'Respected sir'
'I am E.P. Balan who runs the New Kerala Barber Shop'
'at the Melukavu Junction.'
'An old fashioned chair'
'old and shapeless scissors, etcetera are my work tools.'
'That's the reason why my business has become dull.'
'I will not be able to continue'
'if I don't purchase a revolving chair and new work tools.'
'I have done a lot to secure a loan for myself.'
'But people say that if you want'
'a loan, you will have to pay bribes.'
'Sir, I am against the concept of bribing people'
'to get things done.'
'What about you? Do you ask for a bribe for a loan?'
'I'd fill the application form'
'only if you don't demand a bribe.'
'I am waiting outside hoping'
'for a favourable reply.'
'Yours sincerely, E.P. Balan.'
Did you call me, sir?
The one who gave this is waiting outside. Call him inside.
Okay, sir.
May I come in, sir?
Come in!
I have read the stories about Raja Harishchandra.
But I have never seen him in person.
I have also read 'The Story of My Experiments with Truth'
but I have never seen Gandhi in person.
I am no longer grieved by it
as I got to see someone like them today.
Who's that, sir?
That is you!
Listen. Such arrogance does not suit
a barber like you.
You've asked a government officer directly
whether he would take a bribe
and that's utter nonsense!
An idealist is here!
This is why no one wants to loan you money.
If I have disrespected you by writing about bribes in the letter
I shall strike that off from the letter, sir.
What you said is the same as abusing
someone and apologising for it later.
For you.. There is no loan!
Just get lost! - Sir
just for a revolving chair and scissors..
You've been everywhere. Don't waste time! Go away, mister!
I've learnt the lesson of not asking people like you
whether you take bribes or not.
Get out!
Oh, God!
What will I cook in now?
Only if there is something to cook
do I have to think about it, right?
Sridevi! What was that sound?
It was the cry of a goat!
Is a goat's cry similar to the sound of falling utensils?
It sounds like that at times. Did Mr. Jaleel go to the farm?
He went out just now after having Paratha and mutton.
He will return only at noon to eat Chicken Biryani.
Oh, God! Did the rice get burnt?
Do you have any book that Balan reads?
I am bored.
He borrows those books.
He returns them immediately after reading them. - Oh!
Don't you have a TV in your house, Shamna?
There would be good programmes to watch.
My mother wouldn't allow me to watch TV.
Why so? - She says that girls get spoiled
if they watch TV. - Is it?
Thank God! There's no TV in our house.
What about your marriage proposal, Shamna?
The groom's family demanded a Maruti car.
Dad says that he will only give them a motorcycle.
If you save the money that you spend in buying meat
you can buy a Maruti car.
Shamna, if you have an earthen pot, give it to me, please.
So, that was the sound of a vessel breaking, wasn't it?
Did you break another vessel?
Have you taken a vow in the temple
that you'd break so many pots in a month?
Balan! While I was taking the vessels for washing
our cat crossed my path.
It's been six months since we
sent the cat somewhere else. Isn't it, Devi?
Oh! I forgot about it.
When this happened the last time
you told me that a goat had hit you from behind.
Since goats cannot speak, you escaped that day.
Who does this purposely?
You are not concentrating!
While doing one thing, you think of something else.
When you boil rice
you remember that you didn't feed the chicken.
You chase the chicken while leaving the rice on the stove.
When you come back, the rice gets overcooked. That's your habit.
Just like you said, I have kept the rice on the stove!
Balan!
Did you see the sickle anywhere? - Why?
Are you going to kill someone? - Tell me if you've seen it or not.
I haven't seen it for the past five years.
I had kept a piece of ginger somewhere here.
I wonder where it is. Did you take it, Balan?
Yes. I left in the morning after having
that piece of ginger. Someone asked me on my way
why I looked like ginger.
By the way, didn't you buy fish?
I didn't see any fish stall at the junction.
Did you buy vegetables?
I thought of having chicken gravy today.
Then, did you buy chicken? - Chicken..
It's there. It's here. - Our chicken?
All the chickens in the world are reared by someone, right?
That won't work.
What will I give the kids when they come at noon?
I want to know right now, whether you like chicken or our kids more.
They are the same to me. - Then, there's no way.
I had gone out for some work in the morning.
Did you ask me what happened or if I got the loan?
Why aren't you asking me anything about it?
I knew that you wouldn't get it done.
I am sure he scolded you
upon reading your letter regarding bribery.
You are good. - Didn't I tell you to strike that off?
I never thought that it would create such an issue.
You are a fool, Balan!
Sona was very sad when she went to school.
What happened? - Don't you know?
If she doesn't pay the fee today, she'll not be allowed in the class.
Paying the fee of our other two kids can wait for now.
Sona is in the 10th grade.
You should remember that.
I have to do something
to get a revolving chair and new scissors soon.
In Eappachan's estate
I heard that there are nice trees. I will have to go that way.
What is the use? Will he give us wood if we don't pay him?
Isn't he a moneylender?
If we select the wood now
we can buy it when we have money. - And when is that?
You don't have any money. That's why you didn't buy fish, isn't it?
Couldn't you have borrowed at least Rs. 10 from the nearby shop?
You won't do that. Your pride stops you, doesn't it?
Do we have pulses?
No. - Do we have beans?
It's been so long since we got anything from the shop.
Do we have a coconut? - We might be having half a coconut.
Then, just make something with it.
Ms. Sridevi!
Here you go. - I got another one, Shamna.
I can't prepare a coconut chutney in that vessel, can I?
What is it, Balan? Aren't you opening the shop today?
I'm going there, Mr. Thangappan.
Isn't this Mr. Eappachan's estate? - Yes.
This one and the next one too.
Why? - No. There's no special reason behind it.
Who has entered my estate?
Catch him. - Okay!
Stop right there! - Hey!
Stop right there! - Stop!
Hit him! - Balan!
Hit him. - Mr. Eappachan, this is our barber, Balan.
Balan? What are you doing here?
Do you cut people's hair in my estate now?
I know that your business has flopped.
But I heard that you never traverse on the path of indecency.
But if no one gets to know about your misdeeds, you'd do it.
I came for a revolving chair..
How would you find a revolving chair here?
In Mr. Eachappan's estate..
It's Eappachan. - Sorry, sir.
Okay.. - Sorry. - Continue.
I heard that I could get nice wood here, perfect to build chairs.
So, I thought of having a look.
A small piece of wood is enough.
For that, shouldn't you ask permission from Mr. Eachappan?
Eappachan! - Sorry, sir.
In my estate, you'll find many varieties of wood.
You'll find various kinds of wood here.
But you can buy them only if I sell them!
Mr. Eachappan has no reason to do that now.
Nincompoop! - What?
Idiot!
I've told you many a time not to call me that.
I didn't keep this name of yours which is so hard to pronounce.
Many people pronounce my name properly. Why can't you?
Do one thing. - Yes? - Stop calling me that. - Okay.
Henceforth, just address me as your boss.
Okay, your boss.
So, Bala, let's just consider
that destiny made us meet.
In Melukavu Junction
most of the people take loans from me.
But you have not. I'll give you money for the chair.
But you should pay the interest on time.
I hope you know that Kora
and Verghese are the ones who come for collecting the money.
If you give me that money
I'll give you the wood needed for the chair.
How can I just..
Don't you want it? Don't you want the money?
Then, just leave from here! - Oh!
If I see you here again.. - Mr. Eachappan.. - Hey!
Boss! It's a fly. That looks like a big fly. - Where?
'New Kerala Barbershop.'
Why are you late, Balan?
Balan! Sweep inside. We will do this.
Even though, I've an experience of 15 years
my hands started to shake when I touched a comb and scissors.
Guess who was in front of me. - Who was it?
The first brother of the king of Kuwait.
Munir from Koyilandy was a cook there.
Only after he called to tell me
did I know that he was the king's brother.
I prayed to all the Gods to save me from doing anything.
If I make any mistake, I'll lose my head.
If he likes it, I'll be a wealthy barber for all my life..
One minute.
What's the use of just looking here?
I gave him an offer as we are in the same profession.
He didn't listen to me. I felt like bashing his face.
Sir, who are you talking about? - What!
Concentrate on your work.
Please ask me the question that he asked me.
Sarasan, whom are you talking about?
Balan has been staring here since long!
After I started this saloon, his business flopped!
I told him that I'd teach him step-cutting. - I see.
I said that I'd pay Rs. 5 per person.
How would he have listened?
He had remained to be a shop owner till now.
He doesn't want to be a labourer now. Let him suffer.
You'll have to get shaved too, okay?
Why do you have to play here?
Where else would we get this comfort, Mr. Balan?
You guys have no work at all.
This is what you do all day.
Even you don't have any work.
Why don't you join us?
'The charges have been reduced. Old charge and new charge.'
'Cutting, Rs. 23.'
'The new charge is Rs. 18.'
'Shaving, Rs. 12. The new charge is Rs. 7.'
'Sorry. Underarm shaving will not be done.'
This is one of the many tricks
that Balan is using for his business.
If even this flops, Balan will try more.
What will he do?
He will lock the shop and run away
with the key and without looking back ever.
Mr. Devasya! Two cups of tea.
Even you should reduce the price for tea and other food items.
Barber Balan has reduced the rate of shaving and cutting.
Look, he has kept a new board there.
In that case, if you feel like having tea, go there and shave.
When we mentioned globalisation and liberalisation
many made fun of us. What's the case now?
A poor barber has been forced to reduce the rates.
But are five-star hotels reducing their rates?
Are the rates of luxury cars reducing? No!
If the nuclear treaty is signed
everything will be over.
When Sarasan's barber shop opened, people flocked there.
It's not because of your nonsense
that Balan has reduced the rates.
Mr. Devasya! You are not taking matters seriously.
Sarasan's shop has a fan and the latest equipments.
Then, how can you say that people
are not attracted by luxury?
That I cannot say. But I can say one thing.
I've seen you get a shave from Sarasan's shop.
Who? Me? - Yes, you.
I saw you when I went to give tea to Sarasan.
Don't tell such lies just to degrade someone.
Come with me! - What for?
We will go to Sarasan and ask. - That's not at all necessary.
It is necessary. - Well
I don't have time. I have a meeting in Idukki.
After clearing this, you can go to the meeting. - Stop..
Okay.. Let's do it. - Come on.
No matter how much he reduces the rates, no one would go there.
If he shaves with his rusted blade
people will get infected.
I remember a guy stabbing another guy
as he refused to give back Rs. 2 that he had borrowed from him.
For people like them, this board is indeed a provocation.
No matter what happens, one thing is final.
I won't allow him to keep that board there.
What is it? - I'm Sona's father.
She's in 10th-B.
Her classroom is over there. - I wanted to see the principal.
Reason?
I wanted to ask her about a few things related to her studies.
You may go inside.
The fee has to be paid in the office.
You needn't meet me for that.
My wife said that if the fee is not paid today
my daughter will be sent out. - Yes.
I have kept my word. I sent your daughter out.
What good would that do?
We will see about that.
What? Can I pay the fee just because you sent her out?
It would be a hindrance in her studies.
Isn't it better to solve one problem?
What are you talking about? - My daughter's studies.
Let that continue for the time being.
You are smart.
But let me say this.
Your gimmicks won't work here.
I tried all kinds of gimmicks.
I even decided to sell the goat that I have.
My wife does not agree to that.
Then, tell your goat to teach your daughter.
I'll bring the goat here. If you tell it, it might listen.
Are you mocking me? Get out of here!
Those who worship Gods shouldn't lose their calm.
Father!
After coming this far, are you going back without seeing me?
Are you done for the day?
No, my classes are going on.
They've recruited me to look after the outside work.
I don't know how long this duty will be for.
Your principal told me.
Shall we go home and have something?
That means you did not come to pay the fee.
I have told them that I should be paying it soon.
I'm happy. You won't tell me
to secure top grades in every subject, would you?
I have bought all the books for you, haven't I?
If they send you out, can't you study outside?
Then, why do we come to school?
We can study from home. Then, we need not even pay the fee.
And even mother would be relieved
of washing the same uniform every day.
What about your attendance? Don't you wish to appear for exams?
The world won't turn upside down if I don't write the exams.
Here's what we'll do. Until I pay your fee
I'll send you to Mr. Venu's tuition centre.
English and Math are taught well there.
Don't we need to pay the fee?
Most of the students there don't pay the fee.
Mr. Venu is an innocent guy.
So, you are trying to make use of Mr. Venu, right?
When I get the money, I'll pay it.
One more thing. You're in the 10th grade.
All the important decisions should be taken now.
What do you want to become? A doctor or an engineer?
I want to be a girl who pays the fee regularly, Father.
Parents usually pray to God to bless their children with wisdom.
I might have to start praying less.
Dad, stop!
We are also coming.
Sister Sona! Did they leave you for lunch break early today?
Yes. They left me in the morning itself.
Are you both studying properly? - Yes. - Yes.
What fish did you get today, Dad?
I got a huge whale today. Hurry up.
Who is that?
It's me, Mr. Venu! Balan, the barber.
I shaved in the morning, Balan.
If you have that blade, can you shave my beard as well?
I said that because I knew I would get such a reply from you.
Yesterday, I replied something like this
and that's why I had to come here.
My daughter was sent out of the class as I didn't pay the fee.
I had met the principal.
I told her that I didn't pay the fee as my wife
didn't let me sell the goat.
She told me to tell the goat to teach my daughter.
I told her that I would bring the goat to her
and that it would listen to her.
In that way, both my daughter and I were sent out.
Wherever I go, this is my problem.
I can't seem to control what I say. - That is not a problem.
Even if you keep mum, whatever has to happen will happen.
For example, did I tell you to bring your daughter here
so that I would teach her English and Math?
How did you know that?
Even if I don't have as much sense as you, I'm educated.
Where the cursed people go is called hell.
Didn't you understand? - No.
You have come to hell, Balan!
It's been two months since I've paid the teachers.
There are a lot of students who have to pay the fee.
Include my daughter in that list. - I do not wish to do that!
If there are 20 students here
you have to teach them, right?
I hope no harm will be caused to you
if my daughter becomes the 21st student.
Even if that doesn't happen, no harm would befall me.
I'll certainly pay the fee. I assure you that I'll sell the goat.
You need not sell that goat. - Okay..
I'm going, Mr. Venu! - What?
Did the class get over so early? - What?
I've been screaming for the past 90 minutes.
I didn't hear anything here. - Please get your ears checked.
I'm not sure if I should say it or not as there's a stranger here.
If you don't send my salary to my home before evening
I won't be coming here.
Sir, you know that John Mathew, Sunish and Selvan..
They haven't paid the fee since the last six months.
I need not know all that. Sir, you've an excellent brain.
Use this intelligence of yours for collecting the fee from them.
If you don't ask them, they won't pay you.
Please do as I said. - Understood?
Please go, Balan.
I'll solve this problem and come to the barber shop.
Sure.
Your hair has become too lengthy.
Let me cut it, and I'll make you look smart.
You can butter the bread up when you have your breakfast.
John Mathew! Come here. I've to tell you something.
Please come.
We are more like friends than a student and a teacher, right?
That's why I'm saying this. No one else should get to know about this.
What is it, sir?
As a person running an educational institute
I shouldn't encourage this.
But I'm not going to make this a big issue.
A girl from our class is in love with you.
You must be thinking how I know that.
When everybody went for lunch the other day
I found the love letter from her book
which she had written for you.
I called her, and I did scold her.
When I thought about it again
I realised that it's cruel to separate two lovers.
I have the letter with me. - Which girl is it, sir?
You will get to know when you read the letter.
Give me the letter, sir! - I'll give it to you.
But there is a condition. You should go home right now
and get the due fee of six months.
Only then, will I give you the letter.
I'll give you the fee next week.
You need not try to fool me like this for that. - I..
If he refuses to remove the board
tell that he will be removed from the barber's association
and that his shop would be closed.
He should not get to know that I'm behind this.
We'll handle it. - Then, hurry up. Go. - Okay.
Checkmate! - Bala!
We saw this board when we were passing by.
We got down immediately at the next stop.
With whose permission did you keep this board here?
Remove this from here. - Really?
The association has decided a fixed price. - Exactly.
Nobody has the right to reduce that.
I'll remove the board right away.
But the association must send at least ten people every single day
to my shop to get their shaving done.
How is it reasonable? - It certainly is.
Just because of the reduced rates, I got three customers yesterday.
Otherwise, no one used to come here.
That's not our problem. There is lack of amenities in your shop.
It'd be okay if the association gives me a chance to correct that.
That's not going to happen.
It will be good for you if you remove this board.
I saw you going inside Sarasan's shop.
How much did he pay you to threaten me?
What? How dare you! What did you just say?
I asked them how much you paid them.
Don't speak nonsense!
I'll reduce the charge furthermore.
If you get my shop closed, I'll start doing my work on the road.
I'll cut people's hair right there!
I have no other option.
You can leave.
Give me the money back! Give me! Get lost. I said, get lost!
"The doors of the universe opened up."
"Mankind came into existence."
"In the beginning, the sky evolved like a musical bliss."
"As the time goes by.." Mom, dad is here!
I didn't know that we had any other vessel left.
Dad, did you meet Mr. Venu?
Yes, I did. I have arranged for everything.
It's been so many days since we asked you to change the bulb.
We are not able to see anything.
I enquired in various shops.
No shop sells a bulb that does
not have low voltage. - That's a lie.
How many more vessels are left to be broken?
When I was arranging everything
he screamed to inform me that you've come.
Forget about that. Did the new board do any good?
Did customers start flocking around your shop?
Dad, you need not do that.
Mom told us everything.
Dear, the revolving chair
will be ready in two days.
Till then, I thought of giving a discount to people. Nothing else.
Dad, bulb. - Bulb!
Sister Sona and I can read properly in this light.
She's pretending, Dad. - Shut up, nigger.
Get lost, skinny. - Get lost, nigger!
Hussy! - Mom, look what he's doing!
Are you just looking at
the kids fighting? Come on.
We should at least give them the freedom to fight.
You can sit here and study.
Hussy. - Nigger! - If you call me that again..
I am calling you that because you are dark.
Nigger! - Dad!
Keep quiet.
You needn't make fun of us.
I was a big fan of Satyan, the cinema star.
That's why I named him Satyan. Wait and watch.
When he grows up, he'll become a star like Satyan.
Oh! Just look at him. - Get lost!
Mom, why is it that only I have a dark complexion?
Ask your father.
Dear
your mother was first married to a German.
These two are his children. Then, I married your mother.
You were born after that. - Why are you speaking nonsense?
How is this nonsense? Even I doubted that he just had.
But I never got an answer to it.
I'm afraid whether he will get a girl when he grows up.
I will not get married. Happy?
Mom, what did you see in him that you married him?
He is neither good looking nor tall.
He was a bit good looking in those days.
As far as his height is concerned, when I saw him for the first time
he was standing on the other side of a wall.
He seemed tall to me.
But I got to know later
that he was standing on a rock.
Okay, you may stop there, please!
Bouquet! Garland! Prakash!
Get lost, idiot! - What..
Bala! Did a postman enquire about me?
Not a single soul enquired about you.
Why are you laughing?
Two cheques of mine are pending from Kalakaumudi and Mathrubhumi.
I had told the postman to give it to the barber if I'm not available.
What's with the garland and the bouquet? Did you get married?
Where is the girl?
I have sent the girl to a hospital for her delivery.
Everything happened in a hurry.
Listen, I'm coming from the Rubber Labourers' Conference.
I had gone there to present my poetry.
What a welcome I got there! My throat is dry!
Let me first have a cup of tea. Then, I'll recite my poems.
Poetry is not required here, Vadakkemuri.
You can go and recite it in Sarasan's barber shop.
At least that will make his customers run away.
At least some of them will come to my shop.
Who is this? That's a nice garland.
Where did you buy it from? How much did you pay for this?
I've heard a great man saying this.
One's relatives and his people are the ones who are jealous
of his popularity. Others know me and my poems.
The proof of that is this bouquet and garland.
When I got done with my poem about rubber
there was a big commotion.
The idiots here should have seen it.
I think this poet will go only after he gets beaten up.
The leader has come!
Let's go to Sarasan's shop and ask about it!
I'm in a hurry. I need to attend a meeting.
Party meeting!
If you want, I'll recite my poem on rubber.
Oh! - If so, we are leaving, Mr. Devasya.
Sit down. We can even withstand Tsunamis and earthquakes.
Read it out loud.
"Atop the Sahyadri Hills"
"dressed in a veil of mist"
"there are rubber plantations cultivated by Malayalis."
"There are rubber plantations cultivated by Malayalis.."
"Atop the Sahyadri Hills"
"dressed in a veil of mist"
"there are rubber plantations cultivated by Malayalis."
"There are rubber plantations cultivated by Malayalis.."
"There are rubber plantations.."
Stop it! We are not able to concentrate on the game.
As if you're playing for the World Cup. Please continue.
"Those people are loitering in cars"
"selling rubber milk."
When this line came, there was a murmur.
But I said that it was my right as a poet
and they applauded.
Then, the direction of the poem changed.
"The car driven on tarred roads"
"is running on four rubber wheels."
"The slippers we are wearing is made of rubber."
"Rubber will stretch itself if you pull it."
"If the price is low, the quality will be poor."
Hey! You better stop this right now!
Get lost, idiots! - What! - What!
"For the people from Palai, milk is rubber."
"Rubber is like the backbone of Kerala."
"Here, the backbone of many people is made up of rubber."
Today, I'll.. I've been listening to his nonsense since long!
Hey! Stop there! - Don't kill me! Oh, God!
God! - What is the problem? - Mr. Eachappan.. - What!
Sorry, sir!
The man running in the front
is the general nuisance, Vadakkemuri, the poet.
I understood. - Good.
He must have recited a new poem.
Park the vehicle.
Okay, sir. - Good Lord!
'The vegetable vendor, Yesudhasan. Interest, Rs.750.'
'Mr. Thomas. Interest, Rs. 3000.'
'Alias, the owner of the meat shop. Rs. 6000.'
'Bharadhan, the carpenter. Rs. 300.'
Kora and Varghese!
Go towards different directions and make a move. - Oh!
Itticha! Is this enough?
Shouldn't we renovate?
It is in a good condition. - And how is that?
Many varieties of rice and other things are needed.
It would be so nice to look at this shop
if it's filled with all those things.
I thought of lending you some money to help you.
I'll lend some money especially for you.
Sir, please don't help me.
If one gets his hand cut, medicines can cure it.
But if one is beheaded, how can one live?
Darn it! It's not what you think it is. - Sir..
Balan, the barber, has reduced his charges.
Only Rs. 18. - Really? - Yes!
I thought it was time to get my hair cut.
I don't need to think twice about this.
Before he raises the charges, let's go and get a haircut.
We had asked Balan to get out of my estate.
Would he refuse to cut your hair because of that?
That's not what I am saying. - What?
I am scared that he might cut off my ears in a fit of rage
while cutting my hair.
If he does that, I'll hit him on his nose! - God!
What's the use of hitting him after he cuts my ears?
If so, let me hit him first.
He can cut your hair after that. - What!
Let's go. The rates that he has kept are amazing.
When did you arrange this revolving chair and all the other things?
We must dwell in the past for quite some time.
Today, I'll get my hair cut from here.
Easy..
I have a sprain. But there's no need to take me to a hospital.
A massage is enough.
I'll be able to save some money.
Oh, God!
We are more like friends than a teacher and a student. Right?
Yes. - That's why I'm saying this.
No one else should know this. - What are you talking about, sir?
As I'm a guy running an educational institute
I should not encourage this. But I'm not making it an issue.
A girl in our class is in love with you.
You got the love letter that she wrote
to me from her book, right? - Yes.
Her notebook must be full of letters, isn't it, sir?
You've found so many love letters in that book.
Didn't you get the love letter for John Mathews
from that very book?
That was from another book. - You don't need
to do this anymore.
Find a new trick to collect the fee, sir!
Who are you?
I am the daughter of the barber who..
Oh! I understood..
You are Balan's daughter. - Yes.
What is your name? - Sona.
It's a nice name.
Do one thing. Go and sit on a bench in the second row.
Students with dues are sitting on that bench. Go. - Okay.
I finished teaching. I'm leaving. I must get my salary by evening.
Or else, I won't come here from tomorrow. - Oh!
Do you have a chicken flower? - What?
Cauliflower. - No.
Mushroom? Corn..
No. - Capsicum?
What is that?
I see! You don't even know what capsicum is.
I think we will have a tough time in this old village.
Let's go to Idukki, sir.
It is nearly 60 kilometres from here to Idukki.
How is it possible to travel to there every day in a car?
Sir, where are you from? - Do you watch movies?
At times.
At times! I don't know if there's any use in telling you.
Even then, I'm telling you.
Do you remember seeing the name Pappan Kudamaloor on a screen?
Pappan Kudamaloor! Yes, sir! I remember, sir!
Yes! That's me.
I am the finance controller. - Okay.
Very poor guys.
I need rice and pulses for 200 people.
We need them for one month. - Oh!
A cinema's shooting will begin soon in Nellimattom.
Is it? - Yes..
It should be of good quality. - Okay.
I'll require biryani rice as well.
Also, Ajinomoto, tomato ketchup, soya sauce, vinegar.
I'll require all of that.
Hey! There's going to be a cinema's shooting in Nellimattom.
What? - Yes.
Is it a Malayalam movie, sir?
Obviously! It's a great one! - Who are all going to act in it?
Various stars.
This is the first time
this is happening in our village. - I know that.
We liked the place. If you coordinate with us
many more movies will be filmed here.
Sir! - Yes?
What all items do you need? Please give me the list.
I'll bring everything. - Okay. Basheer!
Advance. - What?
Keep it. - When will the shooting start, sir?
In two days. Our unit has already departed from Madras.
'Welcome to Melukavu Village.'
Ashokraj, the superstar, is the hero of the film. - Really?
Yes. Didn't you see the poster on the vehicle?
Does that mean he will come to Nellimattom?
Yes. He will.
Ashokraj! - Ashokraj! - Ashokraj! - Ashokraj!
Ashokraj! - Move! - Move away!
Move! - Move away! - Please move!
Ashokraj! - Ashokraj! - Ashokraj! - Ashokraj!
'Let the birds fly..'
A hearty welcome, sir! - Thanks. What kind of a place is this?
The place is full of greenery. How dirty!
Is this location correct for our story?
Our point is not to show the beauty of nature in all the frames.
There are a lot of rubber estates here. It is less populated.
There are not many houses here.
You will get a feeling that it's far from the city. - Sir, this way.
I hope you've finished the script. - Yes..
Sir, Mathew. - Mathew!
I'm in Nellimattom. We're filming a new movie here.
What? Oh! That was in the newspaper as well.
Jayan Babu's movie. It provoked religious people.
What was my mistake? I only acted in it.
Even my house was attacked.
Now, I've black cats and commandos with me all the time.
Yes, that's another problem. I'll call you later.
I just reached here. Okay?
Let's go through the script.
It's not complete yet.
In that case, I'll return right now.
Don't you guys have any responsibility?
When I called you from Kozhikode, you had said that it's complete.
Sir, I didn't like the way the story ended.
The script writer and I discussed a lot.
We decided to ask you and finalise it.
We have discussed this many a time, Mugundhan!
If this is how you'll behave at the location, how would I feel?
The directors think that actors are just machines
and puppets to them.
You should understand that
he has a mind and that he strives to get into his character.
Such things disturb us a lot.
Whatever you've written, bring it to me.
We'll decide the rest later. - Okay, sir.
Here you are. - Okay.
You can lie down inside, Balan.
Your fever has reduced a bit.
My fever waited for foreign medicines and injections.
When it realised that it won't be getting anything, it got reduced.
Ms. Sainu. Where are you all going?
We found a hole in our cooking vessel.
We are going to buy a new one.
On our way back, we need to get our cholesterol levels checked
in Fathima Hospital.
Bala! How are you? - I am all right now.
I wanted Chikungunya. That didn't happen.
When you get cured, come to my house.
I want to get my hair cut. - Do you even have any hair left?
What?
He said he'll come. - Good. See you later.
Even though you are unwell, you speak nonsense.
Dad!
Do you know who's acting in the movie which is being filmed here?
Who is it? - Dad's friend, Ashokraj.
Is it true? - Yes, Mom!
Everyone in school is talking about it.
Oh, God! Such a big star in this small village!
We want to meet Ashokraj immediately.
I want to take a photo with him.
I wish to be near him, and I also want to take a photo with him.
We wish to meet him before anyone in our school does.
Let's go now, Dad. - Let dad's fever come down.
What if Ashokraj leaves by then?
Dad, will Ashokraj come to our house?
He shouldn't. If he sees this house, he'd run away.
Dad, it's been so long since we laid the foundation.
We could have called him here if we had a nice house.
Do you know why I never repaired it? - Why?
You are growing up. I thought that this land is not enough.
I was hoping to build a big house. - Dad, stop lying!
You don't have money. That's why you are saying all this.
Both of you, go, freshen up and change your clothes. Go.
When will you take us with you?
I'll take you. I most certainly will.
Happy? Now, please go.
Will you take me as well with the kids?
I'll take you all.
You, our kids, our goat and our chickens.. I'll take everyone.
Dad, are you taking only Seena and Satyan to meet Ashokraj?
Who told you that? - They said it.
Then, ask your mom what I said. - Please tell me, Dad.
I told her that I'd take everyone. Even our goat, chickens, cats..
Stop telling such useless jokes and tell me exactly what you said.
Will you take me or not? Tell me. - Go to bed.
You have tuition tomorrow morning.
We'll go when you've a holiday. - If you don't take me
I'll surely kill you. - Really?
Your fever is down. So, let's go and meet Ashokraj tomorrow.
Devi, I won't go to meet him. - What?
I met him around 25 years back.
He would've met many other people by now.
Many things would have happened in his life.
There's no chance that he'd remember me. Think about it.
I'll go and ask such an affluent person
whether he remembers me or not.
Even if he remembers me, he will deny it.
Why?
When I see him, he will understand that I'm poor.
He will feel inferior to meet me in front of others.
After a long time, if I go to meet him, he might think
that I have come to ask for help.
I won't be able to tolerate that, Devi.
Oh! Your pride. You have only that in excess.
Then, why did you promise our kids?
How will I make them understand?
He'll leave after the shooting. We can make some excuses till then.
Poor kids. They were very eager.
Have you heard about Mr. Pappachan who lives in Vandanmedu?
Of course. When MGR comes for shooting, he stays in his place.
So, you know it. - Everyone in Kerala knows it, sir.
Do you know? In 1965
MGR came there
for a cinema shooting. - Is it?
Mr. Pappachan befriended MGR.
He invited him to his home and fed him.
They became friends. MGR used to say..
'If the shooting is in Vandanmedu, I'll stay in Pappachan's house.'
Pappachan was not as wealthy as I am.
MGR took him to Madras and financed him for a cinema.
Even though MGR is no more
Pappachan lives like a king in Vandanmedu.
In the same way, let's trap Ashokraj, sir.
He should be surprised when he comes for lunch.
Get all kinds of meat and liquor as well.
If he wants scotch, bring that.
We will keep everything ready in advance.
Anyway, no one in this village apart from you can afford
to give such a treat, Mr. Eachappan.
Call your father that. Just call me sir.
Okay, sir.
I heard that entry in the shooting premises is restricted.
Sir's name would be enough to get through..
If a problem like that arises, we can use a tactic, sir.
We will say that you want to produce a film
with Ashokraj as the lead and that you want his call sheet
for the same purpose. - Which sheet?
I had read about it in film magazines.
They give us something called a call sheet
when we pay them.. - That's a nice idea. - True.
We have to get hold of Ashokraj before the other rich morons
succeed in doing that. - There is no one who can resist
the temptation of good food and booze.
Right? Why are you silent?
Yes..
Nellimattom.. Get in quickly..
Let's go..
Ashokraj! Ashokraj!
Ashokraj..
Yesterday, I found out the reason for the huge expenses
incurred while making a film. - What is it?
Just to try my luck, I asked them Rs. 7,000 for my goat
which weighs around 20 kilograms.
They bought that goat without getting into any argument.
Ashokraj prefers goat meat for all his meals.
Won't he get high cholesterol if he eats them so much?
He has the money to buy the required medicines.
Yesterday, I heard someone say that Ashokraj eats an Ayurvedic
medicine before going to bed. He slapped the producer
because he forgot to buy it for him.
Is he such a rude man?
Do you know a fact? - What?
The people who act as the villains are decent
and the heroes are morons.
Virtuous in reel life and wicked in real life.
Why else would he slap the producer?
Yes. - I have to look for someone
who can give me a chance to act in films.
My dear friend, it's very rare that I watch a movie.
Please don't spoil that for me.
Why is this place so deserted? Where is everybody?
Balan hasn't opened his shop either, Gopi.
Mr. Devasya is there in his shop. - Yes.
Why are you sitting idle? Get some tea.
I have nothing to do.
The milk has also turned cold. People have been marching
towards Ashokraj's shooting set since morning.
Good Lord..
An admirable man! No wonder God raises some people
to glorious heights. Truly humble.
Nice behaviour. He recognised me the moment
I mentioned my name. He said that he had heard a lot about me.
He asked me to sit. I had goosebumps
when he spoke to me like that. Do you see it?
Where? - Can't you see?
I see them. - Sir, he probably had enquired
about the rich people here when he came to this village.
Someone might have told him about you.
It's not like that.
He spoke to me as if he knew me.
Who are you talking about, Mr. Eappachan?
I am talking about Ashokraj.
I felt like inviting him for lunch after seeing his humble nature.
He promised to come on Saturday.
He said Saturday, right? - Yes.
Did you see him in person?
How else would I have invited him for lunch?
When I asked him about the number of scotch bottles that he would
want with lunch, he started laughing aloud.
He didn't give me an answer for that.
His laugh meant that he would want to have some scotch.
What? - Isn't it? - So, how does he look like in person?
More handsome than what we see in the movies.
What a personality!
Did he tell you anything about him slapping
the producer for an Ayurvedic medicine?
What! - Well..
H-He didn't speak about slapping the producer.
But he did say that his Ayurvedic medicine was out of stock.
When did he say that? - He did, sir.
It was in that instance that you offered to import a sack
of that Ayurvedic medicine from Calcutta.
Y-Yes. I remember it now.
Mr. Devasya, it's very difficult. The set is far away.
They are stopping the spectators from entering the premises.
There are many policemen too. They thrashed the people
who tried to enter the shooting area.
Really? - Yes. - But Mr. Eappachan was able to meet Ashokraj.
No way. When the policemen came chasing us
I saw him running for his life.
When you ran, your Dhoti had come off. So, whose
Dhoti are you wearing now? - He is wearing my Dhoti.
I am not getting out of the car because I am not wearing it.
Good morning, sir. - Good morning..
Sit down..
In spite of facing a lot of difficulties, I finally met
the film's producer yesterday because of your persistence.
He didn't agree at first. However, I requested him.
Finally, he agreed to let the students
of Excellent Tuition Centre watch the shooting
and meet the superstar, Ashokraj.
Yes!
But he was concerned as to how he would identify the students
of this tuition centre. So, I said that the students
of this tuition centre would be given a pass
with a seal on it. He liked that idea.
But everything has to be systematic.
Firstly, we have to give them an application.
I will be able to issue passes only after they sanction our request.
I will not be issuing passes for the students who have dues.
You will get the pass only after paying the fees.
This is his new trick to make us pay the fee.
It's not a trick.
I am not going anywhere. You can question me
if I fail to give you the passes.
What if you don't respond to our questions?
D-Don't come to see the shooting
if you don't trust me at all. - God..
The entry to the shooting location is strictly restricted.
The producer liked me. That's why he permitted me.
Did you get to meet Ashokraj, sir? - He was having snacks and tea.
He seemed like an arrogant man. I chose to ignore him.
Ashokraj probably couldn't sleep last night because of that.
Don't make fun of me.
Ashokraj has millions of fans like us.
They will thrash you if you speak against him.
I don't think so. Tell you what.
Since you have good handwriting, write a letter in English
requesting for the permission to visit the shooting location.
I repeat, passes will be issued to only those
who pay their fee. It would be first-come, first-served policy.
What the hell is this?
He is supposed to appear for the 12th standard exam this year.
I will read out this application for you.
'Students of Excellent Tuition Centre is an application'
'of shooting. Please implement pass of all students.'
Get lost! - Come quickly.
Come, Father. - You had promised to take us
if we had a holiday. Why are you refusing then?
Which day is today? - Today is Sunday.
My shop makes a lot of profit on Sundays.
Your shop? We won't let you leave today.
We will come with you. - Come.
Stop.. Give me a minute to think.
Where would they shoot today? - Everyone in this village knows
that the shooting is in Nellimattom.
But we don't know if it is near the lake, the hill slope
or the dam in Nellimattom. - We will look in all the places.
Yes. - What if you fall ill because
of roaming around under the sun?
It wouldn't be a problem since we will get to meet a movie star.
You can say like that.
Here's what I'll do. I will go and look in all the places.
Then, I could ask Ashokraj the permission
to bring my family to the shooting location.
Isn't that the proper way? After all, he is a big star.
We should consider that.
The words of a wicked man may tempt us.
Amen! Amen! - But they lead us
to the path of the sinners. - Amen! Amen!
The name of God is like a tower of strength.
People who go there are blessed with love.
This is the right way, my friends.
Excuse me.
Where can I find a river for fishing?
Sorry. You might not know English.
Where can I find a river for fishing?
Too much enthusiasm is not good.
It will take you on a path of troubles.
I asked you because I didn't want to get into any trouble.
Mr. Ashokraj won't shoot if he doesn't get
fish for lunch on Wednesday.
King's anger resembles a lion's roar.
Here he goes again. - His love is like dew drops.
Please tell me if there is any river nearby.
Take a left and go straight, you will find a river.
Thank you, my friend. Amen!
Sir, they are the people. - Okay. Go there, Varkey.
Okay, sir. - Throw away the big fishes.
Ashokraj prefers the smaller ones.
For example, anchovy, sardine, wallago and dead fish.
What? - W-White fish.
Oh!
It's from the location. Hello.
What? You couldn't find small fishes.
Just buy a big whale and cut it into the shapes
of small fishes. Fry those and give it to him.
Let him stuff those today. There wouldn't be any problem.
I have been doing this to him for 12 years now.
He hasn't caught me yet. - Hello.
What? - That man is Eachappan
sorry. He's Mr. Eappachan. - What should I do about it?
What?
He is the richest man here and owns many estates.
A very respectable man.
I will respect him too if he gives his property to me.
You'll certainly respect him if you get to know about him.
I heard that you are the financier of the film.
Mr. Eappachan can give you the money to finance.
No, thanks. - What?
I am seeing it for the first time. A stranger is being offered
money for no reason. - He would like to say
a few more things. Come near the jeep and..
Is he a cripple?
Ask him to come here if he wishes to speak.
He is a big man. - I am a bigger man than him
in my village. - I..
It's impossible, sir. He does not agree to it.
Did you tell him that I'm ready to finance?
I did. He refused to come here.
He called you a pig head and ordered you to meet him there.
I will hit you.
Since it's our need, I will go there myself
and threaten him. - That's right.
He deserves it. - Ask that big fish to go away.
It's a nuisance!
I don't know your name. My name is Mr. Eappachan.
Was 'Mister' always a part of your name?
No. That's what the villagers here address me as.
My purpose of the visit is to talk about producing a film.
For that, I need Ashokraj's.. Sheet.
Are you talking about a rubber sheet?
The people here have some serious issues.
I need your help, sir. Please introduce me to Mr. Ashokraj.
He will slap you if you go there.
He is ruthless. Do you know that?
Why would he slap someone for no reason?
People have different hobbies. This is his hobby.
I know a lot of fishermen who can
deliver you fishes on a daily basis.
That's not going to help you. Moreover, he has started
to produce his movies, and therefore, is not giving
his dates to outsiders. Don't waste your time and just leave.
Actually.. - You heard him, leave.
Don't try to.. - Go away.
Oh, God! - It hit him. Let's go.
Who hit me?
Don't go!
A cup of tea for me, Mr. Devasya. - You will have to come
to Nellimattom if you wish to drink tea.
I can't do my business here since everybody is there.
Let me see if I can open a temporary shop there. Let's go.
Okay. - 'Nellimattom. 2 km.'
Balan.
Balan.. Balan, the school's principal is coming here.
Oh, must be for asking the fee. Tell her that I am not here.
God.. Balan. I am scared to lie.
We are sending Sona to the tuition centre anyway.
What about the fees of the other two?
You are right. - Balan.
I am coming. Why did I say that?
Couldn't you have responded to her call?
There is no escape now. Walk ahead of me.
Go, Balan. Go there.
What a pleasant surprise! I will sell the goat today
and will deposit the fee tomorrow. Why don't you take a seat?
Devi, put the bench outside. - The bench is broken.
Really? The chair in the shop is also broken.
We are broke.
We don't have the time to sit.
The conversation we had the other day was thought provoking.
My words usually don't have that effect.
But you did say some, the other day.
Do you remember saying that nuns must never lose their cool?
I was just trying to save myself.
That could've been the reason, but those words touched my heart.
Oh..
The old testament states that God had created simple men.
It's the men who have given rise to complications.
School fee is a complication made by men.
So, I deposited your kids' fee from the manager's fund.
Ask Sona to attend her classes from tomorrow.
That wasn't necessary. In spite of my financial issues
I sent my children to good school so that they could get
a good education. Teaching them without paying the fees
was never our intention. - This is how Balan is.
Devi, get some tea.
There must be no milk.
Black tea would do just fine. - Okay.
I don't want sugar in my tea. - Okay.
I am diabetic. - I am not.
Come with me, Balan.
Did you go to meet your old friend?
Don't try to hide it from us. We already know about it.
About what? - The class teacher of your
younger daughter, Seena, told me about it.
I took strict actions to prevent this news from spreading further.
You are a strange man, Balan.
You have come to school to talk to me about
many matters, but you have never mentioned even once
that you are such a big artist's friend.
We are not good..
You'd say that you're not good friends, right? - Yes.
I had told you that he would say like this.
Only a great man like you can remain so humble
in a world where people lie just to hide their poverty.
Right.
We are lucky that Ashokraj has come here at a time
when we have been making plans
to celebrate the school's silver jubilee.
You have to do me a favour, Balan.
You will have to bring him to the function.
I-I don't think it's possible. - What?
Why isn't it possible? You didn't take the kids to him.
Now, you're refusing them too.
Why are you not considering the fact that they
agreed to let Sona attend her classes again?
You can leave with no worries. I will make sure he does this.
Thank you, dear. - Devi. It's not like..
If you are feeling hesitant, I'll go there myself
and tell him to come to the school on your behalf.
That's not required. I'll call him myself.
Hail Balan, the barber! - Hail Balan, the barber!
Hail.. Hail Balan, the barber!
Our beloved Balan is here!
How could you hide
such a big secret from us, Balan?
What was the need to look after this stupid shop
when you had a friend like Ashokraj?
I see what all this is about. - It is a big deal, Balan.
Yes. - I had always noticed
this introvert nature of Balan's.
There wasn't anything for me to share.
How do you know Ashokraj? Were you classmates?
Move aside. I have to open my shop.
You don't need a shop anymore. For many years, you have been
giving us haircuts and shaves. It's time for us to serve you.
I couldn't sleep last night, Balan.
Your secret friendship with Ashokraj
inspired me to write a poem.
I will read it out loud. - Do that! I have to go!
Don't go, Balan! - Don't go!
"People failed to recognise"
"the extraordinary barber called Balan."
"People failed to recognise"
"the extraordinary barber called Balan."
"Balan is the king of barbers."
"He is not just Balan, he's a genius."
"Balan, the genius, the barber"
"the good one, the people's man."
"He's Balan.."
"People failed to recognise"
"the extraordinary barber called Balan."
"He comes along with the shaving cream"
"and shapes moustaches beautifully."
"He comes along with the shaving cream"
"and shapes moustaches beautifully."
"To fill his empty stomach"
"he cuts everyone's hair."
"He is the close friend of a big star."
"He is the unique one."
"He acts like he doesn't know anything."
"He tries to hide everything from everyone."
"Balan, the genius, the barber"
"the good one, the people's man."
"He's Balan.."
"He's like the razor that touches the cheeks."
"His mind is like stainless steel."
"When the razor touches the beard"
"he's careful not to spill any blood."
"Balan is a unique man"
"and we have recognised it now."
"He is the pride of Melukavu."
"Many congrats to you, Balan."
"Balan, the genius, the barber"
"the good one, the people's man."
"He's Balan.."
"Balan, the genius, the barber"
"the good one, the people's man."
"He's Balan.."
The reason to shoot in Melukavu was to fulfil
Ashokraj's wish to meet Balan.
Balan is not someone who would go there to meet him.
Why is he like this? We would be flying with joy
if we had a friend like him. Right?
Balan is like that. Even now, Ashokraj had
requested him to act in this film. - For the role of a barber?
No. As his younger brother. But Balan refused the offer.
Why did he do that? - Because there were many
love scenes in the film. Balan doesn't like doing such roles.
What kind of a man is he? Acting in movies could make him rich.
Ashokraj had offered him money too
but Balan refused to accept it.
Sridevi!
Why is there a crowd here? Did anything happen to Balan?
No. We were just having a chat.
Okay. I have been planning to treat you for some time now.
This is 'Ghee Rice' and Mutton Liver Fry, keep it inside.
Liver Fry? - Yes, dear. - Yes.
I don't need this, Ms. Sainu. I don't eat all this.
Then, give it to Balan and the kids.
The kids have never had this. It will be a problem for Balan
if the kids start to demand such kinds of food.
What problem? I can prepare it for them daily.
What has happened to you, Ms. Sainu?
It's a simple matter, Sridevi.
She got to know that Balan is a good friend of Ashokraj.
She is scared that you would start to ignore her now.
So, she is here to bribe you. - Why have you come here now?
To insult me, is it?
Sridevi, how did they become such close friends?
Well..
I-In the final year of college, it was Balan who saved Ashokraj
when he had fallen into a well.
Yes. - Did Mr. Balan study in a college?
Yes! In fact, he takes English classes for Sona who is in 10th.
I always had a doubt. - He never shows off.
Balan! I was looking for you. I had been to your shop too.
Even I was looking for you. - Really?
I wanted one favour from you.
I want to work as a lyricist in films before I die.
Can you ask Ashokraj to recommend me..
You will die before becoming a lyricist.
How is that possible? - I will kill you.
Why? - You wrote a song about me.
You have made a mockery out of me.
What did you write? Balan is a devil.
Yes, I am a devil for you.
Balan, the poet in me, meant that..
What did you mean? - I..
You are going to die. It was in my horoscope
that I would be murdering a lunatic at the age of 47.
I knew it would be you.
Stop. - He is going to kill me! Oh, God!
He's coming to kill me! Oh, God! Save me!
He asked us to come at night since he would be shooting
all day. - Sona, will you take me along too?
He may not like that. You can see him
when he comes to our school. - She's so arrogant. Come on.
What happened, Sister?
Father is coming. We shouldn't talk to him.
Ignore him.
How can you behave like this?
You can't leave without talking to me.
Come on, speak.. Say something.
You have told the whole village about this.
I have lost my peace of mind.
The principal has called me to your PTA meeting.
I am going to tell them that I can't bring Ashokraj.
Did you hear that? No?
Okay, even I won't talk to you. Wait and watch.
Listen, if you say that during the meeting
we would never go to that school again.
From the time we came to know that Ashokraj is friends with Balan
we had been very happy. But now, there seems to be a problem.
We haven't yet received a confirmation from him.
He may go back in 10 or 12 days after finishing the shoot.
We don't have much time to make the necessary arrangements
if at all he decides to come.
Give us a suggestion, Balan. - I-I talked to him.
He is busy shooting. - It's just a matter
of half an hour.
I am sure he takes a lunch break.
We would be fine with it if he comes during that time.
He's your friend. You have the freedom to persuade him.
Yes. - Yes.
His kids' due fee was deposited from the manager's fund.
Remember that. If you don't give us a confirmation by tomorrow
we will dismiss your kids.
That's not the right way to speak. - Then, why don't you go
and speak to Ashokraj? - Don't fight with me.
Don't fight. Let bygones be bygones. What can you do, Balan?
Let me try once more. - There is no more time to try.
You have to promise that you will bring him here.
Only then can you leave.
Please agree to it, Balan. - I will bring him.
I had thought that you're a man with pride.
But now, I know that you are just egoistic.
There are many poor people like us in this village.
But they don't hide inside their houses when they see rich people.
We had never got so much of attention from anybody.
But now, our house is filled with guests who come here to ask
when Ashokraj would come here. I haven't been able to save
any milk for our kids. I've to make tea for the guests, right?
People will stop visiting if you just tell them
that Ashokraj won't be coming home, ever.
I don't feel like doing it.
This is one of the little things that gives me happiness.
Why should I put an end to it?
People look at me with envy now. It makes me feel good.
You are crazy. You are.
In fact, most of the people here are crazy.
Yes, everyone except you is crazy.
Why can't you meet Ashokraj? I'm sure he won't bite you.
I told you, Devi. I'm sure he doesn't remember me.
You seem to be very sure about his memory.
They had to shoot the movie here! It's just my bad luck.
Like your luck was good before they came here.
Please, Devi. I need some peace!
Balan, you won't know whether he remembers you or not
till you see him in person.
If he doesn't remember you, that's okay.
If he does remember you, that would be great.
Hello. Is this Nellimattom Guest House?
I'm Balan, a barber from Melukavu Junction.
I'm calling from a different place so that no one would know.
Can I speak to Mr. Ashokraj? What?
I'm Balan, a barber. You know, the person who cuts hair.
Yes. Okay. Connect me to his room..
Hello. Mr. Ashokraj is taking a bath now.
Who is speaking? What! What do you need?
You want to see him, is it? You can see him in his movies.
N-No, I want to meet him in person.
No, that's impossible. People have been irritating us!
There have been hundreds of calls like this.
Answering all of them is driving me crazy!
What kind of a sick place is this? You are all crazy!
How could a petty barber be related to Ashokraj?
Hang up! There's a caller ID here.
If you call here again, I'll make sure the police
beats you black and blue. Bloody fool!
Sir? Sir..
Everything that happens is as per God's will. - Amen!
Everything that happens is a part of God's plan. - Amen.
He who does not accept Him is a sinner. - Amen!
He who sins goes to hell. - Amen!
Don't just stand there, help him! - Okay.
Careful.. - Slowly..
I got a good Japan made chair, Balan!
Where are you taking it to?
This is for you, of course!
We went to Kochi at 4 a.m. for.. - Stop chatting and keep it inside.
I don't understand.
This is the revolving chair that you've always wanted.
It costs about Rs. 15,000. But it's worth it.
But I never asked you to buy me a chair!
Balan, you don't need to ask me to get it for you.
It looks like you hit the jackpot, Balan.
I don't need anyone's charity. Take it back.
Sir, what should we do with this old chair?
Get rid of it!
Don't you dare touch my chair! - Don't be stupid, Balan.
My chair.. - Balan!
This is your new chair. You have wanted this
since so long. Here, look at this!
See?
A new pair of scissors, razors, powder, soap.. Everything!
Make me your first customer and give me a shave, Balan!
I need my old chair back now! - If you don't want it for free
pay me back when you have the money.
You don't have to pay the interest.
Wow, this is world's eighth wonder!
Would you like to see world's ninth wonder too?
Balan, don't turn your back on good luck.
That's what I've got to say.
I don't understand what you want in return.
I just need a small favour. Introduce me to Ashokraj, please.
That's not going to happen! - Not so loud..
I don't want you to do it immediately. Take your time..
See you tomorrow! - S-Sir!
What did he tell you secretly?
He's gone mad. He said that he'd meet me after he gets treated.
What else would he have said?
Mr. Eappachan met Ashokraj on a movie set.
He introduced himself as Balan's friend.
When Ashokraj came to know about Balan's current condition
he became sad. He told Eappachan..
'Eappachan, here's some money. Buy him a decent chair.'
That makes sense. There's no way that a miser
like Eappachan would ever buy someone something out of his money.
Anyway, Balan is lucky.
I heard that he's also getting an air conditioner.
It doesn't matter if he's getting new things. He's still the one
who cuts hair, right? Does he know how to do a step cut?
What about African curling? Or at least, hair straightening?
He could just hire people to do everything.
He won't have to do anything.
He won't be able to get employees. The association has banned him.
Yes! - That doesn't matter. If Balan offers more money
even Manjulan will go and work for him.
Will you go?
If you go to him, I won't spare you.
Where is that great man? Where is the well-wisher?
Who are you talking about? Mahatma Gandhi?
He's not here. - Gandhi had all those qualities.
But it wasn't him who gifted Balan a new chair and new work tools.
I cannot help but salute that big-hearted man.
I've written a poem about him. I want to read it out to him.
I know that you attack people in public with your poems.
Have you started going to people's houses now?
Who is it, Varkey? - Oh, gosh!
It's the eccentric poet, sir.
Would he pay it back if I lend him money?
I'm not here for money, sir. I've written a poem about you.
With whose permission? - Bless me, sir!
May you succeed in life. - I couldn't help but write
a poem about you, sir.
"Eappachan who was born in a wealthy family"
"gifted a revolving chair to Balan."
"The moneylender who loans money at low-interest rates"
"to the people of our town."
"The son who was born to Kuriachan and Saramma"
"like a bumper prize."
Varkey, he's good, isn't he?
Sir, shouldn't he sing this in public?
Your popularity among the people..
That's right. - I'll sing this in public!
Please do me a favour, sir. - What do you want?
Balan will listen to you since you gifted him the chair.
I want to write a song for one of Ashokraj's movie.
Is that all? When Ashokraj comes home for lunch
you can join us. I'll introduce you to him.
How many songs have you written? - Like five or six.
No, that's not enough. You should have at least 500 songs.
Wouldn't it be embarrassing to say that you have only five songs?
I'll write more, sir. I'll start writing non-stop
this moment onwards.
"He gifted a revolving chair to Balan.."
I've heard that there are 117 types of mental illnesses.
This has to be the 118th.
'The movie 'Pakshikal Parakkate', starring Ashokraj'
'is being filmed at Nellimattom, near Melukavu.' Did you see?
Filming of a movie is making our small town famous.
True! - Balan, when do you think
Ashokraj will visit this barbershop?
Probably after midnight.
If he comes during the day, people will go crazy over him
and my shop will be destroyed.
I heard that they're hiring new actors.
If you could put in a good word for me, Balan..
Sure, why not? I'll get you the role
of a scarecrow in the movie.
Balan, come with me. There's an emergency.
I can't come now. I'm cutting his hair.
He'll wait! It's just a matter of minutes. Come..
Come!
Get in. Let's go!
You won't get Parathas this good at any of the shops there.
That's why I brought you here.
I have customers waiting in my shop. I don't even like Parathas.
It's indigestible.
Balan, do it for my happiness.. - The host should make sure
that the guest is happy. - I don't want to argue with you.
I'd like to argue.
Eat something, please. We're here anyway.
I still don't understand why you're treating me.
It's not just the Paratha, there's mutton too!
Sure. I'm sure there's a catch.
No.. What kind of a catch?
To be honest, I'm in a situation
where the only person who can help me is you.
What? Me?
I would like to take my students to the filming location.
Could you talk to Ashokraj about..
Oh, no! What happened, Balan?
Balan!
Balan? Here, drink some water.
It won't help. These hiccups won't go away
for a few days.
The kids have just one question.
Did you promise to take them to Ashokraj or not?
They didn't even eat anything.
Poor kids. They went to bed all tired.
Devi, I didn't tell you this earlier, but I tried calling him
but some guy picked up the phone and shouted at me.
Really? - Yes.
You should've told him that you were his friend.
Apparently, people have called them claiming to be Ashokraj's dad.
It was such a shame!
I want you to answer me honestly.
About what?
Can we go live somewhere else till they're done with the filming?
I'm in a big mess.
What about our goats and chicken?
We'll slaughter them for meat when we're in hiding.
We'll have to come back home sometime, you know.
How will we face the people?
You have no idea about the stories I've been telling people
about you and Ashokraj.
What did you say?
I'm scared to even think about it. They won't spare us!
Why did you have to do it?
You don't need to call him up or worry about whether
he remembers you or not. After all, he's human.
Why don't you go and meet him
at the filming location and tell him about our problems?
I have no idea what's going to happen.
Switch off the lights.
I hope I'll be able to catch some sleep tonight.
Lights on!
"On those splendid garden of groves"
"in the garden of groves where emeralds dazzle"
"you are my queen, who decorated the garden with golden flowers."
"Your skin, which is the same colour as of turmeric"
"and your gorgeous eyes"
"are a temptation to any man."
"She is now the lady of the palace, who lights the divine lamps."
"On those splendid garden of groves"
"in the garden of groves where emeralds dazzle"
"you are my queen, who decorated the garden with golden flowers."
"You are like the moonstone"
"which has the colour of blue sapphire."
"The king who has moonlight over his face."
"Your eyes which are sharper than any sword on Earth"
"and your smile which is a defence that withstands any attack"
"are enough to win any battle."
"An everlasting flash of brilliance of my skills in battle"
"and the mesmerising sound of anklets"
"are now parts of the scintillating epic which she is writing."
"On those splendid garden of groves"
"in the garden of groves where emeralds dazzle"
"you are my queen who decorated the garden with golden flowers."
"Your gracious footsteps"
"have blossomed these beautiful flowers."
"Your touch would make even a stringed instrument to sing."
"If you rise like the moon"
"in a stone lamp that has no oil"
"the ignited nights would dance with joy."
"Just like a king's treasure"
"like a sweet story recited by a bird"
"your presence makes my heart serene."
"On those splendid garden of groves"
"in the garden of groves where emeralds dazzle"
"you are my queen who decorated the garden with golden flowers."
"Your skin which is the same colour as of turmeric"
"and your gorgeous eyes"
"are a temptation to any man."
"She is now the lady of the palace, who lights the divine lamps."
Leave me.
People say that comedy, action and romance are trending now.
That's nonsense.
I've always felt that you shouldn't base your movies on what you think
the audience would like to see in it.
The director should be able to decide what the audience
wants to watch. So, the climax is fine as it is.
Ashokraj, please ask them to open the gate!
We want to meet you. - Your last movie was excellent!
Ashokraj! This is me, Balan, the barber!
Ashokraj!
Get out..
Tell the guards not to hit them. - Yes.
Excuse me. - What?
Could you tell me where a guy from Melukavu Junction works in movies
named Kodamallur..
Are you talking about Pappan? - Yes..
He's inside. - Can I meet him?
Sure, go right in.
Vasu, did you put the yam in water? - In a minute!
Did you saute the vegetables? - In a minute!
Didn't you wash the vessel to prepare the Payasam?
Where is Usman? Tell him to grate the coconuts!
I'll probably end up doing that too!
Who are you? What do you want?
I'm from Melukavu.. - If you're looking for a job
go and do the dishes over there.
You'll get food as payment.
I don't need a job. - What?
Ashokraj and I go back a long way.
I was friends with him 25 years ago.
Oh, my God! I was not aware of that.
Hey, Sudhakaran! Ravi! Hurry up if you want to see
Ashokraj's friend from 25 years ago.
Why are you standing? Please have a seat, sir!
That's okay. I just want to meet him.
It's very simple. He's generous
when it comes to poor people. I can't imagine how generous
he'd be with an acquaintance.
Is he Ashokraj's friend? - Yes, didn't you like him?
What's he here for? - He wants to meet Ashokraj
and rekindle their friendship from 25 years ago.
Also, he wouldn't mind accepting whatever Ashokraj might offer him.
Ashokraj usually offers a free slap.
They don't leave him alone anywhere, despicable people.
Everyone has a different story.
Are you leaving already, sir? Wait.
I'll make you some tea.
Stop the vehicle.. This is it..
Look, Balan's coming!
Hello, Balan!
I came here when I saw that your shop was closed.
I was looking for you since yesterday.
I was planning to come and visit your house
if I didn't see you in the market. - Oh, really?
You talked to Ashokraj, didn't you?
Don't waste time, Balan. Get in the vehicle. Let's go.
I'm your debtor now, sir. I sold my daughter's earrings.
Here's Rs. 1000. I was coming to meet you
to give you the money. My business is flourishing a bit.
I'll repay the rest in monthly instalments.
I thought.. - Please take the money, sir.
Why? Did I ask you for it?
Tell me when you'll talk to Ashokraj!
Please take the money!
Kora, let's go!
He's going.. - What are you doing, you idiot? Did I get in?
We'll decide when we meet in your shop. I'm going to kill you, idiot!
I don't think his children should be allowed to continue
their studies here anymore. He gave his word the other day.
He didn't keep his word.
Don't just sit here saying that you're the principal!
You need to make decisions.
This is so embarrassing. Asking Balan, a barber
to invite someone like Ashokraj was not a good idea.
We asked him to do it because he claimed
that he and Ashokraj were close friends.
Okay, maybe I'm incapable. Forget about Balan.
Did you go and invite Ashokraj, Mr. Scariah Thomas?
W-Well, I will have to think about it.
Maybe the ministers..
Oh, yes! The education minister and Vattaparambil Chandi are friends.
We need to get it done anyway. We have people among us
who know powerful people in Thiruvananthapuram.
Nothing is impossible. We just need to be persistent.
So, it's decided. We'll go to Thiruvananthapuram.
I made my students pay the fees by telling them that I'll take them
to the filming location. I'm in big trouble, Balan.
The students went on strike yesterday.
'Mr. Venu, you betrayer! Take us there like you promised!'
That was their slogan.
They didn't even let me enter my office.
I've thought about going into hiding till the filming is over.
You should probably consider it.
Balan, please don't say that! My pride is at stake.
I tutored your daughter for free even if it was just for a week.
How much do I owe you?
Oh, you're a rich man now! Don't forget your past.
What you're asking of me is impossible!
Varkey! Kora! Nab him! - Okay, sir!
Come on! - What is this? Where are you taking him?
If we wait any longer, the filming will get over
and Ashokraj would be gone.
If we take his friend with us, Ashokraj will let us in.
Oh, are you going to meet Ashokraj? Can I join you?
Sure, hop on. We'll look strong.
Let's go!
Oh, no! Don't let go of me..
Hey, help him out of the vehicle. - Move out of the way..
Get down.. - Bring him with you.
Move out of the way.. - Move out..
Ashokraj invited us. We left from there. Take us to him.
Hello! You seem to doubt us.
This is Balan, the barber. He is Ashokraj's close friend.
Everyone, come on. Let's go.
Will you be accompanying us or should we go there directly?
Let them be here. We'll go alone.
Vadakkemuri. - Yes? - You have the songs with you, right? - Yes, sir!
Ashokraj might be busy. You'll have to hurry up. - Okay!
Let's go, everyone. Come on!
Where do you think you're going? - Didn't you hear anything?
No one's allowed in the filming location.
You see, Balan and Ashokraj are friends.
If he's a friend, meet him in the guest house.
He told us to come here.
Well, I suggest you tell Ashokraj that Balan is here.
We haven't been instructed to let anyone in.
Shut up and leave.
A film is being shot in our village and we are not allowed to see it.
How is that fair, sir? - I heard that the movie
is in need of songs. I've written over 500 songs for the movie.
We'll leave right after I hand it over to them.
We can't promise that we would leave soon.
Balan and Ashokraj might need some time to catch up.
Why don't you ask Ashokraj what you should do?
I've already told you what you have to do.
Sir, it doesn't look like these guys will cooperate.
What did you say?
Why should we be afraid when Balan is with us?
Let's go! - Lift the rope..
Stop right there! - Move! - Don't you dare touch me! - Move!
He has diabetes.. - Get out of here..
Oh, no! My songs!
My hard work! All of my songs.. - Move.
Oh, no!
They have been filming in that area with special permission
from the Revenue and Forest Department.
On top of that, he was assigned special security by the court.
You trespassed the area without taking anything seriously.
You'll be in prison for at least some days.
No, sir! We weren't trespassing! One of Ashokraj's close friend
took us there. One of his sheets.. - What?
Call sheet.. - Yes, call sheet.
I'd like to be the producer of a film starring Ashokraj.
Did you get a permit? - That's why we went there
with Ashokraj's friend. - Which friend?
Babar Balan. - What? - Balan, the barber. - Who?
The barber who runs a barbershop at Melukavu Junction, Balan.
Balan, the barber? How is he related to Ashokraj?
Everyone knows about their friendship.
That's not what I asked you. How did they even become friends?
Has Ashokraj ever visited his barbershop?
Has Balan ever been invited to Ashokraj's place?
They've been friends for a long time, sir!
Do you have proof? - Do you? What about you?
I don't know who Balan is. But he seems to be bluffing.
He's probably trying to take advantage of you.
Mr. Eappachan brought him a new chair! - Not just a chair!
I bought him a whole bunch of other accessories for him!
So, it seems like I'm right. He tricked all of you.
Balan, you cheat! Come out of your shop!
Let everyone know how you've been making a fool of them!
Tell us how you got acquainted with Ashokraj.
If he's your friend, why doesn't he ever visit you?
Has he invited you to his place?
I didn't ask you to take me to the filming location
and make a scene there. - It's not about that, you idiot.
You claim to be good friends with Ashokraj.
Do you have some evidence to support your claim?
I never claimed to be friends with Ashokraj.
You guys jumped to the conclusion yourself.
Are you saying that we started the rumour?
I didn't start any rumour.
So, you're not friends with him, is it?
If I say that we're friends, will you drag me back
to the filming location?
We need to know this right away. Are you guys friends or not?
I don't think that's necessary.
I'll kill him.. - Varkey, stop.
He'll die if you hit him. I don't have the money
to get you out of jail. - Sir
why isn't he answering?
Maybe hitting him isn't a bad idea. He'll start talking!
Has the cat got your tongue?
I warned you that he was bluffing.
He cooked up the whole story to destroy my business.
Everyone made fun of me back then.
Ashokraj is his friend, is he?
Didn't you write a poem in his praise?
Why don't you write a new one?
"Balan, the cheater, the bluffer, the deceiver.."
Write it..
I feel ashamed to have used my pen to write a poem about him.
What's happened has happened. Kora, Varkey, get our things back!
Out of the way! You need a shave, is it? Get out! - Get out!
Take it! - The scissors, razors, soap, comb.. Take it all!
I'm going to celebrate this!
Balan, you deceived everyone and no one will come to your shop!
Let's go!
Come on!
What happened, Devi? You look upset.
Mr. Eappachan took all his things back, didn't he?
Ms. Sainu laughed a lot about it.
Mr. Jaleel said that you're a liar and that people have found out
that you are not friends with Ashokraj.
I'm never going back there again.
I'm thinking of leaving this town.
You've had to go through a lot because you fell in love with me.
Your family was wealthy.
You should've had a better life.
Balan, stop it.
I've never been able to make you happy.
Balan, it is not like that.
I adore every single moment that I spent with you
and it'll be the same for me for eternity.
I know that you love me with all your heart and that's all I want.
Nothing has changed. Balan, you'll go to the junction
and open the shop like always.
Let us sell our goat and chicken.
We can even sell my earrings.
Ashokraj!
There were so many false rumours! He'd get an air conditioner
in his shop, Ashokraj would inaugurate his renovated shop.
And now, he's carrying that stupid, old chair of his.
Poor fellow! I don't think anyone would go to his shop now. - No way!
What do you want? - I'm the principal of thes school.
We are here to meet Mr. Ashokraj. - Have you taken the permission?
Just let them in. We had talked to them over the phone. - Okay.
Oh, God! - Sir is over there.
Good morning, Mr. Ashokraj.
Good morning.
We are here to tell you about St. Mary's school's silver..
I know! The minster had called me. - I am the principal.
He is P.B. Kuriakose, the PTA president. - Hello.
He is Scariah Thomas, a member of the school management committee.
The minister must have told you about me. It was me who had
told him that Ashokraj should participate in the function.
He agreed to it right away. We are good friends.
This is Sister Mareena. - Please take a seat.
It's a real privilege to see you in person!
We are all huge fans of yours!
All of our students are crazy about you! - Not just the students..
The whole village is!
Nobody was able to see you when the shooting was going on.
It's because we wouldn't have been able to work
if we had allowed people to be near the location.
Also, witnessing the shooting is not as entertaining
as watching the movie. - That is a fact!
Once, the minister and I had gone to the shooting location
of Mr. Rajinikanth's movie. The shooting was tedious.
I didn't pay him any attention.
Just by looking at him, I understood that he was arrogant.
I've read in some magazines
that you are a bit arrogant.
You know, I am someone who speaks out all the hard truths.
The minister likes this habit of mine, and that is why we became
good friends.
Only an idiot would be friends with another idiot.
I wonder if the minister himself is an idiot.
Mr. Thomas, why did we come here?
To talk about our school's event. We should talk only about that.
I remember him saying that I agreed just because the minister called.
What did I agree to? Who agreed to it?
Look, I came to this place to shoot for a movie
and not to visit schools.
You might say that my fans crave for it.
I want people to watch my movies only if they are good.
I don't want you all to watch a dumb movie of mine
just because you're my fan. - Sir
we apologise for Mr. Thomas's stupidity.
Let me complete what I'm saying. I don't mind whether people
worship me or speak ill of me. I had a life before I started
working in the film industry and nobody worshipped me then.
Nobody wanted my photographs or autographs.
Nobody used to notice me.
You'd have liked certain characters that I have played in movies.
It wasn't me who created them.
The directors and the scriptwriters created those characters.
They used me as a medium to say what they wanted
to say to the audience. You should understand the fact
that you were worshipping those characters and not me.
You are just inviting those characters to your school.
I am pretty much an ordinary man.
I don't act in my personal life and because of that, I won't come
to your school.
Mr. Kamal Haasan and the minister are very good friends.
We've spent a lot of time together in Marina beach.
Mr. Thomas. - I already told you that I'm an ordinary man.
I become happy, or I get provoked for the slightest of matters.
If this guy utters a single word again, I swear I'll slap him.
Mr. Thomas, please come with me. - Why? - I'll tell you..
What is it? - Go and sit inside the bus. - Why? - Just go!
Go. - Come!
Sir, we are sorry. - What good would that do?
You've ruined my day. What good would your apology do?
If you had a tad bit of common sense
you wouldn't have brought him here.
Sir, that was Mr. Thomas trying to convince someone popular
like you that he had an impressive personality.
Sir, please don't reject our invitation because of him.
We came here hoping that you'd come.
But you should promise me one thing. You should make sure
that he'd not come anywhere near me. - Yes, sir. We'll ensure that.
Then, organise the function on the same day on which the shooting ends
and that's the 16th of this month.
'Welcome, Superstar Ashokraj.'
We should decorate with garlands.
They'll take care of it. We haven't fixed the programmes.
Come with me.
We haven't yet decided who should have seats on the stage or who
should speak to the crowd. Mr. Ashokraj will be here shortly.
Will the Panchayat President
or Father Kodikunnil preside over? - No..
It should be Mr. Kuriakose.
Thankappan, who is supposed to deliver the fireworks, called now.
He said that the order would be complete only by 5 p.m.
He's saying this at the last moment!
He will arrive at 4 p.m., and we need the fireworks!
Mr. Josekutty, tell you what. Just go to him and bring whatever
he has finished. Or else, things won't work out. - Okay..
That's good. - Come. - Come.
Should we serve him tea and snacks soon after his arrival?
No, he should go to the stage. Let's give him a bottle
of mineral water. - Okay. - We shall serve tea after the meeting.
Mom, you've ironed it enough.
If we get late, we wouldn't be able to see Mr. Ashokraj.
Shut up! You should dress properly before going to a place
where lots of people would assemble.
Mom, we need money to buy snacks.
You may ask your dad for money. - No. Mom, I want it from you.
I don't have any. - Forget it, then. Satya, let's get going.
Everyone else left. - There will be so many people there.
I wonder whether we would get seats or not.
I'll be more than happy if I get to see him.
Let's go.. Come.
Hurry up. - Tell dad that you are leaving.
Sona, I am talking to you.
Let them come back. I'll teach them a lesson. - What for?
Balan
were you friends with Ashokraj?
If he doesn't remember me
what is the point in saying that I know him?
I've always been a huge fan of him. He is leaving tomorrow.
I wanted to see him..
Just because you would be alone here..
I wanted to see him once. - Really?
Yes. People would make fun of you
and that's why..
I got used to that. If you wish to go
then, hurry up. Go and change. We shall go.
Really? - Devi, go and change. - Oh, my God!
Did Mr. Ashokraj arrive? - No. - So, we are on time!
Varkey. - Yes? - Enquire about the matter I told you about. - Okay.
They should be seated in the front. - Hey, stop.. Mr. Eachappan
has arrived. - Who? - Mr. Eappachan!
He is over there, sitting in his jeep.
Oh, the moneylender! What does he want?
If you insist
he'll speak about Mr. Ashokraj on stage!
That will be a real privilege! - There is a condition.
He should be seated next to Ashokraj on the stage.
Why? We'll make him sit on Ashokraj's lap. Happy? Get lost!
Sir, I was insulted to the core.
Mr. Kuriakose said that
he wouldn't allow idiots like you to sit on the stage.
Mr. Mamacha, Mr. Kuttappayi.. I got the call. Mr. Ashokraj
is on his way from the guest house. - Get the drums, fireworks
and the procession ready! - Do it fast..
None of you should dare to disturb, touch or mock him.
None of you should even comment.
Don't spoil the name of our village.
Hey, look at that.. Look who is standing there.
Get him out of there somehow..
Mr. Thomas, where were you? - I went to town to buy a garland.
Even though he is arrogant, he came to our village.
So, I thought of garlanding him. - Good.
By the way, come with me. - What? - Come.
Mr. Thomas, you should deliver the vote of thanks. - Really?
Of course! I've written it down. If you can't memorise it
read it from the paper. I'll give it to you. Get in.
Kuriakose.. Idiot! Open the door!
Ready, one, two!
I won't take long.
I still can't fathom whether this is a dream or reality.
We never imagined that this great actor
would someday visit our school!
All those characters which Mr. Ashokraj had played
are flashing through all of our minds right now.
The way he walks.. His style of speech..
The fire in his eyes.. Even the slightest of gestures
from him has mesmerised us!
Though he says that the credit goes to director and scriptwriter
I humbly say that we don't agree with him on that!
The number of awards he has won at the state
and national level certainly underlines his greatness!
I invite our beloved, the pride of every Malayali
the inspiration of every man, the superstar of the film industry
Mr. Ashokraj
to address you.
Respected people on the stage and among the crowd..
My dear people..
Like he said
I never anticipated that I'd come here
or address you.
It's all in one's destiny.
Everything that has happened in my life
was not decided by the decisions I had taken in the past
and that makes me believe in destiny.
I believe that I was destined
to be here.
Just like it's said that even if people hadn't known what gravity is
apples would've still fallen.
Apple?
It was because of security reasons that you were not permitted
to see the shooting. I told the commandoes to go away.
My house was under attack because I acted in the movie 'Gujarat'.
I don't think a movie would influence a person
to become a murderer, a thief, a saint
or a religious fanatic.
I strongly believe that works of art couldn't influence society
to a large extent. In Vyloppilli's poem called 'Mambazham'
the mother who punished her child for nipping buds regrets doing so
after the child died. Malayalis were hugely agonised by the pain
that the character had been through.
But that agony didn't stop them
from punishing their children when they deserved it.
Kids who nipped buds will always get punished.
What is it? Idiot!
I wish to tell all the students in the crowd
that you are going through the best phase of your life.
The friends you make now will always be there for you.
When I see you, my childhood comes to my mind.
You guys are blessed with food, clothes
and books which come in different colours.
Can you imagine that I didn't have any of this?
I was just an ordinary kid, then.
My father, Rajan, was a poor man.
During rains, I used to use leaves of plantains
since I couldn't afford umbrellas.
In all of our cases, there would be someone who influences our life
and encourages us to chase our dreams.
I had a beloved friend who used to wear
a red stud on his ears.
If I've achieved anything in my life, it's because of him.
His name was Balachandran. My beloved friend, Balan.
When we were in school, he used to give me lunch as he knew that
I was thriving on water.
We went for movies and bought sweets
after stealing money from his dad.
He wanted me to achieve great heights in life
and he wanted nothing for himself.
He used to give me haircuts when his father was away to have lunch.
He used to give me books to read.
He was the one who had said that I had an actor in me.
I saw the world through his eyes.
He taught me how to dream.
When I was about to leave to Madras for pursuing my ambitions
h-he came to me with the money he got by selling his stud.
W-With tears in my eyes, I asked him
how I would repay him for everything that he has done.
He said that he didn't want anything
and that I should remember him when I help someone
who approaches me seeking help.
He fell in love with a girl, and he left. I always miss him.
I always wait for his voice to call out for me when I see a crowd.
Now that I have a successful life..
Also, it torments me to think that he's not with me.
I am grieved about it. I always remember him.
I never imagined that he would remember all this.
Even though he has a successful life, he remembers everything.
I can be happy for the rest of my life because I know
that he still remembers me. That's all I need.
He conquered such heights because of his calibre.
Selling the stud.. Offering lunch..
He talked about all those tiny incidents that happened.
Balan, why didn't you tell me all of that?
Is the meeting over? - No.
We were there. - Really?
So, you heard everything that he said, didn't you? - Yes.
We came back when we could not help crying.
Even we had cried, Mom.
Dad, we are sorry. - Why, dear?
You are just kids. It's okay if you were rude towards me.
If I were a kid, I would've done the same.
I heard everything you said.
I was wrong to assume that you'd forget everything
after conquering such heights!
And now, you have come to my house!
All my attempts at finding you failed miserably.
But you could have always found me.
Didn't you feel like meeting me even once?
It's not true.
It took me some time to settle down
after I left my village.
Your growth to a superstar status was rapid.
I thought of coming to meet you.
But with time, my courage drained.
I never wanted you to meet me when I was in a miserable condition.
But that might have been me being egoistic.
Balan, how could you even think that?
I am sorry that I thought so.
Sridevi?
Yes!
Balan's children!
I am leaving now, but I'll come back soon.
There is nothing more valuable than one's village.
You should live there for the rest of your life!
Gosh!
Sir, for how long have you been friends with him?
Friendship is not measured in terms of time
but on the depth of the relationship.
Ms. Sainu, here is Mr. Ashokraj!
Please let him go.
Wow!
"Balan is a unique man"
"and we have recognised it now."
"He is the pride of Melukavu."
"Many congrats to you, Balan."