'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'
K.V.Chowdhury presents
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
Who is K.V.Chowdhury?
- 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
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 dsirs 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!