who is that?
Hey!
Hey! Ashwin!
Stop… stop.
Ashwin, stop it…
Don't do this…
Ashwin, listen to me. Don't do this!
Hey, come here!
Come on, punch him!
Sir… Ashwin, please don't do this.
I'm begging you. Murugan can't bear it.
I'm falling at your feet. Please don't.
Don't destroy his bistro.
Murugan!
What is your problem?!
Tell me!
You want to kill me?
You want to take my bistro?
What is your problem with me?
An outsider comes to hit me.
A local, you are hitting me.
Where will I go?
What wrong did I do?
I am just minding my own business.
Why do you hate me so much?
Will you be at peace if I die?
Tell me, will my death make you happy?
Here.
Kill me.
Pick it up and kill me.
Chop me to pieces.
You were about to take an innocent life!
What harm did it do to you?
Leave me alone!
Murugan!
Ashwin has set fire to your bistro!
Your bistro is up in flames!
Murugan?
Father!
-Hello? -You will be ruined!
What did he do? He burnt down the bistro.
Your brother burnt Murugan's bistro. I am cursing you!
All of you will rot in hell.
All of you come for the party I am hosting tonight, bye.
Why are you looking at me like that?
I'm seeing you happy after a long time, Ashwin.
I'm very happy.
Meera… What happened, dear?
-You bloody coward! -Hey, Meera!
-You burnt his shop… -Meera, stop it!
Aren't you ashamed of yourself?
-Stop it! -You burnt his shop!
What are you doing?
-Meera, stop it. -Stop it!
-Just stop it! -Yes!
Your fricking son burnt his shop!
Dad.
We are bad people, right?
Villains, bloody villains.
And you did shoot.
I know one of you shot Murugan.
You looked me in my eye and lied through your teeth, right?
-I did everything for you. -Ashwin…
No, don't you dare say that!
-Meera. -You didn't do it for me.
It was for yourself. To appease your ego.
He hit you and you wanted to hit him back.
This stopped being about me a long time back.
Don't say anything more!
I hate you, Ashwin! I hate you!
-Even I hate you! -Don't--
He never retaliated for all your atrocities.
He did nothing.
You hit him ruthlessly. He allowed you to do so.
You shot him. He didn't do anything.
To be patient and tolerate such unjust behavior…
Do you know how much it takes?
You did not win, he did.
You can never defeat him, you know why?
Because he is a good man at heart.
He's a… he's a good man.
-Will this gun fire only if you shoot? -No, Meera!
Don't shoot, dear. Listen to me… please.
It will kill even if I pull the trigger.
-Shoot. -Ashwin!
-Shall I pull the trigger? -Shut up!
-Shoot. -Put the gun down, dear…
-I dare you to shoot! -Meera, don't listen to him.
-Shall I pull the trigger? -No, Meera!
Or…
-Or shall I shoot myself? -Hey…
Hey… no, don't shoot!
No, Meera… please.
Only your son is important to you, right?
Rather than being your daughter or his sister,
-I prefer to die. -Hey!
You dragged him into our life!
All this happened because of him.
-Meera, lower the gun. -No!
If you want to die for him, go ahead and do it.
-Pull the trigger! -Hey!
Dad?
I should have done this many years ago.
I made a grave blunder!
Meera, forgive us.
Directly or indirectly, I am also to blame.
We'll compensate all his losses.
Just tell me how I can make amends.
How can I work if you keep hugging me like this?
Kasthuri… Kasthuri, what happened?
-Kasthuri… -Sivanesan, shut the door!
-What happened, Mom? -I said, shut the door!
Sivanesan, what name did you have in mind?
I'll name him Murugan, Mom.
Go.
Kill him.
He burnt our bistro to embers.
Why should you be silent after this?
Kill him.
What makes the bistro, Kayal?
Those are mere wooden benches, we can make them again.
This is just a wall. We can erect it anew.
That's only a thatched roof. That can be easily woven again.
Can you see the grindstone and the pestle and mortar?
That's the real bistro.
He couldn't damage it, right?
We'll build our bistro around it.
We are born somewhere and go away in search of something.
But we forget if we are running after materialistic things or after love.
Life doesn't end as a short story.
It continues as memories passed on to the next generation.
The sacrifices of a father whose shoulder is burdened and bruised with worries…
The sacrifices of a mother caring only for her husband and children…
Instead of mourning them later, we should celebrate them when they are alive.
I paid the price to get back on the right track.
My parents are not with me today.
But the way they toiled and built this bistro with their bare hands
my wife and I are following in their footsteps and rebuilding this bistro.
As far as I'm concerned, this bistro is my mother and father.
This may be an ordinary idli bistro to others.
It's not a 5-star hotel.
But this bistro has authenticity.
My grandmother taught my father.
My father taught it to me.
And I will teach my children tomorrow.
This bistro stands for an entire lineage.
Ever after I leave my mortal coil, my soul will linger around here.
My soul will linger around here…
You beat up Marisamy black and blue.
You almost killed him.
But you let Ashwin go scot-free even after he destroyed your bistro.
And if I had killed him?
-Would that solve the problem? -Whatever it is…
You've rebuilt the bistro exactly as it was.
I can't find any difference between this and the old bistro.
They have come back again. What is it now?
Murugan.
We have harmed you in many ways.
-Forgive-- -Sir.
Ashwin.
Ashwin!
Ashwin?
Sorry.
Sir.
Come in and taste my idli.
Please, come.
Come in. Get the banana leaves.
Murugan, the way Ashwin behaved so terribly with you…
How can he get away with a simple sorry?
Give him at least one tight slap on his face--
Please.
He deserves some punishment, right?
She's right. A tight slap sounds good.
No need for that. We have called a truce.
You don't have to hit him.
Only if you give him some kind of punishment
will we get a closure.
Okay.
Even we find it tough. Would he do it?
Looks really tough, right?
I don't know.
This is what you call poetic justice.
The culprit who set fire to the bistro is now grinding batter here!
Super!
Grind it, son, grind it.
Hey listen, hit me like Meera said. That's easier to take.
Not this!
-Please. -What?
Do you want an easy escape? This is your punishment.
Continue.
Grind it, come on.
When my mother entered this bistro for the last time
she said that she felt my father's soul lingering here.
I did not realize it then. But I can sense his presence now.
All I know is that he is very happy.
Subtitle translation by: Suganya Velumani his presence now.