Mom, enough. The groom's here.
Wait. We are also coming.
O Goddess, bestow upon us joy and peace
Let our hearts and deeds shine with grace
Bless our lives with beauty divine
O Goddess, to you, we humbly bow
Forever singing your sacred praise
O Goddess, bestow upon us joy and peace
Let our hearts and deeds shine with grace
You didn't inform your family before coming here?
You should've told them!
You're from the bride's side, huh? No wonder.
All okay?
Hey! Why stay all sober?
Let's grab a peg and chill out.
-But you got any booze? -Are you serious?
It's there in the vehicle.
It's time for the ceremony.
Get the booze.
Is this your 'chill out'?
This is all I managed to get. Let's drink it.
Get the glass.
-I don't have a glass. -You don't?
Glass, right?
I got three of them.
Got some pickles too.
We lost whatever little we had.
Now, it's time for the prayer.
Pass me the mic.
Please get up.
Everybody, please get up.
[singing a prayer song]
Oh, God!
So his life is done for!
What's he peeping at?
Did he get chest pain?
Let's drink it before he dies.
If you're here for the GD entry, meet sir.
Sir, take this.
Sir, please stamp the seal on it.
Okay.
The witnesses, please meet this sir here.
Sir...
Will the CI sir be here soon?
Let him come when he wants to.
Why the hell is he here now?
Hey, where are you going?
CI sir will be here soon. Don't go anywhere.
No, sir.
I'll just have tea and come.
Okay. Be quick.
Son...
Why are you here?
I... here...
Yeah, that's what I asked. Why are you here?
For a verification.
I'm here to meet the CI.
Oh. For the passport, I guess?
Yeah. For the passport.
But...
Why do you need a CI for passport verification?
Isn't a police constable enough?
Well, the CI is an old acquaintance of mine.
Who? CI Prathapan sir, who joined here only the day before yesterday? Interesting!
Let it be. Wanna join me for a tea?
No, not now.
You go and have it, son.
-No? -No. You go have it.
Let me go have it then.
Yeah. Carry on.
See you then.
He's trying to teach a fish how to swim!
It's the station premises. Be careful while you smoke.
Turn off the siren!
Did he say anything?
Whoever I ask, they're telling me to wait for the CI.
Do you want me to wait?
-Don't you have passengers in it? -Passenger...
Don't get me killed! Take me to the hospital!
Please hurry up!
I better go now. Else, he'll be a dead body.
-Best! Carry on. -See you.
Turn on the siren, you idiot!
Sir...
Good morning, sir.
Hello?
Yes, brother. The CI is here.
He's newly appointed here.
Anyway, you've called and told him, right?
Don't worry about that.
Yeah. I'll deal with it.
Sir...
Nobody told me yet why I was summoned here.
Sir just came, didn't you see?
We'll let you know. Go sit there.
And if you're unable to come...
What's your case?
Don't be hesitant. I shall talk to him.
Do you know CI sir?
Who will you talk to, then?
Won't God solve all our problems if we tell him?
Hey!
Stop your preaching. Keep it shut.
Praise the lord.
-You may go in, Antony. -Okay.
Sir... My case...
I've informed him.
May God bless you, brother.
Weren't you issued a warning earlier, huh?
You thought I'll let you go if you use your contacts, you scum?
I didn't mean it, sir.
If you don't demolish your buildings and leave,
you'll see my true self!
Get lost, you scum!
CI sir seems furious.
Please sign here.
-Aren't you going? -Yes.
Sir...
-My case... -Sit there!
Sir...
I was summoned here.
By whom?
Someone called around noon asking me to meet you.
Sit.
Shifas, what's his case?
Sir, it's a 498A.
Lodged by a father and daughter yesterday.
Give me that complaint.
Here, sir.
What's your name?
Sir... Sahadevan.
Did you cause a scene at home?
Scene?
Nothing like that, sir.
Well, it doesn't look like 'nothing like that'.
Who is Nayana?
My wife, sir.
What do you do, Sahadevan?
I am a temporary employee at the cooperative society here.
What did you say?
A temporary employee at the cooperation department here.
As a clerk.
What's this, man? A veterinary hospital?
They are a milkman and a pastor, sir.
Both are such nuisance for us. If you just...
-Okay, I'll come there. -Sir.
Go sit outside and read this complaint well, Sahadevan.
Sir.
Don't click photos of the complaint, okay?
No, sir.
If you read the complaint,
you'll feel that I'm the worst guy in this whole district.
Dammit! Is it that bad?
Well, Nayana should be appreciated.
She realised your true self within just ten days!
I'll give you one!
Give me some water.
What's the point in shouting at me for her filing a case?
Here you go.
Ugh! It stinks!
Don't you ever wash it?
I'll wash it every day for you to wipe your hands!
I'll give him the phone.
It's the advocate. Talk to him.
You may need him. Talk to him.
Talk to him.
Hello?
Do you know this advocate?
-Of course! -How's he?
It's evident from his name that he's a legend.
And his name?
It was a long name... I forgot.
Best!
Wait...
What did the advocate say?
Asked me to tell them that the gold is not with us. It's in their locker.
But isn't it in your mom's locker?
How can you say otherwise, then?
He says the petitioner will say that the gold isn't with them to win the case.
See? He's bringing out points.
-Hey! -Yes?
-Sir is calling you. -Okay.
Follow the advocate's advice.
He must have a plan.
Will my situation be as pathetic as your advocate's name?
Yeah! Now I remember the advocate's name. Sasi.
And that's a long name?
Sasi. K. Soman.
Now, that's a long name.
Sir...
-It's me... -Come sit.
Did you read the complaint fully?
Yes.
Did you demand
extra dowry from them?
No, sir.
But it says so in this complaint.
That, sir...
Tell me.
They told about these 100 sovereigns when this marriage proposal came.
We never had any demands.
What's this 2000 rupees thing in this?
How do I say this, sir...?
You can tell me however you can.
Hey. Sit.
Don't sit yet.
Before the auspicious moment is passed,
shall we sign this?
There. Next to the address.
They're signing the register.
Now you sign, son.
And, about you receiving 100 sovereigns of gold,
write that too and sign, okay?
Come here, uncle.
What the hell is this?
What's this practice?
Well, if further demands arise from our end...
As if we rely on her dowry to survive!
Without knowing if it's real gold or if it's indeed 100 sovereigns...
never seen such a practice before.
Just a minute.
What are they saying?
We too got our daughter married.
Did we demand anything to be signed?
Still...
Stop beating around the bush and go ask them.
-Go there, dad. -Come.
Let's have a word with them.
Well, we don't have such a practice in our area. That's why the confusion.
It's not a matter of our mistrust.
It's just a practice here.
Only her rightful share is mentioned.
Also, it's a formality of the assembly... That's all.
Give it to me.
Let's all have food then.
Come.
Give it to him.
Hey Suku Ettan, what's up?
Here's your 'Deshvasi' soda.
-Hey, uncle. They are here. -Did they?
O beloved, my love
You've become the meaning of my life
O darling, the joy of my heart
Our souls embrace each other
O beloved, my love
Come, dear. Step inside with your right foot.
You've become the meaning of my life
O darling, the joy of my heart
Our souls embrace each other
Huh?
Where did the banana go?
Let them take a break. It's been going on forever!
Pathetic!
Let the rituals be over. These are age-old customs.
Yeah.
Okay, continue.
O darling, the joy of my heart
Our souls embrace each other
So what if we had to wait?
He got a rich bride with 100 sovereigns
and long hair flowing down to her waist!
It's all Sahadevan's good fortune!
Ah! Come here.
Aunty, do you want to see Uncle's photo?
-What? -Give it here.
The kids took it from the photo album.
Hey, let me have a look. Show me.
-The face looks familiar... -Didn't you recognise him?
Sahadevan, your suspense is busted!
See, see! This is him!
Give that to me.
Though the photo's a bit dull, the important details are crystal clear!
What if it's a bit dull, man?
Poor guy!
Now, let them go and rest.
There's the reception still ahead.
Yeah.
Menon Chetta,
there's like 10-20 litres of milk left.
Got some curd? I'll mix it and set it to curdle.
Let me check.
Hey, Pathmam...
Do we have curd to set the milk?
Didn't Shankaran uncle leave after drinking up all of it?
Oh.
I swear! Now he'll make a fuss about no curd!
Sahadevan, are you going out somewhere?
I just got home, and now you're sending me out again!
What's the matter?
I need some curd to curdle the milk.
Okay, I'll get it.
Don't break it, kids.
Hey, don't forget to bring the container back.
Really? This disposable ice cream container?
This oldie is such a cheapskate!
Get down, Uncle. This is the bus stop.
Okay.
What's that sound?
That is a kind of bird, my boy.
It's called the mottled wood owl.
But if it cries, it means death is definitely near.
Will I get to see you again, Uncle?
Ah, the bus is here.
Will what this devil said come true? Oh God, please protect me!
Take care, my boy.
Okay.
This oldie's out to send me west!
-Hello. -Tell me.
Did you leave from there?
Nope, leaving now. What's up?
On your way...
-What is this bloody sound?! -Hello?
Pick up some curd... on your way to set the milk.
Where's that bird sound coming from?
Don't they ever sleep?!
When you come...
Can you hear me?
Need to mix with the milk and cover... bring curd!
-What? Did you just say cover? -Yeah!
You should have bought it earlier!
How many?
Wait, let me ask.
Ask who?
Someone outside said they were thirsty. So...
How many packets do we need now?
Two or three should do.
It's just curd, we can use the extra tomorrow.
Hey, buy 5-6 packets.
Alright then.
Isn't he planning to sleep?
I can't stay here any longer!
Did you drop that old man off?
Yes, I did.
-Give this to Sahadevan. -What's this?
He'll know. Just give it to him.
-Hey, did you get the curd? -Hide it.
He won't even let me smoke in peace!
-Should I buy curd as well? -How would I know?
Didn't Sahadevan call you about it?
He told me everything but that.
This guy, even after marriage, has zero sense of responsibility!
Uncle, I'll go bring it.
Losers!
Take this to him.
It's not too heavy, is it?
It gets heavier when you wear it.
What? Something that gets heavier when you wear it?
Bro and sis have started it!
Brother-in-law, where's he?
There, he went upstairs saying he wants to take a bath.
Okay, I'll head up there.
Sahadevan...
What is this?
Keep it aside, let's just take it home with us.
Aha! Looks fabulously messy!
Could've dumped another 5 kilos of flowers on the bed.
Hey, my boy, Sahadevan!
Yeah.
I've kept your packet here.
See you tomorrow.
Huh? Are you leaving already?
No, Deshvasi and I'll stay and keep you company for your first night.
Get lost, you!
Thank you.
When one falls into his own pits, it's total chaos!
Oops! Sorry!
I didn't see you.
You may go.
Hope she didn't hear me singing!
Oops! I didn't see you.
Just a minute.
Ugh!
A shirt would've been better.
Our journey was super hectic, wasn't it?
Pardon?
I mean,
our wedding,
the journey here, all of it together was exhausting.
But after I took a shower,
everything felt better.
What's this? Chocolate?
Oh, no! Co--
Just a minute.
This isn't mine, but for some household use--
I mean, no worries--
Hey, I need to sleep.
What?
I just need to lie down for a bit.
Um... okay.
Mi... milk.
But.. a s... sip...
Won't you have a sip?
So, Sahadevan...
Actually...
nothing happened that night?
Not just that night
nothing happened on the following nights either.
Why are you all here?
Sir, that pastor outside is a pain.
So, we thought we'd come in and listen to the story.
So, Sahadevan,
it's mentioned that she cut her hair,
you came home drunk, and physically assaulted her. Is that true?
Sir, I may look very strong and brave.
But I'm the kind of guy who'll scoot if someone gives me an angry stare.
Seriously!
Then what about this medical certificate from Dr Latha Kumari?
What? Medical certificate?
Sir,
Sir, let's assume I really hit my wife.
But I'm from Thrissur.
Why would I need to take her
to a doctor near her house in Idukki?
That's true.
Government Hospital, Idukki.
Ah, go on, you tell the rest.
The next item from 'Deshvasi Soda' is ready.
Ah! Where's your boss?
He's inside, bro.
I hope he called me bro.
[in Hindi] Oh! My beloved Deshvasi!
Hey, lord!
What's up?
It's from the military canteen, man.
Then it's gunshot time tonight!
-Shouldn't we? -Of course!
Okay.
Here are the appetizers.
Why is he here?
He couldn't fire his gun yet.
That's the matter.
-Really? -Huh?
-Is it true? -So what?
I have all the time I want.
Bro, don't waste time. Just go for it already.
Oh, come on.
Don't come crying to me later saying I didn't warn you.
Oh, listen to him. He's so full of wisdom.
Well, I'm just sharing what I've learned from handling two or three girls myself.
-When was that? -That happened.
I swear!
Based on my experience,
you need to loosen up a bit.
Let go of your grip and formalities.
In my opinion, women need a playmate sometimes,
and at other times, they need someone to play with them.
-Got it? -What?
Is there really such a psychology?
Undoubtedly...
YES! YES! YES!
For now, drink this
and then go home.
and see what happens.
For now, you drink this on my behalf.
-Okay, see you tomorrow. Bye. -Hey, don't go.
Poor guy! Hope his excitement reaches its peak.
I just asked Menon about you.
How long can I just sit idle at home?
Your carefree days are about to end.
Now, responsibilities will start piling up.
Hey, shall we play a round?
No, thanks. I need to take a shower.
[TV show on phone] "Look, Mom! There comes your 'simp' son!"
-"Mom, where's Sharika? I don't see her around." -Mom.
Are you looking for Nayana?
She was here all this time. She's gone upstairs just now.
"She's my wife! Who else will look after her?"
Let me go and see her.
-We'll sort everything out. -Hello?
Hey.
-Hey, sitting alone and bored? -No.
Let me quickly take a shower and come back.
Are you hungry?
Has dad finished his carrom game, Mom?
You wish! Sit here.
Dear, go call dad for dinner.
Padmavathi Amma,
did you roll out the new plates when the new daughter-in-law arrived?
Get lost, you!
Dad, dinner is ready.
-Coming now, dear. -Okay.
Mom, sit down. I'll serve the food.
Here.
When are you leaving tomorrow?
No need to stick to a schedule, right?
We'll go whenever we wake up.
Listen...
Shall we play 'Antakshari'?
What?
The game in which we sing songs starting with a letter of others' choice.
Sahadevan, my boy!
You must get rid of this seriousness and loosen up a bit.
In my observation, what girls want is
a doll to play with,
one that can also engage them in play.
Why? Don't you like it?
-Really? -Yes.
I'm not much of a singer.
Still...
I can give it a shot.
Then, 'Ma'!
What?
Start the song with 'Ma'!
-Ma? -Ma.
-Will it be a problem? -No.
Is it okay if it's a fast number?
[singing a song starting with 'Ma']
What's this new practice?
Well, it's the lunar effect.
Stop it, you!
Hey...
If your idea worked,
Sahadevan would've started the deed there.
Shall we call him once?
How will it not work?
He must be rocking it now.
Don't call him and ruin his mood. Go to sleep.
Forget it then. Tell me the other story.
What story?
The story of you wooing three girls...
Move away.
Move.
-Hey. -You scum! Move!
He wants to hear erotic stories...
So haughty! Get lost!
[singing a lullaby]
Like a starry night kissed by moonlight
You came near, a smile lighting my way
The chords of my heart stirred to life
Dreams strumming melodies deep within
O playful birdie, Adorned with crimson vermilion
Let me pour my heart's music into yours
You are my solace through joy and grief
You became the rhythm of my life
Forever mine, as if for the first time
You became the rhythm of my life
Forever mine, as if for the first time
Though shyness lingers in gentle traces
The boundaries slowly disappear
Secrets whispered Beneath midnight's veil
Son... Renuka's relatives are waiting downstairs.
Dad...
She's taking a bath.
But you're the one who's dripping wet!
Like a starry night kissed by moonlight
Stop it, Dad!
You came near, a smile lighting my way
The chords of my heart stirred to life
Dreams strumming melodies deep within
O playful birdie, Adorned with crimson vermilion
Let me pour my heart's music into yours
You are my solace through joy and grief
Stop it, you! Shut up!
You're the one I waited for long
The one I looked forward to with hope
You're the one I waited for long
The one I looked forward to with hope
As you join my life and soul
My heart turns blissful
In your love, I find my purpose
Our lives entwine Like a perfect couplet
Like a starry night kissed by moonlight
You came near, a smile lighting my way
The chords of my heart stirred to life
Dreams strumming melodies deep within
O playful birdie, Adorned with crimson vermilion
Let me pour my heart's music into yours
You are my solace through joy and grief
Did she sleep?
Let's try tomorrow.
-Listen... -Yes?
Shall we visit my sister's home at Pandalam while returning?
Why?
Well...
We can see Lord Ayyappa's temple and Pandalam Palace.
Oh yes, I've been there.
My dad's maternal side is related to the royal family.
Wow! So maybe Lord Ayyappa is like your distant uncle?
I was just kidding.
When you didn't show up, I thought you changed your plan.
She wasn't answering the phone as well.
Hey, dear.
Why are you standing there, son? Come inside.
Come.
Son, shouldn't you have something?
Yes, Dad. I'll just come down.
Not downstairs. Come to the balcony.
Let's have a few pegs.
Cheers!
Any update on your job confirmation?
Well, it's a cooperative society.
The manager has told me that it'll be done in two months.
In a way, farming is better than a job.
If you're interested,
a three-acre cardamom farm near our plot is for sale.
You may give it a shot.
You'll get an extra income, too.
Oh, no! I don't have that much money, Dad!
You think everyone makes such deals with ready cash in hand?
You have Nayana's gold with you, right?
You can pledge it to raise funds.
Think about it.
I'll think about it.
Where's this girl?
Hey, Nayana!
Sahadevan is here for dinner.
She said you eat chapati for dinner.
-Oh, no! Anything is okay for me. -Have it.
Enough.
Mom!
Nayana... Nayana!
Dad!
Oh, no! What happened?
Get some water, Dad.
-Nayana... -Oh, no! My dear...
What happened to her?
Dear... What happened to you?
Get the car. Let's go to the hospital.
Nayana...
Careful. Watch out.
Careful.
Doctor...
Nothing to worry about.
She must have fainted from the shock of the fall.
She says she has some body pain.
I've prescribed some medicines for her.
CT scan and X-ray results are normal.
She's on IV now. She can be discharged once it's done.
Shall we go and see her?
-Sure. Go ahead. -Okay. Come.
Listen...
Give her complete rest for three days.
You got the point, right?
Stop the car there.
It's a plot of high demand.
You'll be lucky if you can grab it for this price.
I didn't have any plans to buy this plot.
But as dad told me...
Okay. This way.
It's not just cardamom farming we can do here.
A turf too can be set up.
What are you looking at?
Not there, you have to look this way.
Come this way.
See that Spanish cherry down there?
See? That one.
The plot is from that point, till here.
What?
You mean this trench?
Is this the three-acre plot you mentioned?
What will I do with this plot? Jump and die?
A trench!
Oh, buddy!
Buddy... Stop.
Sorry. I wasn't making fun of you.
But I can't help but laugh seeing that
you're the one falling prey to all these troubles.
Right?
Hey. Don't get tense.
Hey! Cheer up a bit and go.
No, brother. I've stopped drinking.
Buddy... Nothing happened yet?
You wish! What can I do while she's on rest after the fall?
You... Do you like a kiss?
Well... Who doesn't like it?
Remember Salam?
You can enjoy delicious biryani at his home.
A chef's kiss made by his mom!
That's all fate has in store for you.
Hey. Stop it.
Buddy... Okay.
Shall I ask you a serious question?
Do you really know much about how the deed is done?
What deed?
A party deed!
The reproductive stuff and such...
Otherwise, how could he not touch his wife
even after so many days of marriage?
You're asking if I've any issues, right?
Stop teasing me about this.
I'll get this done once and for all today.
Let me see if I can do it without your advice.
You shouldn't talk to him like this.
What if he gets furious and does the deed?
Dad...
Please don't ask me anything today.
But I didn't ask you anything, Sahadevan.
Yeah. You're right.
So pointless!
Wonder what's with new habit!
What habit?
Looks like our son is in form today.
You must be imagining things.
Listen...
Shall I show you a surprise?
Tada!
How's my new hairstyle?
Did you get surprised?
Who did you ask, before cutting your hair?
To mom.
My mom?
Not yours. My mom.
I have one more surprise for you.
What's it now?
Remember my best friend?
She's going to the Netherlands for higher studies.
So? How's that a surprise for us?
It's a good course. It's a matter of just two years, she said.
She'll also get a job there after the course.
She said she can arrange a seat for me too there.
What are you going on about?
It'll cost us 10-15 lakhs.
I don't have that kind of cash.
I know that, don't I?
But there's a way.
What?
We can sell my gold.
Not gonna work.
Let's begin our life together first.
-The rest of the plans can wait. -Leave me.
You didn't mention these conditions before marriage.
No. This offer wasn't there then. So I didn't tell you.
So it's not gonna happen then.
Hey! There are people downstairs.
Don't make noise.
I'm not asking for anybody's mercy.
It's my gold. I want it.
Really? Your dad wants to sell it to buy a cardamom farm.
And you want to sell it to go abroad and study.
So this was all planned, huh?
I am not gonna give you the gold.
Get it from me if you can!
Surprise, my foot!
You trying to stare and scare me, huh?
And then?
She put on an Oscar-worthy performance in front of my parents that night.
Since I had two pegs,
and was fully in my senses,
even my own family didn't believe me.
And...
for three or four days after that,
we stayed in separate rooms.
One day, after I got back from work,
my mom told me her parents had come and taken her to their home.
How many days has it been since Nayana left?
Sir, she left last Thursday.
It's been about six days now.
And not even a single phone call in between?
Maybe your side of the story is true.
But your wife is currently admitted to a hospital there.
Tomorrow, a cop will be going to record her statement.
Hospital?
Yes, it's all a tactic to strengthen their case.
Section 498A.
To cool things down, you could consider returning the gold to them.
Sir,
the gold is in their locker.
Sahadevan, I've believed everything you've said so far.
But whatever you just said,
it reeks of bad legal advice.
The gold is definitely with you.
Tell the writer when you plan to return it and go home.
If you insist that the gold isn't in your possession,
you'll be stuck here wasting everyone's time.
I'm not asking for anybody's mercy!
It's my gold. I want it.
Sir...
Ah.
Have you decided, Sahadevan?
Yes, sir.
I'll return it on the 24th of this month.
Good decision.
Why hang onto the gold
if it'll help resolve the issue?
When you take the gold back,
go to a jeweller, weigh it, and get a detailed list prepared.
Make sure it's signed, then hand it over.
That'll serve as proof.
-Got it? -Yeah.
Now sign here.
You can leave now. I'll inform sir.
Sir.
Sir...
Tell me, sir.
This officer is the one going to Idukki to take her statement.
Do something for his travel expenses.
Okay. You may go.
Okay, sir.
Make it quick.
Who are you to stand in the rain when you're sad? Charlie Chaplin?
Huh?
Come.
I said, come.
Sahadevan, have a couple of pegs.
That's all you need to sort yourself out.
This isn't the end of the world.
Life doesn't end here, does it?
Hey!
Enough! Stop.
Grab the bottle.
'Forceful donation receipt'
Don't trip and fall, Sahadevan.
-Turn to this side. -Your house is on this side.
-Towards that way. -Go, switch on the light--
That's my mom, right?
That's my mom, man!
Come in!
Bye, Mom.
-AJAYAN! -Yes, Mom.
He's got his reason, his situation is like this.
But aren't you a grown-up? You're almost 40 now.
Really?
What's with all this nonsense?
-She's asking you. -Continue playing to his tunes, pft!
-Bye, Mom. -Okay.
Hey, what's the issue between you and that comrade Iqbal?
Sir, I'm just a temporary staff here.
I don't have enough to afford the donations that he is asking for.
And you know my situation, sir.
I've been going through a lot because of some family issues.
I've already sent the request to make your job permanent.
In the meantime, don't get involved in police cases or unnecessary issues.
Even if that comrade could mess with your job.
You understand?
I'm just warning you.
Alright.
Thank you, sir.
-Is it near? -It's near the temple.
Sir... sir... sir...
Two people in formal suits with ties are waiting to meet you, sir.
With ties?
From their looks, I doubt if they are ED.
ED?
ED...?
Congratulations.
Congratulations, sir.
Sorry, I couldn't recognise you.
We're the executive officers from Mangalyasoothram Marriage Bureau.
We're the ones who brought you the wedding proposal.
Oh, so it's you!
Sir, as per our terms, once the wedding is successfully conducted,
a ₹25,000 marriage fee is to be paid.
Can you please settle it?
Yes. It must be paid as the marriage is going really well.
-By the way, I was searching for you. -Did you?
Come with me. Let's settle it.
Google Pay would do, sir. Here's the QR code.
No, I'll pay in cash.
We'd also appreciate a 5-star review from your side, sir.
Sahadevan...
you've received a registered post.
-Let me receive it. -We're in no hurry, sir.
Sahadevan, it's a court notice.
What's the next issue?
Sign here.
Okay, then.
These things happen occasionally in some cases, sir.
But we offer a 25% discount for second marriages.
Man, this is the way!
Sir, some matches work, some don't.
By the way, we don't need your review!
So, one in judicial first class magistrate court,
one in family court,
and one case at the police station.
Three in total.
Huh? Three?
They didn't file for divorce at the family court.
Instead, it's domestic violence.
It's their ploy to cause you more trouble.
But you're already in trouble.
It's section 498A.
Also, an interim order from the first class court.
The court order forbids you to meet or talk to your wife,
and also asks you to pay ₹6000 every month as alimony.
498A means?
Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code deals with
the violence done on women after marriage
by her husband or her in-laws,
or any other relative of the husband,
where the police can make an arrest without warrant.
Non-bailable, punishable,
and imprisonment up to three years.
Domestic abuse.
Huh? Abuse?
When did that happen?
Means,
if you harass a woman by your actions, words, or even gaze,
the police can put you behind bars without any warrant.
Up to three years.
As per the new 'Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita',
section 85 and 86.
Only the number has changed.
Not much scope for men in that either.
In fact, it's still the same old stuff.
Replica.
Did they give you a copy of the complaint at the police station?
They had given me the original to read.
Do you know the case number?
No.
You could've at least clicked a photo of the complaint.
It's okay. We'll find the details.
Sir.
Anila, this is Sahadevan.
Hello.
Need to get the copy of the FIR under Sahadevan's name, from JMFC.
It's section 498A.
And
prepare replies for these two notices.
Okay.
Anila will tell you about my advance payment.
-Alright then. -Okay.
And...
Pay her 500 rupees.
For the documentation.
Here you go.
Anila will tell you the court procedures.
I have a function at the Rotary Club today.
So,
we'll sort out everything, okay?
Don't worry, okay?
-Bye. -Bye.
Let's go.
Sit.
How long have you been married?
One month.
Didn't sir talk about the advance payment?
How much is the amount?
15,000 is the advance fee.
Use this card and withdraw 16,000.
-You have enough balance, right? -Yes.
Sign here.
Do you have the document you signed while receiving the gold,
and your marriage certificate?
Yes.
Here. The gold received document,
and marriage certificate.
Here you go.
The whole amount is there, right?
Madam.
I'll call you after preparing the reply notice.
Come and sign it.
And...
I was asked to pay you this.
Alright then.
Okay. Let's go.
That woman seems more haughty than the advocate himself.
Whatever! I just want things to work.
-Shall we have tea? -Okay.
Here you go.
Aunty... Two cups of tea.
Black tea, okay?
Hey...
One tea for me too.
Hi, Makkar Ikka! You're here?!
No marriages today?
Or are you here to help aunty?
You wish! He's waiting for some cash inflow.
Why do you need money, Ikka?
He wants to eat mutton biryani, it seems. His crazy wishes!
Can I buy you a mutton biryani?
He won't take money from anybody.
But he loves to attend marriages and eat food from there.
Well, why are you guys here?
Had to meet advocate Rex for something.
He's a talented advocate.
He's handling our case too.
What's your case?
I'll tell you later. Have tea.
Let's go.
Here you go.
Oh, dear. I don't have loose change.
It's okay. Let it be with you.
I'll have to visit here often for the case.
See you then, Aunty.
What was the case she was talking about?
That... they had only one son.
Shafi.
When he studied hard and secured a job,
in the name of their faith,
his father got him married to a girl from a less privileged family.
She later gave birth and on his way from work to the hospital to see the baby,
he had an accident.
After his death,
Makkar Ikka gave her the whole insurance money, as well as Shafi's job.
And then?
Then what? That wasn't enough for her, it seems.
She filed a case stating that
after her husband's death, his father is enjoying all his wealth.
But does he have that much wealth?
What, man? Why would anybody run a tea shop if they have such wealth?
All they have is three cents of land and an old house.
If they lose that too, they'll be done for.
Poor folks won't even have a house to live.
She seems quite something.
Way too quite something.
[on TV]: It's been four years since Rajan and Rema got married, right?
Yes. Four years, sir.
So, was Rema staying at her maternal home throughout these four years?
Yes. Rema at her home, and I at mine.
How many kids do you have?
Three.
If you didn't stay together, how did you have three kids, Rajan?
Well, Rema left for her home when she was pregnant with our first child.
I hadn't seen that child.
When I went to see the child, Rema got pregnant for the second time.
We had two kids now...
Mom, can you serve me food?
Here. Have this for now.
-This? -Let this show get over.
[on TV]: and that's when Rema got pregnant again.
So, Rajan, is the third child, not yours?
No, I didn't mean it!
The children are mine only. No doubt about that.
And it's not right to not see our children, isn't it?
What will the public say?
It's a great show.
They do solve all problems in just one episode.
[on TV]: By morning, we fight and part ways again.
When I went to see her for the third time, she got pregnant again.
The issue is you often visit her place to see the children, right?
Stop doing it from now on.
Let the children come to your home to see you.
I agree with that.
You are right, sir.
I won't go there.
Let the kids come to my home instead.
But they are young kids, sir.
I can't stand it if they're travelling alone and something goes wrong.
So, let Rema come with them.
Let them stay a couple of days, then return.
I'll be happy with that, sir.
Shall we take part in this program?
My name is already tarnished!
-Have tea. -No, I want that green packet of Lays.
I'll buy you that later. You have this now.
No, I don't want tea. I want the green packet of Lays.
Didn't grandma promise I'll buy it for you? I'll get you one.
No, I want it now.
Here you go.
Are you happy now?
Sir...
Sahadevan, you're here already?
I'll be at the bar association. Come to the court when it's your turn.
Okay, sir.
Dammit!
Your wife, I guess?
Yes.
I'm Peter. I'm a frequent visitor here for the last 7-8 months.
And well, we can't ask 'all good?' to the folks coming here!
I'm Sahadevan.
It's my first day here.
Is it a divorce case?
No. Domestic violence.
How about yours, Peter?
It's a case for me to see my daughter.
Is your daughter with them now?
Isn't she your wife?
-Hey, Sahadevan. -Yes, sir.
588/2024.
-Come inside when they call for our case. -I'll be right here.
Is that the daughter?
Eh?
Is that your daughter?
It's been a year since I last saw her.
When they took her, her hair was very short.
Look now, her hair has grown out.
OP 196/2023.
Petitioner - Peter. Respondent - Stella.
It's my case.
For the petitioner, Your Honour.
I bring it to the notice of the court that
the respondent party hasn't brought the child to the court
for the past six hearings.
Representing the respondent, Your Honour.
The court has been informed about the reasons
why the kid wasn't presented at the court.
The points presented by the petitioner and his advocate are
to mislead the court.
The court has to give importance to the child's safety.
And, the child has never expressed the wish to meet her father.
The petitioner's advocate sounds like
we intentionally didn't bring the child to the court.
Considering the child's age,
she now needs the care of a mother.
The court has to consider the risks of
handing over the child to a mentally challenged father.
Objection, Your Honour.
The respondent had brought up this reason before too.
This is the doctor's certificate
that proves that Peter has no mental disorders.
May I pass on?
The honourable court has to check the authenticity of this certificate.
Advocate, we have your certificates stating fever, sneezing, and such.
If the court has no doubt about their authenticity,
the court will have to accept this one too.
Alimony was never stopped in these eight months, was it?
No, Your Honour.
It was paid every month.
The court orders her to hand over the child to her father Peter for the next one hour.
I'm right here, Mom.
No.
I won't go outside.
I'll call you back, Mom.
How did it go?
Court has ordered to hand over the child to me for an hour.
Really? Enjoy with your daughter.
-Yeah! -See you.
Your Honour, the respondent hasn't paid the alimony
despite the court's order six months ago.
Is that right?
Your Honour, he will pay her as early as possible.
Yes.
If you delay it further, we'll have to issue a confiscation order.
Okay.
One month. You should pay her within that time.
Okay.
18/03.
Hey, your properties will be confiscated!
They wish!
All I have in my name are five 'Jockey' underwear!
The rest of my properties are transferred to my mom's name long back.
Let women like her work for a living!
Whatever!
For the petitioner, Your Honour.
For the respondent, Your Honour.
Your Honour, the marriage between my client Nayana and Sahadevan took place on
January 14th, 2024.
So, one month since their marriage, isn't it?
That's all, your Honour.
But due to the respondent's shenanigans, she was forced--
Let's start the hearing in the next session.
Let them go for counselling for now.
We too hope their marriage goes well, Your Honour.
But the problem is,
Sahadevan behaves in a very immature way.
Your Honour,
it's not the petitioner's advocate who should decide whose problem it is.
My client has no issues in taking part in the counselling.
Both parties should take part in the counselling.
Please sign and go.
15/04/2024.
OP 673/2022.
Petitioner - Devan, respondent - Sajila.
Sahadevan...
You'll find the counselling room if you go straight and then turn right.
Wait there. They'll call you.
And, your wife may blabber nonsense during the counselling.
Don't create a scene.
-Control yourself. Okay? -Okay.
Meet me after the counselling.
Mom, I don't want to see Papa.
Let's go home.
We'll go. Okay?
Dear...
Tanu...
I bought this for you.
Mom, I don't want to go with Papa.
I'm scared of Papa.
Tanu, my dear... Papa came here to see you.
I'm scared of you.
You are mad!
Tanu, my dear...
Hey, Peter. Come on. Get up.
Tanu!
Get up. Come.
Dear...
What are you doing? Don't make her cry.
I've never ever made her cry, Sahadevan.
Don't you know? She was smiling at me even this morning.
All I wanted was to see her once.
And I saw her.
Peter... Peter...
Don't cry.
Listen...
The ones who get harassed the most here are
not the men or women who come here to attend their cases.
It's these poor beings born to them.
So, if you both can't make your marriage work,
please get separated before you have children.
Else, you'll struggle till death
by not being able to see your own child.
Let's go home rather than watching this madness.
Come on, let's go.
Bloody scum! Trying to trouble me using my own kid, huh?
-Move! -Mom, let's go home.
What are you waiting for? Come!
Come with me. Come.
Nayana... Sahadevan.
Let me start by saying one thing.
You two really need to stop this tug-of-war.
Ladies first, that's the saying, right?
You may start Nayana
What's the issue between you two?
Madam, I wanted to marry someone
without any bad habits like drinking or smoking.
When this alliance came up, my family called his sister to check.
But they purposely hid it.
Madam, I do drink occasionally.
I'm not denying that.
But even my own family didn't know about it.
Now the whole world knows about it.
When I drank with her dad at her house, she had no issue.
Madam, drinking at home with family isn't the same
as going out and drinking with random locals.
-My friends are not random locals-- -Listen...
You've already forgotten what I first said.
Let Nayana speak, and you'll get your turn, Sahadevan.
Carry on, Nayana.
Madam, I went to his house wearing gold jewellery worth 100 sovereigns.
But when they keep demanding more money, what am I supposed to do?
Marriage isn't just about money, is it?
He doesn't even know how to satisfy a woman, Madam.
This isn't a war to attack and conquer someone.
Okay, okay. Relax, Nayana.
Sahadevan, your turn now.
Madam, I don't understand their problem.
If it's about the gold she brought as part of the marriage,
I returned it at the police station.
And to satisfy a woman,
doesn't she also need to cooperate?
Every time I tried to get close, she'd come up with excuses
and wouldn't even let me touch her.
War, my foot!
Satisfying a woman just by looking at her isn't my skill, Madam.
Wait, so you two haven't ever...
If you doubt me, Madam, we can consult a doctor.
Then you can figure out where the problem lies.
Nayana, what Sahadevan just said sounded more specific.
Is his drinking and smoking really the problem here?
Okay, it's just the first day.
For the next sitting, talk about your issues honestly
and not just what your lawyer trained you to say.
Okay, no worries.
We'll sort this out.
Now shake hands and leave peacefully, both of you.
Thank you.
To speak about him...
Will say after having tea.
Serve the tea to the groom.
Have some tea, son.
Like everyone does,
shouldn't the bride and groom get some private time to talk?
Yeah, sure.
Not interested?
-I am. -Go, then.
Carry on, Dad.
Your daughter is smart, right?
-Yeah, kind of. -I felt so.
Oh, no!
That's alright. Let him sit there. We'll sit over here.
No need to panic. I won't harm anyone.
I'm an ambulance driver. You know that, right?
Yeah.
Do you have drinking habits?
Occasionally, a little.
I'm an open-minded person.
Oh, that's good to know.
So, what's your daily income?
You mean, my earnings?
After expenses, I get about 2,000 rupees in hand.
Apart from the ambulance job, do you own any property or land?
There's a five-cent plot with a two-bedroom house.
Whose name is it in?
It's in my father's name.
How old is your father?
Sixty-four.
Still, he might be going for some work, right?
Can I ask you a question now?
Sure, go ahead.
How much will I get?
Bro, you mean dowry?
Who's this ugly eavesdropper?
He's my bestie.
Bestie, my foot!
What does your dad do for a living?
-Dad doesn't have any particular job-- -Jobless, right?
-Isn't this a rented house? -Yeah.
How far have you studied?
-Tried for a BSc-- -But you couldn't pass the exams?
-No. -Ah, no.
Yet, you meticulously calculate every penny of your prospective groom,
right down to the elastic on his underwear.
I'll pass the rest of the lecture to your damn father.
I'm off, bestie.
Damn those bulbs on his head!
Not bulb, it's a trend, man!
Hey, do you have two 100-rupee notes on you?
-Is 200 enough? -Yeah, gimme.
Here.
The total cost of everything on display here is only 150 rupees.
This is 200. Keep the remaining 50 to eat something.
-What? -Sit down, and let me finish.
Listen, Uncle. When you marry your daughter off,
don't bother with gold or money.
She doesn't need to look after her in-laws either.
All we need is for her husband to be allowed to look after them.
What an iconic father! Come, man.
Enough of your flute performance! Just get here already.
We are off, Uncle.
Hey!
Whatever the verdict.
A little human consideration is all that's needed.
Why should I?
He's giving this property to his grandchild, so what's bothering him?
Dear, the property is anyways yours, it will come to you.
Really? But when? After both of you pass away?
I can't wait that long.
Advocate... We came here because of what you said.
But you are into mediation and all.
Not happening!
Rumina, come, let's go.
L... let...
let me go.
I know it's long due...
I mean... your fees...
I...
I'll pay you...
Dear, I bought this for the kid.
Give it to her.
I'm not so desperate as to take your charity!
Are you intentionally trying to cause trouble?
Dear, I bought this for the kid. Please accept it.
-How dare you grab a woman! -Son...
Son... let go of me.
Didn't I tell you inside?
He grabbed my hand.
-Why do you think you'll live forever? -But I was just...
What are you up to?
What are you doing, dear?
Please stop him.
Let go! Let go of me, son.
-Move! -Let him go!
I swear to God, it's not what you're thinking.
-What exactly do you mean? -Move away!
If anyone touches him without knowing the truth,
I swear they won't walk out of here alive.
Do you dare?
Come, Uncle.
Have it, Uncle.
Why are you worrying so much?
The court hasn't even given a verdict yet.
Verdict...
The verdict has already passed.
Losing my son was the biggest verdict of all.
In this world, we all arrive empty-handed.
They leave the same way.
I just couldn't eat a bite, Shafi.
I just can't.
Sahadevan, get up.
When did you come and sleep here?
It doesn't matter where he sleeps,
at least he can sleep peacefully. I envy him.
It's been ages since I had proper sleep.
Then from tomorrow, feel free to sleep here.
Sahadevan,
yesterday, I consulted an astrologer to check your horoscope.
Everything is fine.
But next month, on the 24th, we need to conduct a ritual and prayer
at the family temple.
You can't refuse this time, okay?
On the 24th? There's time.
The astrologer said there's 9 out of 10
compatibility between and Nayana's horoscope.
What more do I need!
What could be the one compatibility we missed?
Probably emotional compatibility.
Nah!
Tell me, man.
I last saw him yesterday morning at the mosque.
And he came to see you in the afternoon, right?
Anybody else to see the body?
Without Shafi's child, how can we…?
Are you out of your mind?
They're not bringing that child here.
The court ruled to give the house and half of the property to the daughter-in-law, right?
It's because it was in uncle's name.
If it had been in aunty's name,
she might've gotten some consideration as a woman.
Listen, let's--
Why did you do this?
Couldn't we have just built a small hut somewhere and lived there?
Come, Sahadevan. Let's see aunty.
We came all the way here. Let's meet her now.
Don't force him.
Come, let's go meet her.
This is how the law works here!
Watch out. You're next.
Your Honour, I'm humbly submitting the FIR report.
OP 172/2023
Petitioner - Josemon. Respondent - Elizabeth.
[automated message] The number you are trying to call is currently--
Hey, Advocate!
Where's Advocate Rex? Went to the Bar Association?
Sir won't come today.
HUH?
What about my case?
Are you saying I can't argue it for you?
Are you eating biscuits?
The lentil fries here are the best.
Want one?
Eh?
Oh no, I've got change. Let me pay for it.
I'm your advocate.
You pay me fees for that.
You don't need to follow me around buying snacks and all.
You remember the case number, right?
588/2024.
Be there when they call.
Just do as I said, and that will be enough.
If there's anything, call me, okay?
Hi.
What happened? Your senior isn't here today?
The respondent's lawyer won't appear either.
So, just request a postponement, that's all I need to do.
Who's the opposition?
Vishwanathan Sir.
-Who? -Vishwanathan sir.
Look who's coming now.
Oh no! Is he here today?
But Rex Sir told me he wouldn't show up, huh?
Just be there.
He's an expert in creating drama out of nothing.
Oh, Goodness!
Madam, all okay, right?
Yeah.
OP 588/2024. Petitioner, Nayana, respondent, Sahadevan.
It's our case. Shall we go in?
For the petitioner, Your Honour.
I am for the respondent, Your Honour.
Don't keep arguing and get him more punishment!
Sahadevan, right?
Yes.
"A husband who makes his devoted wife suffer will not prosper,
even if he is a true devotee of God."
Have you heard this song?
Do you also play 'Antakshari'?
Silence!
You must follow the court etiquette, okay?
Sorry.
Thank you, Your Honour.
This is the court.
Only give answers to the questions. Got it?
Nodding won't do.
My question was whether you've heard that song or not.
-Yes. -Okay.
I sang two lines from that song not to play 'Antakshari' with you.
I don't have time for that.
It's the meaning of the lines that's important here.
Your Honour, my client endured brutal harassment
during just ten days at her husband's house.
Extend your hands, Sahadevan.
What is this? Are you going to embrace me?
I asked you to extend them like this.
What happened, Sahadevan?
Your hands are shivering.
Did your advocate stop your morning 'quota' because you had to be at court?
Your Honour,
when the alcohol levels in the body of a regular drinker drop,
their hands begin to shiver like this.
I can understand your problem.
Lower your hands now, Sahadevan. Else, they may shake more.
Your Honour,
when this marriage proposal was brought up,
my client's family had just one condition.
A man with no bad habits, capable of taking good care of their daughter.
But Sahadevan is a notorious individual who took a large dowry from my client,
demanded more,
physically abused her when he didn't receive it,
and even made her starve for days as further harassment.
Your Honour, when my client could no longer endure the harassment and left,
the respondent lacked the basic courtesy
to even call and check if she had reached home safely.
Say something!
He's such a cruel person, Your Honour.
Objection, Your Honour!
What did you just say?
That... Objection, Your Honour.
Silence.
It's not you who has to say that.
It's your advocate.
I don't have any hope that she'd say that.
Your Honour, there's already an advocate on the legs of the client.
Let her argue.
It's not a social assembly for co-arguing!
As his advocate has nothing to say, let's hear what he has to say.
As you wish, Your Honour.
I don't know court etiquette.
Please forgive me if I make any mistakes.
The advocate stated that
when my wife, unable to endure my harassment, left my home,
I didn't even bother to call and check if she had reached her home safely.
Sir...
Nayana left my home
without a single word to me or my family.
That too, with her father.
And
the advocate said that I didn't even call my wife once after that.
The interim order from the same advocate clearly states that
I am prohibited from meeting, speaking to,
or attempting to harm Nayana,
whether at her residence or in public places.
Sir,
when such an order is there,
wouldn't it be against the law if I called her?
Also,
how can he say that
the hands shiver only when alcohol levels drop in the body?
Even when one gets scared,
won't their hands and body shiver?
Objection, Your Honour.
The hand shivering caused by alcoholism
and the tremor caused by fear and anxiety.
The signs are entirely different.
To my knowledge, this is a case of absolute alcoholism.
I have already mentioned this in the petition.
Have you produced any medical certificates?
No, Your Honour.
Objection overruled.
Continue speaking.
The advocate stated that I took dowry and demanded more.
If he's talking about the jewellery Nayana wore during the wedding,
can the advocate prove that she wore it as per my demand?
Can you, advocate?
Your Honour, had she known that something like this would happen,
my client would've shot the video of Sahadevan demanding dowry.
Means, there's no proof.
You can proceed.
Vishwan sir got clean-bowled!
So, instead of accusing me of demanding dowry,
shouldn't Nayana and her family, who brought such a large dowry to my home,
also be considered culprits here?
The hundred sovereigns of gold have already been returned to them
at the police station.
Are you done?
No, sir. Not yet.
I've learned that I've been charged under another section as well, 498A.
When I looked up in Google about it,
I learned that it is a law designed for the protection of women.
But the line next to it states that
when a hundred cases are registered under this section in India,
24 of them are found to have no substantial merit
and are rejected by the court.
This section is for the protection of women, sir.
Not for ruining the lives of men.
I feel compelled to say this.
When this woman, who stayed in my house for just ten days,
leaves for her home,
the court is asking me to pay an alimony of
6000 rupees per month.
Does this look like 'protection of women'?
Great!
A father filed a case to see his own daughter
and got approval from your court.
When the respondent's advocate and his wife's family
falsely accused the father of being cruel and mad,
his daughter cried, saying, "I'm scared of Papa!"
Unable to even touch her, Peter sadly left, only able to see her from a distance.
Doesn't Peter too deserve justice?
Makkar Ikka gave his son's job and insurance money
to his daughter-in-law after his son's death.
When he was about to lose his sole shelter,
ended his life in a piece of rope. We had to witness that.
Don't react to it.
Because it's a man who died.
In our society, marital issues are solved
in just a half-an-hour episode of a TV show.
Yet, most of the people gathered here
have been coming to this court for over two years.
That's the truth, sir.
Sir, no woman should ever be harassed under any circumstances.
Not all men are good.
The same goes for women as well.
We speak of Sita Devi's greatness from the 'Puranas',
but the story has Surpanakhas too.
We shouldn't forget it.
Where do you work, Sahadevan?
I'm a temporary employee at the cooperative society.
Better go study LLB. You have a bright future in it.
For the time being, attend one more counselling session.
27/05.
Heard that you were the shining star at court today.
I'm burning inside, Madam.
People will see it as shining.
Did Nayana say anything?
She's hesitant to open up.
What do you think, Sahadevan?
Do you think she's having an affair with anybody?
Not to my knowledge.
You still love her the same, don't you?
My world is quite small, Madam.
My family, home,
friends...
It's been a long time since someone new entered my life.
But...
why did you feel that Nayana could be having an affair?
Oh, no! We can't really confirm that.
Just an intuition.
I feel that she has some commitment to somebody.
Commitment?
Though you lived together for ten days,
you said that she didn't even let you touch her.
Perhaps that's why Nayana remains silent on several questions.
I'll tell you clearly after the next session.
Okay.
Okay, Madam.
Hadn't you printed this?
I already kept it in there...
The copy of the title deed--
One minute.
Then we will submit it in court.
Let's see what the court has to say.
Got it? Okay.
Okay, sir.
Hey, Sahadevan.
I'm telling you, sir.
Don't assign my case to people like her from now on!
Please sit. Let me explain.
He ridiculed me in front of a whole crowd.
That woman who always quotes the law here,
didn't even utter a word in court.
Please sit, Sahadevan. Let me explain.
Please.
It was a mistake from my end.
I heard that Vishwan won't be appearing today,
and decided to send the junior advocate to get the next sitting's date.
I didn't expect Vishwan to do such deceit.
I swear.
So how did the counselling go?
She said Nayana is behaving this way due to her commitment to somebody else.
Who said that? Ayesha?
Sir, if she's into an affair,
she too should be cross-examined in court.
Listen, Sahadevan.
If we cross-examine Nayana in court and ask about her affair,
will she accept it?
Huh?
When the advocate accuses a man of something,
it is his responsibility to prove if it is false.
But if a woman is accused of something,
the court will ask if there's solid evidence.
That's how the system works here.
Well...
Do you have any evidence with you, Sahadevan?
Sir... I got to know about this only when Ayesha madam told me today.
You try to find some evidence.
If you get some kind of a clue,
I'll settle this case in the next sitting.
I'll call Ayesha.
Okay?
Hey.
Huh? What?
I took you shopping so that you can relax a bit.
I am alright.
Yes, try to look a bit more sulky and say you're fine.
Aren't you the daughter of Mr. Pillai?
Yeah.
When I got to know about your situation, I felt very bad.
Shouldn't you have investigated thoroughly before proceeding with a wedding proposal?
You did the right thing.
People like him should be taken to court and humiliated publicly!
What was the problem? Was it alcohol? Drugs?
Or did the guy have any extramarital affairs?
Anyway, should we leave? There's a bit of a rush.
Same here. We'll catch up later.
Bye. Come.
She must be having some extramarital affair too.
Otherwise, why would she ditch her husband like this?
Hey! Caught anything?
Yeah! Caught a heartbroken lover!
Did you get the booze?
Booze? At this hour?
What's the occasion?
She's having an affair with some guy, it seems.
Is that true?
The counsellor madam told me.
You listened to her and came here?
Wasn't she at the court? You could've asked her.
Madam told me this after she left.
And what have you decided?
When I told the advocate, he asked me to bring some proof.
What proof?
Don't get on my nerves!
Nobody's gonna bring you any proof. You gotta go and look for it.
Don't let her prosper by ruining your life.
It's you who has a problem in going to Nayana's hometown, right?
We'll go and enquire. What if we find something?
Where are you going now?
Let me go and bring half-a-litre.
I can't stand this.
That's a good idea.
Let me catch some fish for the side dish.
Where were you yesterday?
You could've told us before going.
You weren't available on the phone too. We were so worried.
-Where's your phone? -It got turned off.
What's the update on the case?
Jayan, the register was not there at the counter.
It's in the secretary's cabin.
He has asked you to meet him.
Secretary?
Who is that?
Isn't that post vacant?
You'll get to know these updates only if you come to the office sometimes.
Weren't you on leave for a few days?
I tried calling you.
Is it? I was a bit busy.
Hasn't the manager come?
So you didn't hear anything?
The manager was asked to take compulsory leave.
Reforms by the new secretary!
Let me go meet him.
Sir...
Sit.
No, I wanted to meet you...
Sit down.
I heard from someone here that you're in a bit of trouble due to the case.
So, how many cases are filed against you?
Three.
I checked your attendance.
You've taken seven leaves this month.
Plus five public holidays, including the second Saturday.
So in total, you were absent for twelve days.
Many of these cooperative societies are a headache for our government.
It's not like I'm all that interested either.
But how can I not listen when the party asks me?
Sir...
If it is about the leaves...
I'll be more careful.
No need, Sahadevan.
You know you're in a temporary post, right?
The board rejected your job confirmation request sent by the manager.
Since you have cases against you, we can't confirm your job.
But... without any prior notice...
We don't need that to terminate someone from a temporary post.
There's a cheque with a small amount in this envelope.
Let the cases be resolved first.
When a new vacancy arises,
we'll consider you with retrospective effect in service. Okay?
Before terminating you...
Eh?
Before terminating you, don't they discuss it with you?
Blame it on my bad luck.
Remember that comrade I swore at the other day?
He's the new secretary.
Did you inform your mom?
No.
I'm wondering if I should.
Better don't.
She may not be able to handle all these mishaps.
My good days are gonna start tomorrow, mom said.
Good day? But isn't tomorrow a Saturday?
Ugh! Good days!
As per astrology!
The astrologer said to my mom I'll be climbing heights once it begins.
Listen... You go to Deshvasi's shop.
This isn't the last job in the world, right?
We'll find another job for you.
No, man.
Gotta visit the family temple in the evening.
Mom's been asking me to, since long.
Let me drop you at your home then.
Come quickly!
Your mother's rush makes it seem like
the goddess herself is finishing her shift here and heading to the next temple.
'Chuttuvilakk' offering.
One ghee ritual.
-Sahadevan, Malayalam star sign- Atham. -Okay.
'Niramaala' offering, Sahadevan, Atham.
Oil offering, Sahadevan, Atham.
'Shatrusamhaaram' Sahadevan, Atham.
'Bhagyasooktham' Sahadevan, Atham.
-'Aghoramantram'. -Aghoramantram.
Sahadevan, Atham.
In addition to these, there's 'Nelppara',
'Ellupara' and 'Manjalpara'.
If you perform those too, your wish will come true more quickly.
-Shall I include them? -Of course, please do.
Advocate!
Please, don't make a scene here.
You all go ahead. I'll join you.
I was worried you'd create a scene when I saw you earlier.
Oh, no! Didn't you let go of all that, Advocate?
That... the insult I faced at the court that day
I said those things in a fit of temper.
Actually, I've been meaning to apologise to you when I see you.
Why are you here?
You weren't expecting to see me here like this, were you?
The money I make as a junior lawyer
barely covers the rent and electricity bills.
That's why...
Leave that. What's the update on your situation, Sahadevan?
Going great! Three cases in my name,
and I've lost the only job I had.
So yeah, I'm completely free now.
Oh, no! What happened to your job?
I lost it. That's all.
Any news about Nayana?
I'm thinking of heading to her college and hostel in Palakkad.
Who knows? I might stumble on something there.
It's about to start there.
-Let me go there. -Okay.
Are you going the day after tomorrow?
Yes.
[Sarppam Pattu ritual song]
A mayhem mashup, a tangle of trials
A web of chaos, awkward and wild
Tie the sacred knot, and lo,
A lifetime of troubles begins to flow
In a man’s world, a sickness spreads
Echoing whispers of the dead
While women's gleams like gold divine
Yet it drains your soul, with its serpentine tongue
Step aside, O dear, Let me pass, set me free
Where's the cardamom trader Rajashekaran Pillai's house?
It is quite nearby.
-Where is it? -I didn't have change earlier.
How much did you say it was?
They were looking for you.
A mayhem mashup, a tangle of trials
A web of chaos, awkward and wild
A muddled mess, a swirling haze
Do you know Rajashekaran Pillai's house?
He married his daughter off to Anthikkad.
Aren't you from this town?
Oh, you are.
Then let it be. I will come now.
Advocate, do you have a driving license?
Yes, I do.
Drive the car for a while.
I have a license, but I don't actually know how to drive.
So, this is another skill you don't know.
Venomous words, A deadly brew like fire
'SUICIDE RATE OF HUSBANDS RISING IN KERALA'
No home left, just streets in view
Arrows rain down on me from all sides
Struggles lie ahead, waiting at every turn
This agony is mine to bear, a path I cannot avoid
Goddess, please guide me to the shore beyond
Arrows rain down on me from all sides
Struggles lie ahead, waiting at every turn
This agony is mine to bear, a path I cannot avoid
Goddess, please guide me to the shore beyond
Can you please wait outside?
Take the car. To Holy Mary College.
Give me some peace of mind, o my!
Nayana has a best friend.
You guys go to the office room and meet Davis.
I'll let him know.
-Excuse me? -Yes?
Davis?
Please wait.
In a man’s world, a sickness spreads, Echoing whispers of the dead
While women's gleams like gold divine
Yet it drains your soul, with its serpentine tongue
Thank you, sir.
Step aside, O dear, Let me pass, set me free
Step aside, O lady, Let me go, let me be
Based on the address we got from the convent, the house is in Palakkad.
Kulappulli.
But it'll be dawn by the time we go there and come back.
So?
Won't it be too late for you?
Are you worried it'll be difficult for me?
It's fine. Let's meet her and head back.
I don't see anybody around. Is this the house?
This is the only house with a tiled roof around here.
Let's check.
There's light inside.
One minute.
Hello.
We just reached here. What's your updates?
Who is it?
I came to see you, Suhana.
I need to talk with you.
At this hour?
Man, one minute. I'll call you.
Brother,
I was sure you'd come looking for me.
But I didn't expect it to be this soon.
And this is?
I'm Sahadevan's lawyer.
Anila.
I don't know the right and wrong in what I'm going to say.
Suhana, what we need to know is...
About your wife's extramarital affair, isn't it?
I don't have the answers to your questions, brother.
Also, you and your lawyer didn't come here to see me
to bring Nayana back into your life.
You came to track down Nayana's lover
and settle scores for the humiliation you faced in court.
Isn't that right?
Nayana and I may have lived in different conditions.
But
our stories are the same.
From childhood,
I watched my mother's tears and heard her cries.
I never felt love for my father
but only fear.
Huh?
Didn't you promise you'll bring it?
Hey, where is it?
I'll kill you.
-Just think of our daughter. -Mom...
My mother,
unable to endure the beatings from my drunk father, fled to her house.
But my uncle and grandfather told her,
time and again,
to endure it all in silence, for her daughter's sake.
Because of that, I didn't just
come to despise my father. I began to hate all men.
And this…
this was a gift my father gave me as well.
But what happened in Nayana's life...
Sir, I was abused in my life
from the teacher in town, who taught me the saying,
"Gurur Devo Bhava" (The teacher is God).
Unable to tell anyone anything,
two girls lived carrying a deep, seething hatred for all men.
When they met at college,
when they started to live together at the hostel,
they made a decision.
To remain friends, for life.
Here, once their studies are over, girls are simply married off.
Then, their life revolves around caring for their husbands and children.
Our plan was to join a course in the Netherlands and escape from all this.
It was then I received your wedding proposal.
To raise the funds we needed to study abroad,
we saw this marriage as a way out.
This statement may be noted and recorded, Your Honour.
That's all, Your Honour.
Opposite counsel.
My client withheld these details
from me and the honourable court.
I apologise for that, Your Honour.
Sahadevan, what's your decision?
Sir,
we often say that weddings are made in heaven.
But no one realises we are the ones who should create that heaven.
Even when we say it's her living conditions that made Nayana do this,
when she enters someone's life, carrying the baggage of her past,
even before adapting to the conditions there,
she starts defending herself with prejudice.
No one understands that situations change.
When laws like Section 498A are thrown at a man's family,
they shouldn't forget that a mother and sister exist there as well.
The law deems accepting dowry a crime,
but when a bride arrives covered in excessive jewellery.
it remains silent.
What was called inheritance at the time of the wedding
becomes dowry when a case is filed.
Many who scream for equal rights
only seek personal gains when it reaches the courts.
Many who enter marriages, publicly opposing dowry
later fight for the man's wealth during a divorce.
After the wedding, the wife can claim
the house and land in the husband's name.
After divorce,
50% of his wealth
is for the woman who was his wife.
And up to 25% of his salary as monthly maintenance.
Has anyone thought why this is the case?
Most of the time, only women are portrayed as victims before the law.
Is this equal justice?
If you take the number of divorced individuals who commit suicide,
when 45,000 women take their own lives,
the number of men is more than double that.
To be precise, it is
1,18,979.
The law and the goddess of justice, walk in the dark, unaware that times have changed.
These are the issues we face.
Everyone has the right to live the life they dream of.
But,
that shouldn't come at the cost of someone else's dreams.
We need to fight for our dreams.
But where should we start? That's the issue.
If Nayana had shown the same courage she has now, earlier on,
the people who stood by me wouldn't have suffered.
Just as Nayana and Suhana decided they don't want Sahadevan in their lives,
I too don't need you in my life.
Also,
you need to withdraw the three cases filed against me.
I too have the right to live.
Therefore,
I request the court to agree to a mutual divorce.
If that is the case,
both parties can file a joint petition for divorce.
Sir.
Sahadevan,
for the first time in my life,
I feel I was wrong to take up a case.
I'm not just an advocate.
I'm also the father of a son.
You don't need to tell me anything.
If you want to say something, talk to my lawyer.
Dear, please listen to me.
You've been scaring me long enough with your police job.
Get lost!
I'll have you fired. Mind it.
-What happened, sir? -You?
Your damn story!
I told my wife everything at a vulnerable moment.
When she asked about Section 498A, I explained it casually.
Now, I have four cases in my name. Four!
Dear... my dear...
Sahadevan.
Aren't your problems solved now?
What's the plan now?
The point where I lost my life...
I need to start again from there.
Check the noose, okay?
To someone who escaped from a much bigger one,
don't talk about the noose, Dad.
[Newspaper reports about women exploiting the law]