Mahanati (2018) - full transcript

'This is the driver speaking
Let me talk to your mother'

Ma, the driver wants to
talk to you it seems

Mother...ma, wake up

Ma, get up

Ma, look at me

What happened, ma?

Mother

Get up, ma

Uncle

Wait, doctor is on the way

She's a celebrity
Savitri amma



Rooms are full, wait here

Doctor will be here soon

Please ask someone to check fast

Ma...please get up

Nurse!

How can you leave her like this?
Whom did you think she is?

- Namaste, sir
- How is she?

'Savitri Amma!'

'Which Savitri?
Why is she here?'

Who is this Savitri amma?

'A Great Actress'

"Leading lady, o' diva"

"You are our prima donna"

What has the bride studied?



She has completed her B.A in journalism
in Adyar Women's College

Haven't you bagged
a gold medal also, dear?

She wanted to do her Masters too

Why should she?
Such a waste indeed

Look at my son

He studied up to 10th grade

He discontinued and is now
happily taking care of our shop

'Is your daughter working?'

'She's a reporter in a newspaper'

Her article was even published
the day before yesterday

Go and bring that paper

I searched, dear
I couldn't find it

Are you blind as a bat or what?

It's right here

'Sir, listen
Let me read it out to you

'For 25 years in Kodambakkam'

'Andal company which has ruled the roost
in manufacturing fritters'

'...has now ventured into
manufacturing pickles also'

'Even after another 25 years'

'Andal is the synonym for fritters
and vice versa holds good forever'

Fantastic!

We like your daughter very much

I am sure my son likes her too

Tell us what you feel

He's feeling shy!

Where are you off to, dear?

Office, father

Do you have to interview
Shankaramma's famous 'sambar' today?

You'll be getting married soon

No need to work hereafter

She isn't married as yet, right?

Let her go, dear

Here's your coffee

Na...nana?

I'm late for wo...work

Can...can I take the scooter today?

Fine

Only 1 kick

If you can start with 1 kick
you can take it

Let me try just once more, father

'Anyway why does a girl
need a two-wheeler?'

'What if you accidentally fall?'

'Remember a groom is waiting for you'

He got this wobbly two-wheeler
in his great grandfather's era!

Tell me, how will it
st...start in just 1 kick?

You know so many went gaga over my story
published in our college magazine?

They got teary eyed

All the teachers predicted
I'll become a famous writer

Look at my plight now

Andal company

Fritters and fries

Spicy powders and pickles

Don't get me wrong
for chatting non-stop like this

Sometimes I tend to stammer

Because I am speaking my heart out-

Jayamma, get ready

We must get down now

'Prajavani'

Vani madam

Have you brought fritters
for everyone for lunch today too?

God, please bless me
with ju...just 1 good story!

I shouldn't get stuck with
'Fritters' as my nickname!

Road and Transport strike

- Sir
- Take this

Shekar

CM arrives at Meenambakkam by 12'0 clock

Chief minister is coming, be alert

India vs England
Cricket match

Santosh?

Make sure you get
an autograph from Kapil Dev!

- For you, sir?
- For my wife

Go now

Savitri...coma

Rani

Va...Vani, sir

What?

My...my name is Vani, sir

Whatever!
Here you go

Sir, that is-

Do you have a problem?

Er...sir

Let me know if you have a problem

Yes, I have a problem
I am a gold medallist

For the pa...past 6 months
I haven't been assigned a good story

Shekar will cover the chief minister
and I am stuck with a coma patient!

This is my last chance
before I get married

I won't go, sir

Is this what you wanted to tell him?

Heroine Savitri's story, eh?
we can fill up the gaps easily

Evergreen heroine
A humane human being

It's heart-wrenching she is lying in coma

We have been reporting this
for the past year, right?

Wha...what will I report
that's newsworthy?

'Fritter' lady, Andal was better
At least she could talk to me!

I don't even have an opt...option here

Forget that
Look who is here

He's such a handsome hulk
And a 6 footer too

He is ditto Amitabh Bachan in 'Sholay'

Not 'Sholay'

He is Anthony in
'Amar Akbar Anthony'

Look, he is coming towards us

Where else will he go
when you are here?

Good morning, Hemalatha madam
Sowbhagya Lakshmi garu

Tripura Sundari madam

Madhuravani garu

Good morning, Mr Anthony

I've been assigned as photographer
for the article on heroine Savitri garu

Oh! Is that so?

Vani has been assigned the same story too

Is it so?

What a coincidence!

Look how he is over reacting
after worming his way to work with you

At least today I should click a photo
the editor approves of

Otherwise my job is at stake

Aiyo! What happened?

Day before yesterday I was assigned
to cover the railway strike

'I went and took snaps'

'Take a look'

Where is the strike in this?

Even the editor asked the same question

It isn't genuine if I cover
only speeches by union leaders

This is the bare truth
behind that strike

Your story is already in tatters

He'll click photos of flora & fauna and
claim it's 'Behind the scenes' fact

I'm going near Anna nagar

Do you want to come with me?

It's alright

I prefer taking the bus

- Okay
- I'm going that way

Please take the bus!

Suresh garu

Any vacancy in Doordarshan?

Mr Anthony

Miss Vani

Why are they waiting?

They are waiting to catch a glimpse of
Gemini Ganesan who is praying inside

What are you taking?

Can't you see?

Tell me before you click any photo

When will Savitri madam recover?

Today is 1 year
since Savitri slipped into coma

I have consulted all the specialists
in India as well as abroad

I arranged for prayers
in all the places of worship

I flew down a special bed
from Singapore to prevent bedsores

Nurses take care of her night and day

I've spent millions
without thinking twice

Journalists have reported Savitri has been
abandoned and Gemini Ganesan is to blame

...without an iota of conscience

If our roles had been reversed
and I was comatose

...would you blame Savitri for my state?

Only because I'm a man, right?

Savitri will be fine
as long as I am there

I've spoken my heart out

So be it, you can write
what your conscience dictates

Poor soul!
Everyone let her down

That's life!

It's true, Vani madam

You won't find the story here

It is over there

Sir...?

I've closed the studio today
Come back tomorrow

I saw you near Savitri's house

Whose house?

I mean...cine actor Savitri

I don't know Savitri

I know only Savitri 'madam'!

Sorry

Savitri 'garu'

You should respect elders

Even elders should respect Savitri madam

But you went away
without stepping in?

I can't bear to see her like that

By the way who are you?

We are from 'Prajavani' paper

We have been assigned to
co...cover Savitri madam

How are you qualified
to write about her?

Wh...why does one need to be qualified
to cover a cine st...star's story?

Of course

You have to be eligible
to write about this great woman

When we have 10 rupees with us
we will think twice to donate 50 paise!

That being the case
when she was penniless...

...she sold her awards
to help friends and strangers

You have to be qualified
to analyse a person's character

So many generations later-

You won't understand

Please leave

Let's go

If you sh...share your views with us
we will understand, sir

My generation will know Savitri garu
only as a fine actress

We won't kn...know her real worth
and goodness of heart

I won't write this simply
as yet another story

I will...get to the heart of it
and then write it

Please tell us, sir

What do I say?

From the beginning

Do you remember the 1st time you met her?

Like it happened now
in front of my eyes

25 years ago

The company's photographer
had gone to his hometown

I was asked to go
to Vijaya Vauhini studio

Sorry, you go

Are you okay?
Have you eaten?

Get up! What are you doing here?

Move

- Shall I lend a hand?
- No, sir

Sir...sir

Still photographer, huh?

Open the door

What are you doing here?

- Keshav?
- I am Keshav

Is this a mythological film?

Mythology, folk, family drama,
comedy and courage

All the elements

- Where are you going?
- Toilet

Okay, go

Hold this

I haven't worked on
such a big budget film

No one has even attempted it so far

Don't worry
Song shoot today

Only 1 artiste
Savitri madam

- Savitri garu is here?
- Stop annoying me

- Don't use your flash
- He is Mr K.V Reddy

Not like this, Mr Bartley

We need something special

Specify the 'position' to stand, Singeetam

Me, sir?

Position, man

Cue sound

Lie down

Demonstrate

Bartley, camera starts here

When you come here...

...this is your last frame

This girl should be teary eyed

Focus the light on her face

Fine, I'll position it here

But how will she cry
at that exact moment?

'Don't worry about that, sir'

I'm here to take care of that, uncle

You were too good

You should have worn a sari!

Get up now

You should emote as if you are caught
in the throes of love and distress

Show love's twinkle in your right eye
Tears in your left eye, alright?

'Yes, sir'

Got Glycerine handy?

- Glycerine?
- Bottle broke, sir

It slipped, sir

Singeetam
Is the Glycerine ready?

The bottle broke it seems, sir

Are you mad?
How irresponsible!

We are packing up
because of you, Singeetam

Sorry, Mr Bartley
Pack up for the day

Pack up!

Why, sir?
Let's take the shot

How will you cry
at that particular moment, dear?

I can manage, sir

How is that possible?
Not from both eyes, Savitri

I want teardrops only from one eye

Without Glycerine

It will be too many 'takes'

- We'll do it tomorrow
- We'll finish in 1 take

Should I nod my head even if
I am not happy with your reaction?

Trust me

Over confidence
isn't good for you, girl

If it isn't okay in a single take...

...you should apologize to the camera
in front of everyone, alright?

Yes, sir

Not both eyes

From 1 eye only
Just a few teardrops

How many drops?

You mean your tears will
fall according to my demand?

Alright

Two

Just 2 teardrops from your left eye

Not a drop more
Not a drop less!

Ready now?
Cue sound

Sound

Roll camera

Action!

"I live just for you
My one and only beau"

"This desire yearning
Disappointment burning"

"My life revolves around you, only you"

"Even the moon aglow
can lose its halo"

"If I suddenly find
you are not in my mind"

Is it okay, sir?
Or once more?

What happened, sir?

Even after 10 generations
in Telugu cinema...

...you will be on top of the list
as a female superstar, my dear

You are very stubborn

Obstinate!

Write with a clear conscience, my dear

Till date no one has written an article
worthy of the talent she was blessed with

Wh...when did you last meet her?

Maybe a year ago

'I got immersed in my work'

But she never forgot me

May 11th

On this date
1 year ago

She slipped into coma

Maybe the day
she left for Bangalore too

Can I read it?

'How are you, Keshava?'

'Venkayya told me you have
a granddaughter now'

'I am so happy for you'

'I have an important task to attend to'

'I must meet Shankaraiya just once'

'It will be good if Sathish
can meet Shankaraiya'

'I am sure he will handle everything'

'I'll come and see your granddaughter
as soon as I am back'

'Affectionately
your sister Savitri'

This may be the last letter
Savitri garu wrote

- Who is Shankaraiya?
- I don't know

Maybe someone she knew

Shankaraiya

Why did she want to meet him
when she was on her death bed?

Is he a director?
Or an actor?

A fan?
Or a debtor?

What a mystery!

This should be our headlines

Good, Rani

Vani, sir

A great actress Savitri

Skeletons in her closet!

Exclusive from 'Prajavani'

'Savitri madam leaves
for Mysore for a film shoot'

'No one by the name
of Shankaraiya is there, sir'

If only we can trace him...

'Savitri Behind The Scenes'

Facts no one knew about heroine Savitri
will be divulged to one and all

It will be the most widely read story

Shekar, fantastic!

- Carry on, my boy
- Okay, sir

Sir, that's my story

Rani, you got a good lead

But they are senior journalists

'You can't be following leads
roaming around like them'

How can you give my story
on a plat...ter to that Shekar?

Is he you...your brother-in-law?

Is this what you wanted to say?

By a quirk of fate
you got this letter

But how will we
get hold of Shankaraiya?

Are you really a gold medallist?

What kind of a question is that!

Vani garu

A story is like love

It never happens when we want it to

When it has made up its mind
it will come in search of us!

This story isn't Shekar's or anyone else's

This story is only yours

What was mentioned
about Shankariya in that letter?

'I will take Sathish
to meet Shankaraiya'

Hello...?

Hey! Who are you?

Aiyamma...Aiyamma?

Is no one at home?

My mother is here

That means...

...aren't you Sathish?

Yes...why?

My name is Vani

Do you know my mother?

I am here after knowing about her

But...I came here only for you, Sathish

I believe you had gone to Bangalore

Your mother had mentioned you
in the last letter she wrote

She was t...aking you
to meet Shankaraiya

Who is Shankaraiya?

I don't know

'Hey! Who are you?'

How did you get in?

- Journalist
- Does it mean you can barge in?

Come...out you go

I'll take it inside
You can go

Sathish...?

Grandma

How much you've grown, my dear

'Ma, look'

'Grandmother is here'

Doctor said my mother can hear
every word we speak

The more we talk to her
the faster she will recover

Share some news with her, grandma

What can I say?

Anything you like
How was she as a little girl?

When she was my age

As young as you, huh?

She was even younger than you
the 1st time I set eyes on her

I'll share a story about her
Want to listen?

'My dear Savitri'

'You listen to this story too'

'Your younger sister
should visit and go'

'Not set up camp here'

'I don't mind giving
some of my hard earned money'

'But how can I shoulder
all their burden?'

I'm just an ordinary driver

Where will they go?

She's a widow with such a young daughter

Look how beautiful my niece is

If she stays with us, we won't feel
the void of not having a child of our own

That's why I invited them over
Is that wrong?

You are very good
with your sob stories

1st stop this self pity!

After she has come to our doorstep
what can I say? Ask her to come in

Come in, dear

It lost its way in the rain, uncle

Bad enough I have to house you
Plus a bloody dog, huh?

Throw that mongrel out

Poor thing!
He might fall sick

Then dance around
holding him on your head

I'll be the one to fall sick!

'I know our Creator, who has
the sun's strength & brilliance'

'He is beyond the darkness of ignorance'

Susheela, get down

Will you lift me up like that?

Later, pray to God now

- Is he your father?
- Yes

Does he always carry you
or only in a temple?

Won't your father hoist you like that?

My father reached God 6 months ago

Take God's offering, dear

Was my father tall or short?

Was he fat or thin, ma?

What happened to you today?

Amma, did he sport a moustache?

Of course!

He had an impressive moustache
and looked like a king

My father had a moustache
A real big one!

My name is Nissankara Savitri
What is your name?

My name is Maddela Susheela

Even my father used to
narrate stories as folk lore it seems

Look! He has a moustache too

I don't know how my father looked

But I feel he must have looked like you

Whenever I feel like talking to him
can I come here and talk to you?

Can I call you 'father'?

I don't mind if you don't reply

I am happy if you
just listen to my chatter

Father...'nana'

'Play and then time to relish
lentil gravy and dried fish'

We could have happily taken a rickshaw

Why did you make me walk all this way?

Why take a rickshaw?
Let's buy coconut candy, cheer up

Give us 2 coconut candies please

Do you know how delicious it will be!

- Here, my dear
- Give my money back please

Grandpa, take this and
buy something to eat

"Don't wait for life, dearie"

"March forward daringly"

"Vigorously
Vivaciously"

"Embrace Mother Earth warmly
Merge with the wind willingly"

"Innocent pranks, playful games
Daydreams within happy time frames"

"These childhood delights of fulfilment
won't let you sit still even for a moment"

"Your eyes won't identify now
heartaches and hurdles, my love"

"Spreading your wings of desires sweet
you fly to distant horizons, my parakeet"

"Climb on the rungs of success to the sky"

"Grab a handful of stars reaching high"

"String them into a garland scented
to adorn tomorrow's neck so talented"

"Accepting your invitation
from every single direction"

"I sat in your palm with great expectation"

"A gift to admire
as per your heart's desire"

"Don't just stand there, girlie
Walk with your head held high happily"

"Briskly
Blissfully"

"Embrace Mother Earth longingly"

"Merge with the wind lovingly"

That's all

Watch your step

What is this waltz?
Can't you walk properly?

Smart kid! Why don't you
teach her classical dance?

That's the icing on the cake!

Isn't it enough she's already
dancing on top of my head?!

My niece was also a bright kid

Her parents taught her 'Bharatnatya' dance

Do you know how well she earns now?

- How much?
- 1 rupee

Really?!

Good morning, sir

I am Venkataramaiah Chowdhury

My daughter Savitri

Where is she?

My daughter Savitri

She loves to dance

I am not keen at all

I would like you
to teach her this art

She can then make
so many hearts dance with joy

You can enjoy
to your heart's content

I swear!

She's very graceful
Ask her to show you a few steps

I can't show off now!

She is a natural, sir

Susheela, demonstrate a step

Did you see that?

She humiliated me in front of everyone

I thought she will shine well
if she learns to dance

She's after all a kid

Anyway it has to come from within

Isn't she the daughter of
a story teller, a minstrel?

Isn't it in her genes?

Why have you come back?

I want to learn dance
formally from you

Dance requires discipline
You lack that quality, go home

Doesn't matter
if you don't take me in

But how can you say
I can't be disciplined?

What temerity!

If the people here know
you are my student

...I will cut such a sorry figure

Kindly go home now

Why can't I learn to dance?

I have creativity flowing in my genes

I'll show him!

'Not because she was fond of dancing'

'In a fit of rage
unable to take the rejection'

'...she learnt by watching
from a distance'

'This stubborn girl Savitri'

'No one saw her faltering steps'

'They were bewitched by
her expressive eyes that danced too'

'Arunodhaya Dance Troupe'

'When people asked her
who her guru was...'

'...she pointed her little finger
at Mr Poornaiyah Shastri'

Turn

'On behalf of our Arunodhaya Sabha'

'...I request our VIP guest
popular Hindi matinee idol'

'Mr Prithviraj Kapoor'

'...to come on to the stage'

I am very happy to be on this stage

Every single artiste here
performed brilliantly

Will you gobble up everything?

Aren't you going to see
your idol Nageswar Rao now?

- What do you mean?
- He has come to Natraj theater

'I've watched 'Radha Krishna' in Bombay'

But that girl who played Krsna

Call her

Please call her

Our chief guest is calling you
Please come to the stage

He is calling you, go

- My Nageshwar Rao
- See him later

- Go now
- Slowly...slowly

What is her name?

Tell him your name

Savitri

This girl has a special gift

Uncle, I don't know Hindi

How will I know either?
Just keep smiling at him

She will be very famous one day

I am not the star today
She is the show-stopper!

Who is that man?

Prithviraj Kapoor, in Bombay
he is the most sought after hero

I watched some film of his

A scrawny boy called Raj Kapoor

That's his son

I underestimated you, Chowdhury

Even you are up to date
with Hindi cinema

Looks like it's a full house show
What is the collection today?

After deducting the expenses
your daughter gets 25 paise

That's all?

Father, famous Hindi hero
Kapoor it seems

He garlanded me
after watching my performance

I'll share the rest of the news later

Savitri, wait

"My curved hip sways
like the dancing waves"

"Like the jungle peacock lonely
arches her plumage sensually"

[song from 'Balaraju']

Look...look there

Move aside

Balaraju!

- Hey! Girl
- Look over there

Give way

Balaraju!

He saw me!

Damn you, demoness Soorpanaka!

Balaraju went away

Poor you!

Got his autograph, huh?

No, give me your hand

Come on

'Navabharata Dance Troupe'

A new dance troupe

'Navabharata Dance Troupe'

Wait

What do you know about dance drama?

How can you ask me that?

Do you know why
the hall is jam packed?

People are eager to
watch our daughter dance

That being the case why should
these agents line their pockets?

And pay me peanuts
treating me like a beggar?

No! Times have changed

We have attained independence

So I have started with hope
our own drama troupe

When the anklets on your feet tinkle...

...my collection box will jingle
and overflow with coins

So be it, uncle
Check if the seats have filled up

How can you even doubt that?

I have assigned 2 policemen
to regulate the crowd!

Ready...ready

Get into your position

Hey! Raise the curtains

Let's go

Hey! Listen
Where is the audience?

No one wants to watch a play nowadays
People prefer going to the cinemas

A new movie has
released in our town today

Then my Rs 2 and ? annas is down the drain

That's it, cinema is the in-thing now

Why can't Savitri also act in films?

I've never heard of anything
as weird as this

Will anyone make a teenage girl
roam around acting in plays and films?

Why did you come?

To borrow a cup of red lentils

Go and cook your 'pappu chaaru' then

Won't they accept me in cinema
if I don't drape a sari?

Brother-in-law!
Why make her act now?

She is already 14 years old

If we can find a suitable groom for her-

You got married too

What happened?

Then won't you find me a groom?

How much will you charge
to take us to Barani studio?

10 paisa, sir

It's alright, uncle
Let's take a tram

Do you think you can
take us for a ride?!

- 10 paise
- No, sir, 10 paisa

- What is the big difference?
- No, sir

Here, 10 paise

Come

Look how tall these buildings are, uncle

Unc-

Tram!

Here, 10 paise

This is what I asked

You and your language!

Will Nageswara Rao be here, uncle?

Listen, don't call me 'uncle' hereafter

Call me, 'father'

Only then the boys here won't
play any pranks, let's go

Can I call you 'father'
even after we go back?

Yes, you can

Sure, 'nana'

If anyone asks how old you are

...don't say 14
remember you are 16

Okay, 'nana'

Pretend you know Tamil

If anyone talks to you in Tamil
just say, 'amaam' meaning 'yes'

I am Chowdhury
from Bezawada

Go and call your director

Who are you?

My father

I was sent here by Gogineni sir

My daughter wants to act in films

Is that so?

So many are waiting there
for the same reason, go and sit

'Did he say so?'

[rehearsing]

My father

Okay, dear
Look straight ahead

Look to your right

Yes, like that

Gogineni sir sent us here

Why these formalities?

My daughter will be acting in films now

What is your name?

Savitri

He is my father

- How do you know Mr Gogineni?
- He is my boss

He is my father!

How many times will she repeat it?

She is so used to repeating
dialogs in dramas, right?

How old is she?

- 16
- 14!

16 or 14 years?

She is-

Keep quiet

This is an audition for a vamp
She won't suit this role

'Send the next candidate in'

Nana, what is the name of this studio?

Vijaya Vauhini

They have opened the gates just for us

Move...move aside

Clear out

Why are you closing the gates?

- Hey! Wait
- I need to go inside

Do you have permission?

I am Chowdhury
from Bezawada

Gogineni sir sent us here

I need a permission letter
Clear out now

Shall we go, father?

We need permission it seems

Not to go in here
I meant let's eat

Get in...quick

Get in, I said

Move inside

Get down

Look, Lord Ganesha
Good omen!

Let's seek His blessings

Lord Ganesha,
remove all obstacles

Make my daughter a heroine

Where is the deity?

He has been taken inside

Let's go in, quick

Brother...hello?

You could find only this place
to smoke your cigarette?

Did you know this is a cinema set?

By the way, who are you?

I'm the heroine of this film

First stub that cigarette

- Ranga Rao sir, your shot is ready
- Let's go

Don't you need a cigarette in this shot?

It fell down
Let's go in

What is the title of this film?

'Shavukaru'

Have they finalised the heroine?

Yes, a new face called Janaki

Shavukaru...!

Janaki

Who is the hero?

Can you see him over there
practising his stunts?

New face

Rama Rao

- Doesn't he have a full name?
- Why not?

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao

My God...a snake!

Snake...snake...!

You strayed from the path, brother

We should focus our mind

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao

Remember this name

Who are you?

Run...let's go

Father, shall we go on a tram after this?

I'm wondering how to get back home
when my pocket is empty

And you want to travel in a tram?

At least here say 16
instead of 14!

Auditions are over for the day
All of you please leave

For the past 3 days
we've been hovering around

- Even a small role is fine
- Didn't I tell you?

Sir, that isn't the issue

Should I keep repeating myself?
First leave this place

Your daughter won't suit this role

'Hey fool, what do you
know about casting?'

Don't you know Tamil?

Doesn't matter if you don't

Your eyes...

...can speak any language!

What is your name?

Savitri

Your name will be
the talk of the town

You'll make it real big

I feel the same way too

But these studio rascals don't let us in

Please forgive us

He is blind

Even if talent stares into his face
he won't see it, get lost!

My name is Ramasamy Ganesan

Since I work here all the time
I am called Gemini Ganesan!

I'll click some photos
of your daughter

Sure

Turn a little

It's okay...to get it right in the photo

Move a little

Smile

Beautiful...!

Here's the recommendation letter

What about a role?

Currently we don't have any role
suitable for your daughter

Come after a year

Couldn't you have said this
in the beginning?

You hand a plate and say
you'll serve food tomorrow!

Don't rush

She's still very young

I'm not a young girl!

Let's go, nana

'When Savitri pursued
her dream in the world of cinema'

'...she was ridiculed by one and all'

'Disillusioned, she went back to drama'

'By God's will'

'...cinema came looking for Savitri'

Excuse me

- Does he owe you anything?
- Nothing like that

Then it's me

My name is Donepudi Krishnamurthy

We make films under the banner
Sadhana Cinema

We want to cast your daughter
as heroine and-

Namaste

We can't come to Madras again
for a photo shoot

- Please leave
- Mr Chowdhury

I came here only after seeing
her picture in this magazine

What...?
My photo?

Nana

Aren't these photos
taken by our Gemini Ganesan?

I guarantee your daughter
has a role in our film

Who else has been cast in this film?

Mr L.V.Prasad is the director

Akkineni Nageswara Rao
plays an important role

- How many times will you drop it?
- Has Nageswara Rao arrived?

First look here

One person for make up

One more to plait your hair

Royal treatment

Tomorrow in the poster...

...N. T. Rama Rao on one side

Nageswara Rao on the other
and you in the middle!

Lady Luck is smiling on us for sure

You there!

Come here

Get me a cup of hot filter coffee

Listen

Add extra sugar

Come here

Nothing...go and fetch it

Shot is ready, madam

Thank you

Shot is ready

Thank you very much

Shot ready means you must go and act

Means Nageswara Rao has arrived?

L.V.Prasad sir

- Your heroine Savitri
- Namaste, sir

Seek his blessings

Hey, no need

Is hero Nageswara Rao here?

How can he not come?

Listen to your scene

You'll be traveling with
your friends in the car

Hero will come in a bullock cart-

- Is the hero Nageswara Rao?
- Of course

He'll come and block the road

Then your dialog is-

Does this road belong to your father?
Move...move

Does this road belong to your father?
Move...move

Good...good...for which he'll reply

Think this road belongs to
your grandfather? You move

That's all, perfect

This is our heroine

Savitri, new face

Namaste, madam

Hero Nageswara Rao...!

Madam

Madam, let's continue with the shoot

Camera

Action

Does this road belong to Nageswara Rao?

Move...move

Why is the name
Nageswara Rao haunting you?

This time she'll get it right

This is the 1st time
she's acting with men, right?

Does this road belong to your father?

Does this road belong to your father?

Action

Nageswara Rao road is my father's, huh?

Hey, whom did you think this road-

My father's road-

Your father's road-

This road is my father's-

Aiyo!

Does this road belong to your father?

Does this road belong to your father?

Action

What is the dialog?

Hey! This is your father's road-

...you thought?

Total knockout!

Who suggested this female as heroine?

Murthy, come here

I saw her in a play

You thought cinema is a joke?

Stone faced, can't even
deliver a simple dialog

You maybe good in a play
But you aren't heroine material

Don't waste anyone's time

You are not fit for cinema!

Poor girl, she has come
all the way from Bezawada

What job did she think she'll get?

Talks 19 to a dozen
Why aspire to be what you can't!

My head is splitting

Can you get me a filter coffee?

Buttermilk is being served
over there, stand in the queue

Cinema is not for us
Let's take the bus tonig-

Did I ever tell you
I want to be a heroine?

It was your dream

Who are they to certify me?

He yelled at me in front of everyone
All of them laughed!

I'll go see that set

I'll see you later, madam

Why are you sitting here?

Who is he to say if
I can excel or not in cinema?

This is common in cinema
Turn a deaf ear to it

You wanted to go by tram

Look here

Shall we go?

Sure

For only 1 song in 'Pathala Bhairavi'
produced by Vijaya Vauhini

Director K.V.Reddy is looking
for a new female face

For those interested in acting...

...this is a golden opportunity

Will he ridicule me
in front of everyone?

I'll show him

- Shall we go?
- No, you carry on

I'll see you later

Reddy...?

Are 3 days of audition required
for a small dancer's role?

Be it small or big, it is necessary

Wait until we find one

When will we finalize?

When we set eyes on her!

Look at that girl

Clad in a red half-sari

Even from this distance
her face is so expressive

Stop that audition

We got the girl

"I will not come, I know for sure"

[song from 'Pathala Bhairavi']

"This is our fate hereafter"

"I will not come, I mean it forever"

"We are ordained, you and me
come what may, it's our destiny"

"When my heart is full of strife
how can I be your wife?"

Why take a screen test
when you are so sure?

It has to be perfect, right?

Look there, the girl
rehearsing the dialog

Where did you find this girl?

No need, Chakrapani sir

- Just take a look
- I've seen her 52 times!

She can't even get 3 words right!

Hey! Listen

Did you get the dialog paper?

Okay, as you wish

You'll see for yourself

Action

True

How will he keep his word
if his hands are empty?

They will only echo as hollow words

If he had the money...

...sky is the limit

But he doesn't

All his property

He spent what he had
on his house and his guests

...to preserve his family prestige!

Cut it

She was too good

If you had acted like this, you wouldn't
have been chucked out of 'Samsaram'

Alright, looks like I'm destined
to introduce you to cinema

Listen, Raghavaiah sir

Only now my daughter is
being cast as heroine

We've also rented a house in Madras

At this point you want her dates
for a Bengali film on a drunkard

'I saw your daughter perform
in 'Pelli Chesi Choodu'

'She'll be perfect for our film'

True but we've just now
accepted a Tamil film too

'Manam Pol Mangalyam'

Stupi-

That's the name of the film

Director Pullaiah

Clean entertainer
Comedy film

So we can't accept your offer

What, dear?
What happened?

Why are you crying?

How will Parvati
get married to the zamindar, ma?

Who is the zamindar?

Bujanga Rao, Durgamma

With 1 foot in the grave!

Has 4 children

Why get married when he should
celebrate his 60th birthday?

Even Devdas didn't stop him

Reading this story book
and sobbing your heart out?

Foolish girl!

Go to bed

I want to do this film, Durgamma

But hasn't your father agreed
you'll act in that Tamil film?

I'll act in that too

I'll do whatever film he asks me to

But this role of Parvati

Devdas Parvati

When I was reading it...

...I felt I was living that role!

Only you can convince my father

Vani madam

I've been wanting to tell you

Did you know 'Devdas' was started
with Sowcar Janaki and then stopped?

Is that so?

Okay, I was-

Savitri was only 18 years then

Very young

What I was trying to tell you is-

Are you Vani?

Please wait

We are talking, right?

May I know who you are?

My name is G.V.G Krishnan

My friend Keshava told me about you

Do you know Shankaraiya?

Don't know who Shankaraiya is

But I always wanted to
write a story on Savitri madam

But you are...?

- Have you watched 'Devdas'?
- No

Anthony sir

I acted as the eldest son
of the zamindar Bujanga Rao?

If I get time off from shooting or at home
I'll go whenever I can to meet her

Not only about her films

Her wish list and her woes

Stories, news

So many experiences

I never got around
to compiling it as a book

I haven't been able to
archive all the facts

But the world should know her story

Keshav told me he felt
you were very upfront and honest

Please write Savitri amma's story

'Not biscuits,
no incense sticks, nothing'

'What is it then?'

An empty box!

To ridicule me

Do I need all this
to make fun of you, Paru?

This was just to tease you
and make you smile

I chose you because you have
'the girl next door' image, Savitri

Show a little bit of innocence

Sure, director sir

Note this point

Don't see Nageswara Rao in Devdas

But look for Devdas
in Nageswara Rao, okay?

As you wish, hero sir

Likewise don't see Savitri in Parvati

Look for Parvati in Savitri

Do a good job

Even now nothing is lost

Let's replace her with a senior artiste

Is it an ordinary character?

Parvati!

There's some spark
in that girl, Manickam

Let's see

Empty box

This was a prank to tease me

That Tamil film's producer
is kicking me like a football, come

1 more shot, father
I'll come after that

Enough

Why so many shots
for an alcoholic? Let's go

Father...!

That...that is-

[mispronounces dialog]

Cut...cut...cut

Haven't you learnt Tamil as yet?

Tamil must have been unfamiliar to you

Now that you are here
you'll rattle it fluently

I have written this dialog in Tamil

Sacred thread around the neck...

...however heavy it may be

A mature mind and loving heart
to bear the ups and downs till the end

...is the key to happiness

In Telugu it means, the wedding chain
you wear throughout your life

However heavy, bear it with love
through thick and thin is the meaning

Listen

The extent to which
you express this soulfully

...you can be the prima donna
and make waves in our Tamil industry

We can make waves
Wave your magic wand!

Savitri, look here

Didn't I predict your name
will echo everywhere?

Is it being heard?

How is it you are here?

Is it enough if a film
has a heroine alone?

What about the hero?

Is that right?

I never thought GG was you?

I wanted to meet you
when I am in Madras

Why...?

Because of you-

I mean the photos you clicked

...I got this opportunity

Thank you very much

Nonsense!

Your talent brought you here

How is your first day in cinema?

Cinema is peculiar
and language is unfamiliar!

I'm meandering in a strange field!

What is that?

You need to know the language
to read a book

To learn the language
you don't need books

Then how will you learn?

You answer that too

If you live life, you'll get it

Live life means?

After the shoot today
come with me, I'll show you

Good lord! What will I tell my nana?

Say something in the language you know

Not possible

Return my book please

Haven't you memorised
the dialogs as yet, dear?

Sometime back, a man was
looking at you intently

Maybe he will also
want you to act in a film

Let's accept that film too

But we must be clear
about the payment

Father, Girija asked me
to check the costumes

I'll come back home by myself

Black monkey!

You said 'live life to learn a language'
Why bring me here?

Life begins and ends
only in a hospital

How are you?
Doing fine?

Learn Tamil from her
I'll be right back

Me...? How will I understand?

I have sugar from head to toe

I can't taste a single 'laddu' or 'jilebi'

Sweetmeats?

It's a real torture!

A long list of do's and don'ts to eat

This side

What did she say?

When I didn't understand,
how can I pretend I knew?

You are listening to her words

You need language for words

But not for the heart

Learn to speak from your heart

What happened?

I'm unable to bear the pain in my hand

Hand, huh?

'Kai' in Tamil means hand

- All because of my 'thalai vidhi'
- That means?

It's all because of my fate

Fate, huh?

'Thalai vidhi' means fate

'Kai' means hand

Very sorry

Four

2 ones and one 4

4...4

- Gone case
- That means?

Potti Sriramulu, long live!

'Unna viradham' means?

Hunger strike

What is amusing you?

They are protesting in Tami
wanting a separate Telugu state!

What is in a language?

It is enough if they understand
the emotion behind their slogan

'The sacred thread around the neck...'

'...however heavy it may be'

'...to bear that till the end'

'...a mature mind, devotion, love,
affinity, affection, honesty'

'All these virtues are very important'

'Am I not destined to
have even this, father?'

'Please tell me, father'

Tell me

Sir, shall I ask them to 'cut'?

Go ahead

The way you speak Tamil...

...even the Tamil women will be stunned

Why do you need a dubbing artiste?

Very good...very good

"My forever friend who walks with me"

"In my life's journey
Filled with flowers of harmony"

"Every bend and intersection"

"Inviting me with utmost affection"

"This was my heartfelt wish everyday"

"This was my dearest dream everyday"

"I realised it only today"

"Time waltzed with you anew
Made your dream come true"

"Won't life bloom just for you?"

"Time waltzed with you true blue
Found your one and only beau"

Aiyo! God save me!

What happened?

How much longer?

It has to come from within, right?

That's the feel I want

No...no
1 minute

Before he gets the right feel
I'll be dead and gone

Let's live then, come

"Time waltzed with you true blue
Found your one and only beau"

"Won't life blossom just for you?"

"Time waltzed with you anew
Made your dream come true"

- I want to ride piggyback on you
- Come, dear

What's the use of playing
all these games?

I haven't played even a single game
with my father you know

Hasn't Mr Chowdhury played with you
when you were a kid?

He's my uncle

He was more of a guardian to me

But he never stepped
into the shoes of a real father

Whomever I saw, I wondered
if my father would have been like him

I missed out on games
and piggyback rides

I can't get back my childhood, can I?

Savitri, get up

Get up

- Why?
- Stand, I'll tell you

Give me your hand

"Like deluge to the river
mind spirited with fervor"

"When shyness left its shell"

"When energy accelerated as well"

"Love-thoughts as drizzle in sight
Body as a rainbow arched in delight"

"When did her youth's halo
with happiness overflow?"

"When did her style sparkle aglow?"

"Before realization dawned"

"Tunes in harmony hummed"

"In some veena this love-melody was strummed"

"Time waltzed with you anew
Made your dream come true"

"Won't life bloom just for you?"

"Time waltzed with you true blue
Found your one and only beau"

Wouldn't it have been great
if Devdas had married Parvati?

Their love would be a fairy tale ending

You won't be a heroine!

Will he forget their love
just because Parvati got married?

Is his love so weak?

May be his strength
was to let go of her?

That means?

Even after Devdas was married...

...are you saying Parvati would
have agreed to be his 2nd wife?

Yes, definitely

Wasn't she in love with him?

If that Devdas was Gemini Ganesan?

I am married, Savitri

I have 2 daughters too

I wanted to become a doctor

I did not have money
to pay for my education

Just to make my dream of
becoming a doctor come true

...I married my uncle's daughter Alamelu

But my uncle passed away

Hands of fate turned Ramaswamy Ganesan
who wanted to be a doctor

...into this hero Gemini Ganesan

After I got married, it is true
I had a fling with Pushpavalli

But none of those was true love

The cherished moments
I spend with you now

This is true love

If a married man falls in love...

...it may be a litmus test
to his marriage vows or his love

But only this is genuine, Savitri

My past is true

My love is real

"Is everything a mere illusion?"

"Is this a light in my life of delusion?"

Manickam

Shall we choose some other heroine?

I won't let go of you

[song from 'Devdas']

Stop it

What is this, Savitri?

If you don't talk to me-

If someone sees us,
what will they think?

Let go of my hand

"Have you forgotten your childhood friend
who played pranks with you no end"

"Don't you remember your childhood friend
who played with you hours on end?"

Till you promise not to drink
I won't leave this place

By forcing a promise out of me

...do you want to rob me
of what little peace of mind I have, Paru?

Cut

Manickam, in the next scene-

Cut...cut

Someone stop her

Savitri, what is this?

It was just a role in a film and
will you break your head into two?

Will anyone bang her head like this?

Was Nageswara Rao really a drunkard?

It's just acting

Stop glowering at me

If you behave
like a lunatic once more...

...I'll break your teeth!

Break her teeth, sir

Isn't it wrong?

She has gone to great lengths
to ensure the shot is realistic

Acting?

Is it so tough to live Parvati's role?

Is it such a big deal
to merge into the character?

Isn't it notable
if even after 100 years...

...this Parvati is remembered
for the film 'Devdas'?

Mere acting

Your daughter need not be a famous actress

Let her be an ordinary heroine

Isn't that so, Chowdhury sir?

Sir, did he compliment me
or condemn me now?

Act...it's all an act

Everyone acts

That dialog should be
in the interval block only

It's such a wonderful dialog

If you emote well
you'll become a great actress

You go, I'll follow you

This side, pull it

That's right

Gemini sir!

I'm fine, it's alright

Union of mind, words and action
are the 3 knots tied in a wedding

Only if 2 hearts merge
it is ordained to be a bond

If that's missing you can tie many knots
It will be an affidavit, that's all

That vow is for a lifetime

Can that promise be broken?

That means I shouldn't even
think of another woman

But you invaded my mind

When you have a wife waiting for you
why would you think of me?

You are the only one
in my heart, my dearest

I didn't get married
because I wanted to

Even if I tried to stop falling in love
I failed miserably

If I was assured in our next birth
we will be married...

I'll happily die now-

I don't fear death, my dear

If we do not have another birth...

...will the Gemini-Savitri
love story also be

...immortal like the tale
of Devdas-Parvati?

If we have just 1 birth...

...will we be compelled
to continue like this?

Half our lives we are in a reel world
in front of the camera

Shouldn't we be true to
our remaining real life?

We can act in life

But our life shouldn't be just an act

But how?

You are already married

Marriage...wedding vows!

This is a man made ritual
when he lived in the jungle

If we trust our hearts
why do we need this ritual?

Do you love me?

Can you live without me?

Look, Savitri

I have immense faith in this love

But not in getting married

Everyone won't be blessed
with a love like ours

Nissankara Savitri

I, Ramasamy Ganesan

...with Goddess Chamundeswari as witness

...I take you as my wedded wife
in thought, word and deed

Their wedding was a simple affair
just like in a film, right?

Not just one, I can
cite another example

What?

I didn't know they had got married
before the release of 'Devdas'

Both 'Devdas' and 'Manam Pol Mangalyam'
were released after they got married

And were box office hits
at the same time

After that?

For 3-4 years

Some hits and some flops

At that time Anjali madam and
Bhanumathi madam were very popular

Savitri madam was up-and-coming

Original heroine of 'Missamma'
was Bhanumathi madam

One day director Chakrapani
burnt all the reels...

...following an argument
with Bhanumathi madam

Savitri madam who was the co-star
stepped into the heroine's shoes

Didn't Gemini sir play
NTR's role in the Tamil version?

In reel life she had to act as if
she was married though she was single

In real life she had to act as if she was
single even though she was married

This is a really unique story

"Warm welcome to the silver moon"

"Come and listen to our story soon"

"A big hello to the moon shining high"

"Listen to our story without a sigh"

"Welcome, silver moon in the purple sky"

"With vows taken informally in my life
I got the status as your wife"

"Without vows taken with family around
I became your wife unannounced"

Our 1st 'Festival of lights' after marriage

"Words well used as lies
Acting fine-tuned as a device"

Greetings

Why are you so late?

We have been waiting for you

Why don't you burst crackers, sir?

Me...burst crackers?

Yes, go ahead

I am not too fond of this

Too much of pollution
Bad for health

Where...hello?

- Isn't anyone
- Come here

...at home?

"Her religion means the world to her
My religion she will ignore"

"She will never think of us as 'we'
while standing in front of me"

"Warm welcome to the silver moon"

"Come and listen to our story soon"

[song from 'Missamma']

"Only when he picks a love-fight
his world brims with delight"

"Rewrite your destiny in life's journey
Strengthen your bond of holy matrimony"

Sekhar, keep this box in the car

Okay, madam

You mean to say Gemini's first wife
was unaware of their relationship?

Whether she knew or not...

...Savitri madam was petrified of her

Don't cry
Wipe your tears

Poor thing! Her daughter
is the reason for her distress

She can't accept this even on her
funeral pyre, let her cry it out

Your Tamil love letter

Translate it in Telugu

'My dearest, I cannot be
without seeing you'

'Shall we both go to the beach
to spend sometime alone?'

'Come as soon as
you hear me honk twice'

'Yours lovingly
your Ganesh'

I...nana

You don't have the right
to call me 'father'

Isn't this wrong, my dear?

No...!

I don't know how to
explain this to all of you

Please forgive me

Hey! How dare you get married!

You wretched female!

Stop it

Will you kill her?

She didn't realize the repercussions

I walked into it
with my eyes open

I agreed to marry him
knowing he is married and has children

Because I love him

How dare you!

Shameless hussy!

Your daughter has crossed
all lines of decency

She won't prosper hereafter

I put her on such a high pedestal

She let me down so badly
I should bang my head in disgust

He'll come now, right?

Let him announce his secret signal!

I bought it only the day before

But little did I think
it would come in handy so soon

Nana...don't!

I know how to teach you a lesson

Please don't!

Go...stay locked in there

Father...!

Nana

I'll open this door
only after I kill him

As if she can get away
with this namesake marriage

If any of you tries to open the door...

...I'll shoot you first

Move aside

Hey!

Who is she, ma?

Revathi, go to bed

Tea

What's the use of crying now?

Drink tea and wash your face

Please stop crying, dear

What has happened now?

All along I was wondering
how to break the news

I don't have to worry about it now

He'll kill you

He will never accept you

If a scoundrel deceives
his darling daughter...

...won't a father be angry?

Anyone in his shoes
will react like that

Can't blame him

Then what do we do now?

What is this I heard?

I believe you fell in love with him?

Forget him
He isn't right for you

I got married to him

You know how many come
to Madras to become a star?

You've become one

Try to understand its value

If this news gets around
no one will make a film with you

This will end your career, Savitri

I'm already married to him

Your wish

What do you mean 'your wish'?

If you wanted to marry,
why didn't you tell me?

I would have found a prince for you

Where did you pick him up?

My slippers will speak!

Who are you to talk in my house?

Chowdhury

Wait

Instead of chastising him for marrying her
when he's already married...

...are you supporting him?

If they aren't married...

...but living together secretly,
is everything ironed out?

Chowdhury

This has gone past
the stage of acceptance

Bless them wholeheartedly

When his first wife has agreed,
what's your problem?

Asking me why I should worry?

Do you know how much I struggled
to make her a heroine?

I gave up all my comforts
to make her comfortable

I spent all my savings on her

I don't want anything I earned

House

Lands in our home town

Every asset I've earned so far

You can help yourself to everything
To the very last paisa

But allow us to lead our own lives

I treated your dream as mine

You've tumbled our world upside down

Call yourself reporters?

You should be ashamed!

Other papers crack jokes
and paint me to be a fool!

Look at this, they claim
I am Shankaraiya

We met everyone
Actors, directors, producers

But didn't find anyone by that name

Hasn't she written that name?

Then a Shankaraiya is
somewhere out there

There's a story behind that name
I need to know that story

Whoever brings that story
will occupy the subeditor's seat

Take-home salary Rs 1000

Rani, I will ensure your article
makes it to the front page

At least now go, I say

Front page!

But Sekar couldn't trace him even after
hunting high & low and neither could we

Wonder where he is!

Let's see

...how this story unfolds

Savitri madam, is it true
you got married 3 years ago?

Sir, will you divorce your 1st wife?

Madam Savitri, heard you quit films?

That's it, no more questions

Please leave all of you

Kumbakonam 'sambar'

This is even more delicious
than your 'pappu charu'

Check if salt is enough

If you continue to sulk like this
are you accepting we were wrong?

Mother, uncle, director sir

I've upset everyone

Have I gone mad?

Yes, whoever knows about our love
must have thought we are stark raving mad!

Let them think

Salt is perfect

But we should also think
about the world, right?

World...!

Now that Savitri and
Gemini Ganesan are married

...will the world stop rotating!

Nonsense...!

We planned to seize every moment?

Shouldn't we?

Let's go out this evening

Out...?

- No need
- Why...?

Before marriage
we painted the town red

Does it make sense
if we hide indoors now?

We got married not to end up
as a problem to ourselves?

If being married is our problem
what is this, Savitri?

That's so true

Let's go

I loved this film

That girl has done a brilliant job, right?

If she watches your film,
she'll think the same too!

Hello, where to?

For the 1st time we've come out
as husband and wife

We aren't going home immediately

Vos d?sirs sont des ordres

In French it means-

Why discuss other languages now?

I'm hungry, come

He left his wife at home

Look how he's roaming around with her!

He has fallen into her web!

Look, that's Gemini

Look how he's two timing

Leaving his wife at home...

...he's having a gala time with her

Not hungry
Let's go home

Aiyo! Watch your step, dear

Hello, my dear brothers and sisters

My name is Gemini Ganesan

I am sure you recognised me

Look at that woman standing there

That beautiful lady

All of you know her too

Get down

You know Savitri as only a heroine

But today...

...I want to introduce
another Savitri to you

I fell in love with her
heart and soul

And I married her

Mrs Savitri Ganesan

Look how beautifully he said it

I love you to kingdom come
Mrs Savitri Ganesan!

"Tongue-tied hearts that beat"

"Mute hearts that greet"

"In the horizon where earth and sky meet"

"Love embraces you and me complete"

"World is just you & me in 'maya' sublime"

"Without a thought to time
secure in this feeling divine"

"Welcoming our rhapsody
our future tunes into a melody"

"Come here sooner
o' cusp of spring and summer"

"Come to woo
the koel's coo"

"In enamored enthrallment
koels swinging together in that moment"

"Silent hearts inarticulate"

"Souls in a speechless state"

"Imagination bountiful"

"Droplet of light as breath beautiful"

"Boon of my smile irresistible"

"Are pollens the work of wind mischievous?"

"Or my karma of a birth previous?"

"Words expressed; vows professed"

"Merged as one in breath caressed"

"Tomorrow and yesterday
merged as one today"

"Let our love-story be
the almanac for posterity"

"In dreams woven sprightly
let our fairy tale shine brightly"

"From a totally different world
this new emotion has unfurled"

"Intoxication whirled"

"Let this state in totality
pursue us for eternity"

"Within the reach of our fingertip
a galaxy of stars for us to grip"

"Don't spoil the magic here
by asking anyone how far, dear"

"Silent hearts in sync"

"Soul mates link"

Whatever people may say,
Gemini was a charmer, right?

Now I understand why Savitri garu
fell in love with him

Not just Savitri madam

He has broken many hearts!

Imagine how much
he must have loved her

Otherwise in front of everyone-

My God!

Ladies and gentlemen

My name is Anthony

The girl standing over there

She is Miss Madhuravani

Bachelor of Arts
Gold medallist

But today I want to introduce the Vani garu
I've been interacting with all along

- Get down, I say
- 1 minute

The real Miss Vani only I am aware of

Do you know what I see
when I look into her eyes?

Truth...!

Truth sparkles from her eyes

You'll dent the car
Get down now

Today Vani garu is-

Vani garu

I've been wanting to
express this for a very long time

I like you very-

Anthony garu

Enough

Please get down

Gemini sir

Thanks...!

Ma...?

What do you think of Jesus Christ?

How does it matter what I think?

What is this question, my dear?

I mean

You read sacred texts
of other religions, right?

Brahmam the famous seer
has said God is One

He says whoever is your God,
ultimately you reach His feet

So if I marry someone
from another religion-

I'll break your teeth

- Your seer's quote
- Dump it into the sea!

What is wrong with this girl?

Ask for His forgiveness
Lord Vishnu, have mercy on her

Grandma, after Savitri madam got married

...did people think her career was over?

Yes, they did

But that's when the actual story started

"If we work, singing and dancing together
boredom won't bother us ever"

[song from 'Thodi Kodallu']

Sir, please come in

Please sit down

How is married life treating you?

Released only recently

Let's see how it goes!

If I complete the 2 films
I have on hand...

...I'll quit acting

I'll happily bargain with
the vegetable vendor daily

Plan my menu for the day

I'll wait expectantly for his arrival

I'll be contented living
in this small world of mine

If talent is bottled or canned...

...the world won't be
able to enjoy the fizz!

You know our company is making a film

K.V. Reddy is very insistent
only you should play the lead role

I'm not inclined, sir

I'm happy with this life

When you wanted cinema,
it fulfilled your wish, right?

Now cinema wants you

Haven't I wished you well always?

Rama Rao is playing Lord Krishna
and Nageswara Rao as Abhimanyu

You are Sasirekha

Name of the film

Mayabazar
Scene 90, take 1

"Laddu as Sweetmeats"

"Honeyed treats as feast"

[song from Maya Bazaar']

"Delicious 'jilebi'
Our speciality"

"This banquet is only for me"

"A wedding feast exclusive
With a menu so impressive"

"For the groom's family to cherish
Now for my taste buds to relish"

Cut

What is this, Mr Pingali?

I wanted you to pen
a 100 days hit song

You've given me a song
which will play for 100 years!

My lyrics may be a feast

But your words are ambrosia to my ears!

With your lyrics and his dialogs

...my performance should
be perfect too, right?

Well said, uncle

Stop laughing, my dear lady

Now you are the illusive Sasirekha

Let's see how you match
Ranga Rao's performance!

Don't have any doubts

He is omnipresent

Most charismatic kingmaker

Dhu sha ta sha dhu sha ta ya ha

Dhu sha ta sha dhu sha ta ya

Dhu sha ta sha dhu sha ta ya ha

What, madam?

Are you ridiculing Ranga Rao?

Beware!

"She's a princess charming
Damsel, delightful and disarming"

"It seems a princess charming
Delightful and disarming"

"The groom will glance at me
And faint in ecstasy"

"Aiyaiyaiyaiyo!"

"It is my wedding soon"

"I am over the moon"

"I am over the moon
It is my wedding soon"

"Sportive rivalry
between you and me"

"World rejoices in revelry"

"Whoopee!"

"He will come to tie
the wedding knot"

"Without a doubt"

"He'll come with the sacred thread
I'll blush a bright red"

"Covering my face with my sari
I'll play hide & seek merrily"

Excellent...!

Savitri, it's a tough call as to
who excelled, you or Ranga Rao!

Uncle...uncle

I want you to tell me
if I performed well

I thought you were making fun
of me behind my back

But you are carrying Mayabazar
on your young shoulders

Ask someone to de-spell
any evil eye cast on you

- Savitri, come
- What...?

Come with me

Aiyo! Where are you taking me?

Wait, dear

Lady Luck won't smile
on everyone like this, Savitri

They need you

'House full'

'All shows house full'

Housewarming ceremony

Our first invitation is for you

You can take it and
stuff it in his face

Look at this glass!

Imagine how much we must earn
to build a bungalow like this!

"Leading lady, o diva
Our very own prima donna"

"Gamut of emotions expressive
Gracefulness extensive"

"Showering accolades on you elatedly"

"Mother Earth rejoiced wholeheartedly"

"With Goddess Durga's blessings in plenty"

"You were born to be
people's choice favorably"

Ghantasala sir
Once more, for my sake

"You are the female version
of Lord Nataraja in person"

"To visual arts tirelessly
you dedicated every second duly"

"You were destined to be the queen
of our Indian silver screen"

Sir, you never used to look
at your script before the shoot?

Today I am acting with Savitri

Give me the paper

"Leading lady, o diva
You are our prima donna"

"An actress extraordinaire
A jewel in the crown rare"

- Why do you come daily?
- Only to see you

I'm stuck like a lunatic
in the midst of these Tamilians

You've seen me
You can go now

No, madam, I've told
my people back home...

...I'll work for you
Please give me any job

"A woman of substance"

"An actress par excellence"

Can anyone eat this?

Eat if you want or get lost!

"A celebrity, female superstar
In-demand person of the hour"

"Connoisseur of arts
Conqueror of hearts"

What, grandpa?

Is 200 BHP car necessary
for the ladies' race?

Not 200 but 245 BHP

V8 engine

1st car in Madras

To witness its full potential

...you may have to
participate in the Men's race

Why...?

We can see it right away

Take my car
and let's race

With whom?
You...?

This isn't a film, Savitri madam

No need, your dignity
will go for a toss

No problem
I'll take that chance

I won't drive too fast

I am grateful to Vijaya Productions
for my debut role

And Goddess Chamundeswari
who graced our wedding

So I name our first born
Vijaya Chamundeswari

"You swam against the tide
to set an example worldwide"

"Whatever the language may be
you rose to heights with humility"

"With your aura exemplary
you filled the pages of history"

"You scaled the peaks in this rat race
imprinting your name in time and space"

"Thanks to your endearing face
Telugu got the befitting pride of place"

"Leading lady, o diva
Our very own prima donna"

Producers usually wait for the dates of
NTR, ANR and Sivaji Ganesan

But they wait for Savitri's confirmation

"Heroine exceptional
Noteworthy and notable"

"Connoisseur of arts
Conqueror of hearts"

"A woman of substance
An actress par excellence"

I'm announcing a bonus
of 2 months for everyone

She climbed up the ladder
of our cinema rung by rung

Savitri?
What's all this?

Everyone is waiting for you

1 minute, producer sir

This mango is simply delicious

Get down, will anyone believe
you're a celebrity?

Catch it, producer sir

You've been placed on a pedestal
more than the top heroes, any comments?

Why discuss pedestal, golden
platter and betel leaves now?

Telugu or Tamil cinema?
Which do you prefer?

How can I choose between them?

One is the home I was born into
Other is the home I was married into

I believe you cook well?

You bet!
I eat well too

"You opened your heart so generous"

"Wiped others' tears with kindness"

"What is really true wealth you realized"

"You accepted what was left behind
with an equanimous mind"

Do you recognize me?

My grandson is studying
in the school started by you

"That is why you are revered by one and all
even if you didn't ask to be on a pedestal"

"Leading lady, o' diva
You are our prima donna"

"An actress extraordinaire"

Left-handers are said to
have golden hearts

Isn't our heart also to our left?

"Connoisseur of arts
Conqueror of hearts"

Hero garu, Susheela
My childhood friend

"A woman of substance
An actress par excellence"

Shake hands

Aiyo! Susi

Once upon a time...

...I've heard the royal palace
had live-in goldsmiths

I'm seeing it only now

- Like this place, Viji?
- Madam

Aunt Saroja

What a surprise?

Sister, I'm getting married

What a wonderful piece of news

Please sit

You and your husband should
attend the wedding

We would love to be there

Sathyam, give me that ornament

Jyothi, come here

Isn't it very expensive, sister?

Even if it's expensive
will it lay eggs at home?

Look how beautiful it is on you

Give it back to me
whenever you can

When are you planning
to start shooting?

Thinking of starting
in a couple of months

Good

I'll tell you the dates then

Remuneration for both of us will be...

...0.2 million

But...

...we were thinking of
casting Sivaji sir as hero

We came here for Savitri garu

Good choice!
Why would I disapprove?

After acting together
in so many films...

...even I'm tired of the same combo

My dear

Producer has come with
such excellent news you know?

I'm getting a break from you!

Please drink your tea
while it is hot

"My song, o' parakeet
your lips should sing sweet"

"Your cheeks, o' parakeet
should blush a pretty pink indeed"

"My song, o' parakit
your lips should sing sweet"

[song from 'Mooga Manasulu']

"My song, o' parakeet"

"My song, o' parakit"

Not kit!

Kee...keet

"Parakeet"

"Without you here
the veena forgot to strum, dear"

"Without you, o' Krsna
this a very lonely Radha"

[song from 'Doctor Chakravarthy']

"My precious baby, your beautiful face
outshines the moon's glowing rays"

"The difficulties your parents face
will melt like snow in haste"

[song from 'Raktha Sambandam']

This is your career's
best performance, Savitri

Congratulations!

Thank you

But this film won't do well

Even though you speak Telugu...

...no one will understand your language

It has been shot too slow
like an art film

Not all films are
for the audience alone

'Some should be made
for the artiste in us'

Nageswara Rao sir once told me so

Whether this film does well or not...

...it has given me complete satisfaction

My husband also liked it very much

That's why I'm buying
the rights for the Tamil version

Savitri madam

I believe you've bought
the Tamil rights for 'Mooga Manasulu'?

We couldn't make
that film in 2 languages

Some day or the other...

...I wish to show it
to my Tamil audience

Thank you

Why didn't you tell me
you bought 'Mooga Manasulu'?

How much did you buy it for?

Why do you ask?

You like that film, right?

That was long ago

Who will watch that story now?

You shouldn't touch
some classic films, Savitri

No, dear
They will watch

If we lose the money invested, it is okay

But promise me
you won't remake that film

Why are you being so-

You've given me your word, that's it

How many vows you would have made
to give him a son?

Look, how happy you have made him

I thought we will regain our old bond

But for some reason...

...I feel we are drifting apart even more

- Where is today's paper?
- Not delivered, sir

My dear, where are you going?

I am going to the temple

You must take flowers to the temple

But why take that newspaper?

I wanted to-

Give it, I say

'People dislike 'sambar' Ganesan'

If you hide the news, will it stop them
taking a dig at me as 'bland and boring'?

Journalists write
whatever comes to their head

Their report is 100% true

Your films are box office hits

Mine are flops

I wanted you to shine above everyone

But I never thought
I'll be one amongst them

He has crossed his limit

I'll call the newspaper office-

DON'T!

Not necessary, dear

Go...go to the temple

What are you doing?

Nothing...!

Sathyam will drop you home,
my dear children

Leave now

What about my father?

I'll send him home
tomorrow morning

- Please leave now
- You'll 'send' me?!

Who are you to send me?

Am I some inanimate object?

I am my own boss!

Go...play

Will anyone drink in a club
in front of both his daughters?

Then...?

Asking me to drink
in front of both my wives?

Repeat

Do you how much Alamelu akka
is worried about you?

She cries so often

It's a known fact women love
to turn on the waterworks!

But only a bottle knows
how a man drowns his sorrows!

Are you drinking because of me?

Because of me

Even when I am falling down,
won't you give me credit?

I take all the blame!

My love, my marriage,
my bottle and my glass

Just because 2 of your films flopped...

...have you forgotten
your celebrity status?

Do you know about
your huge fan following?

Repeat

Are you Savitri madam?

Yes

I watched your 'Narthanasala film'

Can I have your autograph please?

Excuse me
Do you have a pen?

Thank you

Please

Thank you, Savitri

Sorry, you lost your pen

It's alright
I'll stop acting

That's wrong

Not right, dear

Don't ever say that

Do you remember...

...when you 1st came
to Gemini studio?

You said I'll make my mark in cinema

I remember

I love you a lot, dear

But not interested
in the institution of marriage

How ironic!

A man who is not interested in marriage

...has married twice!

Enough...!

If you drink you'll only get
such crazy thoughts, let's go

'All India Radio
Hyderabad'

'Cine actress Savitri and
her husband Gemini Ganesan...'

'...went to Ravindra Bharathi
to be specially honored today'

Namaste, madam

We welcome you on behalf
of Andhra Kala Parishad

We welcome you on behalf
of our Telugu community

What is the next program?

To participate in an elephant procession

Our association has decided
to honor you with pomp and splendor

- What is her name?
- Gajalakshmi, madam

Why choose an elephant?

Why not a procession in a bus or a car?

Arrange something else

Procession on an elephant
in these times?

Careful, madam

Climb up, dear

Give me your hand

'Keep your foot there and climb up'

He's so scared

'The legendary actress, Savitri'

Hats off! They are
so well organized, no?

Temerity has given you a swollen head

What did I say now?

Don't retort

Just shut up!

'Mahanati Savitri'

Can't he go faster than this?

'Greatest actress ever Savitri'

Savitri...Savitri...!

My dear?

Move aside

- I came with Savitri
- You can't go now

Ladies and gentlemen

Presenting 'Kalaimamani'

To a leading heroine

Now a great actress!

Where did you go?

We were both being honored

Aiyo! That's wrong

Along with this legend of an actress...

...an ordinary actor like me was honored?

No...no...no

Committee members want to
apologize to you

I told them to come

Oh! Fantastic!

They got your approval, right?

Very good

Very good

I reprimanded them
That's why they want to apologize

Otherwise they wouldn't have, huh?

Hey, why are you upset now, dear?

I should be the one crying

They honored you
in such a dignified manner

And disgraced me

If you want to celebrate...

...this is the event

Why are you like this?

It is said, 'Sorrow shared
is heartache halved'

Come, share a drink with me

You're a great actress, right?

I am not your equal
to share a drink with you!

Slowly

What's the problem with you men?

It's okay if your wife succeeds a bit

But very successful
that's it!

Who are you to restrain our success?

Me...?

Vani garu

You know she was to be conferred
the Padma Shri award?

She turned it down because
she didn't know how Gemini would react

Then what happened?

She declined offers
that came her way gradually

For the 1st time...

...in 1966 an article was published
claiming she had become fat

Even though Savitri madam is fat...

...your expressive face gave you
the box office hits, he says

Hey Sathyam

Have I put on weight again?

Whether you are fat or not
you will be people's favorite

If one's body goes through changes...

...it means a change for the good
will happen in life too

Let's see what is in store for me

What does it mean?

Whatever! I think good times are ahead

Taste this 'laddu'

Isn't this 1969?

Even today NTR cinema, ANR cinema

Recently a young boy has come

- Who is it?
- Krishna

Yes, Krishna

What is this male domination?

You never told me
the reason for your visit

For the 1st time in the world...

...only with lady technicians

...we are planning a film

We want you to direct that film

And you'll be the captain of the ship

Direction...?

What do I know?

If you agree to direct,
we'll go ahead

Otherwise we'll just ditch it

[Holy chant]

Start camera

Action

If you pressurize me
I can't do anything

Give me some time

How can I lend without surety?

Listen, Savitri madam

They had promised to finance our film

We are all women, right?

Now they claim unless
a new person signs a surety...

...they won't fund us

Go to women financiers

Maybe they will lend without surety!

Who will sign at the drop of a hat?

We'll be forced to
shelve the film now

I'll sign

No problem

Is this the surety paper?

Shailaja

First take a wide angle

Then a close up shot

We can shoot the song there

You can't see her now

We want to meet Savitri madam

Move aside

Everything will be clear
when you borrow money

Everything will seem
like chaos now

Madam, don't you recognise us?

We came with the producer

You signed the guarantee

We trusted you and lent money
without any collateral

You haven't repaid even one paisa back!

How much do I owe you?

With interest you owe us 0.37 million

We thought you will
ensure we are paid

But you have paid from your pocket

That's okay
It's my film, right?

- Watch the film with your family
- Sure, thank you

Namaste
Please go inside

Rani, make sure everything is arranged

- Welcome
- Namaste

Madam, hasn't the 'King of Love' come?

How can he not show up
for his wife's film?

No, he has gone
out of town for a shoot

Outdoor shooting?

When did he leave?

3 days ago

Is that so?

I saw him in a studio this morning

Is that right?

I was so busy with this release

I didn't even have time to talk to him

Okay, madam
I'll go and watch the film

Madam, are you leaving?

The film is about to start

No, you carry on
I'll be right back

My dear?

Are you home?

Savitri?

What are you doing here?

I thought you had gone out of town

I just got back

I wanted to come for the premiere

Savitri

Savitri, stop

Savitri, don't

Don't, Savitri

Listen to me
1 minute, wait

Let her go

She is not to be blamed

1 minute

Listen to me

Stop it, my dear

Have you gone mad?

Why...why...how could you?

Listen to me just once

No need

Savitri, please!

Don't hit her

Savitri...!

Savitri

Stop

Listen to me, dear

Tell me...what will you tell me?

Everyone is looking at us

Aren't we film stars?
Let them watch

It was a mistake

That's my weakness

But it isn't love!

Aren't you ashamed?

It's my bloody karma!

I didn't listen to anyone

Please forgive me, dear

Only you mean the world to me

I haven't loved any other woman
in my life the way I love you

You don't talk about love

A love unsatiated
by one wedding

To think you'll be satisfied
with 2 wives was my stupidity

You married me
well aware of my past, right?

Alamelu, Pushpavalli

What has happened now?

I was Savitri then

Now I am Savitri Ganesan!

Madam, your film is a huge hit

Get out

Wait, madam

I don't want to come

Want to sleep next to your mother?

Why are you disturbing him
in the middle of the night?

He is my son!

Won't I know what he wants?

- I'll sleep here
- Shut up and come with me

Leave me alone, ma

I'll sleep here with grandma

Don't you act smart with me!

Are you mad or what?

Didn't he say he doesn't want to come?

He can sleep in your bed tomorrow

Even my children don't want me, ma?

Your nana's photo?

Someone from Chintalapudi
wrote a letter to me

I believe he has
a photo of my father

After so many years
I'll finally see my father's face

Namaste, madam
Come in, please sit

Here it is

The 3rd gentleman is your father

Mother, take a look

Who is he?

What do you mean?

Isn't he your husband?

I've never set eyes
on the man in this photo

Some mix up somewhere!

Whatever my mother did was
so different from what anyone else did

Same when she drank too

She could never accept being a failure

But she wanted to succeed
along with my father

Today's bills, madam

Sathyam is handling all that

'She put on so much weight,
offers dropped drastically'

'Even her intention to remake
'Mooga Manasulu' was...'

'...to be honest, spurred by
her anger against my father'

You have a visitor, madam

I don't want to meet anyone now

Won't you at least turn and look?

What is the point?

You promised not to produce this film

Do you remember?

You promised me too

Do you remember?

Your managers are all crooks

Entire industry is talking
of how they are looting you

Actor, producer and director

How can you don so many caps?

If you need any help-

I don't need any help from anyone

I don't need anyone in my life

You are too stubborn
for your own good, Savitri

You bottle up all your feelings

Only if you share your woes
you can have peace of mind

Come, let's share a drink

Listen, my dear-

Stop right there
Leave me alone, go

'Unable to snuff her love for my father'

'...she turned it into a way
of punishing herself'

'During her film's release
2 of Sivaji Ganesan's films flopped'

'So no one came forward to buy this film'

Someone I know has the rights of
the Tamil film 'Vietnam Veedu'

If you remake it in Telugu
it will be a super hit, madam

If we release both the films together

...one will be a sure shot hit, madam

Alright, let's do it

Sign here, madam

How much?

I'll enquire and fill in the amount

Who the hell are you?
Stop right there

We are from the Income tax department

We had sent you a notice
but there was no response

I don't know the details about all this

I'll call my manager now-

Madam, no phone calls

We have a warrant with us

Search here

You go to that room

'My daughter doesn't know
about any of this, sir'

Her husband is the one
who takes care of everything

Then ask him to come

Ma, they are taking away all our jewelry

You've sealed it, right?
Be careful with all the stuff

50% interest will be added
to your outstanding tax

Till all your papers are checked-

Where should I sign?

Sign here

If you seize all my assets

...how will I manage to pay up?

Don't you have 3 months grace time?

My family members are your fans

Can you sign an autograph
for my daughter please?

Thank you, madam

Bye

Vani garu

I got 2 tickets for
'Maro Charitra'

Will you come with me?

Anthony garu, we have work to do

Vani garu, this is also
part of our assignment

'If you can enquire about it-'

Okay, I will

'I'll attend to it
But if you know more details-'

Nana!

Though you are a girl
I agreed to let you work

I need my head to be examined!

What is the con...connection
between the two?

Don't talk back

When you kept harping
it was a good story...

...little did I think it would
end up as your love story!

Enough is enough!

I am finalizing the Madurai alliance

Get married and get lost!

Move aside

What happened, dear?

Sir, we are handing our daughter
to you as your daughter-in-law

With the grace of Lord Shiva

Vani

Anthony sir asked me to...

...give this invitation to you

His engagement it seems

1 minute

Tell me, will you keep
removing your glasses?

This is reality

Truth is always beautiful

Both the films have flopped?

Where is Sathyam?

I haven't seen him

- Be more assertive?
- Let's see if she doesn't

I have to get my money back somehow

You come up with the same excuses
When will you pay up?

Both my films flopped

I don't have the money
to pay you back now

If you give me 2 days grace time-

If you run away somewhere?

You have stashed up money
and pretending you are broke

I am not that great an actress!

I can't act for nuts
unless I am in front of the camera

I'll repay you
with the interest

Shailaja, remember I had bought
100 acres of land in your name?

I am in urgent need of money now

'We sold that land
for our daughter's marriage'

'I can't pay you now'

Purushotham anna, I had bought
a house in your name in Bezawada

'We are staying in that house'

'We would be 'care of roadside'
if we are forced to sell it'

"How many ever obstacles hinder you forever
with ease you will turn them in your favor"

"You can swim against the tide resolutely
And reach the shores of safety absolutely"

Sell Vijaya Mills for a good price

Whatever the rate I don't mind

Didn't you save that
for your daughter's wedding?

Your money in the school Trust
in Chirravuru, 2 million

No, I can't break the faith
the Trust has in me

So let us not touch that amount

- You just sell the mill
- Okay, madam

Ma, are you feeling upset
we've lost all our money?

I was forced to see you
ruin your life all these years

But if you spoil your children's lives
and their future, I can't keep quiet

If you continue like this I may have
to send your children to your husband

Shut up!

After all that has happened
I don't need your advice

What I was trying to say is-

Madam, come soon

"Life is meaningless to me"

"Emptiness envelops me totally"

"Nothing but vacuum, isn't it?"

"This hollowness am I forced to live with"

Mother

Ma, what are you doing here?

There's no electricity

The servants are nowhere to be found

Yes, true

No one is there for me

Enough of drinking
Let's have dinner

Viji, give me the glass

How much will you drink?

After grandma passed away,
have you given us a thought?

You'll drink yourself to death

Viji, I want my glass back

Slap me, go on, kill me

Viji, what are you doing?

Stop it

Ma...!

"If someone asks who you are"

"You are the kaleidoscopic star
who spins magic very far"

Amma...?

"Who animates evergreen
silhouettes on the silver screen?"

"You are the reel life real queen"

AMMA...!

"The world celebrates your glory"

"In every role, every story
you create footprints in history"

Amma

Forgive me, ma

You are the child but you behaved
more like the mother than I did

No, ma, I am to blame

I won't behave like this ever again

What is that?

You are diabetic

I'm injecting insulin

Am I diabetic?

Being addicted to drinking
along with it can prove fatal

You have to be careful

First you have to lose weight

Sit down, fath...uncle

Whoever asks you, call me 'nana'

Otherwise these town people
will act too big for their boots

If I knew you will visit me
only when I am in a hospital...

...I would have got myself admitted
much earlier, nana

Pull yourself together, dear

I'll go and settle the bill

We must get Vijaya married, nana

I found out today I am diabetic

I don't know what tomorrow holds for me

I have to change my ways, nana

I must take better care of my children

Vani

You have a visitor

What brings you here?

I received the letter
you wrote a month ago

Have you finished your story?

I feel like reading it

I quit work

What is the point
in writing this story?

Why was such a won...wonderful woman
punished like this for no fault of hers?

Forget God

What about the people around her?

Not 1 person came forward to help her

Where did you go?

From her childhood, Savitri was never
in the habit of accepting help from anyone

The Income tax department
seized her assets

She sold her house and repaid
all her loans with interest

She started accepting
even small roles in films

She struggled single handed to
control her diabetes and alcoholism

The doctors were astounded
by her will power and weight loss

"I watered 'henna' in my garden daily"

"This ground paste of green 'mehendi'
Bloomed on little palms as red buds gaily"

"I watered 'henna' in my garden daily"

"This ground paste of green 'mehendi'
Bloomed on little palms as red buds gaily"

[song from 'Gorintaku']

Brother, shall we go?

Madam...you?

Take me to Vijaya studios

You should travel
by a car in royal style

Instead coming in this rickshaw-

So what?

I get a lot of fresh air

No need to spend on petrol

Will I get this pleasure
if I travel by car?

Your addiction to alcohol

I have quit drinking

'But'

'You know it is even
more stubborn than me?'

'Most people call it a bad habit'

'But it is a disease'

Just like cancer...

...alcoholism has to be treated

I've read about this
it is quite common abroad

They are called de-addiction centers

I would like to start
one such center by this riverside

It's my dearest wish

Let's go

Had lunch, my dear?

Not hungry, sir

Don't you even have the courtesy
to find out if she had lunch?

I am so-

Aiyo! It's okay

I know...I know

Serve lunch for us

Come, dear

How many people you would have
showered your hospitality on?

We are in the 'Kali' yuga

Nowadays people rob the ring
from the hand that feeds

It's alright, forget it

I am happy if they benefitted
from my simple hospitality

Habibullah road, right?

No, I live in Anna Nagar now

Is that so, madam?

My daughter is a hardcore fan of yours

She has big eyes, just like you

Is that so?
What is she doing?

I educated her till 5th form

I got an alliance for her
day before yesterday

That's good news

But I don't know if I will have
the funds to perform the wedding

Let's see what happens

I'll take leave, madam

1 minute
I'll be back

- Danaiyah
- Madam

- Tell me, madam
- Will you run an errand for me?

Take this sari to the pawn shop
behind our house

Exchange this for some cash

What is this, madam?

Please go, hurry up

- Sir
- Madam

- Please accept
- What is this?

Even people I know won't help

But your generosity-

How will I ever repay your kindness?

Perform your daughter's wedding in style

That is more than enough

Thank you, madam

You have to write this story, dear

Her story is swamped in sorrow

It is true

But she had the strength
to wipe her tears and rise

'You will now listen to commercials
from Vijayawada and Hyderabad'

'In our next program tune in to
legendary actress Savitri's soulful talk'

'I cut all my ties
for the man I loved'

'As a tribute to true love
I renounced the love of my life'

'In this short unpredictable life we lead
true love for even a second is a blessing'

'I cherished that love
for 20 long years'

'Not everyone is blessed
by this kind of love'

'If you are that lucky
fight against all odds'

'You live only once'

Come, dear
Look at this

Your father-in-law to be
has brought the invitation

I am marrying Anthony, father

Shut up!

She's too young
and spoke out of turn

I spoke very much aware of my actions

I spoke knowing I am in love with him

I don't know if it is
right or wrong, father

But if I don't, liv...living
in regret all my life

...wondering if I should have
is even worse, father

Vani...?

So...sorry, nana

I have to go now

Sorry, uncle

Vani

Vani, listen to me

Only 1 kick, father

This wedding has been decided in Heaven

Bride Miss Divya
Groom Mr-

Stop!

How did you come he-

Move aside

Anthony, what is all this?

Who is this girl?

Mo...mother, she is-

Why are you stuttering?

You shouldn't be scared of elders

I told my father bravely

I started the scooter
with 1 kick and rushed here

It's okay if my parents disown me

Help her control her anger

Shower Your blessings on-

Father, hold on

Can't we discuss this later?

You landed here all of a sudden?

How can we discuss this later?

Anthony, listen
Life is very short

In that short span
we should live life to the fullest

Whatever has to happen
will happen, good or bad

Listen to me

You are very beautiful
You can easily find a handsome groom

Vani garu, you-

Allow me to finish

I tend to stammer

To get rid of it, I was told
I should become more self confident

I spoke for so long now
Did I stammer?

I didn't, did I?

Do you know why?

The boy standing by my side

He gives me that confidence

Give my source of strength back to me

Miss Vani

Thank you

I am not getting engaged!

She's my sister

Divya

She is Madhuravani

B.A, gold medallist

He is Ajay

Divya's fianc?

Congratulations!

Vani-

Can I ask you something?

Sure, Anthony garu

You rushed here
without your glasses?

Are the people on the road still alive?

'I feel my life has started only now'

'But you have 1 chapter
untold in your story'

'May 11th, the day you left
for the shoot in Bangalore'

Let me come with you, ma

Please, ma

Don't badger me
Not this time

I want a toy dog, ma

First draw a doggy
Then I'll get one for you

Okay

'Can I speak to Savitri madam?'

I am Savitri speaking
Tell me, sir

'By the 24th of this month'

'...you must pay a penalty
of Rs 0.2 million'

'We even sent your notice
through registered post'

Why should I pay some more?

You have grabbed whatever I earned
You sealed all my assets

I've even sold my house

Won't you let me live in peace?

'If you don't pay up, we'll be
forced to take you to court'

Why should I pay?

You won't get even 1 rupee

Take whatever action you want

If I say I won't
it means 'no'

Ma...?

You wanted to come with me, right?

Get ready
Pack your bag

Okay, ma

How are you, Shoba?

Satish keeps thinking of you

He wants to get a stuffed toy

Satish, do you remember me?

- Remember her?
- Come here, dear

What toy do you want?

- Toy dog
- Is that so?

If you don't mind...

...will you take him shopping

0.2 million it seems, lawyer sir

I have saved it for the past 2 years
to build a rehabilitation center

How can I keep paying penalty
throughout my life, sir?

'This is regarding your income tax'

'It isn't something
we can find fault with'

'If we don't comply
we'll be in deep trouble'

'It will be contempt of court'

Then why do I pay you a retainer?

I don't care if I am arrested

I won't part with the money
I've saved for my dream

"Soured relationship between husband & wife
embedded strife in a smooth life"

[song from 'Missiamma']

"Warm welcome to the silver moon"

"Come and listen to our story soon"

'Hello, Gemini Ganesan speaking'

'Hello...who is this?'

'Can you hear me?'

'My dear?'

You, huh?

'Can't you see me
walking down the stairs?'

'Are you blind?'

- Forgive me, madam
- You ruined my sari

I'll report you to the manager

It was a mistake, madam
I am so sorry

"A war without victory in place"

"Makes time tick at its own pace"

"How to restore this strife
Wipe the upheavals in my life?"

"A scar to savor sweet I feel"

"The heart will never heal
this sweet scar I conceal"

"How much longer can my soul
tolerate a jolt out of control?"

'Listen, how much will you charge
to take us to Barani studio?'

'10 paise, sir'

'It's alright, uncle
Let's take a tram'

"Places we visited
Happy times unlimited"

"Mere dreams, no more
Wearily washed ashore"

"If all those are my mind's hallucination
my heart aflame, suffused in suffocation"

"Memories still crystal clear
chased by moments held dear"

"Distraught, she sought consolation
in numbness by intoxication"

'Clear out now
Your daughter won't suit this role'

'Don't you know Tamil?'

'It's okay...to get it right in the photo'

'Would Parvati have agreed
to be his 2nd wife?'

'Yes, definitely'

'Wasn't she in love with him?'

'If that Devadas was Gemini Ganesan?'

"Does the ceaseless sea at least accept
the turbulence buried in-depth?"

"Did the compelling need in-built
to touch the sky get fulfilled?"

"In the ensuing clash of wills
of good over evil"

"Will it be finally known
which is ambrosia, which is poison?"

'Are you drinking because of me?'

'Because of me'

'Even when I am falling down,
won't you give me credit?'

'I take all the blame!'

"Tongues of flames scorch my heart"

"I fumble, I (s)tumble, I fall apart"

"Night and day merged as one
for this jewel in the crown"

You've ruined everything, dear

"In the inferno of hell's prison"

"Love has turned into poison"

"In the end what is left for me?"

"If I have to drink this only
who can change my destiny"

"Your dreams came true
in your own (a)venue"

'How do I start the story
which already has a tragic ending?'

'I pursued her story'

'But I found history instead'

'I couldn't trace Shankaraiya'

'Even if I found him now
I have no questions to ask'

'I thought writing about Savitri amma
was restricted only to cinema'

'But 'Behind the scenes' of cinema
I stumbled on her magnanimity'

'She spooned a slice of herself
in every role she enacted in reel life'

'Only a bit of her life
is still sticking on to her now'

'I feel like turning back the clock
and saving her from the jaws of death'

'She is like the golden moon
shining in the starlit sky'

'Once upon a time
there lived a great actress'

Madhuravani!

- Sister...akka
- What is it?

"Thanks to your endearing face
Telugu got the befitting pride of place"

Madhuravani madam?

Yes

I should have returned this long ago

I was wrong

"Leading lady, o' diva"

Please ensure she knows
I have returned it

"You are our prima donna"

"A woman of substance
An actress par excellence"

Savitri madam,
aren't you fond of jasmine?

I offered it to Goddess Shakthi
and brought it for you

Forgive me for turning
my back on you and speaking

Your million fans and me

Whenever we think of you
we want to remember you as

Parvati in 'Devdas'

Sasirekha of 'Mayabazar'

Miss Mary of 'Missamma' fame

A few months ago...

...I didn't know anything about you

I started on a journey
of getting to know you

In that process
I discovered myself

I believe you wanted to set up
a rehabilitation center

Do you remember Jyothi?

You lent your diamond necklace
for her wedding

Not being able to return it
when you needed it most

...she repents for it
every single day

Jyothi and Susheela have
monetised your necklace

And started a rehab clinic
to make your dream come true

Life is too short

It can change with twists and turns anytime
is what I learnt from your life

I should live life
on my own terms

Your life taught me this

What remains in the end?

The love we shared

The trips we take
down memory lane

For having enriched me

On behalf of my generation

And on behalf of posterity

Thank you from the bottom of my heart

People all over the world are upset
you may pass away soon

Can death take you away?

How is it possible?

Generations to come
will watch your films

They will shower their affection on you

Laugh with you
Cry with you

You are immortal

"An actress extraordinaire"

I have brought you a gift

I heard you were
searching for this photo

I found it in our newspaper archives

Before you were born

This is your father's photo

With his name written on it

I have nothing else to give you

"Connoisseur of arts"

"Conqueror of hearts"

"An actress extraordinaire"

"A jewel in the crown rare"

He looks shorter in reality
than in the cinemas, eh?

But he is so handsome

Look at that heroine next to him
She is such a bad match

Do you think we can meet
Nageswara Rao again?

When I become a heroine
you can see him daily in the shoot

Good lord! My uncle
would have come back home

I'm going, see you, Susi

When will I see you again?

Tomorrow

In a cinema again

I feel like talking to you nonstop

Hoping to see all of you
once again for sure

I take leave
Jai Hind!