Thaniyavarthanam (The Repeating Rhythm)
(chanting prayers) Narayana... Narayana...
(continues chanting)
Where are the kids? It's 5 PM. Do they even intend to pray?
Narayana... Narayana...
Hey, they told us not to go upstairs.
If both grandmas find out, you're in trouble.
Why are you going there? Come back!
I told him not to go.
Do I need to remind you both to pray every day?
Mom, was it uncle singing just now?
Go on, Grandma is calling you.
Uncle's voice is still so soothing...
Oh! My hand is aching.
How long have I been at this?
These days, it's just a small affair.
Back in our time, the rituals lasted an entire week.
We'd lay out carpets and powder rice and turmeric.
Those were different times.
The parts weren't divided.
We'd receive around 3,000 buckets of paddy as tenancy payment.
But now,
Balan struggles to manage even a single day's expenses.
Still, what's the use?
Oh, God...
How can we not deserve this?
We displeased Goddess Kaali.
The idol was thrown into the well.
Why was it thrown into the well?
Arrogance. What else?
Couldn't find any other place to play.
And what happened? He went mad and died.
Generations have passed, many men were driven mad and killed this way...
Her anger is still not over.
How many sacrifices and vows we made...
year after year, we performed rituals.
But did the curse go away?
Now, one is upstairs, going through hell.
Grandma, will I also go mad?
Oh, Goddess... Devi... please save my child...
Narayana... Narayana...
(chanting continues)
Oh, it's you? Be seated.
Kids, put out the lamp and go inside.
Tell your grandma that Raman Karthav has come.
So, how are things? Do you still treat patients?
Not going well.
People don't seem to need a village doctor these days.
Now, everyone's focused on pills and tonics.
Still, can these pills and medicines compare to your gooseberry sauce?
How Sreedharan was going mad...
Only your medicinal head wrap could control him.
By the way, how is he now?
What can I say... He doesn't speak.
For two days now, he's been making some noise and singing.
Who knows how long this will last.
Yeah... Who knows who's next?
Only Balagopalan and Gopinathan are left in the generation as males, right?
We can't skip the ceremonies just because we don't have the money.
Let things go as they should. We'll manage somehow.
I've arrived.
You always arrive at midnight.
Here, I'm not going in. I'll come back in the morning
Eat something and go, Gangadharan.
No, I'm leaving.
It's dark. Don't you need light?
No, I don't need it.
Balagopalan... - Yes.
Did you buy the Ayurvedic herbal oil for me?
No, I forgot.
You'll forget.
You don't even remember I exist.
My legs are hurting.
Where's Hari?
He's asleep.
Manikutty!
Come here.
Where's the girl?
Where has she gone? Sumithra!
Come on, don't disrupt the routine.
Raman Karthav is no stranger.
Take it, girl.
No proposals came for her?
Many came. Nothing worked out.
Now there's one somewhat working out.
They say they're not superstitious about the illness.
It's all up to fate.
No matter what you say about the curse,
no girl in this family hasn't been unfortunate.
Everything will be alright.
Did he finish his meal? - Yes, he did.
Uncle seems happy today.
And then?
And then, huh?
Look at him, his sleep vanishing the moment you started narrating the story.
Tell the rest, Dad.
Yeah... as soon as he took the ruby from his belt and showed it, the monster lost its vision.
Then the prince drew his sword and slashed!
Off went the monster's head.
The prince didn't lose his vision from the ruby?
You little fool! There's no room for questions in stories!
And then?
Then, the prince married the beautiful princess, and they lived happily ever after.
The princess is THAT beautiful?
Of course. The epitome of beauty.
Just like your mother.
Dad, will we both go mad?
Who told you that? - Grandma!
Lies! Absolute lies.
All her stories are lies.
You shouldn't believe any of them.
Where were you? Do you know what time it is?
Gopi is here. Get him something to eat.
But Mom is here!
Mom will argue with him, and he'll stop eating halfway. You go.
You must be eating...
No, I'm taking a bath.
Do you have to roam around until midnight?
Why can't you come back a little earlier?
What's there to do here? I just want to escape.
To where?
Somewhere.
Hell is better than here.
Why are you chuckling?
I'm tired of this sister-in-law... superstitions, traditions, madness...
They're from the old generation.
So what? Why do that ritual every year?
To announce everyone that this house is full of mad people?
Or is it to make us play the part of the mad lads of this generation?
Just remember, there's a girl here who's still unmarried.
Kumaran... - Yes.
Did you weave the coconut fronds? - No.
Then when will you? - Going to.
Cut leaves from the low yielding trees. - Ok.
Need more Jungle Geraniums.
Then get more.
It won't come on its own.
You can find them at Shankaran Nair's house. - Okay.
Balan! - Yes.
Here's 500 Rs. Will it be enough? - Yes.
This...
You don't need to know where it's from.
Let things proceed as planned.
The only thing I'm low on is money.
But no one should keep account of it in this family.
Stay away. Don't go near him.
Sreedharan, don't make any noise. You know what happens when you do.
Not with Karthav!
You'll get a good beating!
Now get up.
Walk.
Walk you!
Walk, I said!
Now, walk.
Where's Gopi?
I called him. He said he's not coming.
Ask him to come. Does he want the curse upon him? Call him.
Aren't you coming?
No. I don't want to participate in this tragedy.
I'm surprised that even you can't see the consequences!
I understand, Gopi.
Uncle, Mother, everyone... they're doing this thinking it's for our own good.
Do you really think anything good will come out of this? If not bad things?
I know that too.
But... their beliefs... can't be changed.
We know it's all superstition,
so none of this will affect us.
Let's just not oppose them, to avoid hurting them.
I can't. If I go mad because of it, so be it.
My friend Vinod Kumar says that...
...Goddess Kaali was able to kill Darikan (a demon) only because he let her. Is that true?
No way.
Kaali fought a war with Darikan and defeated him before chopping off his head.
We can't show all that in a play, so it might look like Darikan let her.
Can I tell you something? - Go ahead.
Don't call me 'Manikutty' in school.
Why?
The others mock me!
'Manikutty'... what a bad name!
That's a name you give to cats.
Then what should I call you?
Anitha M. Balagopal.
So... Mrs. Anitha M. Balagopal...
Why restrict it to just school? We'll call you Anitha M. Balagopal at home too.
That's not necessary. At home, you can call me Manikutty. - Okay.
How are you, Abdu Ikka? Does your son write to you?
It's been more than a month since he last wrote.
The news says there's some riot over there in North India.
Master, please write a letter for me.
Will do. Come by my house in the evening.
So... Mrs. Anitha M. Balagopal, carry on. I'll join you after having some paan.
Heard that Naana Kurupp's Kaali play went really well.
Yeah.
So, Master, how about a strong tea?
I just had paan.
Put the paan's price on my tab.
I'm off, Narayanan. It's getting late.
Listen, Master... is Gandhi Ji still alive?
Which world are you living in?
No, the newspaper says Gandhi lost.
That's about Gandhi University. They lost a football match.
I'm a bit late.
As if you ever come on time!
You waste your mornings chatting with cats and dogs.
How will you ever reach on time?
Look, you're the only one spitting paan on that wall, turning it red.
Why pick up such bad habits at such a young age, Balan Master?
It's not a habit.
Just one paan in the morning.
After tea during the break, one cigarette.
At lunch, one smoke and another paan.
Then at night. That's it.
Anyway, I have work. I need to check the kids' drawing books.
Master, I need a favor.
To write the pay bill, right?
You've been HM here for so long,
and you still don't know how to write a pay bill?
I'm a bit weak in math.
Hmm. Hand it over. I have classes in the second period.
We drawing teachers live such miserable lives.
Everyone thinks we have it easy...
But not only our own job, like you can see...
...we end up doing the work of office clerks, peons, and even pregnancy!
Pregnancy?
Yes!
I have to take the classes missed because of Eliamma Teacher's pregnancy leave.
Silence!
Look here... a kit and a kid.
This kid was flying a kite.
The kite soared higher and higher into the sky.
The kid carefully loosened the string, according to the wind.
But the kite wanted to go higher, travel among the stars, and reach the moon.
And then... a bird flew by.
What bird, Master?
What's your favorite bird? - Parrot!
Alright, a green parrot it is.
A parrot flew by.
It was shocked... a paper kite flying so high?
The parrot congratulated the kite: 'Good job! Even birds can't fly this high!
Then... the kite, full of arrogance, replied:
'I can fly ever higher!
You see that string, and that kid holding the string?
If it weren't for him and this string, I'd have already reached the moon!'
The parrot's eyes widened.
She asked: 'If that's the case, let me cut the string so you can fly to the moon!'
The kite eagerly agreed. 'Yes, please! This kid is holding me back.'
So, the parrot cut the string.
And do you know what happened next?
The kite lost all control. It fell... down, down, down...
straight into a muddy pit.
The poor kid, watching this, started crying.
Good thing!
Why?
The kite was arrogant!
Kids... you are like kites, soaring high in the sky.
And we teachers are the ones holding your strings.
I'll let you fly as high as you want.
I'll guide you, according to the wind, and help you reach your moon.
But remember, the string isn't a barrier to your freedom
If you cut the string, you'll lose control and fall into the muddy pit.
Okay. Now, now let's do this drawing.
So, it's not just fruits and vegetables, you can actually paint proper artwork too.
I chose not to.
Just like you studied singing only to hum in the kitchen.
And even that stopped now.
Every corner of this house knows Sreedharan Uncle's voice.
As his niece, I can't ruin that legacy.
You wait and see...
This painting is going to be discussed nationwide.
There's even a chance for an Academy Award.
It's not even that great... it just looks decent. That's it.
You'll ruin the only mood I have. Why did you come here, anyway?
Can't you see? I brought rice gruel for Uncle.
Uncle! What are you doing?
Sreedharan Uncle, what are you doing?
His leg is bleeding!
Why are you hurting yourself?
Give the rice gruel.
Don't teach me how to farm. Just do as I say.
But Kozhiparambil Thankappan had a great harvest last year...
When did that Kozhiparambil guy even start farming?
The entire Thottapalli farmyard...
from the South Railway Station to Malanchira Temple... was filled with rice seeds.
That land still works best for rice.
90 cents from Marathempalli is left,
rice is the way to go.
Now hurry to the farmyard.
But... we still need to pay the manure guy. Will he work otherwise?
Tell him we'll pay soon.
Tell him that the family's busy with rituals, so money is tight.
We can explain things to him...
but not to the goddess.
Did you take your medicines? - Yes
Make sure you do, or it'll all go to waste.
We'll end up repeating everything.
It's for your own good.
And remember, you don't have any sons to look after you.
Devootty has come.
Should I serve some rice gruel? - Okay.
Brother, there hasn't been any response from the Thrissur proposal.
What's there to respond? They'll come on the date they fixed.
Everyone's hopeful about it.
Balan even managed to arrange some money from his PF and all...
But if this doesn't work out... - It will!
The goddess won't let the women in this family go unlucky.
And... the groom's family already knows everything about us.
He isn't superstitious...
So we're not cheating anyone.
No woman from this family has ever gone mad.
Then what's the issue? - Still...
How many proposals have fallen through already?
Now she gets nervous just hearing about someone coming to see her.
By the way, Balan wanted me to ask you something.
But he was afraid you'd scold him.
Don't you think we should give her at least 8 sovereigns of gold?
Balan suggested selling 20 cents from the northern side of our land.
Are there any buyers?
Kozhiparambil Thankappan offered a good price.
Why are you laughing?
There used to be a jackfruit tree on that land...
...bursting with fruit like snail eggs.
Back then, jackfruits and mangoes were just for the crows and birds.
Thankappan used to sneak in to grab the ripe ones that fell.
One day, Dad caught him red-handed!
Thankappan ran for his life, jackfruit on his head, wearing nothing but his underwear.
What else to do... ask him to do as he pleases.
Thankappan is filthy rich.
Twenty thousand rupees is just...
Two bundles of cash for him.
Balan brother went there with a bag and all... it wasn't even big enough to keep on our lap.
When the documents were signed and handed over, brother's hands were trembling.
I didn't feel anything.
By selling like this, you two brothers will end up selling this entire ancestral home.
If buyers come, we will sell.
That's the only way to survive now.
Oh goddess! What's become of them? Selling the ancestral home?
He's just joking, mother.
I'm not joking. I mean it.
I even told Thankappan about it.
What are you saying?
If we get a buyer, we'll sell it, leave this place, and buy a house somewhere far away.
Otherwise, no one is going to prosper here.
One unwell person is still here. Upstairs.
That's the chain we need to break.
Admit him to a mental hospital...
or... or kill him...
...and end his suffering!
It's been ages since I heard you hum a tune.
Isn't your job done yet? You've been wandering around with that broom for so long!
Look at her, so thin and frail.
You should apply red sandalwood paste every day to her.
What do you want now, Uncle?
The water's already filled... you can enjoy your bath.
Everyone's feeling optimistic about this one.
They're coming from Thrissur.
What kind of payasam (pudding) do you like?
The one with dal or the one with rice flakes?
They're coming to fix a date.
He doesn't seem to care for horoscopes or those old stories...
Don't pick that up!
Leave it there.
Leave it.
Throw it away.
I said, throw it away.
Mother, please wash his hands.
And tell your mother to give another pappadam (snack). Go on, now
Why did you come here now?
Come along, I'll give you pappadams in both hands. Come on.
Balan...
Did they come?
They...
...won't.
The boy's uncles aren't agreeing.
They said they don't want to take the risk.
They've asked us to forgive... - Forgive them?
After giving her hope?
Didn't you say you'd wait for them at the railway station at 10:30?
They're not coming, apparently.
Why would they risk marrying into a house full of mad people?
Brother...
Did you eat? - Yes.
Why didn't you come to eat?
I will...
Why did you call me, brother?
That...
The Thrissur proposal...
...didn't work out, right?
Good thing...
Marriage isn't about ideals or sacrifices.
I've read stories about heroes marrying women from brothels...
not out of love, but pity.
That's all this would've been.
The only difference is, this isn't a brothel, it's a madhouse instead.
Good thing...
Let it go. It doesn't matter.
You'll have a good life.
Your marriage... I'll make sure it's grand.
I can't... I can't do this anymore!
How many men have I dressed up for?
I'm fed up! I'll endure anything!
I'll live my whole life like this.
But...
...not this humiliation. Not anymore!
Even if it's of no use, didn't we refuse to sell our barren cow to the butcher?
Still feeding it.
Just... show me that same mercy.
Keep on with these rituals and plays!
I'm branded a rogue for questioning things!
Here, Kaali and all these traditions are held higher than human lives!
One day, I'll bring an end to it all!
My gods! He speaks of defying the deities!
We're already suffering for what some ancestor did ages ago,
...and now you want to heap more ruin? - It should end!
Or none of us will ever prosper!
Is this fate our fault?
Yes, it is!
Don't act innocent.
I won't let any of you escape this cursed trap!
Great-uncle is the first person to be kicked out!
Gopi, that's enough!
Yeah, I don't have any rights here.
I'm not allowed to say anything, right?
There's a limit to what can be said.
Not just what can be said... there should be a limit to what's done as well!
Why is that man locked in a room, left to rot in agony?
It would be kinder to poison him and kill him!
Gopi! Stop. Don't forget that we're your family.
Doesn't Sumithra deserve freedom from all this, sister-in-law?
These children grow up surrounded by these horrors!
Should we preserve Sreedharan uncle's room for your son?
Or should Manikutty grow up to become a debt...
Gopi...
Are you really this soft?
The great revolutionary is crying?
No one here understands me.
Even my brother, that's what hurts the most.
Your brother understands everything.
He understands everyone. That's why he feels helpless.
We all just try to do justice to ourselves.
Not for him. He's carrying the weight of everyone here.
You think he doesn't feel pain for Sumithra?
No one truly knows the agony in his heart.
Here, he bought this for you.
Why do I need this now? - Why, huh?
To attend the interview.
I'm not going. - Why?
It's all just a sham!
The ones who pay the bribe they ask for are already selected.
The rest of us are just extras in their play. I won't be their clown.
You should go, Gopi.
My heart tells me you'll get this job.
And maybe... you can escape this cursed house.
If you can, save Sumithra too.
I'm trapped here, bound to this house and its burdens.
Sreedharan uncle...
Can you untie me?
I will.
What else do you want?
Do you want to go outside?
Back to the places where you carried me on your shoulders?
Or...
Do you want to be free from this chain forever?
Do you remember...
The nights we used to lie under the sky?
When the shooting stars came, you'd say our wishes would come true.
You told me to wish for a girl to be my future aunt. Her big eyes...
My idakka (drum)?
I'll get it. I've kept it safe.
I still remember her...
hair flowed down to her knees, big eyes...
How did she die?
By a snake bite.
One evening, when she went to light the lamp at the temple...
...she died on Sreedharan uncle's lap.
(Excerpts from Geeta Govinda) ~ Sri Jayadeva in service to Lord Hari (Krishna) ~
~ This hymn radiates supreme beauty ~
~ Sri Jayadeva in service to Lord Hari ~
~ This hymn radiates supreme beauty ~
~ With a joyous heart, Chant the name of Krishna! ~
~ Krishna ~
~ With a joyous heart, and a mind full of compassion for Hari ~
~ Bow to the path of virtue that leads to Him ~
~ The irresistible fragrance of musk overpowers ~
~ As garlands of fresh lotus blossoms adorn the Tamala tree ~
~ The god of love pierces the hearts of the youth ~
~ As their fingernails shine brighter than the sharp beak of a parrot ~
~ Chanting His name, lovers secretly meet ~
~ As the soft sound of flute plays sweetly ~
~ Even the smallest particle of dust touched by His feet is adored ~
~ Moved by the gentle breeze, even the dust becomes sacred ~
~ With loosened garments, as passion takes over ~
~ Clasping the waist, covering it shyly ~
~ On a bed of soft tender leaves, with lotus-like eyes ~
~ They find the treasure chest of joy and delight ~
~ His blue body smeared with sandalwood paste ~
~ Dressed in yellow garments, the Lord roams the forest ~
~ His playful movements adorned with jeweled earrings ~
~ And His cheeks glow with a gentle, captivating smile ~
Yuck!
Dad, Hari is eating toothpaste!
Did you, Hari?
You'll end up dark-skinned like your mother.
If you eat toothpaste, you become dark. If you eat charcoal powder, you'll become fair.
And what if I don't eat either?
What?
What if I don't eat either?
If you don't eat either, you'll become very smart.
Balan, is that the herbal oil? Give me some.
Grandma, it's just coconut oil.
It's been days since the herbal oil is finished!
You people don't care about me anymore! I just want to die.
Grandma, it's because I forgot. Indu, remind me tomorrow to buy her oil. - Okay.
Her? You don't remember, then how can she?
Grandma, I'll remind him.
(prayers for the departed soul)
So, Sreedharan is also gone...
What a fate!
Twenty-four years in chains...
no peace even after his death, they had to cut him.
Now, it's just Balan and that other guy left in this generation as males, right?
Wonder who'll be next. - Don't say unwanted things.
It's not unwanted talk!
She doesn't forgive so easily.
Even after cutting Darikan's head off, her anger didn't subside.
It only calmed when her father (Shiva) intervened.
And that was only after she accidentally stepped on her father's chest.
Just wait. She'll appear soon.
(prayers for the departed soul)
Brother...
Go eat something.
Gopi...
Sreedharan uncle wouldn't have died...
I'm the reason.
When I opened the door, not even in my wildest dreams did I imagine...
Just believe it's for the good.
Not just for Sreedharan uncle, for everyone...
Should've happened sooner...
That chain of curse ends here...
Isn't your interview today?
Yes... to go, I have to take the night's train.
You should. You shouldn't skip that.
Come.
Where all did I search for you...
Come... eat something before sleep.
Let's take solace in the fact that he's gone.
No more suffering...
But now, thinking about Balan and Gopi...
The goddess won't do anything to them.
Did Gopi leave? - Yes.
Goddess, please protect him.
Mother!!
Baletta!
Baletta! Baletta!
Balan!
Open the door, dear.
What's it, dear?
Balan... son...
Balan! My son!
Brother...
Son... Balan...
What happened to you? Balan!
Water...
I just had a bad dream...
Oh goddess!
Did you do it to him too?
Hasn't your anger subsided yet?
My dear son... Balan.
What's this, Mother? Why are you crying? I'm okay.
Brother...
All these rituals... and nothing has changed.
I said I'm okay!
Son...
I'm okay, Mom. It was just a dream.
Come. Come. - Brother! My son!
Everyone walk out.
Come on.
Were you scared, Indu?
I just dreamt of Sreedharan uncle. Don't cry.
Did you get scared too?
Your father is alright.
Don't cry, Indu.
Don't cry so loudly...
He'll feel worse.
The goddess won't do anything to him.
But the astrologer said Sreedharan was the last one... Oh, god!
You calm down.
We'll check again.
The goddess... won't let anything happen.
Gangadharan, this is how it started with Sreedharan too.
Why don't you keep quiet?
I'm not talking!
No one ever listens to me. How else will this curse end?
We'll call astrologer again.
What do you say?
It's not gone yet.
It's a Karikataka (Cancer) issue.
Jupiter in the 12th house, Moon in the 6th, Mars in the 8th...
This alignment spells big trouble!
Delirium, suffering for the offspring, discord among relatives...
...and so on are expected!
A tragic end is what I see.
A remedy...
Is it not impossible?
Nothing lacks a solution.
Let's see.
How much is it, Narayanan?
Three logs of puttu, one chickpeas curry, and tea.
One, ninety-five.
Looks like you had a big job today. Where were you?
Marathempalli.
Balan Master is unwell. - What happened?
The hereditary thing.
Brother--
Kumaran brother! Did you hear? - What?
It has started for our Balan Master. - What?
Kuttan brother! Have you heard this?
When I speak, everyone just sneers at me. Now look...
What even happened?
Just because he had a bad dream? No one else dreams in this world?
Everyone dreams, but this is different.
My great-uncle started like this, the same with Sreedharan!
And no one noticed. Isn't that also of dream?
We can't let Balan fall into the same fate. We must do whatever it takes for a solution.
Those rituals, right? I won't let them happen here anymore.
So...
...you'd let Balan ruin himself, go mad?
If he goes mad because of that... then let him.
Did he leave? - Yes.
Did he eat something?
He said he only wanted coffee.
But he didn't stay to drink it.
Makes all the noise, but he's an innocent soul.
Did he say anything about the interview?
Apparently, it went well. He said maybe he'll get the job.
Hmm... Hope he prospers...
No one is taking this seriously.
They don't know who they're playing with.
Progressiveness has increased, and now they don't broom or light lamps in the temple.
Now even the rituals we conduct every year are ignored.
It is conducted only because of Gangadharan. Otherwise... Goddess, protect my child.
Don't worry, God won't do that to you.
The Goddess won't do anything to him.
But still... you be careful about him.
After Sreedharan's procedures, we should follow what the astrologer said.
For 41 days, he needs to bathe and pray in the bhajana at the Chottanikkara temple.
A statue should be offered for vows at the Kodungalloor temple. All of this we have to do.
Balan, isn't the post-cremation rites over? Now you should shave your hair.
I'll do it when I go to school tomorrow. - Should I take rice gruel for you?
Yes, after some time, I'm not hungry right now.
He won't be hungry. Sreedharan was also like this.
Oh, look who's here!
Come, come.
Why this way today? Sit down.
I was there at Sreedharan Nair's cremation.
You got him back quickly after the post-mortem, didn't you?
Yeah.
That's how it is...
The people we see today won't be there tomorrow.
But... do you have any doubts?
What doubts?
It was an accidental death, right?
Happened on its own... or did someone make it happen?
No, I was just wondering, nothing serious.
Still...
What I came for is...
Oh, I almost forgot. What is it?
Balan has started to show some symptoms. - What?
Not too serious... but he's been seeing bad dreams and seems a bit changed overall.
Jesus Christ... so the Goddess' curse, hereditary and all, is true?
We thought it had ended. But the astrologer says it's not completely gone.
If that's the case, why not show him at a mental hospital? It can be treated.
It's not that serious. We're already taking the necessary steps.
I just wanted you to keep an eye on him when he's at school.
I can tell you this because I trust you.
Of course!
He won't attack anyone, will he?
No... don't worry. I'll look after him.
Hey, yeah.
This is Balan master's uncle. Master's showing signs of madness, apparently.
Haven't I told you about Sreedharan Nair?
Yeah, make some coffee. - No need, I'm leaving.
And... please don't tell anyone about this. Keep it a secret.
Absolutely! Balan is like family to me.
Don't worry, no one outside will hear a word. It wouldn't be right.
See you, then. - Okay.
So, my little Manikutty will study hard and become... a big what?
A big doctor sounds good. And what about Hari?
He can be a lawyer. Two big nameboards in front of our house... I'll write them myself:
'Dr. Anita M. Balagopal, B.Sc, MBBS' and 'Advocate Haridas M. Balagopal, BA LLB'.
By evening, we'll be swimming in money. I'll have to build a big box to store it all.
When little uncle asks for cash, throw a bundle at him and say, 'Here you go!'
And half-kilo gold necklace for your mother.
As for me... I don't want anything.
Why are you so quiet? - It's nothing...
Then? Are you not feeling well?
What happened to you?
I said it's nothing.
Then why do you look so dull?
Usually, you ask me a hundred things every day.
What's happened to everyone today? Mom and kids... all acting the same.
Come. If you don't like what I'm saying, I'll stop talking.
Come.
You go ahead.
What's up, Manithyachan? Anything happen to Gandhi today?
You off somewhere? - Bit of a hurry.
It's me, Narayanan.
What's it, Narayanan? Some new practices?
Don't I know who you are?
My dear Narayanan, I only need glasses to read letters...
I don't have any other eye problems.
No, I... how about a tea?
Yes, sure.
Narayanan, is there any issue?
He has memory... he recognizes everyone.
It hasn't progressed, just the starting stage, right?
Narayanan, it's time.
Why are you out and about? I mean, why are you out this early?
To school. My leave is over.
Is it time to head back to school already?
Could've waited a few more days.
Right? - Yes.
Sreedharan uncle's procedures are all completed.
Now, why should I just sit idle at home?
It's not that... your mind could use some rest right now.
There's nothing wrong with my mind!
I know exactly what you're getting at!
Why did you put chuna in this?
It's for taste. - Don't I know my own taste?
Are you trying to mock me?
Come, sit.
I'm a bit late.
Doesn't matter.
Even if you don't come, it's no problem.
Why's that?
Well... don't make an issue of it.
Isn't coming to school as one pleases an issue?
No... just a compromise in your case.
Let's say because you're very important to us.
No such special considerations needed for me, okay?
Well, you can spit here instead.
Good morning, sir. - Good morning.
Sit down.
Today, I've brought a handful of flowers.
You might be wondering... why flowers in a drawing class, right? I'll tell you.
It's to understand your likes and dislikes when it comes to colors.
Shoba, come here.
Yes, you.
Yes. Come.
What is it, Master? - No... nothing.
You carry on with your class.
Come.
Here, we have all these flowers.
If I ask you to pick one you like, which would you choose?
Master! Master!
What's going on? - You continue.
No, I won't. You've been watching me for a while now.
What's the issue? Tell me.
It's nothing.
No. There's something.
Is my teaching not good? Or do you think I'm wasting time here?
Not at all. - Then what is it?
If I'm teaching wrong, tell me!
Or tell me how to teach, I'll do that.
But I don't like you sneaking around my class! I won't allow it... no matter who it is!
Master, you carry on.
Tell me, kid. Which flower do you like?
What's this? You're crying?
Tell... Which flower do you like?
There's hibiscus, Spanish cherry, oleander... Tell...
Are you scared? You're scared of me?
Yes. - Why?
Everyone's saying... that you've gone mad.
Madman! - Madman!
Madman! Madman! - Madman! Madman!
Who is it? Huh?
It's me, brother. Gopi.
Why are you lying here?
Gopi...
Am I going mad?
You're completely fine.
Everyone is treating me like I am.
At school... even the kids...
No. Don't let it get to you.
Everyone's just waiting to see who falls into their trap next.
No...
I won't let you be the next victim.
I've heated the water. - After some time.
Let the oil absorb.
Went to the ancestral home today?
Anything about Balan? - I didn't see him.
He hasn't come back all evening.
The whole village is talking.
All sorts of rumors...
Manikutty came home crying from school.
Some kid mocked her, it seems.
No one can escape their fate.
Damodaran Nair has a new reason to complain...
He never liked Indu and the kids staying here.
Her misfortune...
Is there a dog here? - Who is it?
Oh... it's you, Master? I wanted to meet you in person but couldn't.
Come, sit. - No, I won't stay long.
Balan...
...hasn't been acting differently, has he?
He has. A bit difference is there.
He never used to lose his temper...
Especially not with me. But today, he snapped at me!
He left school before 4 PM without informing anyone.
You should consider getting him treated elsewhere.
It would be best if he takes leave.
Why let people start talking?
How is he at home?
Around his wife and all...
So far, no issues.
But he's always lost in thought. And he's barely sleeping.
Thinking too much, huh?
Then it's a serious problem, Nair.
Balan...
Come to bed. Do you know what time it is?
I'll come.
Son, it's Friday. Don't sit alone...
You're not well, that's why I'm telling you.
At school, they call Balagopalan Master a madman.
And now the whole village is saying it too.
At least don't let me be one in front of Indu and the kids.
My dear son...
Nothing will happen to you.
The goddess won't abandon us.
I pray for you every day.
My only fault is loving everyone too much.
That's why I can never stand up to anyone.
Don't leave him alone.
Do you think I'm really unwell?
No. - That's all I need to hear.
Did Manikutty sleep?
The kids are sleeping with Grandma.
She's going to tell them a story, apparently.
Poor Manikutty... she must be scared...
...that her father will end up locked in Sreedharan uncle's room too.
Where did he go?
Looks like he went to the office.
Master... be careful. The way he was going didn't seem right.
Master...
Balan Master...
Why wander around when you're unwell?
Your family must be worried.
Please, just go home, Master.
I need leave.
And want to apply for a transfer. - That's a good idea!
Take a break for a year or two.
Get treatment from a good doctor.
For the mind, peace is the best medicine.
Nowadays, there are good treatments.
In Thrissur... Vallapuzha.
Here, just sign this.
I'll fill in the rest and send it.
Where should I request the transfer to?
Wherever the hell you want!
That's better. If it's close by... people won't forget so easily.
If it's far away...
I'm leaving, Master.
I'll send the medical certificate.
I won't be staying to bid farewell to anyone.
But do let them know.
Thank you, Master.
Thank you very much.
What's the use of saying how good a man he is...
...once madness strikes, everything is lost!
Still, I never imagined... even in my dreams... that Balan Master would end up like this!
You lost 10-30 rupees of business per month, right?
Enough with the laughing! Heartless people!
What wrong did we do? They've earned the cursed from generations. Let them suffer!
Oh! But can God's curse be so brutal?
Even now, I'm scared to walk alone at night near Malanchira Temple.
On Tuesday and Friday nights, after midnight, you'll hear...
Clang! Clang!
The sound of anklets!
Have you heard it? - No, but many have!
Oh... Master? What brings you here at this hour?
Hey Narayanan, just serve him what he wants. Why question the time and all?
Greetings, Master!
How much do I owe you? - We'll settle that later.
Should I get you some tea?
Here, take what you need, send the rest home.
So, Master isn't going to school anymore?
He can just sit at home and teach now, right? - Right!
Hey! Hey!
Let it be, Master. Just leave.
If he's unwell, put him in chains!
I don't care if he's from Marathepalli or if he's a Master!
For now, tie this thread.
It's just a protection... nothing more!
But all the rituals must be done on time.
Won't all the sacrifices and offerings cost a lot?
Forget about the expense.
Money isn't the concern. Balan is!
He is everything to us. Without him, we have nothing.
Gangadharan, we need to do the medicinal head wrap for him.
That too, only from Raman Kartha!
A hundred and one medicinal head wraps... half his illness will be gone!
Yeah, we will.
But first, the rituals.
Only then medicine!
You think the goddess' curse can be cured by medicine?
Not at all! - Then keep quiet.
The bhajana at Chottanikkara temple...
Should Balan do it alone, or...
This fate isn't just Balan's to bear.
It's best if he goes with his family.
Yes, even the child needs to be freed from this.
Indira...
The astrologer says you and the kids need to go to Chottanikkara too.
It's a complete experience there.
You'll find rooms for rent...
You can bathe and pray for 41 days.
And if you ever feel bored, there'll be songs... and all sorts of performance by madmen!
Gangadharan, I'll go too.
I can keep her company.
Why are you standing around here? Go!
Can you just be quiet?
Balan...
Take a bath, purify yourself, pray to the goddess... and tie this around your waist.
You'll only be at peace once you've put this curse on my head, right?
You'll all be satisfied only when I'm branded as mad and locked in chains, right?
Get up!
I don't ever want to see you here again!
What business do you all have here? - Balan...
Your Balan is not mad, Uncle.
Did you see that? Do you see the difference in him now?
He's never raised his voice in front of me before...
Where's father?
Everyone's saying that...
father is--
Why are you both sitting here alone?
Why are you crying? What happened, dear?
Tell your aunt... what's making you so sad?
Come on, tell me...
Is it true what everyone is saying? Is our father really mad?
If there's one person here who isn't mad... it's your father.
The rest...
The rest of them are the real mad ones!
In the end, all of you will drive my brother mad!
Only two people have stayed out of this... me and Sumithra.
Good to know! Now you both can rest easy.
Announce it to few people if you like!
I don't understand why you are part of this.
At least the others have excuses... 'old generation,' 'beliefs,'...
But what about you?
What do you expect me to do? Defy great uncle? Go against my mother-in-law?
It's not that I don't want to... but I am a married woman in this house.
You can shout all you want, but in the end, it's me and my children who will suffer the most!
They're going to destroy my child...
If he ends up locked away in Sreedharan's room, I won't stay alive!
That's why I'm telling you...
Stop all these rituals and offerings!
How is that possible?
I don't understand... but every day, I can see him changing. That's a fact!
What my brother needs right now... is peace of mind.
Can any of you give him that?
Or be ready to prepare Sreedharan uncle's room for him.
But on that day... Gopi will no longer be in this house!
Who's it?
Who is it?
Who's it?
Who was it?
Brother... it's me. Gopi!
Brother...
I couldn't sleep... That's why.
Brother, you should see a doctor.
Not for anything else...
It's just that your mind is filled with so many superstitions.
Just to get rid of it.
Also... what you need most right now is to get away from this place.
Let's go see Raghu.
He's no stranger.
What do you say?
Don't you recognize me, brother Balan? - Yes...
You've changed a lot.
And... how is everyone over there?
Nothing special...
Did you come to see me? Or just passing by on the way somewhere?
No, I came to see Reghu. - No way.
No one ever visits me except madmen.
The 'DPM' after my name is the problem. People think I only treat the insane.
No one from the village ever comes to see me.
And if they hear that someone did, they'll assume that person is mad too.
Sitting alone all day is boring, so I haven't taken a day off in a month.
But today, I'll take one. Let me just make a call.
Now, even I'm starting to wonder... maybe brother isn't normal.
Honestly, who is? We're all a little abnormal to an extend. Pathetic!
I really believe that if he gets away from this house and village, things will get better.
A consultation is needed, but not with a psychiatrist like me.
But with a psychologist.
For now, he can stay here a few days.
I'll consult someone for him.
And here, I can also watch.
Gangadharan... do you really think this can be cured with medicine and pills?
I thought at least you had some wisdom!
If we spent this money lighting lamps at the temple instead, at least that would do some good!
Can you just get up and leave?
Won't give me a moment's peace!
When I speak, you all find fault! You'll all suffer for this one day!
I've already seen three people chained up like this before...
Don't make me watch a fourth, dear goddess!
There's no milk.
Where did Gopinathan go after coming home?
Who knows... maybe to the library.
Should we send some money to Balan?
I heard Dr. Reghuvaran is Kuttikrishnan Nair's second son.
I remember him coming here with Gopi when they were kids.
I'm leaving...
I'll talk to Gopi if I see him at the shop.
Indira...
She must be feeling really sad, right?
She hasn't come out of her room...
But it's Hari Kuttan's questions that are breaking my heart.
Tell her to pray...
The goddess will show her mercy.
Goddess, save us...
Did Balan come? - No.
Then whose car is that?
Sister-in-law's father came.
What? Damodharan's?
Hmph! He's roaming around in a car these days?
Doesn't matter what car he comes in...
Everyone here knows the son of Elanjikkal Ramankutty.
Can you please keep quiet, Grandma? There's a limit to jealousy.
Jealousy? There was a time when his father wasn't even allowed to step into this house! A fraud!
Would never weigh the paddys right!
Always on the verge of tears when he came!
"Crops gone bad," "Ran out of water"... And with him, that scrawny little boy of his!
Never left the kitchen's side whenever they visited!
No matter how much we gave them, they stayed in poverty.
And now he thinks the people of Marathempally will shiver at the sight of his fancy car!
What's the use of bringing up these old stories?
No! We shouldn't forget these things!
Ever since he became related to our family, he doesn't have his feet on the ground anymore!
And because of Balan's stubbornness!
Otherwise, he wouldn't have dared to step foot in this house!
I said it back then... this house is cursed, and we don't need this alliance.
No one listened... and now look what's happened!
Balettan is fine. People are just talking for no reason.
The whole village is gossiping for no reason?
And the doctor at the mental hospital is treating him for no reason too?
Take whatever you need...
You and the kids are coming with me!
No, Dad! I won't leave! - That won't do!
I'll go only with you and the kids!
Wherever Balettan is, that's where I'll be.
Whatever fate has in store, I'll endure it.
I can't leave you in this hell, dear...
You're my only child.
Shouldn't we ask Balan...
What point in asking someone who's not in his right mind!
My daughter's life is ruined... Shouldn't I at least think about her kids' future?
When did you get here? - A while ago.
You've come to take Indira and the kids, haven't you?
Yes, Gangadharan brother.
At least for the children's sake... She refuses to see it!
I won't go, Uncle!
Dear, stay at your father's house for a few days.
You've been suffering through this for so long.
The kids need a break too.
Just pray to god that nothing happens to him.
When he returns... I'll let you know.
Manikutty, return fast dear...
I'll remember many stories for you.
Don't delay... Leave before Rahu kalam (inauspicious period) starts.
When he comes, will let you know.
Are you leaving sister-in-law?
Sister-in-law, appointment order! I'm going to be an employee.
The posting is in Calcutta.
Hmm... when are you leaving?
I have to join within two weeks.
If it's meant to happen, it'll happen before that. They said they'd come tomorrow.
The guy doesn't have many relatives... just an uncle.
And even that... a distant one.
What about his job? - They said he works in Bombay.
He's a little older than expected...
But if we keep waiting for the perfect match, her age will keep increasing too.
And this family's curse...
Shouldn't we ask Brother Balan?
Not now.
I told them she only has one brother.
Now because of that, what if this proposal falls through too?
The whole village is already talking.
Still... without letting Balan know...
No, Brother! - What else can we do?
Should she stay like this forever?
If it happens, let it happen.
We'll deal with the rest later.
He's right, Mother.
It's cruel...
But it is for Sumithra, right?
Brother will understand.
In a way... not having relatives is better, right?
Why aren't you saying anything?
Again, I have to dress up and stand there?
Then they'll find some fault... humiliate me...
I won't be a burden to anyone. To anyone...
If anyone feels that way, I know what to do.
Why are you talking like this?
Are you a burden to us?
Hey, listen... this will happen.
I'm sure of it.
Don't we have to get out of here?
Shouldn't we out of this cursed house?
I have a way out through this.
You can escape far away in the name of the job...
What about Big Brother?
You look happy today!
Yeah... Gopi sent a letter.
He got a job. Clerical post... in LIC.
Oh! Then today calls for a celebration!
But not information about Indu and the kids. Not one line.
"All's well at home." That's all he wrote.
Isn't that enough? - No. Not for me.
You do a lot to keep me happy, Reghu.
Movies, clubs, the beach...
But I don't feel any happiness.
I can't stay away from them. I want to go back.
Then let's go. I understand that feeling.
It's been a month since I've seen Rama... Haven't spoken to her since.
Let's go together. - Then let's.
Cooking is by her, right? It tastes great!
So... there's no time for another meeting now.
Let's schedule it for the next auspicious day.
Is that okay?
Do you need anything else arranged?
No need. - Don't have many leaves.
No need for a feast or too many people! Not many are coming anyway.
Don't you have an Almanac here? An Almanac?
Yes.
Here.
Who's this?
He...
Stays near...
He lives two houses away.
He's very close to us.
They have come with a proposal for Sumithra.
We were... proceeding with...
Things...
Be seated.
How exactly are you related to them?
Here... to the South...
Two houses away... as a tenant.
My native place is a little far.
I was on my way to home. Shall I leave...
Shall I?
My dear son...
Please forgive your mother!
It's alright, mother. It's alright.
Brother...
Gopi...
You made your brother a stranger?
You could've added one more line to the letter...
"Brother, don't come back."
It's for our Sumithra...
People are talking all sorts of things!
So we had to lie about you.
A good life for her... that's all we thought.
Good.
No need for a mad big brother.
It's good, Gopi.
Me, Indu, and the kids won't be a burden to anyone.
We'll leave from here.
Or else... all of you would put me in chains in Sreedharan uncle's room.
Dear...
Your big brother is happy.
The marriage should be grand.
Big brother... will be far.
You'll have all my blessings.
Don't cry, dear. Don't cry.
Where's Indu, mother?
She...
She and the kids were taken with him...
With whose permission?
I asked, with whose permission did he take them?
Brother... Brother agreed.
Who sent away my Indu?
The one who sent her... was me.
That...
Who are you to send them? Who are you?!
Balan... - You ruined me!
The one who made me mad!
Now you ruined my family too!
What wrong did I do to you?
That I loved you like a son? Or gave you unwanted authority here?
Now on, don't ever step on this house!
Get lost from here, you!
What's this... - Leave me!
No one say anything!
Everyone's against me! Everyone!
Balan! Son!
Everyone has alienated me.
Everyone...
We'll leave. Where's Indu?
Balan, leave!
Go home!
Uncle...
Indu is not here. You can't see her.
I want to see Indu and kids.
We'll leave
to somewhere...
Balan.. don't make things worse!
I said you go home.
No.
Indu!
Manikutty!
Harikuttan!
Indu! - Don't make noise! Get out!
Thulasi! Thommachan! - Leave me!
Indu!
Catch him!
Leave me! Leave me!
I just want to see my Indu.
Indu!
I've come!
Don't leave him!
Leave me!
Leave!
Don't touch me!
I'll kill!
Balan! Move away all of you! Move away I said!
Don't touch him! - Brother!
Dear... Balan...
Brother...
Dear...
You put that stone down. - I'll kill!
Brother... - I'll kill!
I'll kill! - Balan...
Don't come near, I'll kill you! - Listen to your uncle.
I'll kill you! - Brother!
Catch him. Don't leave him.
Indu!! Indu!!
Balettan! - Indu!
Balettan! Oh my god!
You stop there!
Go inside.
I said go inside.
Balettan!
Father!
Balettan!
Everyone, go inside.
Balettan!
Indu! Stop!
Come here!
Came here I said!
You go, Gopi. You have other things to handle. I'll stay here.
If you wait any longer, you'll miss the train.
And, Gopi... Don't mention this to anyone.
Let me observe him for a few days.
If he turns violent again, we might need to shock him once more.
You can take him home in three or four days.
A few extra days won't hurt.
His sister's wedding is coming.
At least until then...
But make sure you take him! Too many people promise and never return.
We don't have enough space here.
And every day, more madmen keep coming in. That's why.
Should we inform Indira?
And tell her what? That we all turned him like this?
If she and the kids can stay away from this curse, let them stay away.
Gopi... I need to see my son.
Please take me to him.
You will. You can look at him all you want... till the day you die.
Prepare Sreedharan uncle's room for him.
That's where he'll stay. Forever.
At the mental hospital... Do they tie medicinal head wraps?
Sumithra...
Don't think twice. This house is a cobweb.
Escape, while you still can. And never look back.
Or one day, even your children won't escape.
I need to see big brother.
I need to fall at his feet... And beg for forgiveness.
When he walked away like a stranger, I just stood there and watched.
Oh, God... - No, dear. No.
You shouldn't see that face.
Big brother won't be angry at you.
He won't be angry at anyone.
All his life... All he ever did was forgive.
To sister-in-law,
This letter is just a notice...
It's my wedding.
Though I don't know if calling it that is right.
Gopi brother had a better word for it...
An escape.
I don't know what kind of man he is.
No one does.
He could be a thief... or a murderer.
I had thought about ending my life.
But even that would become gossip for the villagers... A stain on the family.
So, I chose not to.
In the end, both are the same.
After today, we may never meet again.
Once, I begged big brother for the mercy he showed the old, barren cow.
But today... Who is left to ask for anything?
I offer my neck willingly.
Whether for a gentle hand... Or a noose.
Yours lovingly, Sumithra.
You have my blessings.
You must pray for big brother.
Oh goddess!
Oh no!
How will I bear this?!
Oh no! My son's face!
Oh no! - Mother...
Oh no!
How will I look at this face?
Oh no! My god! My child!
Mother...
Oh no!
Oh no! Brother!
Oh no! - Mother...
I can't bear this!
Back in the day, when I came with Father, we'd take the boat to cross the river.
Now look... there's not even enough water to wet our feet.
Ah, isn't that Gopi?
Since this is about Balan Master, we set out early.
Aren't you coming? - No.
Alright, we'll go ahead.
Never thought I'd be arranging rituals for Balan Master too...
Brother...
Your Gopi is leaving.
Leaving everything behind.
Please bless me.
I even fell at Damodharan's feet...
But he refused.
Wouldn't even let me see Indira and the kids.
He said they shouldn't grow up as a madman's children.
But that doesn't mean we can turn our backs on our duty.
Let's see if we can find a way for his sonship too... from the astrologer.
What else can we do?
You're leaving too?
Yes. - Why not stay until the ritual begins?
I'm leaving today itself so I don't have to witness it.
I can't, Mother.
Dressing my brother in silk, exhibiting him before the villagers, to brand him as this generation's madman, right?
I can't bear to see that.
When will you return?
Don't wait for me... to come back.
I'm leaving everything behind...
Even the family name 'Marathempalli.'
Just one request...
Never bring Harikuttan and Manikutty back here.
Let the curse of Marathempalli die with "Madman Balan".
Harikuttan must not be the next victim.
There's still so much left to buy.
Take off your earrings.
No compromise should be made for the rituals.
So... you won't be staying for the rituals?
No.
I'm leaving.
Gopinathan...
I always wanted good things for all of you.
Even after we divided the land, this was still my home.
You all were my family.
Everything I did was for your own good.
Maybe it was superstition... I'm an old man, after all.
It's deeply rooted in me.
If I was wrong... please forgive me.
Don't turn back. Just go.
You'll be fine.
We're... all alone, huh?
Raman Karthav has come.
My son... do you even want to live anymore?
Should Harikuttan and Manikutty grow up as Madman Balan's children?
Want to suffer in this lonely room forever, trapped in a living hell?
Where's the silk kept? - Is it in my hands, ask over there.
Dear...
Harikuttan!
Oh, my kids!
It's good you came.
Balettan?
You shouldn't make any noise, come.
Balettan! - Father!
Balettan!