THE STORYLINE
#1. THE FLAT- EARLY MORNING
Milith does push-ups; pumps iron, while listening to the song ‘ARE YOU READY FOR A GOOD TIME’ by AC/ DC.
#2. A little while later, his maid servant, Jyoti, makes Coffee and enters the room. Seeing Milith’s biceps, she raises her eyes in amazement.
Jyoti
Saab… coffee !
Milith
(irritated)
How many times should I tell you to knock at the
door before coming in ?!
Jyoti
(nods) Sorry, Saab ! (leaves).
She closes the door; knocks and seeks permission.
Milith
Gaaaawd ! Such a character... !
Jyoti
Did you say something Saab ?!
Milith
(sips into the Coffee)
Yeah… Coffee is good ! (smiles).
Jyoti
Thank you, Saab ! (smiles; looks on admiringly)
Milith
Now what? Are you just gonna stand there or do I
have to prepare the breakfast myself ?!
Jyoti
I will, Saab ! (takes the mug and leaves)
#3. At 9:30, he sets out for his Studio. Just as he reaches the lift, he hears a voice from behind. It’s Sushma. An 18 year old college kid.
Sushma
Good Morning, Mr. Milith !
Milith
Oh, Good Morning, Sushma !
Sushma
(blush)
I’m getting late… would you mind… ?
Milith
(smiles)
… not at all !
They get into the lift and hesitate to hit the button --- each one expects the other to. Both of them make a move, simultaneously: their hands touch unintentionally. Milith retracts his hand, while apologising to Sushma; she presses the button.
As the lift descends, Milith notices Sushma sheepishly ogling at him.
Milith
(to himself)
God, what have I gotten myself into ?!
#4. THE PARKING LOT -MORNING
Milith and Sushma get into the car.
Milith
I’ll lower the windows…the AC’s out of order.
Sushma
(smiles)
No probs !
Sushma goes on and on with tales about her parents, even as she keeps ogling at Milith. He just nods; avoiding direct eye contact.
#5. AT MASAB TANK
They arrive at Masab tank; Milith is relieved and stops by the roadside; she alights from the car, thanks him and leaves. Just as she walks away, he rolls up the windows; switches on the AC and speeds away.
Milith
(swears)
I’m never gonna offer her a lift again !
#6. BLITZ PORTRAIT STUDIO – MORNING
Wanna-be models, both Men and Women throng the Studio. Milith strikes an INSTANT RAPPORT with them; makes them feel ‘AT EASE’ before taking their pics.
#7. THE STUDIO – NIGHT
Milith and the rest of the team sit on the couch looking tired. At 9:00 P.M., Milith closes shop; bids goodbye to Manisha and Gaurav. He gets into his car; ignites the engine and drives away.
#8. ABHILASHA APTS. – NIGHT
Milith gets off the lift on the 3rd floor. While walking through the corridor to his flat (no. 303) hears YELLING and SCREAMING from Sushma’s flat ( Flat no. 301).
Milith
(to himself)
Oh God, not again ! (opens the door)
INSIDE THE FLAT
Milith lies down on his couch and watches a cricket match on the TV. He sniffs and rushes into the kitchen to find the rice fully burnt.
Milith
(miffed)
Not again… Damn it ! Should’ve placed the
bowl in a Cooker ! (the doorbell rings) Good
Lord, now, who could that be?!
Milith opens the door. A friend of his, Nikhil, stands outside.
Nikhil
(warm smile)
Hi, buddy !
Milith
Arey Nikhil, nuvva… you know na…
Nikhil
(smiles)
Sareh le… we know that you hate surprises…
wait on for some more !
Milith
(rueful)
Andaru ochchinaara ?!
The rest of the gang (Prem, Charan, Sanjay) appear yelling “Hi, ra” ! They carry bottles of Vodka and food parcels on their person.
Prem
(mischievous smile)
You’ve become very intelligent yaar!
Milith
Me… ?! Intelligent ?! If I were, why would I
have you as friends? (laughs) Anyway, thanks for
dropping down !
Nikhil
(sniffs)
Thanks ? What for?! Hey, I smell something
burn… don’t you ?!
The rest… Yeah !
Milith
Rice is all burnt… !
Charan
(teases)
Should have used the pressure cooker, mate !
Milith
(sarcastic)
Oh, I see!
Prem
(tounge in cheek)
Looks like Charan picked up culinary skills after
getting hitched!
Charan
Why do you keep picking on me… ?!
Sanjay
Stop cribbing like kids guys… chalo… open the
Bottles… it’s been a long time…
Milith
(bemused)
We boozed just the other day… right here…
Sanjay
Really ?! in that case, we’ll take a long break this
time !
Prem
(witty)
You said the same thing the day before yesterday
Sanjay
Raat gayi… baath gayi ! (winks)
Charan
Looking at you… nobody would believe…
you are a Doctor !
Sanjay
Not that I care… Cheers guys !
All of them raise a toast.
Nikhil
(shaking his head)
You’ll never change !
Prem
(slur)
Hey, Charan… considering the fact that you’ve
gotten hitched recently, howz that you are spending
most of the nights partying around with us and not with…
Charan
(embarrassed)
Mastu ekki nattundi… English ki taggutaledu !
Hey, DJ play some good music… rock the house !
Prem
Hokey-dokey, Pal !
Prem switches on the music system and plays heavy metal.
“Lower the volume”, Milith yells. He obliges.
Nikhil
That’s more like it, bevde ! (laughs)
Prem winks and sways wildly to the music.
Nikhil
Charan… you haven’t answered Prem’s question !
Milith
Wassup Mate?! Everything OK between you and
Bhabhi!
Charan
(evasive)
Absolutely, Brother !
Prem
Looks like we’ll have to find out from Bhabi !
Charan
Nooo… ! Don’t do that !
Sanjay
C'mon dude... that’s what friends are for… to
help each other !
Charan
Your Bhabhi has been pestering me to go for a
baby… !
Nikhil
That’s ludicrous, you’ve been married all but
two months…
Milith
You guys hardly know each other… no wonder people
say Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus !
Charan
… but she wouldn’t listen…
Sanjay
Oh, Shit !
Everybody asks… “what happened?”
Sanjay
We’ve run out of alcohol guys…Nikhil… let’s go fetch
some !
Nikhil
Do you know what time it is ? It’s well past midnight…
wine shops will be closed !
Charan
These guys are impossible… here I am going through hell… and
these guys…
Prem
Odileyyi ra… I know a place where we can get drinks, round the
clock… shall we ?!
Charan
No dude… I’ve had enough already… !
Milith
Me too… I’m done for the day… !
Prem
Goddamn me… !
Nikhil
Now what ?!
Prem
I forgot the place, guys !
“Shutuuuuuup and go to bed”, the room reverberates.
Prem
(meekly)
OK… why do you have to shout ?!
#9. THE PHOTO STUDIO – MORNING 10 O’ CLOCK
Milith walks into the Studio. Manisha and Gaurav greet him.
Milith
So, how is it going guys ?
Manisha
Mona has already allocated time to 4 people,
Boss.
Milith
(to Mona)
Good going, Baby ! (smiles).
#10. THE STUDIO – EVENING
A BEAUTIFUL Punjabi girl (aged-21 yrs) walks into the Studio.
Mona
Excuse me Ma’am, do you have an appointment ?
The girl
I’m looking for Manisha. I’m Nehal… Nehal
Singh… a friend of her’s.
Mona
(pointing to the sofa)
Please be seated Ma’am…I will send word for
her.
Nehal looks admiringly at the pictures of beautiful models adorning the walls of the waiting room. She seems a little TENSE, though. She breaks into a smile when she sees Manisha walking up to her.
Manisha
(surprised)
Hiiiiiiii, Nehal ! Long time… ! (hugs)
Nehal
(smiles)
Hello, Manisha !
Manisha
(curious)
How are Mom, Dad and Sis doing… and what
are you doing here ?
Nehal
They are doing well, thank you. By the way, Dad
had been transferred to J&K… !
Manisha
(surprised)
Gosh… Kashmir… when ?!
Nehal
(shrugs)
About a month ago… Mom and Sis accompanied
him as well !
Manisha
So, you’ve been staying alone for about a month
and I didn’t have a clue ?!
Nehal
(tensed)
For heavens sake, don’t get me wrong ! I wanted
to explore all avenues before seeking your help !
The new incumbent is reporting for duty the day
after and I’ve been asked to vacate the Quarter !
Manisha
That’s awful… what do you plan to do now ?!
Nehal
I don’t know… I thought maybe you could help me out !
Manisha
(apologetic)
I wish I could ! But you know that, my bro is a
ROUGE ! He gets DRUNK and creates a scene
everyday. I, sincerely, feel that it’s not in your
interest to stay at my place !
Nehal who had come to Manisha with high hopes is DISTRESSED to hear that. Just then, Milith who had finished a photo session walks up to them.
Milith
(to Nehal)
What can I do for you, Ma’am ?
Manisha
(interrupts)
Oh no, Boss ! She is Nehal… a very good friend
of mine…. !
Manisha introduces Nehal to Milith and they exchange pleasantries.
Milith
(courteous)
Nice to meet you, Ms. Nehal !
Nehal
Likewise !
Milith
Nehal …. Hmmmn… that’s a nice name !
(curious) Wonder what it stands for ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
Well… never gave it a thought… should find out
from my Parents ! Thanks anyway !
Milith calls up the office boy (Narsing) and asks him to get 3 soft drinks.
Milith
So, what do you do Ms. Nehal ?
Nehal
I’m pursuing my Master’s in Journalism…
majoring in Print Media.. .!
Milith
Journalism ?! No offence, but sounds boring to me… Photo Journalism would be far more exciting !
Manisha
Boss, you would be amazed to know that Nehal
stood first in every Essay writing contest that she
took part in… !
Milith
(impressed) Good on you !
Nehal
(modest)
Yeah ! But expressing one’s views is not the
same kettle of fish as…reporting facts… most of
the times it takes a lot of courage and conviction
to get to the crux of the matter… !
Milith
God, you would make some Journalist !
Narsing enters and serves them soft drinks.
Milith
(chivalrous)
My first impression was that you too had come
here for a photo shoot…You look tensed, Ms. Nehal !
May I…
Nehal
(nervous smile)
Do I ?! Well… my Dad, a Major in the Army,
was transferred to Kashmir. I wasn’t able to find
suitable accommodation and now Manisha too
washed her hands off me!
Manisha
You don’t know my bro, Boss… he is a
@#$&* ! It’s definitely not good for her
to stay at my place…!
Milith
(instinctive)
Ms. Nehal, if it’s ok with you you can stay at my
place… as long as you feel like ! I own a 2-bedroom
flat… stay alone… and have a maidservant too.
Nehal, after listening to the unexpected offer of help, gets thoughtful and stares blankly at Manisha. She nods positively.
Milith
(jokes)
Don’t worry Ma’am, I’m not even gonna ask you
to pay for it ! You can stay for free… by
God’s grace, I have made enough money !
Nehal and Manisha break into laughter.
Milith
So, can I take that as a yes ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
Yep !
Gaurav enters.
Gaurav
Excuse me Boss, there’s someone waiting for the shoot !
Milith
OK, I’ll be there in a couple of minutes… please make
the arrangements.
Gaurav
Sure boss. (leaves).
Nehal
(thankful)
By the way, where’s the flat ? If it’s OK with you…
I shall drop-in tomorrow.
Milith thinks to himself, “mohamaatam assalu ledanukunta” !
Milith
That’s absolutely fine. Manisha knows the place; she’ll
show you the way. I gotta go… see you tomorrow.
Nehal
Thank you once again, Milith. Bye.
Milith
Bye. (leaves).
Nehal
(to Manisha)
Do you mind coming over to my place; help pack my
stuff and stay back for the night ?
Manisha
Not at all, Nehal ! Just a sec, I’ll ring up Mom and inform her.
“A FRIEND IN NEED, IS A FRIEND… INDEED”, the girls say in CHORUS. Manisha speaks to her Mom. Later, she excuses herself from Nehal and walks up to Milith.
Manisha
(to Milith)
Boss, can I …
Milith
Yep, permission granted !
Manisha thanks him and leaves.
#11. While alighting THE STAIRS OF THE BUILDING…
Nehal
(worried)
Don’t know why, but I readily agreed to his offer… guess
the fact that I was desperate to find accommodation made
me do so, but now I’m lil’… !
Manisha
(consoling)
I know what you are thinking, but let me tell you… Milith is
a gem of a person and I assure you… you wouldn’t have a
problem with him. Trust me !
Nehal
(smiles)
If you say so.. Cool! !
#12. THE FLAT - MORNING 6:30 AM
Milith is bare-chested and is working out --- pumps iron, does a few push-ups, while listening to the song ‘LET ME SEE YOU STRIPPED’ by Ramstein.
THE DOORBELL RINGS.
Milith puts a towel over his shoulders; opens the door and is surprised to find Nehal and Manisha at his doorstep with some luggage in tow. They are shocked to see him bare; giggle to themselves.
Manisha
Good morning, Boss. (smiles)
Nehal
Good morning !
Milith
Oh ! Good morning, Ladies… Please… !
They enter.
He excuses himself; closes his door gently, switches-off the Music System and puts on a T-shirt. Meanwhile, Manisha shows Nehal around.
Milith
(apologetic)
Hi ! I’m sorry… I completely forgot that you would
drop in… I thought it was Jyoti… my maidservant.
Manisha
Oh… that’s OK, Boss !
Nehal
Where’s my room ?!
Milith
(to himself)
Intha pogara?! (aloud) Ms. Nehal… this way… this is
your room !
Milith leads them into the other room, a spacious room with an attached bathroom. There are 2 bottles of Vodka and cigarette butts strewn all over the room.
Milith
(to himself)
Holy… ! (covering up)
Nehal gives Manisha a stare; she shrugs.
Milith
I don’t booze ! It’s like… friends of mine dropped-in and
partied the other day I had asked Jyoti to clean it up and
obviously… she didn’t.
Nehal
Don’t tell me, you’ll let your friends booze… with me around ?!
Milith
(gently shakes his head)
Don’t worry about that, Ms. Nehal ! (smiles)
Nehal
(suspicious)
I’ll take your word for that !
Milith
What? Is that luggage all that you’ve got?
Nehal
No! There’s lots more, but I wanted to see what all you’ve got
so that I can send the extra baggage to my folks !
Milith
(to himself)
Be careful dude, she’s not as innocent as she looks!
(Aloud with a fake smile) Good idea !
Jyoti enters. She greets Milith and Manisha, while looking at the new entrant, Nehal.
Milith
(to Jyoti)
Jyoti she’s Nehal… and she’d be staying here… you have to
take care of her !
Jyoti
(inquisitive)
Is she related to you Saab ?
Milith
Nope…
Manisha
… Nehal’s a friend of mine Jyoti !
Jyoti’s expression turns quizzical. She shrugs her shoulders in disgust.
Jyoti
(to herself)
Pedda vaallu, pedda maatalu… manaku eda ardham aithadi !
Milith
Didn’t I ask you to clean the room ?
Jyoti
Sorry, saab… I forgot !
Milith
That’s OK… Make Coffee for us !
Milith
Forgot to ask you Ms. Nehal, what do you prefer… Coffee or
Tea ? (to Manisha) I know that she prefers Coffee, right ?
Manisha nods.
Nehal
I prefer Coffee, too !
Milith
Jyoti, three Coffee… jaldi !
Jyoti
In a jiffy, Saab ! (leaves).
Milith, Nehal and Manisha get seated on the sofa and watch TV.
Jyoti
Coffee… ! (serves)
Milith
Jyotiji, would you be kind enough to clean the room or
should I do that mys… !
Jyoti
(smiles)
Noooo… Saab ! I will… !
#15. Milith goes through the ET and the TOI newspaper (P3) while Nehal and Manisha get back to business in her room. Jyoti helps them out.
Jyoti
Memsaab… where do your parents stay ?
Nehal
Dad’s an Army officer and he’s in Kashmir… Mom and
Younger sister, Meeta, too stay there !
Jyoti
Kashmir ?! It’s a dangerous place, isn’t it, Memsaab ?!
Nehal
Not as much as it used to be… still he’s gotta do his duty !
Jyoti
Meeta… what does she do ?!
Nehal
She’s in the Ninth standard !
#16. Milith has a shower. By the time he gets back, Jyoti prepares breakfast and places it on the table. Milith heads straight for the table. It strikes him that he has guests at home and takes a U-turn.
Milith
(knocks at the door)
May I come in… ladies ?!
The girls
Of course… it’s your’s, after all !
Milith
I know… but the one residing here isn’t, right ?! (winks)
Nehal gives him a glare.
Milith
(shrugs)
Bad joke, eh ?! Anyways, breakfast is ready; maybe you’d
like to have it after a shower… ?!
Manisha
Naaaah Boss, we are very hungry… ! (smiles)
After finishing breakfast,
Manisha
(wiping her hands)
Boss, I gotta go home… see you at the Studio.
“Catch you later”, exclaims Milith. Nehal sees her off.
Manisha
Take care, Sweetie !
Nehal
You bet. (winks). Bye.
Milith is now seated on the sofa watching StarSports. Nehal, too, gets seated on the sofa.
Milith
Make yourself absolutely comfortable… !
Nehal
(sincere)
Thanks a lot, Milith.
Milith
Anytime, Ms. Nehal !
All the while, Jyoti peeps ‘intermittently’ from the Kitchen.
Jyoti
(to herself)
21st century relationships… Raama… Raama… !
Little while later, Nehal rises and heads for her room.
Milith
Ms. Nehal, there is a geyser in the bathroom. The left tap is
for hot water, the right for normal water. Turn the faucet
right for the head shower and left for…
Nehal
(warm smile)
O.K. Thank you ! (leaves).
Jyoti
Work is done, Saab… I’ll take leave !
Milith
(witty)
OK… be early from tomorrow onwards, Memsaab ! (smiles)
Jyoti
Arey… you are calling me a Memsaab? Definitely ! (smiles)
#14. Milith is dressed up to go to work; sits on the couch; browses through a magazine. Nehal exits her room dressed in a Western outfit… she is a quintessential 21st century Woman.
Nehal
I’m ready!
Milith
Great ! Let’s go !
Nehal
(contemplative)
By the way, wouldn’t you like to carry something for Lunch ?
Milith
Never mind, there’s a Restaurant right beside my Studio…
Wait, does that mean… you… cook ?!
Nehal
(amused)
Yeah, I do… What’s so surprising ?!
Milith
A Tomboy aur cooking ?! (smiles) No offence meant, though.
Nehal
(impressed)
No prizes for guessing that I’m a… whatever ?! Waise what
you see isn’t always what you get ! Anyway, tell me what
would you like to have for dinner ?
Milith
How about Chicken curry… been a long time since I’ve had
home-made curry !
Nehal
Sorry to disappoint you on that count… I’m a Veggie.
Milith
(jokes)
I asked you to cook… not eat… !
Nehal remains stoic.
Milith
Anything would do… Ms. Nehal ! Having said that, doesn’t
mean you can experiment on me… OK ! (smiles).
Nehal
Oh, not at all ! (smiles)
They come out of the flat and on to the corridor and wait for the lift.
Milith
Ms. Nehal, shall I drop you at the college… it’s on the way!
Nehal
(polite)
Thanks… but I’ve got a bike of my own. Anyway, it would
be late by the time you get back home, right ?!
Milith
In that case keep the keys with you. And hey, could you
get another set of keys done… if you don’t mind that is ?
Nehal
No issues !
They bid adieu --- Milith leaves in his car and Nehal on her bike.
#18. THE APARTMENT – EVENING
Nehal enters the flat and closes the door behind her. Later, she gets seated on the sofa and switches on the TV; watches News capsules and Cartoon Network, interchangeably. A while later, she gets into the cooking mode. She prepares Aloo gobi and other delicacies. She arranges them all on the Dining table.
The doorbell rings. Nehal opens the door. Milith is at the doorstep.
Nehal
(smile)
Hi !
Milith
(warm smile)
Hello, Ms. Nehal ! (Enters) (to himself) She watches
Cartoons ?!
Milith freshens-up and exits his room. Nehal is still watching Cartoon Network.
Milith
Boy, am I hungry ?! What do we have for Supper, Ms. Nehal ?
Nehal
Dal chawal and aloo gobi !
Milith
Not bad… so, what are we waiting for ?!
They finish supper and LATER, they get seated on the sofa at an arm’s length from each other.
Nehal
Milith, thanks a ton for letting me stay !
Milith
… entha vinayam entha vinamrata… !
Nehal
Huh ?!
Milith
Nothing ! (smiles)
Nehal
Still… I feel it’s always nice to express gratitude… !
Milith
Taking a cue from you… thanks a million for the
SUMPTUOUS dinner ! You’ve prepared a fantastic
dinner… see, it works both ways ! By the way, who
taught you these lip-smacking recipes ?
Nehal
My Mom, of course ! That’s how she manages to keep a
leash on my Dad (smiles)
Milith
The best way to a Man’s heart is said to be through his
Tummy…you, too, wouldn’t have any problem
doing just that !
Nehal brushes it off.
Milith
(to himself)
Wasn’t such a bad joke, I guess… or was it?! (Shrugs)
Nehal
OK… Got some work to do. Bye. Goodnight. (smiles)
Milith
Goodnight, Ms. Nehal ! (smiles)
Nehal gets deeply engrossed in studies, while Milith kips down.
#19. THE FLAT – MORNING
The Serene atmosphere is disturbed by the song “SHOW ME HOW TO LIVE” which Milith plays on his Music system. The loud noise wakes up Nehal.
She tries to subdue the noise by placing a pillow over her ears, but that doesn’t work. Finally, she gets up from bed; brushes her teeth. As she comes out of her room…
Jyoti
Good morning, Memsaab !
Nehal
Good morning ! Jyoti, tell me something… is he always like
this… I mean playing the music so loud?!
Jyoti
Yes, Memsaab ! I’ve been working here for the past three
years… and that’s been the case… poor guy… to keep
loneliness at bay, I believe !
Nehal nods.
Jyoti
Can’t make out the meaning, but I like the songs ! (smiles).
Nehal shakes her head even as she smiles. Jyoti moves into the kitchen; pours milk and water into the boiler and lights the stove.
Nehal goes through the newspaper. Milith enters the living room; picks up the ET and gets seated on the sofa.
Milith
Good Morning, Ms. Nehal ! (smiles).
Nehal
(smiles)
Oh! Good morning ! (polite) Milith, I’d appreciate if you play
the music…a lil’ softly !
Milith
Oh! I’m sorry if I’ve disturbed you ! You know… I’ve gotten
used to…
Nehal
(gruff)
Don’t get me wrong… just a request, OK !
Milith
(to himself)
Order chesi… request antundi choosara ! (Aloud) Not at all,
Ms. Nehal !
Milith
(disturbed)
Oh Shit !
Nehal
Share market has gone down ?!
Milith
Yeah… wait, how do you… ?!
Jyoti serves Milith and Nehal coffee and gets seated beside them slurping into her cup of Coffee. Nehal looks at her and then at Milith. They exchange smiles.
Nehal
Which companies did you invest in ?!
Milith
Just one, Infy !
Nehal
Don’t worry, that’s a good buy and it’ll jack up in no time…
but… you…shouldn’t put all your eggs in one basket !
Milith
Guess you are right! By the way, are you into this as well ?!
Nehal
Ain’t got so much money as you’ve got to play with ! (smiles)
Milith smiles. Jyoti clears up the teapoy.
Jyoti
What do I prepare for breakfast Saab ?!
Milith
Anything would do !
Nehal
How about aloo paratha ?!
Milith
Anything at all !
Jyoti
But I can’t cook paratha ?!
Milith
(jokes)
As if you can cook everything else… !
Jyoti
Who’s been cooking for the past 3 years ?!
Milith
(smiles)
Arey Memsaab, don’t get angry… I was jus joking!
Jyoti
I thought you… (smiles).
Milith
(laughs)
O.K… I gotta freshen up ! (leaves)
Nehal and Jyoti move into the Kitchen. Nehal imparts the tips to Jyoti. LATER, Nehal leaves to have a shower. Jyoti places the dishes on the table; picks up a broom to sweep the floor, while Milith browses through the newspaper.
Nehal enters the living room; walks up to the table.
Nehal
Milith, I’m hungry… mind joining me for breakfast ?! (smiles).
Milith joins her at the table.
Milith
Choosara … she’s staying in my house and she’s inviting me
over for a meal !
Nehal
Don’t worry… I won’t be here too long for comfort !
Milith
Why do you say that ?!
Nehal
You see… I’m on the hunt for another house !
Milith
Hey, I was kidding… and if it’s gotta do with the loud
music… I won’t do that hereafter… I swear !
Nehal
Naah, that’s not the only reason…
Milith
So, that’s one of the reasons, eh ?!
Nehal
Noooooo… It’s just that I don’t want to inconvenience you
any longer !
Milith
Gimme a break, Ms. Nehal… it’s been a pleasure (to himself;
well, not always) to have you around… besides,
you are such a good ccok ! (smiles).
They finish breakfast and rise to wash their hands.
Nehal
(smiles)
Now don’t tell me that you want me around just because you
need a good cook. (laughs).
Milith
(laughs)
Talking about me needing a good cook… the parathas and the
curry were delicious…Now, seriously… if there’s another
reason please let me know !
Nehal
Hmmm… nothing that I can think off !
They get seated on the sofa and watch TV, while Jyoti cleans the table in the background.
Milith
Then you shouldn’t have any problems staying back… !
Nehal
Now that you insist so much, I don’t have a choice… do I ?!
(laughs)
Milith
Thanks a lot … you’ve done me a huge favour ! (laughs).
Nehal bursts into laughter. Jyoti enters.
Jyoti
You are an exceptionally good cook Memsaab !
Nehal
(smiles)
Shukriya ! Hope it doesn’t mean that I have to do the
cooking everyday, OK?!
Milith smiles at the joke.
Jyoti
(smiles)
No, Memsaab !
Jyoti
(to Milith)
Saab, I’ll take leave !
Milith
OK , Jyoti garu ! (smiles)
Jyoti though embarrassed smiles on and leaves.
Nehal
Oh, God ! It’s 9:30 already… I gotta go !
Milith
Ms. Nehal, I suggest you leave breakfast to Jyoti… (smiles).
Nehal
Yeah ! I guess I should do that !
Nehal packs her bag and leaves, while Milith bides his time at home.
#20. THE APTS. – EVENING
Nehal and Sushma, simultaneously, get into the lift. Nehal hits the 3rd floor button. Nehal carries all sorts of vegetables on her person.
Sushma
Hi, I’m Sushma… ! (smiles)
Nehal
(smiles)
Hello, I’m Nehal !
Sushma
(curious)
I, too, stay on the 3rd floor... how come I haven’t seen you
before ?
Nehal
I moved in a week ago… I stay in flat no. 303 with…
Sushma
(shocked)
… Mr. Milith… are you guys related !
Nehal
No, I’m a friend of his !
Sushma is dumbfounded to hear that. The lift door opens; she rushes to her flat without uttering another word. Nehal surprised by her behaviour; shrugs it off.
Some time later, Nehal hears a commotion and rushes out on to the corridor. Mr. Reddy comes home drunk; Uma picks up a fight with him… yelling and screaming ensues. She gently closes the door; wonders why people booze in the first place. LATER, she takes a shower.
Meanwhile, Milith enters the living room; takes off his shoes. Nehal exits her room wiping her wet hair.
Nehal
Hi ! So early… ?!
Milith
Shouldn’t I or what ?! (smiles)
Nehal
(smiles)
Didn’t say that did I ?! Hey, know what, Milith ?!
Milith
(sarcastic)
No, I don’t ?!
Nehal
(put off)
Forget it… I’m not going to tell you anyway !
Milith
(smiles)
Oh, c’mon… tell me… !
Nehal
(smiles)
The couple living in Flat 301 had a fight and…
Milith
Tell me something new… it’s a daily routine for ‘em !
You’ll get used to it in a few days… don’t worry! (smiles)
Nehal
Is Mr. Sagar a DRUNKARD ?!
Milith
Yeah ! He had been out of town for a while else you’d have
come to know much earlier ! Their kid Sushma is
another nut case… !
Nehal
Why do you say that ? I found nothing wrong with her… !
(pitiful) Poor girl… wonder what she must be going
through ?!
Milith
OK Baba, I empathise with her completely…! (smiles)
Nehal smiles.
Milith
Would we be spending the evening discussing their lives
Or … ?!
Nehal
(laughs)
Everything’s in order… bas fresh ho kar aajao !
Later, they sit at the table to dine.
Milith
Always wanted to ask you, Ms. Nehal… how come your
name sounds so Gujju… I mean Punjabi kudiyon ke
naam toh usually …
Nehal
… Manpreet, Manjit, Gurpreet ya Jassi jaisi hote hain
na… ?! (smiles)
Milith
Exactly !
Nehal
You know, my Dad’s a Punjabi and my Mom’s a
Gujarati… guess that accounts for my sister’s and my
name sounding so Gujju.
Milith
(in Telugu)
Aada Ladies aadhipatyam… Eemeni chesukunnodo
sasthadu koduku !
Nehal
What was that?
Milith
Nothing I meant… your family shows what national
integration is all about ! (smiles).
Nehal smiles.
Milith
Hey, never told me that you had a sister, did you ?!
Nehal
What a shame that you never asked details about me !
Milith
Yeah, I know ! (smiles).
Nehal
(smiles)
I have a Sis’… Meeta… she’s in the Ninth
standard… she is a darling !
Milith
Oh, I see !
PAUSE.
Milith
Achcha… now I know why your dishes taste so
sweet !
Nehal
(curious)
And may I ask how ?!
Milith
‘Cos Gujarati’s mix jaggery in their curries, don’t
they ?!
Nehal
(impressed)
My, my… seems like you know quite a lot about cuisine !
Milith
I used to try my hand at cooking… you know !
Nehal
Toh mujhe apna zaika kab khilaa rahe ho ?!
Milith
Gar aapko apni jaan pyaari nahin hain toh… anytime !
(laughs).
Nehal
(laughs)
Never mind… !
They are now seated on the sofa. Milith switches on the TV and watches WWE. Nehal gets restless.
Nehal
What is that you get by watching these grotesque fights ?!
Milith
(whispers)
Malla shuru chesindi ra ayya ! (smiles blankly)
Nehal
Watch cartoons instead… it provides wholesome
entertainment !
Milith
(to himself)
Entertainment… ?! Evariki ?! (aloud) Inti owner evaro
telusthaledu… here have the remote… watch whatever
you want to… !
Nehal
(smiles)
Thanks ! (Watches a soap)
Milith is mighty put off by the melodramatic stuff.
Milith
By the way, Manisha said she’d drop by tomorrow… !
Nehal
She spoke to me just a while ago… never mentioned about
dropping down…
Milith
Goddamn me !
Nehal
What happened ?!
Milith
She had asked me to keep it a secret and it was…
Nehal
(continuing)
… Supposed to be a surprise ! Never mind, I’ll pretend that
it was one. What’s the program, by the way?!
Milith
(yawns)
Aha! For that you’ll have to wait until tomorrow…I’m
feeling sleepy… Good night, Ms. Nehal !
Nehal
(smiles)
Good night, Milith !
Milith goes into his room while Nehal watches TV for some more time before hitting the sack.
#21. THE FLAT – MORNING
Nehal is seated on the sofa; browsing through the newspaper, while Milith is in his room listening to the song “I’m an Asshole” by Lillee. He exits his room; goes to the fridge; picks up a bottle of mineral water and takes a gulp.
Nehal
(jocular)
You needn’t specify that… do you ?!
Milith
What… ?! Can’t hear you… !
Nehal
(laughs to herself)
Good for you !
Milith enters him room holding the bottle of water, while Nehal sits on the sofa browsing through the newspaper. The doorbell rings. Nehal rises to open the door.
Nehal
That must be Manisha ! (opens the door)
Manisha and Gaurav are at the doorstep holding soft drinks and popcorn.
Manisha
(shrieks)
Surprise !
Nehal
Wow ! What a pleasant surprise !
Gaurav
Hi, Nehal ! How do you do ?
Nehal
How do you do, Gaurav ?!
Manisha
So, how’s it going Baby ?! (gets seated)
Nehal
He’s such an… (smiles)… can't stand the noise pollution
… wait I’ll call him.
Nehal knocks at Milith’s door; he comes out.
Milith
What is it, Ms. Nehal ?
Nehal
(looking funnily at Milith)
Milith see who has dropped in ! Isn’t that a pleasant
surprise ?!
Milith
(embarrassed)
Good morning, Guys !
Manisha and Gaurav
Good morning, Boss !
Manisha
(to Nehal)
Nehal… how about SRK’s “Chalte Chalte” ?! (shows
the DVD)
Nehal
Wow ! I so love Chalte Chalte… Shah Rukh’s so
sweet in that flick !
Manisha
Isn’t that a wonderful movie, Boss !
Milith
I haven’t seen it, but hey… don’t mind watching it !
Gaurav
You would after you do, Boss !
Milith
(curious)
Why do you say that, Buddy ?!
Gaurav
Sentimental… melodramatic stuff hain, Boss !
Nehal and Manisha give Gaurav a glare.
Milith
(jests)
Arey wah… I’m surprised to learn that Nehal too is
“cent-mental” ! (laughs)
The rest break into a smile.
Nehal
(satire)
Haha… very funny !
Milith
Gaurav… need some help buddy ! (they rise and
leave).
Manisha
Nehal, did you speak with your Parents lately ?
Nehal
Yeah, had called ‘em up the other day… (whispers)
But I haven’t told them yet whom I’m staying with
Manisha
Seems like someone’s keepin secrets… what’s cookin?
Nehal
Shut upppp… tuu bhi naa… ! (laughs).
They watch the movie on a projector. Nehal weeps with the actors, Milith gives his kerchief; she wipes the tears. Prem rings up Milith on his mobile. Nehal gives him a glare.
Nehal
That’s so uncool ! Turn off your mobile, Milith or at least…
Milith
OK meri maa… I’m leaving ! (leaves)
Milith
Hi Prem… how do you do… good that you called !
No, was getting bored… what here?! No way dude!
No buddy… I’m going out on some important work…
With whom? Manisha and Gaurav… Me, and fly in the
ointment?! They don’t take it that way… no issues,
buddy.. .we’ll catch up someother time… k, bye !
#22. Milith returns; sees Nehal and Manisha wipe their eyes; he can’t help laughing while wondering “ee ammayi naaku ardham kaadu” !
Milith
Thank God it’s over… haven’t seen such a draining
movie in years !
Nehal
What ?! If you can’t enjoy good movies at least don’t
make fun of them !
Milith
Chill, Nehalji ! Relax, I meant it was emotionally
Draining… nothin else… did I say anything
negative about your SRK?!
Nehal
OK ! (smiles)
Gaurav
Where do we go from here, Boss ?!
Manisha
Yeah, what do we do now ?!
Milith
I need to get some fresh air especially after that flick!
So, Ladies… how about a drive around !
The Girls
As you say, Sir !
#23. THE NECKLACE ROAD – EVENING
All four (4) of them sit on the Park bench eating ‘CHANA’.
Milith
(nostalgic)
It’s been years since I had spent some quality time
here. Long gone are the days when my friends and I
used to ‘FREAK OUT’ here !
Nehal
You can do that even now… if you wish to !
Gaurav
Yes, Boss… we should do this more often !
Milith
Yeah sure ! Why not ?!
SILENCE.
Manisha
It’s getting dark… about time we leave !
Nehal
You are coming along, aren’t you ?!
Manisha
Some other time, Baby. Gaurav is gonna drop me
home… right Gaurav ?!
Gaurav
I better do, warna… I’d be dead…!
Manisha
Shut up, Dumbo ! (bids adieu)
Manisha mounts Gaurav’s bike and they zoom away. Milith and Nehal get into the car.
Milith
Hope you enjoyed our company … !
Nehal
(smiling)
Haan re… Oops, I’m sorry Mr. Milith !
Milith
(murmurs in Telugu)
Intlo ookene undanicchinav… gippudu choosinaava
emayyindo… gatla ne aithadi tanaku maalina
dharmam chesthe… !
Nehal
Don’t swear at me in Telugu , Mr. Milith… I said i’m
sorry !
Milith
(smiles)
I didn’t… ! You’ve been addressing me by my first
name all along… now, you’ve taken it a lil’ further…
Nehal
(sincere)
I’m sorry, Mr. Milith… I really am !
Milith
Ab yeh Mr. Milith kya laga rakha hain… ?!
Milith suits me fine… apna sa lagta hain (smiles)
Nehal
OK. But only if you address me as Nehal… just Nehal.
Milith
OK Nehal, friends ?! (juts out his hand)
Nehal
Anybody would love to Milith... friends it is ! (gives a
handshake). I toh had fun… at your expense, that is ! (laughs).
Milith revs up the engine and heads home.
#24. THE APARTMENTS – EVENING
As they alight from the lift, Milith and Nehal come across Sushma in the corridor. Nehal greets her, but she looks the other way. Nehal wonders why, while Milith wryly smiles to himself as they enter the flat.
Milith places the covers that he’s carrying on the dining table; opens the fridge; sips water from the bottle and slumps into the sofa; switches on the TV.
Milith
God, I’m bloody tired !
Nehal
Good that you picked up curries… I’m tired too.
Milith
Toh jaldi khana pakaayiye, Nehalji !
Nehal
OK fine. (smiles). Why don’t you take a shower in the
meantime ?
Milith
Naaah… I’d rather take a nap !
Nehal
That’s very unhygienic Milith. Now, go and have a
shower !
Milith
Oh, No…! I’m really tired !
Nehal looks at him mockingly.
Milith
(smiles)
OK, OK… I will !
Nehal
(smiles)
Now, that’s like a good boy !
Milith
Wait a sec, the day you moved in…you had breakfast
without having a shower, remember ?!
Nehal
You aren’t as forgetful as I had imagined… that was an
exception, Milith. Now, stop making excuses and… !
Milith leaves; takes a shower whilst Nehal does the cooking. After he comes out of his room, Nehal takes a shower herself.
Milith watches TV. Nehal exits her room wearing a light blue-coloured pyjamas.
Milith
(to himself)
God, she looks like an angel !
Nehal
Did you say something… ?!
Milith
Nope !
Nehal
Aisa laga ke kuch… ! (gets seated at the dining table).
Milith
(nostalgic)
I miss my Mom’s Chicken curry, a lot !
Nehal
(smiles)
Don’t tell me ke Mamma ki yaad sirf Chicken curry
ke liye hii aati hain !
Milith looks up at her, blankly.
Nehal
(nervous smile)
Sorry… bad joke, eh ?!
Milith smiles while shaking his head to say “NO”.
Nehal
I never quite understand how people fill their
tummies knowing full well that an animal was
slaughtered… especially when there are innumerable
varieties of vegetables on offer. Poor animals… they are
put to enormous pain, torture…
Milith
(eating Chicken curry)
Yeah… the bird is first stripped off its feathers; its
head severed…
Nehal
Yuck !
Milith
…blood squeezed out… then chopp…
Nehal
Miliiiith…. stop the grotesque description.
Milith
(smiles)
… but it tastes divine… !
Nehal
(to herself)
God, this guy na… !
Milith
Tell me, do you know where Aloo is grown ?!
Nehal who is eating Aloo gobi stops.
Nehal
No ! Why ?
Milith
Good for you ! You’d probably stop eating aloo…
your staple diet, if you do !
Nehal
(curious)
Tell me na, I want to know !
Milith
You wouldn’t, if you know that they are grown over
sewage !
Nehal almost throws up.
Nehal
Don’t tell me… !
Milith
It is true ! Now, didn’t I warn you ?! (smiles).
Nehal rises from the chair.
Milith
Hey, relax ! I was just joking !
Nehal
(relieved)
Thank God ! I almost puked ! What kinda joke was
that ?
Milith
(laughs)
You were the one who started this discussion, right ?!
Nehal
Galti hogayi, Sir. Maybe, that’s one of the reasons
why people say “never talk while eating” !
A little while later, they are seated on the sofa.
Nehal
I’d love to know you better… tell me more about
yourself, Milith !
Milith
(jokes)
All you Journalists are the same, ain’t it ?! Prying
into peoples’ lives et al !
Nehal
(grim)
If you don’t feel like… you needn’t…
Milith
(smiles)
… Chill, Nehal ! So, what do you wanna know ?
Nehal
God, you get so MEAN sometimes ! (smiles).
Well...anything about yourself that you wouldn’t
mind disclosing !
Milith
I used to work for an MNC as a Software Engineer.
After my Parents’ death, I disposed off my ancestral
property; gave up my job and set up this Portrait Studio…
to pursue my Childhood passion… photography !
Nehal
What’s up with your friends… haven’t heard anything
from them ?!
Milith
Most of my friends have settled down in the US, but
a few who are left here do drop-in, when they run outta
places to hang out… if you know what I mean (winks).
Nehal
(smiles) Maybe they haven’t run out of places recently, eh ?!
Milith
A friend of mine, Charan’s gotten hitched and the rest
are pre-occupied… I do catch up with ‘em ever so
often… as far as their partying goes…it wouldn’t be
nice with you around, hain na ?!
Nehal
(sarcastic)
That’s so thoughtful of you !
Watch TV together. SILENCE.
Milith
Hey, I gotta hit the sack… it’s 11:30 already ! But not
before thanking you… for the all the wonderful moments !
Nehal
(shy)
Gosh, that was heavy stuff. Anyway, my pleasure !
Milith gets up from the sofa.
Milith
Nehal, I wasn’t joking about the Aloo… it’s all true !
Nehal
Please don’t remind me that… I have a sick feeling in my
tummy already !
Milith
OK… ! (smiles)
Nehal
Goodnight. (smiles).
Milith
Good night, Nehal !
Milith closes the door gently behind him; Nehal smiles to herself shyly.
#25. THE FLAT - EARLY MORNING
Milith gets up early; brushes his teeth and as is his won’t, switches on the Music System and exercises. The loud noise wakes up Nehal.
Nehal
(cursing her luck)
Oh God, not again ! Najaane isko kab akal aayegi ?!
(wonder when he’ll grow up)
The doorbell rings. Nehal (sleepy) opens it.
Jyoti
Good morning, Memsaab !
Nehal nods. Jyoti hands over the paper to Nehal and moves in. Nehal places it on the teapoy; goes in and brushes her teeth.
Meanwhile, Milith is done with his exercising. As he walks into the living room, Nehal wishes him Good morning. He reciprocates; gets seated on the dining table and reads the supplementary edition while Nehal goes through the main edition. Jyoti serves them Coffee.
Nehal
(jokes)
How many times have I told you… there much more to a
newspaper than just “P3”… read the main edition as
well… your G. K. will increase manifold.
Milith
(throws up his hand)
Thanks for the unsolicited advice… O.K… gimme the
main edition… !
Nehal hands over the main edition to him. Milith while reading the newspaper, goes through an article titled “An AIDS patient kills wife, son and self”. He lays down the paper.
Nehal
(surprised)
Bas… hogaya… ! (Smiles, shakes her head)
(Is that it… done?)
Milith
(wry smile)
I’m pretty good at GK, thank you !
Nehal
O.K. Mr. Know all… let’s see how good you are…
hmmm… when is the World AIDS Day celebrated ?!
Milith
Celebrated… ?!
Nehal
Wohi, Baba… held, I meant !
Milith
Er… hmm… Nov 1st ?!
Nehal
(laughs)
Budhu… Dec’ 1st … Nov 1st is A P Formation Day !
Milith
(embarrassed)
O.K. that’s enough GK for the day ! Anyone who goes
through every word of the newspaperl would be as
good as you… !
Nehal
… And whose stopping you ! Forget it… I’d be wasting
my breath asking you to mend your ways !
Milith
Very intelligent ! (smiles it off)
After a while, Milith goes in and has a shower. As he comes out ---
Jyoti
Breakfast is ready, Saab.
Milith
Good ! Where is Nehal Memsaab, Jyoti ?
Jyoti
Having a shower, Saab.
Milith
OK… I’ll wait for her !
Jyoti
(raising her eyebrows)
Arey wah… eppudu wait cheyyanidi, ivaala enduko?!
Milith
Did you say something?
Jyoti
No, Saab !
Later, Nehal comes out of her room dressed in a White top and Blue jeans. Milith looks at her admiringly. Jyoti notices this and shakes her head.
Nehal
(mischievous)
What are you looking at ?
Milith
(shy)
NO… I… I was waiting for you… to have breakfast together.
Nehal
So thoughtful of you… Shall we ?! (smiles).
Milith
Yep ! (smiles)
They get seated and have the Idlis.
Milith
(calls out)
Jyoti… !
Jyoti who had been peeping all along, rushes out of the Kitchen door.
Jyoti
Ji, Saab !
Milith
Idli and chutney are delicious !
Nehal
I don’t like Idli much, but I must say, it’s very good!
Jyoti
Thank you Mesaabh !
They rise from the table to wash their hands while Jyoti clears the dishes. Milith moves over and lets Nehal wash her hands first and gives her a hand towel.
Nehal
Thank you, but don’t pamper me so much, … you
remind me my Papa… he does that all the time !
Moves over.
Milith washes his hands and Nehal gives him the hand towel.
Milith
(smiles)
So, you are admitting that you are a spoilt brat, eh ?!.
Nehal
What?! Do you think… I am ?!
Both of them start moving into the living room.
Milith
Just kidding !
They laugh it off; get seated on the sofa. Milith switches on the TV and watches Animal Planet.
Nehal
Can I have the remote Milith… ?!
Milith
Why ?! Oh, I forgot… your favourite serial would be on-air
… on Cartoon Network ! (laughs) Grow up, Nehal !
Nehal is not amused.
Milith
… we get to know so much about animals…. things that
we never knew… !
Nehal
(murmurs in Gujarati)
If you wanna know about Animals… learn about yourself
first !
Milith
Did you say something ?!
Nehal
(fake smile)
Nope !
Milith
(in Telugu)
Ammayilaki koncham scene isthe chaalu nethi ekki
kurchuntaru… !
Nehal
(amused)
What was that you just said ?!
Milith
Nothin !
Jyoti
(interrupts)
Saab, I’ll take leave.
Milith
Ji, OK.
Jyoti leaves.
Nehal
(serious… in broken Telugu)
Naaku Telugu koncham koncham vasthundi. Give
women half a chance and they sit on top of a man’s
head… that was what you said, isn’t it ?!
Milith
(embarrassed)
HOLY CRAP ! I’m… I’m sorry, I had no idea you
follow Telugu. Iska matlab…
Nehal
(witty)
… Never mind. Know what ?! My Dad knows that
better. He commands a unit and my Mom,
well… him !
Milith
(smiles)
So you resemble your Mom ?!
Nehal
Hahaha… Not completely…! (smiles)
Milith
Thank God for that ! (laughs)
Nehal
(laughs)
Well… now on I hope you’d stop cursing at yourself
and me, especially…in Telugu… I’m not that bad a
person, am I Milith ?!
They break into peals of laughter as Milith remains noncommittal.
#26. ON THE ROAD – EVENING
Nehal while riding back home, notices Sushma walking towards the Apartment. Nehal stops-by and offers her a lift; she, initially, turns it down.
Nehal
C’mon Sushma, you’ve got quite a distance to cover !
Sushma agrees and gets on the bike.
Nehal
What do you do, Sushma ?!
Sushma
I’m doing my plus two.
Winding across the road, they reach the Apartment. Sushma gets down and thanks Nehal. While walking towards the lift---
Nehal
Aha, just thanks ain’t enough ! You’ve gotta be friends
with me… you know I feel kinda lonely here.
Sushma
OK… friends it is ! (smiles and shakes hands).
They get into the lift.
Sushma
By the way, how is Mr. Milith doing… been a long time
since we’ve met ?!
Nehal
Oh, he’s doing absolutely fine ! (Silence)
Nehal
I’ve got to talk to you… mind coming over ?!
Sushma
(curious)
About what ?!
They reach the 3rd floor; come out of the lift.
Nehal
Nothing serious… just casual talk… !
Sushma
OK ! Will be there in 10-15 minutes.
Nehal freshens up. Later, Sushma knocks at the door. Nehal leads her into the living room; makes her seated on the Sofa; goes to the fridge to get milkshake.
Nehal
Here Sushma, have this ! (gets seated)
Sushma
(sips)
Hmmmmm… it’s delicious !
Nehal
(smiles)
I made that !
Sushma
Jyoti has words of praise for your culinary skills… now,
I know why !
Nehal
(surprised)
Jyoti did… ?!
Sushma
(smiles)
Yep !
They finish the drink; Nehal clears it up and gets seated beside her.
Sushma
You said… you wanted to talk to me, right ?!
Nehal
We are friends now remember ?!
Sushma nods.
Nehal
You see, Sushma… It’s about your Dad’s drinking
problem and it’s effects on you and your mom!
Sushma
(self-denying)
That’s something that I got used to... it’s been going on
for years, you know !
Nehal
That’s not true ! I’ve observed you many times and you
look completely lost. Most teens of your age have a blast
and here you are sulking all the time. Hope you don’t
get me wrong… it’s just that I want to help you, any
which way I can.
Sushma doesn’t utter a word. Nehal holds Sushma’s hand.
Nehal
What kind of relationship do you share with your
parents ?!
Sushma
(deep breath)
It’s not that they don’t care for me, still I hate them…
my Dad ‘cos he boozes… and Mom for nagging and
picking on him all the time !
Nehal
Don’t say that about your Parents, Sushma ! Hate their
actions… not them !
Sushma
(sighs)
You’d know how it feels if you were in my place !
Nehal
It’s easier said than done, all right… but as you’ve
said they do care for you, don’t they ?!
Sushma gets thoughtful and nods positively.
Nehal
I’ll tell you a secret… my Dad is a Major in the Indian
Army and my Mama nags him like crazy. I don’t hate
her simply for the reason that it’s popularly believed that
by nagging their hubbies, women actually show their
affection towards them… you’d realise this when you
get married… mark my word (winks).
Sushma breaks into a smile.
Sushma
(genuine)
So, tell me… how do I get out of this rut ?!
Nehal
Now that’s better ! Did your ever discuss these issues
with your Parents ?
Sushma
No !
Nehal
(coaxing)
It’s never too late to get started ! Tell them firmly that
their irresponsible behaviour is having a detrimental
effect on you and they better mend their ways…
now, can you muster the courage to do that ?!
Susham listens intently.
Nehal
As regards your dad’s drinking problem… there’s this
association called Alcoholic Anonymous which is a
de-addiction centre. You can take your dad there!
Sushma
(grateful)
I will, Ms. Nehal… for sure ! Thanks a lot your
concern … I appreciate it !
Nehal
The pleasure is all mine !
Sushma
Ms. Nehal, I have to go now… got lots of homework
to do !
Nehal
Anytime. Bye, Sushma. Take care. (smiles)
Sushma
(smiles)
Thank you ! Bye. (leaves).
#27. THE FLAT- NIGHT
Milith opens the door and enters. Nehal is in her room listening to a romantic number “KHAMOSH RAAT”.
Milith
(in Telugu)
Emi faltu paatalu ra bhai eppudu choosina !
Milith walks upto the fridge; takes a bottle of water and sips. Nehal comes out on seeing him.
Milith
Hi, Nehal !
Nehal
Yeh kya… you didn’t take your shoes off… aur…
Milith
(to himself)
Hi leedu hello leedu… intiki ochinno ledo shuru… !
(gruff) I don’t need you…to tell me what to do and
what not to… !
Nehal
(taken aback)
What’s wrong, Milith ! Never seen you so angry !
Milith
Naah, nothing !
Nehal
Oh, c’mon… something’s bothering you… apne dost
ko nahin bataoge ?!
Milith
(to himself)
Dost ?! Meri jaan ki dushman ho tum ! I’m really
tired just leave me alone for a while.
Nehal
(miffed)
Look… I was just trying…
Milith enters his room and slams the door shut. He turns on the music system and plays it on full throttle.
Nehal
Strange person yaar… here I am looking to help
and he’s like throwing tantrums at me !
Nehal enters her room. “Why should I wait for him… I’m gonna have supper on my own”, she explodes. She turns off the music system; enters the dining hall; has her supper. Later, she watches TV.
LATER IN THE NIGHT
Milith exits his room; moves straight to the dining table.
Milith
Did you have your supper, Nehal ?
Nehal
Yeah, I did !
Milith
By GOD, so selfish... ! (smiles)
Nehal
Haha, very funny !
Milith sits down to eat.
Milith
Waah, Paneer butter masala is terrific, Nehalji !
Nehal
Now you don’t have to butter me up !
Milith
Butter?! Now… what’s that ?!
Nehal
Zyada bhole mat bano… chup- chaap khana khao !
(don’t act too smart… just eat… don’t talk)
Milith finishes supper washes his hands.
Milith
Would you mind accompanying me on a stroll ?!
Nehal
No… I mean yeah !
Milith
Gussa thookiye bhi… I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have
been rude to you ! You know… I had a very hectic day
today and… !
Nehal
… I had one, myself… but that doesn’t give me a
licence to be mad… at someone… or does it ?!
Milith
Ab zyada bhaav mat khao… you don’t have to if you
don’t want to !
Nehal
Never said… I didn’t want to ! (smiles)
#28. ON THE ROADSIDE.
Milith and Nehal walk close to each other.
Milith
What’s the matter, Nehal… you look excited ?!
Nehal
Made friends with someone today… Sushma !
Milith
(to himself)
God, you are a goner ! (smiles wryly). (Aloud) Oh,
Great !
Milith
… how was your day at the college ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
You know, that was first time you inquired about my
day at the college…in all these months ! It was fun as
usual… Thank you ! But the guys…I tell you…
padhne kam… pataane ko zyaada aate hain ! Itne
chichoore hain sab ke sab, my God !
Milith
(to himself)
Look whom she is talking to… THE casanova of
yore ! (smiles).
Nehal
Know what?! 3 guys even proposeed to me.. .even
though we hardly know each other !
Milith
(to himself… sarcastic)
yeah… yeah, Miss Universe kadaa ! (Aloud) Oh,
really !
Nehal
(smile)
You must be thinking that… I’m bragging…
Milith
(to himself)
How intelligent ?! (smiles). (Aloud) Nope !
Nehal
But it’s true !
Milith
(wry smile)
If you say so, it must be…!
Nehal
Now am I the only one who’s gonna do the talking or
do you have any questions for me? Anyway, how come
you’ve never even tried to know more about me ?!
Milith
(to himself)
There’s nothing left to be known… a tomboy of a gal
who is irritatingly overbearing at times ! (smiles).
(Aloud) What about you, Nehalji ?
Nehal
I mean my likes and dislikes ! Now that you are not
gonna ask… I’ll tell you myself… I like people who
are honest, caring, true… I like making lots of
friends…
Milith
(to himself)
Oh ! God, why did I… ?! (Aloud) Nice to know that,
Nehal !
Nehal
(shy)
Always wanted to ask you Milith… do you have a…
girlfriend ?!
Milith
Nope ! Why ?!
Nehal
You get to interact with so many beautiful people na
issi liye !
Milith
(in Punjabi)
Kii gal hain Nehalji… tennu kuch aur iraada hain kii ?!
(Wassup Nehal?! You have any intentions or what) (winks)
Nehal
(blush)
Give me a break, Milith ! (smiles). (Silence).
Just then, a Pomeranian dog (which breaks free from it’s master) runs towards the couple from behind, barking at them. Nehal is scared to death. Milith tries to shoo it away, but it doesn’t budge.
Milith stays put standing guard to Nehal. A beautiful girl comes running and yells, “Julie… Julie, quiet… come here” !
The Girl
(apologetic)
I’m so sorry… hope my Julie didn’t harm you guys !
Grabs and holds the chain.
Milith
(courteous)
No, Ma’am !
Milith
(concerned)
Are you OK, Nehal ?!
Nehal
(scared)
I Guess… !
The Girl
(apologetic)
I’m so very sorry… !
Milith
(polite)
Never mind, Ma’am… it’s OK !
The Girl leaves.
Milith
(turning back)
Isn’t she cute… ?!
Nehal
(quizzical)
Cute… my foot… bloody bitch !
Milith
Poor girl… what did she do… I’m sure it wasn’t
intentional !
Nehal
(angry)
You were talking about the Girl… ?!
Milith
(naïve)
Weren’t you ?!
Nehal
(peeved)
Can’t believe… ! Thought you were a shareef guy and
all… !
Milith
C’mon, Nehal… what’s wrong if I admire someone, who…
admit it or not is beautiful… !
Nehal
(put off)
It’s kinda cold here… let’s go home !
Milith
(smiles)
OK… Chaliye.
They turn around.
Milith
(rubbing in)
You women… must admit, never counted you as one until
now… are very envious isn’t it, Nehal ji ?! (teases)
Nehal
Why is that you hold so much against women folk, Milith ?!
Milith
(mischievous)
Not womenfolk in general, but women like you… kehte
hain “aurat ki dusham aurat hii hoti hain” (a woman is a
woman’s enemy) ! By the way, these girly things don’t
suit you !
Nehal
(derisive)
Haha… I’m not amused !
Milith
(caustic)
That wasn’t meant to be a joke either !
They reach the flat; enter it.
Nehal
If you are done with your lecturing… I’ve got something
to say… !
Milith
(mocks)
… As if I’ve done the talking all along !
Nehal
(miffed)
I wanted to thank you for protecting me from that dog, but
now… I won’t !
Milith
(displeased)
… I wasn’t expecting it either !
Nehal
(laughs)
Thanks a lot… I mean it !
Milith
(smiles)
My pleasure, Nehal !
Nehal
(smiles)
Gotta hit the sack now… have to get up early tomorrow…
Good night, Milith !
Milith
Good night… from a GOOD KNIGHT ! (winks)
Nehal
(blushes)
Yeah, I know… Good night !
Nehal enters her room.
Nehal
Someone rightly said, Men are from Mars, Women are
from Venus. (smiles)
#29. THE FLAT – MORNING
Nehal is seated on the sofa; goes through a magazine. Jyoti is in the Kitchen making Breakfast.
“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh…”, shrieks Milith in horror. He’s half-way through a shave.
Nehal rushes towards Milith’s room, while he rushes out. They bump into each other and he hugs her tight.
Jyoti
Hey Ram ! (closes her eyes)
Nehal
What’s wrong Milith … what happened ?
Milith
(still afraid)
Th... there’s a Lizard !
Nehal
(amused)
A lizard and you bring the roof down… just the other
day… you stood up to that Dog… and now… !
Milith
It’s not funny, huh… I’m allergic to Lizards ! (realising
that he is holding on to Nehal, lets go of her) I’m sorry !
Nehal
(witty)
Sorry about what, bringing the roof down or… ?!
Jyoti
You scared us Saab… esp. Nehal Memsaab !
Milith blushes with embarrassment. Nehal looks at Jyoti quizzically while she walks past him.
Nehal
(laughs)
You are some character… I thought you were the bravest
person on Earth and… !
Milith
(embarrassed)
Didn’t I tell you… it’s not funny… when I was in school
a friend of mine died after ingesting Lizard’s eggs…
Lizards scare the hell out of me ever since!
Nehal
Oh, I see…! (smiles to herself)
LITTLE LATER, Nehal wishes Milith goodbye while setting out for college. Milith closes the door and gets seated on the sofa. Nehal re-enters; Milith is surprised.
Nehal
I have a flat tyre… I’m getting late for College !
Milith
(poker faced)
I can’t replace the stepny, Nehalji … !
Nehal
(irritated)
Gawwwwd, should have taken an Auto instead… !
Milith
(smiles)
… My pleasure, Nehal…. I’ll drop you… Just a sec !
Nehal
(blush; to herself)
I’m sure that even the ONE who has made you…
can’t understand you!
He gets his Camera; searches for the Car keys, while Nehal waits outside.
Nehal
What’s takin you so long… looking for the car keys ?
They would be on the fridge or on the dining table !
Milith searches for them on the table and the fridge. He finds them on the refrigerator and walks up to Nehal.
Milith
Nehal, how did you guess that I was… ?! (smiles)
Nehal
Itne bhulakkad jo ho aap… doesn’t take much, does it ?!
(smiles)
#30. IN THE PARKING LOT – MORNING
They get into the car. Milith, who is a die-hard ROCK MUSIC fan, plays “NUMB” by LINKIN PARK.
Nehal
Holy Jesus, why don’t you play some soft numbers instead
of this rock and heavy metal stuff ?!
Milith
Soft numbers… naaaah ! If you want me to, I’ll turn it off…
that’s no big deal !
Nehal
I’d rather listen to some soft Hindi numbers or the re-mixes.
Milith turns off the Music system and they get going.
#31. ROADSIDE OPP. THE COLLEGE
Nehal gets down; thanks Milith and bids goodbye. Milith on his way is lost in thoughts --- doesn’t realise why.
#32. AT THE STUDIO - EVENING
Nehal drops by at the Studio. Mona sends word for Manisha.
Manisha
(excited)
Hi Nehal, how come ?!
Nehal
(jests)
Just like that… I had this urge to get my portfolio done…
and who better than one’s room mate ! (winks).
Manisha
(smiles)
… Who happens to be one of the best in town, if not the best !
Nehal
Where is he by the way ?!
Manisha
He’s in a shoot !
Nehal
Chalo… let’s see how he gets along with people !
They enter the Studio. Milith is “shooting” a Gorgeous model. Nehal turns “green with envy”.
Milith
(surprised)
Hey, what are you doing here ? Got the tyre replaced ?!
Nehal
Yep… I’m comin from home !
Manisha
Why, what happenned to the bike ?!
Nehal
Nothin much… had a flat tyre in the Morn !
Manisha
Oh ! Know what, Boss ? Nehal wants her portfolio done !
Milith gives her a quizzical look
Nehal
(smiles)
Yep !
Milith
Sorry to disappoint, but you don’t have an appointment, do you ?!
Nehal is put off.
Milith
(smiles)
Was kidding, Nehal… let’s do it !
They commence the shoot.
Milith
Make youself comfortable… strike a pose and hold it Nehal !
Nehal can’t stop herself from bursts of laughter.
Milith
(distracted)
You are pissing me off, Nehal… if you aren’t serious tell me
so… I’ve got other things to do… !
Nehal
(smiles)
I’m sorry… woh subah ka incident… ! (laughs)
Manisha
What’s the matter Boss ?!
Milith
(smiles)
Nothing !
Nehal
Should’ve seen your Boss’ expression in the morning…
Ek… chippkali ko dekh kar… bathroom se…! (laughs)
(on sighting a Lizard.. came running out of his bathroom )
Manisha looks on amused. Milith is kinda embarrassed.
Nehal changes into traditional and ethnic Indian wear… Chudidaar, Ghagra. Milith smiles to himself, shaking his head.
Milith
My God, Nehal… you look gorgeous in traditional clothes
as well !
Nehal
That’s what you say to every other woman, right ?!
Milith
Honestly… You look beautiful… why don’t try modeling ?!
Nehal
(blush)
Modeling ?! No way ! My Dad’ll kill me ! Anyway,
Journalism suits me fine… thanks for the compliment, though !
Smiles.
Milith
Know what, even I wouldn’t want you to get into this make-
believe world of modeling ! Not that it’s bad… but…
Nehal
… but… not everyone’s cup of coffee ! (smiles)
They wrap up the shoot.
Nehal
So when can I expect the pics ?!
Milith
In about a fortnight from now !
Manisha has a stunned look on her face.
Nehal
Does it take so long, Manisha ?!
Manisha shrugs.
Milith
(teases)
Needs a lot of patchwork and stuff… to make you look
beautiful, right? (laughs)
Manisha laughs.
Nehal
(mad)
in that case, I don’t need your photographs !
Milith
Just kidding, Baba ! You are one of the most beautiful woman
I have ever laid my eyes on !
Nehal
(blushes)
You can’t even lie properly!
Milith
I don’t have to !
Gaurav enters saying Sasha has turned up for the shoot.
Milith
OK, Nehal gotta go… catch you later. Bye.
Nehal
Bye.
#33. THE FLAT – NIGHT
KNOCK KNOCK. Nehal opens the door.
Milith
Hi, Nehal ! (smiles)
Nehal
(smiles)
Hi, Milith ! How come you are home so early ?!
Milith gets seated on the couch; removes his shoes, while Nehal closes the door.
Milith
(smiles)
Kyon bhai… nahin aana chahiye tha kya ?!
(why? Shouldn’t I have?)
Nehal
Did I sound like… !
Milith
(interrupts)
Relax Nehal, I was kidding… should have known better !
(smiles).
Nehal
(smiles)
Yeah, should have… !
Milith
Just curious… why this sudden desire to have your
portfolio…?!
Nehal
To tell you the truth, I wanted to see how good you are at
your work and… PAUSE.
Milith
And what ?!
Nehal
To see how you get along with “people” !
Milith
And may I know what you have deduced !
Nehal
(smiles)
That you are very professional and… chivalrous to the
core !
Milith
(smiles)
Guess the impression of me being a reputed Model-maker
would vanish into thin air… after having a look at your
pics…here… take a look ! (hands over a cover)
Nehal
(concerned look)
Why? Do I look so bad?!
Nehal
(amazed)
Wow, these are fabulous… can’t believe I’m so beautiful!
Milith
Arey huzoor… beauty is in the eye of the beholder…
kabhie hamaari aankhon se bhi dekhiye ga… !
Nehal
(blush)
I remember you said something quite contrary in the morn
Milith
You know that I fool around with you, don’t you ?! (winks)
Nehal smiles. Silence.
Milith
Listen, I’m really hungry… !
Nehal
Dinner tayyaar ho jaayega, pehle aap…
Milith
(in Telugu)
Abba, praanam todesthundi anuko… !
Nehal
(smiling)
There you go again !
Milith
I didn't say anything nasty… I just said that you are
squeezing the life outta me ! (winks).
#34. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Nehal sifts through the channels, while Milith gets seated beside her..
Milith
Thanks for the supper… the Korma was terrific !
Nehal
Thanks for the compliment ! (smiles).
Milith blanky stares at her. Nehal turns around and---
Nehal
(shy)
Now what ?!
Milith
What do you mean what ?! (smiles)
Nehal
(blush)
Why do you give me that look ?!
Milith
(smiling wryly)
Ek adage yaad aaya, “ulta chor kotwal ko daanta” !
When I channel- surf… you call me a disturbed soul,
and now…
Nehal
OK… Let’s do somethin else !
Milith
(surprised)
Jesus Christ… ! What ?!
Nehal
Don’t for a sec; let your imagination fly, Mr. Milith ! (smiles) How about a game of Chess ?!
Milith
Chess ?! Naaaah… !
Nehal
Should have guessed as much ! Chess is for
intelligent people! (laughs).
Milith
(serious)
That’s not funny, huh ?! How about a card game?
We usually don’t play without placin money on the table…
Mind shelling out money ?!
Nehal
Don’t mind losing to you… rent ke paise samajh lena ! (smiles)
FADE OUT :
There’s a stash of money with Nehal, while Milith stares glum faced.
Milith
(glum)
Meri maa… except my car and this flat… I don’t have
anything else to stake!
Nehal
… and the cameras and Studio ?! (laughs).
Milith
(in Telugu)
Potta kooti meeda kannu paddadaa?!
Nehal laughs out loud.
Milith
Hey, how come you are so good at it ?!
Nehal
Picked it up from Mummy-Papa… !
Milith
What sorta parents’ are they ?! Tell you… parents’ of today… !
Nehal
You are such a bad loser, Milith ! (smiles).
Milith
It’s way beyond sleepin time… I’ll see you tomorrow !
Nehal
(laughs)
Anytime, anyplace !
Milith
(to himself)
Phew, women these days… !
#35. THE LIVING ROOM – MORNING
Milith and Nehal are seated on the sofa watching a News channel. The doorbell rings. Nehal opens the door. Manisha and Gaurav are at the doorstep.
Manisha
(yells)
Surprise !
Nehal
(thrilled)
Now that was a real surprise !
Milith turns around.
Gaurav
Hi, Ms. Nehal ! How do you do ?!
Nehal
Hi, Gaurav ! How do you do ?!
Gaurav
Good morning, Boss !
Milith
Good morning, both of you !
Manisha
Today being a Sunday… we took the liberty of fixing up a
program… anyway, sorry for barging in on you guys !
Milith
Look whose getting formal, now. Of course, we don’t
mind, do we Nehal ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
Not at all !
They decide to watch a film and later dine together. Nehal enters her room while Manisha gets seated on the sofa. Milith gets ready in a flash and waits for Nehal to turn up.
Milith
Let’s wait for the ladies downstairs Gaurav… as it is she
takes a whale of a time to get dressed up !
Gaurav
(nods)
O.K. Boss.
Milith
(witty)
Manisha, hurry up your friend… we’ll miss the beginning
of the film…and …why don’t you drive some of your
time sense into her khopdi ?!
Manisha smiles as Milith and Gaurav exit. Little later, Nehal exits her room dressed up.
Nehal
(curious)
Where’s Milith and your Lover boy ?!
Manisha
Downstairs, waiting for us… hurry up !
Nehal
Milith gets so grumpy at times…he was complainin right?!
Manisha
No… !
Nehal
He always picks on me saying… I don’t have time sense…
Manisha thinks to herself “couldn’t agree with him more on that count”.
Nehal
He… Yaar… I’m gonna have a tough time staying
here…
Manisha
Why ?!
Nehal
He is so handsome, so sweet n witty … (winks).
Manisha
You NAUGHTY ! (laughs). Know something, that’s
the first time I’ve heard you compliment a man…
what’s the matter?
Nehal
(smiles)
Was kiddin you!
Manisha
Sangat ka asar, eh ?! (sahavaasa dosham )
Nehal
Guess so ! (winks)… Chalo… der mat karo !
Manisha
Look whose talking… ?!
Nehal and Manisha appear with Sushma in tow. Milith is ‘HORRIFIED’ on seeing that.
Milith
(whispers)
God, I’m Dead !
Gaurav
(quizzical look)
Did you say something, Boss ? The girl beside Nehal is
your neigbour, ain’t it ?
Milith
(to himself)
Yaar, that’s the problem ! (Aloud) Yeah !
Nehal introduces Sushma to Gaurav and says that she too would be accompanying them. Sushma greets Milith with a ‘sheepish’ smile. Milith, Nehal and Sushma get into the car while the COUPLE, i.e. Gaurav and Manisha walk towards Gaurav’s bike. Nehal joins issue with them.
Nehal
Manisha, why don’t you guys come along with us…
there’s enough room for all us…
Manisha
(smiles)
Never mind, Babes… it’s that… !
Milith
Forget it guys, get going !
Nehal
… haven’t you guys heard about car-pooling… the
price of fuel has sky-rocketed… it’s an exhaustible
resource whose average consumption…in India alone…
Milith
… Meri maa… save the info for some other day… if
not you, they need some privacy… why don’t you let
them have it ?!
Sushma breaks into a smile. Nehal doesn’t utter a word.
#36. AT THE THEATRE - MORNING
They watch an English flick loaded with action and mindless stunts. Nehal holds her head in disgust while Milith can’t help laughing.
Later, they go to a restaurant and have a hearty meal. Sushma ogles at Milith all the while. Just as they finish the dinner, Gaurav gets a call on his mobile --- it’s his Dad.
Gaurav
(apologetic)
I’m sorry everybody… I gotta leave. Don’t know why, but
Dad wants me home right away ! You are coming along
aren’t you, Manisha ?!
Manisha leaves along with Gaurav. Later, Milith and Co. too set out home.
#37. APTS., AT THE PARKING LOT – EVENING
Nehal and Sushma get down and get going while Milith parks the car.
Nehal
Hey, Sushma did you speak to your Parents ?
Sushma
Oh, I completely forgot to tell you… I did. It took me a couple
of weeks to muster courage, but ultimately I managed to get
my point across, in no uncertain terms. I asked my Dad
whether his excessive drinking would undo all the losses
that he had made as a result of bad investments, to which he
had no answer.
Nehal
That’s great, Sushma ! What about your Mamma ?
Sushma
I told her that had conditions prevailed that would have entailed
Dad looking forward to coming home and relax, things
wouldn’t have come to such a stage.
Nehal
And what do they have to say now ?
Sushma
They said they’d try to mend their ways… in fact, Dad’s even
joined the Alcoholics Anonymous group… thanks a lot for
everything Didi. Hope you wouldn’t mind if I call you so ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
Naaaaahhhh… who wouldn’t like to have a Darling like you
as one’s Sister !
Sushma goes into her flat and Nehal enters her’s. Little while later, Milith comes in huffing and puffing.
Milith
(serious)
You didn’t have to get her along, did you ?!
Nehal bursts into laughter.
Milith
(angry)
What’s so funny ?!
Nehal
(laughing)
Now I know why you stay away from her. The way she
was ogling at you all along, seems like she has a massive
crush on you ! That’s the reason, hain na ?!
Milith
(shy)
Nothing escapes your attention, does it ?!
They break into peals of laughter.
#38. LIVING ROOM – EVENING
Milith suggests that he’d cook for a change. Milith starts chopping the onions and tears start rolling down his cheeks. Nehal can’t help laughing at him.
Nehal
Move over Milith… watch the master at work !
She chops the onions, but her eyes don’t ‘burn’ --- she chews gum.
Nehal
(sarcastic)
Not enough if you exercise muscles alone… should
give exercise to your gray cells as well ! Got it, Nitwit ?!
Milith
(mock)
How dare you ?! Hey, does chewing something while
chopping onions hinder the burning of our eyes ?!
Nehal
Surprise surprise… you aren’t as dumb as I thought you
were !
Milith
There you go again, you… you… moti !
Nehal
What… moti… get your eyes tested ?!
Milith
Accept the facts and learn to live with it, Moti !
Nehal
(shy)
God, you are so… (sweet she thinks to herself)
impossible !
Milith helps her out in cooking. Later, they have a quiet dinner.
#39. THE FLAT - MIDNIGHT
The doorbell rings. Nehal wakes up; opens the door. She is surprised to see four guys at the doorstep. They carry with them couple of Vodka bottles, lots of Sprite and a cake too. They wonder if they had knocked at the wrong door.
Nehal
Yeah !
Prem
We are sorry, Ma’am ! We thought it was our
friend’s flat.
Nehal
Never mind ! (closes the door)
The friends discuss among themselves and come to the conclusion that they had knocked at the correct address. They knock the door again.
Nehal
Yeah, what is it now ?!
Sanjay
A friend of ours… Milith used to stay here… do you
know where he is now ?!
Nehal
Oh, you are looking for Milith ?! Well… he still stays
here. I mean to say…I stay with him ! Please come in. (smiles).
All of them have a quizzical expression on their faces.
Nehal
Hope you wouldn’t mind if I ask you why exactly you are
carrying all these… things with you ?!
Nikhil
It’s Milith’s birthday today !
Nehal
Is it… ?! How come I didn’t know about it ?!
Sanjay
We had come here to celebrate… he never said that
someone… you rather, are staying with him.
Nehal
That’s so thoughtful… !
Charan
Where is he, by the way ?!
Nehal
In his room !
Charan
Thank you, Ms…
Nehal
It’s Nehal… Nehal Singh !
The gang
Thank you, Ms. Singh !
Nehal
(to herself)
They aren’t as bad as I had imagined them to be !
Milith opens the door and the gang wishes him; gets hold of him and gives the ‘bumps’.
Milith
Arey… ! What are you doin’, guys ?! Noppi lesthundi raa !
Nehal, too, wishes Milith. Milith introduces his friends to Nehal --- Prem is a Software Engineer, Nikhil is a Distributor of garments, Charan is a builder (“builds castles in the air”), Sanjay is a Doctor.
“HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU…” the gang and Nehal incl. sing. Milith flashes a smile while he cuts the cake. Milith feeds the gang and Nehal; later they feed him.
Prem
That’s enough for the day… we shall take leave now…
Milith, we’ll catch up with you in the evening…
let’s have a blast ! (winks)
Milith
As you please, buddies… !
Nehal
Oh C’mon, if it’s got anything to do with me… lemme tell
you, I ain’t got no problem should you “Party” here !
Anyways, Milith is gonna be sober… !
Prem
But he… !
Milith begs of him.
Prem
(sarcastic)
… is a teetotaller… very shareef guy… we are all
drunkards, right Milith ?!
Charan
Forget it, Dude… ! (smiles)
Nehal
(smiles)
OK… I shall go to bed now. Bye Milith, Happy Birthday.
Good night, everybody… Have fun ! (leaves).
Nikhil
(curious)
Who’s the babe ra ?! How long has it been going ?!
Milith
Shhhh… mellaga ! 5-6 months… !
Nihkil
Six months and we didn’t have a clue !
Prem
(mocks)
Achcha… that’s why you’ve been avoiding us…?!
Charan
(in Telugu)
Anthe raa… ammayi unteh friends ni kooda marchi
potaaru !
Milith
Look whose talking… when was the last time that any
one of you had at least given me a ring… we met at
a party couple of weeks back and that too at a
party… Ulta chor…
The ‘PEGMAKER’ {Charan} mixes their pegs. Sanjay offers a glass to Milith. He doesn’t accept.
Milith
Sorry ra, one of the reasons that she’s staying with me… is
that she thinks I’m a teetotaller !
Sanjay
Saaleh, hum sabko badnaam karke, ladki ke saamne bada
shareef banta hain, huh ?! Zaroor kuch baath hain… !
Nikhil
Come clean, buddy ! How do you know her and how did
she…
Milith
… end up here… that’s what you want to know right ?! O.K. !
Milith
Nehal is a friend of my assistant Manisha… her Dad is a
Major in the Army…
Nikhil
Arey baapre… Army waale ki beti hain ?! be careful, dude
Milith
No problem on that count Buddy… he’s currently posted
at Kashmir ! Even otherwise I’m such a “Gentleman”…
Prem
You and a Gentleman ?! During our college days,
remember, how many girls you were after?
Milith
Good that nobody was interested in me… mufth mein
maara jata… ! Listen to me dudes… good to remain a
Bachelor… !
Sanjay
Speaking from personal experience or what?!
Charan
(rueful… in Telugu)
Milith… nuvvu correct ra… neenu Bachelor ga
unnappude manchiga unnanu !
Milith
Enduku ra… Bhabhi antha ganam sataaishtada ?!
Charan
She is such a misnomer… peru maatram “Namrata”
kaani… party mood enduku kharaab chestavu bhaiyya !
Sanjay
Is there something that we can do… ala the previous time ?
(smiles)
Charan
Nahi yaar it doesn’t have to do with “the bedtime stories”
this time around, but… life in general… don’t
ever rush into a marriage !
Milith
Reminds me of the saying “marriage is a rocking boat… one
outside of it wants to get in and the one in it wants to get
out”… what say ?!
Charan’s cell rings.
Charan
Think of the devil… shhh… be silent guys !
Everybody gets into a chuckle.
Charan
Hi, Jaanu whatzup ?! (serious) I got held up in a business
conference, in fact, the meeting in still going on.
No yaar, can’t walk out of it just like that…
listen… ! (hangs up the phone)
Nikhil
Home minister phone aa ?!
Charan
She’s my Prime Minister… no Dictator yaar ! (sulks)
Prem
Oh, stop it guys ! You are veering of the track…
let’s talk about Nehal ?!
Milith
Nee abba… you know Manisha’s bro, Rahul…
Sanjay
Who that drunkard… ?!
Charan
Look whose talking… ! (smiles)
Smiles all around.
Milith
Yeah… ! Manisha told Nehal that it’s not in her interest
to stay at her place and that’s how she came here in the
first place… and has been doing so ever since !
Prem
But, I see no reason for you to hide this from us ?!
Milith
(in Telugu)
Gisonti penta ideas osthayi ane cheppaleh ! (smiles)
Nikhil
What kinda girl is she… I mean she seems friendly !
Milith
Friendly, huh ?! “Appearances can be misleading”
yaar… sometimes… she makes me wonder…
whetehr this is my house or her’s !
Nikhil
What do you mean ?!
Milith
She lords over the T.V. Another matter if she watches
somethin interestin… Newschannels, Hindi films, serials
or would you believe it she watches Cartoons… !
Prem
Buy another T.V. yaar… simple solution !
Milith
(in Telugu)
Paisalu nee ayya isthada ?!
Prem gets upset.
Milith
(smiles)
Was kidding, Buddy ! Would you support me or her ?!
Prem and the rest break into a smile.
Milith
She pulls me up every single day asking me to go
through the Newspaper… she gets so meddlesome at
times… having said that, she’s such a good company…
and a good cook as well !
Sanjay
(in Telugu)
Konni nizaalu baitaku vosthunnayi… !
Charan
(in Telugu)
Ooko ra bhai… Birthday naadu sataaisthunnaru !
Milith
You are my true friend yaar! (smiles)
Charan smiles.
Nikhil
That’s OK, but I still can’t figure out why you hid
this fact from us ?!
Charan
So what if he had hid it from us… ?!
Milith gives Charan a warm smile.
Charan
At least he’ll come claen now… !
Milith
Saaleh nuvvu kooda na ?! Chalo… that’s enough for the
day… you guys can go home !
Prem
(yells)
So soon…
Milith
Shhh… ! Softly !
Prem
(soft)
The day has just started… !
Charan
Let’s go guys… it’s half- past 2… !
Nikhil
I know why you are in such a hurry … !
Charan
It’s not funny ra… you’ll realise it when you go through it !
The gang in chorus, “And Nehal ki disturbance kada… kyon ?!” (smile)
Milith
(blush)
Stop it, guys ! (smiles)
Sanjay
O.K., but what about the party ?!
Milith
We’ll see that tomorrow… !
Prem
( laughs; yells)
Manamu tagithe…
The gang
Shhh… quiet !
Prem
… Veeniki ekkinattundi… !
Milith
(smiles)
Yeah… got your point ! I’ll let you know sometime in the
evening… O.K. !
Prem
Yep !
The gang wish Milith “Happy Birthday” again and exit.
# 40. THE FLAT- MORNING
Milith wakes up late in the morning. Nehal watches a Newscapsule even as she reads the Times. Milith freshens up and exits his room.
Nehal
(smiles)
Happy Birthday, Milith ! (shakes hand)
Milith
(smiles)
Thank you !
Nehal
Sope… you are a Saggi, eh ?!
Milith
Yep… !
Nehal
(testing)
Had too much to drink, huh… woke up so late?!
Milith
No ! Haan… I would’ve… with your permission !
Nehal
What ?! Does that mean you booze !
Milith
(pause) Nope… I mean, I don’t ! Was joking, baba !
Nehal
I’ll take it on face value… why didn’t you tell me it’s
your birthday today ?!
Milith
You never asked me, did you ?! I didn’t remember it
myself… !
Nehal
If you are so forgetful at this age… wonder what’s
gonna happen after you cross 40 ?! (laughs).
Milith
Come again… !
Nehal
Nothin !
Milith
(smiles).
Don’t you worry, Nehalji… you are in good hands !
Nehal smiles.
Milith
Hey, when did you grace this planet ?!
Nehal
(blush)
Dec 21st… !
Milith
Dec 21st … which year ?!
Nehal
Now you are getting too personal… ! Kissi ladki se…
Milith
(smiles)
Ladki ?! I don’t see any… do you ?! (laughs)
Nehal
That’s not so funny, O.K. ?! What’s the POA for tonite ?!
* POA- Plan Of Action.
Milith
How about Dinner for you, Manisha, Gaurav and my
friends ?!
Nehal
That’s great ! Wait, does that include Sushma too ?!
Milith
Of course, your friend… my friend !
Nehal
OK we’ll catch up in the evening … I gotta rush !
Milith
No issues ! I’ll be home early tonight. Be ready.
Nehal
O.K. Bye !
# 41. AT THE RESTAURANT – NIGHT
Milith throws a party for his friends.
FADE OUT:
#42. IN THEIR CORRIDOR – NIGHT
Milith, while walking through the corridor, stops-by at Sushma’s flat; bends over to hear commotion. He is surprised not to hear a thing.
He knocks at his flat; Nehal doesn’t open the door. He opens it himself; enters the living room and it’s dark. Wondering what’s wrong, he hits the light switch.
KNOCK KNOCK - NEHAL’s DOOR.
Milith
Hellooo… Nehal… are you there ?!
Nehal opens the door.
Nehal
(forlorn)
Hi, Milith !
Milith
(in Punjabi)
Kii gal hain, Nehalji… tussi pareshaan lagriya ?!
(what happened Nehal? You look a disturbed)
Nehal
(lost)
No… nothin !
Milith
Do you expect me to believe that ? C’mon, tell me
what’s wrong !
Nehal
(sad)
I took a snooze after returning from College and I had
this dream… my Dad… got killed in a terrorist attack.
Milith
Why don’t you speak to him ?!
Nehal
Yeah, I did… they are doing fine ! Still… we all know
that Kashmir is a dangerous place to live in… especially
for the Army Personnel… !
Milith
Don’t worry nothing’s gonna happen…! Just let go of it,
Nehal !
Nehal
I’m so worried for them… ! (breaksdown)
Milith holds her hand gently; pats her shoulder and reassures her. SILENCE. A little while later, Milith, breaks the silence.
Milith
Let me have the privilege of cooking dinner for Her
Highness, tonite… What say ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
It’s O.K. Milith… I’ll do that myself.
She gets up and washes her face.
Milith
Am I such a bad cook, that you… (smiles).
Nehal
(interrupts)
Naaaah, that’s not the matter. It’s just that…
I’m doing fine ! (smiles)
Milith
OK then, some other time !
Nehal
(witty)
Hopefully not in the near future !
They break into laughter.
Just as they sit at the table to have Dinner, the power fails. Both of them get up and bump into each other and apologise to one another.
Nehal opens the fridge and gets the candles, while Milith lights up the matchstick. The glow hits Nehal’s face and Milith is dumb-founded by her beauty. He ogles at her right in the eye… Nehal blushes.
Milith
(burns his finger)
Ouch… !
Nehal
(concerned)
What happened ?!
Milith
Naah… nothing !
Milith lights up the candle and they have a romantic candle-lit dinner. Later, they get seated on the balcony.
Milith
I’ve noticed a change in our surroundings for a few days now !
Haven’t you ?!
Nehal
Change ? What change ?!
Milith
I’m referring to our neighbours ! They’ve been quiet and
tranquil… !
Nehal
… Why, are you missing the ‘ACTION’ ?! You better get
used to this new life !
Milith
And what exactly makes you say that ?!
Nehal
It seems that the couple had promised Sushma that they
wouldn’t quarrel hereafter. Know what, Mr. Sagar had
turned into a “Social drinker”. Sometimes, prying into
people’s lives helps solve problems (smiles).
Milith
(curious)
You mean to say that you were instrumental in bringing
about the change ?!
Nehal
Well… not exactly ! I just egged on Sushma to sort out
things with her Parents’and luckily for her and
for the couple themselves… it worked !
Milith
(smiles)
That’s good… WAY TO GO, Nehalji !
Later, the power supply is restored and they go to their respective rooms.
#43. THE FLAT – MORNING
Milith while exercising plays “You know you’re right,” by Nirvana. Nehal plays “KHAMOSH RAAT” from the film TAKSHAK… very loud.
Milith trips when he listens to the lyrics (“roshan hua ek chehra…”). Nehal’s glowing face appears and he lowers the volume and listens attentively to the rest of the song.
Milith
(shakes his head)
Gosh… wassup Mate ?! (pause) Hmmm… nice song
though !
Later, Jyoti serves them Tea and Coffee while they go through the newspaper.
Milith
The song that you played a lil’ earlier… what was that ?
Nehal
Which one… 1 2 ka 4 ?!
Milith
Naah, the one before that… whose song was that ?!
Nehal
Oh, you meant khamosh raat ?! I play that CD ever so
often… you never asked me earlier.. why now?!
Anyway, that’s A R Rehman’s…
Milith
He is a very good singer, hain na ?!
Nehal
(laughs)
He is a composer… dumbo !
Milith
(embarrassed)
I was just kidding… obviously, i know that he is a good
Composer… he’s won the Oscar and the Grammies too !
Nehal
(mocks)
No issues… you better stick to your “ROCK” stuff !
Milith
Yeah, yeah I will… nice song though !
Nehal
See, didn’t I ask you play music that makes sense all
along, but…
Milith
Who said rock music is senseless ?! Read between the
lines and you’d understand the meaning; the pain…
Nehal
Thanks, but no thanks. I believe that’s for insane people
like you ! (smiles).
Milith
(frowns)
Wha… what was that… come again !
Nehal
Just kiddin, Baba (laughs)
Jyoti ‘watches’ them and enjoys the lovely banter that they indulge in.
Milith
(laughs)
Forgot to tell you, I’ll be late tonight…
Nehal
Why ?!
Milith
Got a party… catching up with ol’ friends… you
know !
Nehal
Does that mean I’ll have to cook for myself ?!
Milith
Yep, but don’t worry… I won’t be out too long !
#44. THE FLAT – EVENING
Nehal enters Milith’s room. Clothes, Magazines are scattered around. She smiles to herself when she sees the pics of semi-clad “cover girls”. She places them in order.
Nehal out of boredom goes shopping. On returning, she cooks dinner and waits for Milith to turn up while watching TV. The doorbell rings.
Nehal
Hi !
Milith
Hi, Nehal… didn’t I tell you I’ll be home early !
Nehal
(sniffs) Hang on a sec, Milith… did you booze ?
Milith
Nope, why ?!
Nehal
Don’t lie to me… I smell alcohol !
Milith
Yeah, I did… just a lil’ !
Nehal
(infuriated)
Can’t believe you are drunk… ?! How could you… ?!
Milith
Let me explain, Nehal… it’s that… !
Nehal
(peeved)
So you’ve been lying to me all along, huh ?! Lying
about you being a teetotaller and stuff !
Milith
Oh, C’mon… as you were desperate for an
accommodation, I wanted to…
Nehal
(annoyed)
I care a damn... there’s no excuse for lying… !
Milith
Arey, listen to what I have to say !
Nehal
I don’t want to hear a thing... I hate you for this !
Milith
(irritated)
Now shut up and listen ! A friend of mine came down
from the US and he hosted a get together comprising
our school friends. I took a couple of swigs and that’s
it ! Since you were here, haven’t touched alcohol, did I ?!
Milith
(angry)
… ajeeb musiibath hain yaar ! Kisi ko apne ghar mein
jagah do… aur woh tum par hi hukoomat karein…
Goddamn it !
Nehal
So, I’m just a refugee, huh ?!
Milith
God… you women never grow-up, do you ?!
Nehal looks the other way.
Milith
(yells)
You don’t want me here, right ?! Fine… I’m leaving ! (barges out)
#45. AT THE LIQUIDS BAR – NIGHT
Milith gulps down one peg after another. Tamanna, a beautiful, well-endowed model whom Milith had ‘DISCOVERED’ a couple of years ago, notices him and walks up to him.
Tamanna
Hello, Mr. Milith ! How are you doing ? I’m
Tamanna just in case you…
Milith
Of course, I do... who would forget a Glam doll like you ?!
Tamanna
I’m flattered, Mr. Milith. So, how are things going on ?
Milith
So far so good. Hey, have you got any new assignments ?
Tamanna
Thanks to you, yes. You made me what I am today… I
owe it all to you.
Milith
No one can make or break a person… it’s hard work,
dedication and commitment that is gonna take someone
to the top !
Tamanna
You haven’t changed one-bit, Mr. Milith. You are the
same modest, humble person that I’ve always known
you as !
The Bartender announces that it’s closing time. Milith rises onto his feet and staggers --- he is on a real high. Tamanna and her friend, Suzanne, help him downstairs. They realise he’s in no position to drive home.
Suzanne
What do we do now, Hon ?
Tamanna
I’ll drop you home… I’d take him to my place (winks)
Suzanne
Got lucky today, huh ?! (smiles)
Meanwhile, Nehal tired out of exhaustion and stress dozes off.
#46. TAMANNA’S FLAT – NIGHT
Tamanna takes Milith to her flat and lays him down on the bed. Seeing him totally helpless, the darker side of her comes to the fore. She kisses and undresses him button-by-button. All the while, Milith utters “I LOVE YOU, NEHAL… I REALLY DO. I’M SO SORRY….” !
Meanwhile, Nehal wakes up from her slumber and calls up Milith. Milith, however, is in the act with Tamanna… rather the other way round. The ring tone is rendered inaudible by the music “Enigma” that Tamanna plays on her Music System. Nehal sobs.
#47. TAMANNA’S FLAT – MORNING
On waking up, Milith is shocked to find himself ‘in the scud’. He gets up from the bed; dresses up and walks into the living room.
Tamanna
Good morning, Mr. Milith ! (smiles)
Milith
(dazed)
Where am I and wha… what happened last night ?!
Tamanna
Don’t worry… you are at my place... do I have to
get into the details, Mr. Milith (smiles).
Milith
(guilty)
Oh God, noooooo ! I gotta go, I’m sorry… I…
Tamanna
By the way, your car is at the Pub itself.
Milith
Thanks. I’m sorry.
Tamanna
Don’t be... by the way, who is this Nehal ?
Milith stares blankly at her, picks up his mobile. Leaves.
#48. THE FLAT – MORNING
Nehal skips college and waits anxiously for Milith to turn up. Jyoti too awaits him, even as she feels sorry for Nehal.
The doorbell rings. Nehal rushes to the door and opens it. She is relieved to see Milith at the doorstep.
Jyoti
(relieved)
Shukr hain !
Nehal
(concerned)
Where have you been all night ?!
Milith
(irritated)
There she goes again… !
He goes straight into his room without uttering a word. Nehal is offended by his indifference. Jyoti pats her shoulder gently, consoling her. Nehal goes into her room ‘HURT’.
LATER, Jyoti knocks at Milith’s door. Milith, who had just finished brushing his teeth, opens the door.
Jyoti
Saab… Nehal Memsaab didn’t eat since yesterday…
she’s been anxiously waiting for you… and you…
Goes into the kitchen shaking her head.
Milith
(shakes his head)
Oh, no !
Milith, after brushing his teeth, gently opens Nehal’s door. She’s lying on the bed… face downwards.
Milith
Didn’t I tell you that I’d have dinner at the party ?!
Nehal turns around. She has tears in her eyes. She gets up and sits beside Milith.
Milith
(apologetic)
I’m extremely sorry, Nehal…
Nehal
I’m the one who should be sorry… I shouldn’t have
been so fussy…!
Milith
Never mind, Nehal. Both of us are to blame !
Nehal
Where were you all night ? Do you have any idea
how worried I was… ?!
Milith
I got held up at a friend’s place… never seen this side
of you… why are you so concerned, Nehal ?!
Nehal
(moist eyes)
Because I Love you.. .damnit !
Milith
(surprised)
What?! Really ?!
Nehal
Haan, Milith… I’m in love with you !
Milith
God! (PAUSE). I love you too, Nehal … I really do !
Gujarati maa.. kii kende hain Nehal… taneh prem…
Nehal
(smiles)
Karu chuu… !
Milith
You mean the whole wide world to me, Nehal… mera
iss duniya mein aapke siva aur kaun hain !
SILENCE. HUGS.
Nehal
Such a liar… you’ve got loads of friends, right ?
Milith
There’s a world of difference between a “mate” and a
“soulmate”… yes or no ?!
Nehal
Haan… haan… you always have your way with
words, don’t you ?! (smiles) But…
you still smell of alcohol !
Milith
I won’t hereafter and that’s a promise. Aren’t you
hungry Nehal ?!
Nehal
I’m so starved !
Milith
(in Pujabi)
Chaliye breakfast karlein… mennu vadi bhook lagriya
(C’mon let’s have breakfast… I’m damn hungry) (smiles)
They walk out of the room; get seated on the dining table. Jyoti serves them breakfast. Milith and Nehal, lost in each other’s eyes, feed each other, the first bite. Jyoti smiles.
Milith
By the way, was that you who did that to my room ?!
Nehal
It was full of clutter, so I put everything in place…
(smiles)
Milith
Thanks for takin the trouble ! (smiles)
Nehal
What kinda magazines do you read… do you do
anything other than drooling over pics of
semi-cald women ?
Milith
Old habits die hard, Madame! Well, if you… (laughs)
Nehal
(shakes her head)
You naughty rascal… ! (laughs)
LATER, Milith answers Gaurav’s call from the Studio.
Milith
Hi, Gaurav… I’m not feeling well; please cancel all
my appointments for the day…Emi leedu, have a
slight headache, that’s it… Thank you, bye.
He concludes and hangs-up the phone while looking at Nehal, admiringly.
Nehal
Hangover peg kaavala ?!
Milith
Yeah… that would help!
Nehal
Nee ayya… you said you’ll quit booze forever, right?
Milith smiles and looks on admiringly.
Nehal
What are you looking at ?! (smiles).
Milith
Admiring your beauty… !
Nehal blushes.
Milith
What’s the POA?
Nehal
I’d rather spend some quality time with you. Let’s have
Lunch some place and let’s pick it up from there,
shall we ?!
Milith
Sounds good to me ! Our first real date, huh ?!
You’ve got me excited already !
THE FLAT – EVENING
Milith returns home tired… really tired and slumps into the sofa. Nehal, who had taken him on a shopping spree, however, is as fresh as a daisy. She goes in; arranges the things in her cupboard.
Milith
Do you really need all that shit that you had bought ?!
Holy Cow, just the other day… you shopped like
crazy… where do you get all the money from ?!
Nehal
Dad’s given me some add-on cards… He doesn’t
have any probs… why are you getting so worked-up ?!
Milith
As someone so rightly said, “the sure shot way
to know a woman is to go shopping with her.”
Nehal yells back… Hahaha, very funny!
Milith
(in Telugu)
Eemeni maintain cheyalli anteh… na properties
malla ammukovali… Devaa !
Nehal comes out of her room.
Nehal
What did you say, “If you have to maintain me…
Milith
(in Telugu)
Emi chevulu (ears) talli… Enugu (Elephant) chevulu
Nehal
Chup! … I’ll have to dispose-off my properties once
again…
Nehal
(hits with a bolster)
You are so mean !
Milith
(in Telugu)
Naa Mother tounge lo kooda thittuko lenu, naa
bathuku chada!
Nehal is all smiles as she punches Milith in the tummy again. He gets up in mock anger.
Milith
(firmly holds her hand)
How dare you hit me ?!
Nehal
I’m sorry, Baba… I didn’t mean to hit you so hard !
Ouch, it hurts ! Let me go, Milith… I’ll never do that !
Milith lets go of her; she punches him again. He holds her and drags her close.
Milith
Nehal, do you mind if I…(leans forward)
Nehal
(closes her eyes)
No, Milith… don’t… !
The doorbell rings. Milith lets go of Nehal. She sits on the sofa while Milith opens the door.
Gaurav and Manisha
Hi, Boss ! How are you feeling now !
Milith
I’m doing fine, thank you… we were waiting for you !
Manisha
Hi, Nehal ! ! How do you do ?
Nehal
I’m doing great ! How about you guys ?! (smiles)
Gaurav and Manisha
Just as well !
Manisha and Nehal go into her room… Nehal shows her all that she had bought. Gaurav and Milith get seated on the sofa.
NEHAL’S ROOM
Manisha
Good, but what’s cookin’ up, Nehal ?!
Nehal
What do you mean what’s cookin’ up ?!
Manisha
Don’t act too smart… Milith se dil ki baath huii kya ?!
Nehal
(gushes)
Guess what, he loves me too !
Manisha
(pokes)
So you did, finally… that’s wonderful… you guys
make a lovely couple ! What about your Mummy-
Papa ?! How would they react?
Nehal
There’s no way in the world that…they’d say no to
me… even otherwise, there’s no way my folks wouldn’t
like Milith !
Nehal leads Manisha as they enter the living room and serve Custard to Milith and Gaurav. They get seated on the sofa and have it themselves.
Manisha
(looking mischievously at Nehal)
Gaurav, there’s something I want to tell you !
Gaurav
(anxious)
Yeah, what is it ?!
Nehal
(embarrassed)
Holy Jesus, No !
Milith
We are all but one big family… why do you hold her
back, Nehal ? Go ahead, Manisha !
Nehal gesticulates to Milith that she is gonna tell Gaurav about their affair. Milith doesn’t get it, though.
Manisha
Gaurav, you’d be surprised to know that our Boss and
Nehal are in love with each other !
Milith looks at Manisha and then at Nehal, in astonishment.
Nehal
(teases)
Pelindaa !
Gaurav
What ?! Is it true Boss !
Milith
Yeah ! (blushes)
Gaurav
That’s cool, Boss… you’ll make a great couple!
Nehal and Milith exchange glances and smiles.
Manisha
It’s getting late… we shall take leave now ! OK bye,
Good night. Hey, all the best to both of you ! (leaves)
LATER, they get seated on the sofa and Nehal switches on the TV.
Milith
You women… can’t keep secrets can you ? Wonder
why you gossip so much ?!
Nehal
I was gesticulating to you all the while… you were
the one who said … “go ahead, Manisha” !
Milith
Arey dumbo, that wasn’t what I was saying ! Why
did you tell her in the first place ?! Hey, change the
Goddamn channel… I’m sick of these weepy serials !
Nehal
What you did left me so red faced that she found out !
Anyway, jab pyar
kiya toh darna kya ?!
Milith
Wahin toh… kis baath ka dar hain aapko ?! (winks)
Nehal smiles shyly. The doorbell rings. Milith gets up and opens the door.
Sushma
Hi, Mr. Milith you know our phone is out of order and
my dad didn’t turn-up yet…do you mind if I use your phone !
Milith
Not at all ! Please come in.
Sushma
Hi, Didi ! How are you doing ?!
Nehal
Hi, Sushma ! Me… ?! Never felt better !
Sushma walks up to the telephone stand and makes a call to her Papa’s mobile. Milith gets seated on the sofa beside Nehal.
Milith
Hey, didn’t i ask you to change the channel ?! Since
when have you started watching these programs…
OK, give me the remote !
Nehal
(playful)
Achcha… ho sake toh lelo !
(take it if you can)
Milith tries to snatch the remote but fails. He tickles her and snatches it. Whilst speaking on the phone Sushma notices this; hangs-up the phone; thanks them and leaves.
On her way back, she hears shrieks from inside. She strikes her head; smiles and walks away.
#49. THE FLAT – MORNING
Nehal, dressed up in a chudidar, is seated on the sofa. Milith is dressed up.
Milith
I’m goin out… want me to fetch something ?!
Nehal
Yep… Chocolates and soft drinks please !
Milith
(to himself)
Lollipops voddha… Moron ! (Aloud) OK !
She gets up from the sofa in mock anger.
Nehal
You… I’ll kill you ! (smiles).
Milith
(sarcastic)
Nenu emaina tappu annana?! Moron ! (laughs)
Nehal
Youuuuuuuu… ! (pushes him) Hey, get some
Pizza bases too !
Milith
(laughs)
OK … !
Nehal closes the door. Milith gets into the lift and on the second floor a Gorgeous woman gets in.
DOWNSTAIRS
The lift door opens and Milith steps out. A sturdy, turban-clad man; an elderly woman and a cute girl with luggage in tow are at the doorstep.
The man’s eyes are fixed on the woman as his wife and the kid get in. He bumps into Milith with the suitcase.
The Man
(apologetic)
I’m sorry young man !
Milith
(smiles)
That’s OK, Sir ! (winks).
The man smiles; the door closes.
NEHAL’s FLAT
Nehal is in the living room reading a magazine. The doorbell rings.
Nehal
So soon… !
Nehal opens the door.
Nehal
(screams)
Mummy ji, Papa ji… aap… yahan ?!
Kamala
How can we miss your Birthday, Beta ?!
How do you do, Beta ?!
Nehal
I’m absolutely fine, Mummy ji !
Choti
(excited)
Hi, Dids ! You look great in this attire, too !
Nehal
(surprised)
Hi, Choti… tu bhi !
Kamala
Since when are you wearing Punjabi Suits?
Nehal smiles.
Singh
(bemused)
Aren’t you gonna invite us in, Puttar ?! (smiles).
Nehal
(smiles)
Oh C’mon Papaji, please… !
Nehal
How are you, Choti ?!
Choti
I’m fine, Dids !
She hugs them; leads them into the flat. Later, they get seated on the sofa.
Singh
(pats her)
How do you do, Puttar ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
As good as good can be Papa ji… Shukriya…
You, Papa ji ?!
Nehal serves them water.
Singh
Hum theek hain, Puttar… Waheh Guru di kirpa ! (smiles).
Nehal
But… you and here… I mean… it’s totally out of the
blue !
Kamala
Tujhe dekh ke itneh mahiineh ho gaye na, Beta !
Nehal
We spoke on phone in the morning, right? Even then
you didn’t tell me!
Singh
We were at Delh, Puttar ! We wanted to…
Choti
(interrupts)
… give you a surprise, Dids ! (smiles).
Nehal
(to herself)
You bet it was ! (smiles).
Singh
Puttar, had applied for leave long ago… now, that
some peace has been restored in the Valley… was
granted two-days’ leave. !
Nehal
(wry smile)
2 days?! (pause) Anyway, nice to see you all
after all these months !
Nehal
Hey Choti, how are your studies goin’ on ?!
Choti
(put off)
Uff oh, Didi… is it necessary to discuss studies
now?! (smiles). Dids, I tell you Kashmir is such a
beautiful place… it… it’s a Paradise on Earth !
You’ve got to see it to believe it, Didi !
Kamala
I tell you… Choti spends most of her time on
sight-seeing rather than studies… !
Choti
Look, Papa… !
Singh
(in Punjabi)
O ! Paghwan, chupp kar oy… !
(take a break !)
Kamala
(frowns)
Kya kahan… ?!
Singh
(meek)
Nothin… we’ll… rest for a while! (smiles)
Kamala
You are the one spoiling Choti !
Nehal and Choti get into a chuckle.
Kamala
Nehal beta, you are the only one she listens to… !
Singh
Let it be, Paghwan !
Nehal
(interrupts)
Hang on… I’ll get coffee… !
Mummy dear follows her into the Kitchen.
Kamala
Nice house, Beta !
Nehal smiles.
Kamala
All that furniture ?! Oh… I forgot… you said
It’s a furnished house !
Nehal smiles wryly.
Kamala
Where’s you servant-maid, Jyoti ?
Nehal
Jyoti ?! She finishes work and leaves !
Kamala
OK ! Hope she doesn’t annoy you too much !
Nehal
Not at all, Mummyji !
They set out to serve Coffee to Papa and milk to Choti.
Singh
(smiles)
Thank you, Puttar ! I’m having the privilege of
having your Coffee after so many months !
Nehal smiles.
Singh
(rueful)
… was tired of your Mom- made Coffee!
Kamala
What ?!
Singh
(laughs)
Just joking, Paghwan !
Choti
(sipping in)
There they go! Khair… show us around na Didi ?!
Nehal
Why don’t you guys rest for a while, baad mein… ?!
Singh
We hardly travelled Puttar… couple of hours from
Delhi, that’s it ! Chalo… !
Nehal
Oh, God… what do I do now ?! (aloud) Chaliye !
She leads them into her room first. As they come out, Mom walks up to the other room.
Nehal
Mummyji, wait… that’s my friend’s room !
Kamala
Never said you had a roommate, did you… ?!
An inquisitive woman that she is, she enters the room. Nehal sighs.
Nehal
Mummyji… Mummyji… actually…
Kamala
(shocked)
Ajii sunte ho… !
(do you hear me !)
Papa and Choti walk into the room. They are surpised to see Men’s clothing lying around.
Singh
What’s this, Puttar ?!
Choti
(excited)
Holy Jesus, a live-in relationship… how exciting ?!
Kamala
(stern)
Shut up, Choti !
Nehal
Mummy ji, Papa ji let me explain… !
The foursome gets seated on the sofa.
Nehal
Was about to tell you that…
#50. AT A SUPER MARKET
Milith shops around for vegetables; picks up Chocolates and soft drinks and Pizza bases; moves up to the counter to get them billed.
#51. THE FLAT - MORNING
The entire family is still closeted.
Kamala
(concerned)
Agreed that Milith is a nice person… but that doesn’t mean
that you should have stayed back all along…and we didn’t have
a clue ! Anything else that we ought to know?!
Nehal
We are in Love, Mamma…
Mom and Papa exchange glances. Nobody speaks.
Nehal
It’s been a fortnight since we’ve expressed our love for each
other. He is a fabulous Guy, Papa… I can’t imagine
my life without him !
Choti looks at Nehal and smiles mischievously.
Kamala
How can you be so sure, Beta… you’ve known him
for all but 5 months…
Nehal
Six months !
Kamala
OK, Six months… Whatever ! Shouldn’t be rushing
into taking decisions !
Nehal
You told me ke Papa ji asked you out, the very second
time you guys meet…but we fell in love after coming
to know each other !
Kamala
But their Culture, customs… can you adjust to all that !
Nehal
Oh C’mon Mummyji, when you and Papaji can get along…
why can’t we ?!
Choti
(smiles)
Guess you have to blame it on our genes, Dids ?!
Singh
Puttar, we know that you are shrewd… we respect your
judgment par… !
Kamala
Na baba na… he’s a fashion photographer… !
Nehal
Mummy ji, he is’nt what you imagine… meet him once
with an open-mind and you’ll know what I mean !
Singh
Haan Beta, you are right!
Kamala
(sighs)
OK… but our decision is gonna be final !
Nehal
(hugs her parents)
Thank you… I am sure you too would like him !
Choti
By the way, where’s your boyfriend, Dids ! (smiles).
Mom and Papa give her a stare.
Nehal
(smiles)
He’s gone out on an errand… must be on his way back !
Choti
Can’t wait to see him !
Kamala
Look at her… she’s more anxious than us ! (smiles)
The foursome breaks into a smile, relieving the stress.
Nehal
Papa ji, what would you like to have for lunch ?!
Singh
Anything, Puttar !
Nehal
OK, your favourite… Veg. Korma !
Papa smiles and nods.
Choti
What about me ?!
Kamala
(in Gujarati)
Eat our brains out… ! (smiles).
Choti throws up her hand in disgust.
Nehal
Aloo gobi…. don’t worry lil’ Doll ! (smiles).
Choti
Thanks, Dids ! (smiles)
Nehal and Mom move into the kitchen. Papa and Choti are seated on the sofa watching Adventure1 channel.
Milith gets back and swings the door open. He is surprised to see guests at his place.
Milith
Yes Sir… !
Singh
(smiles)
Oh… you ! Hello, young man ! I’m Nehal’s dad, Major
Balwinder Singh…
Milith
(smiles)
I’m honoured to meet you, Sir. I’m Milith. Please be seated,
Sir.
Milith places the bag on the table. Singh looks at Choti and she gives a thumbs up.
Singh
And this is Choti…
Choti
Papa…
Singh
OK… this is Meeta, my youngest daughter.
Milith
Nice to meet you, Ms. Meeta !
Meeta
Likewise, Mr. Milith !
Singh
Choti… tell Mamma that Milith is here !
Choti
OK, Papaji ! (leaves).
Singh
Why are you still standing… have a seat Son !
Milith gets seated beside him.
Singh
(polite)
Beta, don’t say a word about the bumping incident
to my wife !
Milith
Relax Sir, why would I ?! (smiles)
Singh
I love my life… you know… my wife…
Milith
I do, Sir… I believe you command a squadron and your
wife commands you… No offence meant, Sir ! (smiles).
Singh
(laughs)
Tussi bade mazaki ho, Puttar ! (pats him hard).
(You have a good sense of humour)
Nehal’s Mom, Kamala Bhen, walks out of the Kitchen, while Nehal and Meeta peep from the Kitchen.
Milith
(rises)
Namasthe Aunty ji…. I’m Milith !
Kamala
Namasthe… have a seat, Beta ! (gets seated)
Milith looks towards Nehal who tries to gesticulate.
Milith
(smiles)
Nehal, can you get something to drink for Mummy Papa ?
Kamala
We’ll have that along with the Lunch !
Milith
How about some chocolates, Ms. Meeta ?!
Meeta
Yep, why not ?!
The girls smile to themselves while unwraping and munching the chocolates.
Singh
Sorry Puttar, we were under the impression that Nehal was
staying alone… and we arrived without informing !
Milith
Think of this as your own house, Sir… !
Singh
You can address me as Uncle, young man ! (smiles)
Milith
(smiles)
All right, Sir… er… Uncle ji !
Singh
That’s better !
Kamala
So, what do you, Milith ?!
Singh
He’s a Fashion Photographer, Pagh…wan ! (smiles)
Kamala gives Mr. Singh a stare.
Milith
Ji, Aunty ji… I’m a Fashion Photographer !
Singh
Since when, Beta ?!
Milith
Ji, about 3 years !
Kamala
Nehal told us about your Parents… we are sorry, Beta !
Milith
That’s OK, Aunty ji !
Kamala
Any relatives… ?!
Milith
Nope, Aunty ji ! I’m a loner… if you will !
Singh
Lucky you ! (laughs).
Kamala gives him a glare. Milith looks towards Nehal and smiles. She smiles. Kamala bhen turns around.
Nehal
Mummy ji… Papa ji… Lunch is almost done ! If you guys
freshen up… !
Nehal leads Mom and Choti into her room, while Milith leads Singh into his.
Milith
(sipping cola)
What’s your family doing here ?!
Nehal
(shrugs)
They wanted to gimme a surprise and just… dropped in ! (smiles).
Milith
Can’t blame them for missing you… you are such a darling !
Nehal
(whispers)
Softly… ! (smiles).
Milith
(smiles)
Hen-pecked that he is… your Dad is quite a romantic… !
Nehal
(smiles)
What ?!
Milith
Your Papa ji was ogling at a woman… !
Nehal
What ?! No way !
Milith
Would I lie to you, Baby ?! Sweet man, though !
Nehal
Know what ?! I’ve confessed to Mummy Papa … !
Milith
(surprised)
What ?! (takes a big gulp) OK. No wonder they were so
inquisitive about me ! {Nehal nods} Should have given
me a hint… ! God, what do they have to say ?!
Nehal
Said they’d make up their minds after talking to you !
(ruffles his hair)
… You have no reason to worry, Honey… just be yourself…
haan, don’t try to act too smart… my Mom, I tell ya, is
eagle-eyed ! (smiles).
Milith
(smiles)
Tussi bas dekhte raho Paghwan… Mummy ji ko yun pataaonga
(you wait and watch… I’ll win her over just like that) (winks)
Nehal
Best of luck ! (smiles).
Milith
O ! Thank you ji !
Milith and Nehal arrange the Dining table as the Couple and Choti come out of their rooms.
Milith
(whispers)
Are your folks watching us ?!
Nehal
Yep !
Milith
Haha.. I’ve scored Brownie points already ! (pokes)
Nehal
Ayyy, what are you doing ?
Nehal
Mom… Papa ji…Choti … please !
They get seated at the table.
Kamala
Why don’t you guys join in ?!
Milith
We’ll have it later, Aunty ji !
Singh
We’ll have lunch to-gether, Beta… C’mon !
Milith and Nehal get seated.
Milith
So, how was the journey, Uncle ji ?!
Nehal tries to stop Milith from speaking, but he doesn’t get it.
Singh
We hardly felt it… couple of hours from Delhi… !
Milith
OK… so you had called up from Delhi ?!
Singh
Haan, Beta.
Milith
How do you find Kashmir, Aunty ji ?!
Kamala raises her eyes in derision.
Kamala
Good place !
Choti
It’s a fabulous place, Mr. Milith… especially the
Shikara ride in the Dal lake !
Milith
Oh, really ! Heard Gulmarg is a picturesque place as well !
Choti
Yeah, the “Kashmir ki Kali” road is a treat to watch,
friends tell me there are lots of places to explore…
but Dad hardly gtes time to spare ! (moans)
Singh
Yeah ! Now that things are getting better… I’ll take you
there for sure ! Now, cheer up Choti Puttar !
#52. IN THE LIVING ROOM – AFTERNOON
All of them are seated on the sofa while Choti watches National Geographic.
Singh
Puttar, Korma bahuth achcha tha !
Nehal
(smiles)
Thank you Papaji !
Kamala
Haan Beta, very tasty… !
Nehal
C’mon Mummy ji, I learnt it from you… ! (smiles)
Milith
(smiles)
Aunty ji, that’s one of the reasons that I let her stay
at my place… for free… !
Nehal hides her head in her hands.
Kamala
What ?! But Nehal said she used to pay a rent
of 10,000… and we sent them regularly!
Papa, Milith and Choti, too, look at Nehal suspiciously.
Nehal
(embarrassed)
Why are you looking at me like that… OK, OK
I mis-reported…
Milith
(interrupts)
That’s called lying, memsaab… not mis-reporting…
Nehal mocks at him.
Nehal
(apologetic)
Sorry… pocket money wasn’t just enough… ?!
Singh
No issues Puttar… whom am I earning for ,after all ?!
Kamala and Singh smile it off. Choti gives her a quizzical look. Milith smiles.
Kamala
I need some rest … (to Mr. Singh) you too need some !
Milith
Aunty ji… Uncle ji, shall we go on trip in the evening ?!
Kamala
Let’s see !
Milith
There’s a new theme park in town… ‘Snow World’…
supposed to be the biggest of its kind in the World.
The snow is artificial, of course !
Choti
(excited)
Wow ! We’ll get to see artificial snow too, for a
change ! Mom… Papa… jaayenge na ! (pleads).
Singh
I am for it… try convincing your Mom !
Nehal
Chaliye na, Mummy ji !
Kamala
OK !
Choti
Thanks, Mamma ! (smiles)
Kamala leaves while gesticulating to Singh to follow her.
Milith
Uncle ji, you can use my room !
Singh
O ! Thank you, Puttar… Looks like she’s got
something to discuss with me…! (leaves)
Nehal
Can’t you sit quiet for a while ?!
Milith
(confused)
Wha… what did I do ?
Nehal
I meant, while eating ! Mom doesn’t like that… you know !
Milith
How would I ?! Should’ve warned me… !
Choti
Relax Guys, that’s no big a deal ! (smiles)
Milith
That’s more like it, Choti ji… I know of some
morons who still watch Cartoons !
Choti chuckles.
Nehal
What’s so funny… ?! (turning to Milith)
Youuuuuuuuu… ! (smiles)
Milith
Hey, I was kidding !
Nehal
(smiles)
You better !
Choti
You are right, Mr. Milith… Didi, always watches
Cartoons ya News channels !
Milith
Cartoons are far better, Ms. Choti… nowadays, she’s
into those stupid weepy serials… ?! She wouldn’t
lemme touch the Remote … sometimes I wonder
whether I own the flat or… !
Nehal
Stop being so grumpy… you are always looking for
an opportunity to strike back, eh?!
Choti
I understand what you must’ve been through, Mr. Milith
… she used to do the same to me too… never letting me
get hold of the damn remote…. I don’t know how you
put up with her all these months, Mr. Mil… !
Nehal
(interrupts)
Shut upppp… ! You need rest Choti… ?!
Choti
Nope, Didi ! So where was i, Mr. Milith…
Nehal
(shuts Choti’s mouth)
That’s enough now… now go and lie down for a
while… we’ll go out in the evening !
#53. THE SNOW WORLD – EVENING
All of them (Sushma, Manisha and Gaurav inclusive) have a great time playing at the theme park. Millith holds Kamala’s hand when she slips. She reciprocates with a friendly smile, thus “breaking the ice”.
#54. THE FLAT – NIGHT
The old couple slump into the sofa, while Nehal, Milith and Choti look excited.
Choti
That was great… hain na Papa ?!
Singh
Haan, Beta… even your Mom enjoyed it… kyon ?!
Kamala
Yeah… aur haan thanks for the dinner, Milith Beta !
Milith
My pleasure, Aunty ji !
Kamala
Excuse us, we’ll be right back ! (leaves with Singh in tow).
Singh follows her into Nehal’s room where they confabulate amongst each other. Nehal and Choti give Milith a thumbs-up.
Choti
(smiles)
Congratulations, Mr. Milith… you’ve won over my folks !
Nehal smiles.
Milith
(smiles)
Thank you… but, what about you… Ms. Meeta ?!
Choti
It’s Choti ! Now, does that give any indication, Jeeju ! (smiles)
Milith
(smiles)
OK, Choti it is !
Nehal
(smiles)
My God… can’t believe my kid sis has begun to talk so
much sensibly… looks like your friends from Kashmir
have had a huge impact on you !
Choti
Yes, Dids… I have a fabulous set of friends who don’t hold
back anything ! They are so expressive… have so much to
share… it kinda rubs off on to you !
Nehal
Chalo, something good has come out after you moved to
Kashmir !
Choti
The same applies to you too, na Dids ! (winks).
Nehal
(smiles)
My word Choti, you have come of age !
Milith smiles even while looking at Choti admiringly. There is silence as Singh and Kamala come out of the room and get seated on the sofa.
Milith
Looks like you have something to say to me !
Kamala
Beta, we have always respected Nehal’s decisions and even
now we are thrilled ki that trust wasn’t misplaced !
Nehal hugs Choti with delight.
Singh
It doesn’t take long to figure out a good person… aur Beta,
you are someone to whom we would happily give our
daughter’s hand in marriage !
Milith
Thanks a lot, Uncle ji… Aunty ji ! I promise… Nehal ko kabhi
koi kamii mehsoos nahin hone doonga !
Nehal
Thank you… Mummy ji… Papa ji ! (hugs her Parents)
Singh
(choked)
God bless you, Puttar !
Kamala
(choked)
You are right, Beta… he is a Gem ! God bless !
Nehal winks at Milith. They break into a smile.
Choti
Why isn’t anybody hugging me ?!
Singh
(in Punjabi)
Tussi ithe aa, Puttar ! (come here, Puttar)
Choti hugs Singh.
Singh
(in Punjabi)
Tu kii kehndi hain, Choti Puttar ?!
(what do you think, Choti Puttar ?!)
Choti
(smiles)
Milith da jawaab nahin ! Milith is the best!
Everybody breaks into laughter.
Kamala
Now seriously, have you guys decided when you’d like to
get married ?!
Nehal and Milith blush looking at each other. Nehal shakes her head gently.
Nehal
(shy)
Haven’t given it a thought as yet, Mummy ji !
Milith
I’m abslolutely not in a hurry Aunty ji… let Nehal finish
her course… baad mein dekhenge !
Singh
Paghwan… pehle inka Engagement karaadenge !
(let’s get them engaged)
Kamala
Pehli baar… kuch akal ki baath kii tumne… ! (smiles)
(For the first time, you said something sensible !)
Singh
(not impressed)
Ay lo… !
Kamala
What do you think ?!
Nehal
(polite)
Mummy ji… Papa ji… take no offence, but I want to
finish my Master’s… in about three months time !
Singh
Take all the time you need… at the end of the day, it all
boils down to whether or not you guys lead a
happy life together !
Kamala
If you say so, we don’t have any objection !
Nehal
Shukriya… Papa ji… Mummy ji !
Kamala
Hey, I’m tired… I’ll take a snooze. Goodnight, everybody ! (leaves).
Singh
Milith, Beta… !
Milith
Ji, Uncle ji !
Singh
I need to talk to you… mind coming over ?!
Singh and Milith rise to go into Milith’s room. Milith blows a kiss to Nehal; she gleefully accepts.
Choti
(smiles)
Congrats, Dids !
Nehal
(smiles)
Know what, Choti… for a while, I had my heart in my
mouth and… !
Choti
(philosophical)
All’s well that ends well ! (smiles)
Nehal shakes her head in disbelief admiring Choti’s maturity.
MILITH’s ROOM
Singh paces himself across the room; Milith ‘follows’ his moves.
Singh
(sits beside Milith)
Beta, Nehal is a wise, sensible yet a sensitive girl… haan,
sometimes she has a short fuse but she’s kinda innocent…
take good care of her !
Milith
Of course, Uncle ji !
Singh
Flirting with death is part of my duty, Son… if something
were to happen to me or to our family… !
Milith
(comforts)
Don’t worry Uncle ji, nothin untoward’s gonna happen !
Singh
Let’s leave that aside… tell me something about your
proffession… Sounds interesting to me !
Milith
It’s interesting all right Uncle ji, but taxing nonetheless !
Quite different from the general perception, it requires
a lot of imagination, coaxing and patience to make
beautiful people look outlandish !
Singh listens attentively. Milith takes out a Magazine and shows him a calender. Singh has his eyes glued to it as it contains pics of gorgeous women.
Milith
To come up with a calender like this, it needs four to five
months of toil at least. It’s no child’s play, Uncle ji !
Singh
Haan, Beta… I can see that !
Singh
Nehal’s Mom was slim and fit when we got married… look
at her now… she’s put on so much of weight…
Milith thinks to himself, “Nehal gitta pendli ayyinaka gitlane tayyaru aithe ? (What if Nehal becomes so fat after marriage ?)
Kamala, in a night suit, is at the doorstep.
Milith
Uncle ji… Aunty ji !
Singh
(startled)
What ?! (rises from the bed).
Kamala
Haven’t slept yet… what are you upto ?!
Singh
Kuch nahin Paghwan, hum na, baath kar rahe thein…
kyon Beta ?! (We were just talking, weren’t we Beta?)
Milith
Absolutely, Aunty ji !
Kamala
What are you hiding from me? what’s that in your hand ?!
Singh
Magazine hain ji !
Kamala
Which Magazine ?! Let me see… !
Milith
Sportstar, Aunty ji !
Singh
Haan… Sportstar hain ji… ay lo !
Surprisingly, Sportstar appears in his hand to Mr. Singh’s relief.
Kamala
That’s OK ! Just wanted to remind you to take medication !
Singh
That’s for reminding me… lagda hain these are signs
of senile dementia! (smiles)
Kamala
Don’t forget. Good night ji !
Singh
Good night, Paghwan !
Milith
Good night, Auntyji !
Kamala
(smiles)
Good night, Beta ! (leaves).
Singh
(embarrassed)
Shukriya, Beta !
Milith smiles.
Singh
She loves me a lot… you know… ! (smiles)
Milith
(sattirical)
If you say so… I’ll believe you, Uncle ji ! (smiles).
Singh
Puttar… take care of my daughter… it’s all that I ask
from you !
Milith
(smiles)
Don’t you worry, Uncle ji ! I’ll take care of Nehal !
Singh
Chalo Beta… I’ll go to bed now… Good night, Beta !
Milith
All right… Good night, Sir ! (smiles).
Singh
(smiles)
Disperse !
THE LIVING ROOM
Choti fakes sleep while Nehal watches TV --- Cartoon Network.
Milith
(smiles)
Your kid sis’ watches AXN, Adventure1 and the like and
here you are… grow up, moron !
Nehal
(smiles)
Shhhh… Choti’s sleepin’ !
Milith
(tickles Nehal)
Hand me that remote, Hon !
Nehal
(smiles)
Ayy… what are you doing… with a kid around !
Choti sits upright.
Choti
(sarcastic)
If you guys are not in a hurry, would you wait till I…
move into the bedroom !
Nehal and Milith are embarrassed.
Choti
(smiles)
And Didi… I’m not a kid ! (leaves).
Milith gets seated. Nehal moves upclose.
Nehal
(inquisitive)
What was Papa ji saying ?!
Milith
… Beta… Nehal is innocent so on and so forth.
By the way, are you ?!
Nehal
(frowns)
Kyon… what do you think ?!
Milith
Was joking, my Baby ! (laughs).
Nehal
(smiles)
Hey, get serious for once… then… what did you say ?!
Milith
That I love you more than my life and that I’d do anything
within my means to make you happy ! (smiles).
Nehal
(blushes)
Really ?! (holds his hand).
Milith
Not quite, but something like that ! (smiles).
She lets go of his hand.
Milith
Now what ?!
Nehal
Oh, that ! I’ve something else in store for you ! (hugs him)
Nehal
I love you, Milith… I really do !
Milith
I love you too… Nehal !
SILENCE…
Nehal
(blushes)
What are you looking at, Dumbo… aren’t you gonna kiss
me ?!
Milith
(blush)
Love to ! (kisses)… Happy Birthday, Sweetheart !
Nehal
(blush)
Thank you ! I’m impressed that you remembered that!
Anyway… that’s the sweetest gift… I’ve received till date !
Milith
Want me to make it even more sweeter ?!
Nehal
Uffo… sleep tight… ! (switches off the lights)
Goodnight, my Baby !
Milith
Goodnight, Nehal !
#55. THE FLAT – MORNING
The doorbell rings. Milith rises from the sofa; opens the door. Jyoti hands over the newspaper to Milith.
Jyoti
Good morning, Saab ! (enters carrying the milk packets)
Milith
Good morning, Jyoti !
Jyoti
Why are you sleeping here, Saab ?!
Milith
Nehal’s family dropped in the other day !
Jyoti
Achcha… !
Milith gently taps Nehal. She wakes up. Milith kisses her on the forehead. Nehal turns around to see if anyone’s watching.
Milith
(winks)
Happy Birthday, Hon !
Nehal
Ayy, what are you… what if someone sees ?
Milith
Let them … !
Milith
Hey, Coffee’s ready…wake your folks… can’t wait
any longer !
Nehal smiles; pats his cheek.
THE LIVING ROOM
Nehal’s family and Jyoti wish her “Happy Birthday” ! She touches their feet and seeks blessings; hugs Choti.
Later, Singh goes through the newspapers. Kamala is in an animated discussion with Jyoti at the dining table. Choti watches NGC.
Jyoti
Your daughter is very sweet, Memsaab !
Singh
(sarcastic) (murmurs)
Waheh Guru ki kirpa hain… apni maa pe nahin gayi !
(thanks to Waheh Guru blessings, she is unlike her Mom)
Choti laughs.
Kamala
Did you say something ji ?!
Singh
Nai oyy… !
Kamala and Jyoti get back to their discussion.
Singh
You wanna get me killed or what Choti Puttar ?! Now, what
kinda stuff are you watchin on TV ?!
Choti
(low voice)
Mummyji… Papa ji aap nuu kuch keh riya si… !
(Mom… Dad was saying that… )
Singh
Meri Maa… chupp kar oyy !
(Quiet, dear Mother !)
Choti smiles.
Kamala
How long have you known Milith?
Jyoti
3-4 years, Memsaab !
Kamala
What kinda person is he , Jyoti ?!
Jyoti
Exceptionally good human being, but… there’s one thing that
I don’t li… (stops realising that she shouldn’t have said that) !
Kamala
(probing)
What’s that… ?!
Jyoti
He boozes, Memsaab… not like everyday, but sometimes !
Kamala
(stunned)
Ajii sunte ho… ?! (Where are you ?)
Singh
Uff… kii gal hain ?! (What’s the matter ?)
Jyoti feels guilty. Kamala walks up to Singh and gets seated beside him.
Kamala
Go inside, Choti beta !
Choti
Why, Mamma ?!
Kamala
I said go… so, just leave !
Choti
No… !
Singh
Forget it, Paghwan… what’s the problem ?!
Kamala
Jyoti just said that Milith boozes … !
Choti
(innocent)
Is that all… even Papa ji does !
Kamala
Hey, Bhagwan… keep quiet Choti !
Milith, dressed up for work, exits his room; smiles at them.
Singh
(soft tone)
Tussi fikar na kari… main baath karaanga Milith de naal !
(don’t you worry… I’ll speak to Milith)
Milith
Is the breakfast ready, Jyoti ?!
Jyoti
Yes, Saab… placed it on the table !
Milith
OK, thanks !
Milith
Uncle ji, Aunty ji… shall we ?!
Singh
Tum khaalo, Beta… we’ve to take a shower ! (smiles).
Milith
(smiles)
I have a celebrity shoot today… I’m sorry… I’ll have to
leave early.
Singh
No issues, Beta !
Milith
Where’s Nehal, Aunty ji ?!
Singh
Havin a shower, Beta !
Milith
She takes ages… so typical of women ! (laughs).
Kamala doesn’t find the joke amusing. Milith finishes breakfast in a jiffy. Nehal puts on her B’day dress.
Milith
(to Nehal)
Aren’t you going to the college today ?!
Nehal
To go or not to go… !
Choti
This isn’t fair, huh ! I bunk school for you and… !
Nehal
OK, Baba ! I’m not going anywhere… khush ?! (smiles)
Kamala
Choti… you always look for excuses to bunk school
… at least don’t stop her from going !
Choti
Dekho na Didiiii… !
Nehal
Just of matter of couple of days na Mummy ji ?!
Kamala
OK. As you wish !
Milith
Fine, Nehal can I have your bike’s key ?!
Nehal
Why ?!
Milith
I’ll leave my car here… you can take your folks
around !
Kamala
That’s very thoughful, Beta… but, we’d rather spend
time together…’cos we’d be leaving tomorrow !
Nehal nods.
Milith
OK, then. Bye everybody…
Nehal follows Milith to the exit.
Milith
What’s in store tonite, baby ?! (winks)
Nehal
God… this guy ! Nothing’s concrete as yet… let’s see !
Milith
You look… sexy today… Love ya ! (leaves).
Nehal
(turns around)
Me too ! (blush)
Nehal enters the living room. Kamala is seated on the sofa.
Kamala
Nehal beta… do you know that Milith boozes …
Nehal
I do, Mummy ji … anyways, he is a ‘social drinker’
ala Papa ji ! (smiles).
Singh
Even otherwise… didn’t I tell you.. I’ll speak to him !
#56. THE FLAT – NIGHT
The doorbell rings. Singh opens the door.
Milith
(smiles)
Hello, Uncle ji… I’m sorry I’m late !
Singh
(smiles)
Hello, Beta !
Nehal
What took you so long, Milith ?! Forgot that it’s my
Birthday today?!
Milith
How can I ?! See… I’ve even brought a gift for you !
Nehal
That’s so thoughtful ! Thank you very much !
Milith
So sorry yaar, there were way too many people
today… a super model contest is just around the
corner… you see… !
Nehal
Would’ve been good if you had called up ! (opens the cover)
Choti, Kamala and Singh have their eyes glued to the gift.
Milith
Busy tha, Yaar… ! Hey, wait a sec let me switch off
the lights ! (switches off )
Nehal
(whispers)
That’s so romantic !
Milith
You haven’t seen the romantic side of me yet !
Nehal
(giggles)
(whispers) Ayy… take your hands off me… !
Milith switches on the revolving lampshade that reads “LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND” !
Nehal
(blush)
Good heavens ! Thank you !
Choti
That’s good… really good !
Singh switches on the lights.
Milith
Hey, what’s up for dinner… I’m starving ! (smiles).
Choti
Me, tooo… !
Milith
(enquires)
What ?! Didn’t you have your dinner, lil’ doll ?!
Choti
We didn’t have the cake… Papaji said…!
Nehal
Actually, we were all waiting for you to turn up, so that…
Milith
Oh, I’m extremely sorry… I should have informed you !
Singh
That’s OK, Beta ! Work is worship, hain na ?!
Milith
Ji, Uncle ji… especially my kinda work (winks).
Singh smiles. Kamala frowns. Nehal and Choti smile. Nehal cuts the cake, while Milith shoots the moments.
#57. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
All of them sit on and around the sofa.
Milith
Today’s curries were delicious, Nehal ! Aunty ji… all
thanks to you, Nehal is a fabulous cook !
Nehal laughs. Kamala and Singh exchange smiles.
Milith
What’s so funny, Nehal ?!
Choti
It was Mummy ji who cooked today, Milith ji ! (smiles)
Milith smiles.
Singh
I need to talk to you, Beta… shall we ?!
Milith
Of course, Uncle ji !
They enter Milith’s room and close the door gently behind them
MILITH’s ROOM
The door opens. Singh swaggers while laughing merrily. He holds a hip flask in his hand. Kamala, Nehal and Choti are shocked.
Singh
(sloshed) (in thick punjabi)
Kinna pyaara munda hain… mere waasthe Patiala peg laariya !
(He’s such a darling… he brought a Patiala peg especially for me)
Kamala
(annoyed)
Is that what you wanted to talk ?!
Milith stands at his door… “poker-faced”.
Nehal
My God, you are impossible ! (smiles).
Choti
(smiles)
You surely have many tricks up your sleeve… Hat’s off to
you, Sir !
Milith smiles.
Singh
(exclaims)
Nehal Puttar… todda taste da jawaab nahin !
(Your selection is fantastic)
Nehal gushes.
Kamala
(angry)
Wait till we go to Kashmir… I’ll see you there ?!
Singh
(drunk)
Why Paghwan… can’t you see me now ?! (laughs aloud)
Milith, Nehal and Choti can’t help laughing.
Kamala
I’m going to bed… Choti come along…!
Nehal
Good night, Mummy ji !
Kamala
Good night, Beta ! Happy Birthday, again ! (kisses on the
forehead)
Milith
Good night, Aunty ji !
Kamala
(gruff)
Good night ! (leaves).
Choti
Happy Birthday, Didi ! Good night… Good night, Milith ji ! (winks)
Milith
(smiles)
Good night, Choti !
Singh
(utters)
Thank you, Milith Puttar… that was really good !
Nehal and Milith help him to bed.
Singh
Aaj ka jaam tere naam Nehal puttar… Happy Birthday ! (dozes off)
Nehal
(query)
How dare you get alcohol for my Papa ji ?!
Milith
I had no clue that he’d get knocked-out after having just 3 drums !
Nehal
That’s how he is.. 3-4 pegs and he’s like…!
Milith
That’s a shame !
They move on to the sofa.
Nehal
(frowns)
Huh ?!
Milith
I mean for an Army man… he gets knocked out too
quickly ! (winks)
Nehal
(mocks)
Very funny ! Hey, you didn’t booze, did you ?!
Milith
How would I… didn’t get permission from the high
command !
Nehal
You didn’t ask me, did you ?
Milith
(curious)
Does that mean, it’s OK if I do ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
As long as it’s within reasonable limits… Yes ! Having
said that, I don’t understand why people booze !
Milith
(teases)
Piyo toh jaano… ! (you would if you try)
Nehal
(jests)
You telling me to booze ?! What sort of a
Husband-in-the-making are you… ?!
Milith
I’m sorry meri Maa… no go to sleep… else…
Nehal
(smiles)
What ?!
Milith
Kuch nahin, Baba… sojaao bhi… Good night !
Nehal
Good night !
#58. THE FLAT – MORNING
Nehal and Milith seek Kamala’s and Singh’s blessings by touching their feet. The old couple are moved by the gesture. The couple take turns to hug and bless them.
Kamala
(choked)
God bless you !
Singh
(emotional)
Jeete raho !
Milith
Uncle ji… Aunty ji… I’m sorry… I have to leave early
today as well !
The couple
That’s OK, Beta… !
Milith
(unconvincing)
I’ll try to drop in sometime in the afternoon… however,
please don’t get me wrong if I can’t make it !
Singh
Lots of people look up to you… Tusii apne kaam pe
dhyaan rakhna, Puttar !
Milith
(courteous)
Thanks for understanding, Uncle ji… if you don’t mind
can I address you as Mummy ji and Papa ji…?!
Kamala
(warm smile)
Sure, Beta… we found a fantastic Beta… kyon ji ?!
Singh
Sach kahan, Paghwan… !
Milith
And you, Choti… concentrate a lil’more on your
studies too, OK ! (winks)
Choti
All right, all right… I will ! (smiles)
Kamala
Take care of my daughter, Beta… and drink as little as
you can !
Milith
(embarrassed)
Aunty ji… woh toh bas… Kabhie kabhie !
Bye, everybody ! (leaves).
OUTSIDE THE FLAT
Nehal stands outside the flat. Milith turns around.
Milith
Nehal… Nehal,…
Nehal
I’m here, budhu… here ! (hands over the bike keys)
Milith
(jokes)
Arey wah, you have become very sharp… sangath ka
kuch toh asar hua !
Nehal
(jests)
Now go… ! (smiles)
Milith
Hey, I’m sorry… can’t come to see off your folks…
hope they don’t get me wrong !
Nehal
Don’t worry… they are cool !
Milith
(teases)
And you are very HOT , eh ?!
Nehal
(blushes)
Milith… now, gooooo…. !
Milith
OK… Love you ! (smiles)
Nehal
(shy)
Love you too !
Nehal enters the room. Kamala, Singh, Choti and Jyoti have their eyes glued on her.
Nehal
(embarrassed)
What… ?!
Kamala
You love him a lot, don’t you ?!
Nehal blushes.
Singh
(jests)
Ay lo… yeh bhi koi poochne wali baath huii… !
(isn’t it obvious !)
Nehal hugs them.
Nehal
(sad)
Can’t you extend you stay ?!
Singh
(sad)
Kii kara, Puttar… chutti khatam… !
Nehal
And you Mummy ji ?!
Kamala
(sad)
You know that your Papa ji can’t stay without me… !
Nehal seems forlorn.
Kamala
And Choti’s gotta attend school… !
Choti
(innocent)
School… ?! I’m in no hurry to go to school !
Everyone breaks into a smile.
Kamala
(sheds tears)
Chalo ji, let’s get down to some packing… don’t wanna
get too emotional before leaving !
Kamala hugs Nehal; plants a kiss on her forehead. Singh does likewise. Nehal hugs Choti and wishes her luck.
#59. THE FLAT – NIGHT
The doorbell rings. Nehal opens the door.
Milith
Hi, Jaan ! (enters)
Nehal
(moist eyes)
Hi !
Milith
(concerned)
Any word from your folks ?!
Nehal
Mummy ji called up a while ago… they reached safely !
Milith
Good !
Nehal breaksdown. Milith rushes up to Nehal.
Milith
(tender)
Oh, my Baby… come to Mamma !
Nehal hugs him tight.
Nehal
(weeps)
Two days flew by… just like that … !
Milith
Relax Nehal… can’t see you cry !
Nehal still sheds tears.
Milith
(breaks into a song)
Dekh sakta hoon main kuch bhi hote huey… nahin main
nahin dekh sakta tujhe rote huey … !
Nehal breaks into smile.
Nehal
(choked)
Where did you pick up this song ?!
Milith
From you.. who else ?!
Nehal
(smiles)
No what?! You are such a bad singer !
Milith
Bad ?! That would be an understatement ! (laughs).
Nehal laughs, wiping her tears.
Milith
Chalo yaar, let’s have dinner… I’m bloddy tired and I
need to hit the sack !
They rise from the sofa; have dinner.
Milith
Nehal, is it OK with you if I call my pals over for
Dinner some time ?!
Nehal
Kyon… I mean… what’s the occasion ?!
Milith
Kuch nahin yaar… I told them that you are a fabulous
cook and they’ve been pestering me ever since…
don’t worry Hon, I’ll lend you a helping hand !
Nehal
No issues, my Baby ! Call ‘em over this weekend… but,
keep off the kitchen… too many cooks spoil the broth,
remember ?!
They rise to wash their hands.
Milith
Thanks a lot, Nehal ! There’s one more reason why I
wanted to invite them…
Nehal
… to break the news, right ?!
Milith
Holy Jesus ! That was stupendous ! Ab dekhiye…
Nehal
Haan… haan, apart from your friends you don’t have
anybody…
Milith is left speechless.
FADE OUT :
#60. THE FLAT – MORNING
Milith wakes up early and gets into his exercise routine. The loud music wakes-up Nehal. She walks up to his room.
Nehal
How many times have I told you to play the music softly !
Milith
(philosophical)
I’m putting up with so many idiosyncracies of yours… try
getting used to this… habit of mine ! (winks)
Nehal
This guy’ll never change ! (smiles and walks away)
Milith and Nehal are seated on the sofa. Jyoti serves them Coffee.
Jyoti
Saab… you are very lucky to get such a lovely girl !
Milith
(mocking)
You don’t have the faintest idea as to what I’m putting up
with !
Nehal
(mock anger)
Miliiiith… I’ll kill you !
Milith
Anytime, Baby ! (smiles)
Nehal and Milith exchange smiles, while Jyoti picks up the tea cups and enters the Kitchen. Milith, as usual, goes through the supplementary edition of the Times paper.
Nehal
Forget P3 ! Get some groceries instead… aren’t your
friends coming over for Dinner ?!
Milith
Arey baap re… I completely forgot ! What about
Non-veg dishes ?!
Nehal
Leave that to me, will you… now get your *** moving ! (winks)
Milith
(shocked)
Devudaa… ammayi na inka emainaa na ! It’s better I
leave before you unleash…a whole range of
invectives… kyon ?! (smiles)
FADE OUT :
#61.THE LIVING ROOM – NIGHT
Nehal is busy making final preparations while Milith is at the doorstep of the Kitchen. The doorbell rings.
Nehal
Bang on time… looks like they’ve been hungry for
ages! (smiles)
Milith
(smiles)
… have a good sense of humour !
Milith opens the door. Charan, Prem, Sanjay and Nikhil greet him. As they enter the living room the aroma of the dishes titilates their nostrils. They raise their eyes in approval.
Nihkil
Where’s Nehal yaar ?!
Milith
Got something important to say to your would-be bhabi ?
Sanjay
(surprised)
Really ?!
Milith
(smiles)
Yep ! That’s the occasion, guys !
The Gang
(happy)
Hey, Congrats Buddy… when do you plan to get hitched ?!
Milith
Once Nehal is done with her studies !
Nehal exits the Kitchen and enters the living room. The gang greets her --- “Good Evening, Bhabhiji” !
Nehal
(blushes)
Good Evening, everybody !
Nehal
Howz Namrata doing, Mr. Charan ?!
Charan
She… She’s doing fine ! (to himself) I’m the one
facing problems !
Nehal
Should have brought her along !
Charan
(to himself)
Luckily for us all… (aloud) she’s gone to her parents
place !
Nehal
I see ! Get her along one of these days… would love to
meet her in person… !
Nehal
(to Milith)
Everything’s in order, you guys carry on… I gotta
freshen up… I’ll have dinner later !
Prem
It’s O.K. Bhabhiji… we’ll wait for you !
Nehal
O.K.… I’ll be back in a flash ! (leaves)
Nikhil
(curious)
How did things move so fast yaar ?!
Milith
Nehal’s Mom, Dad n Sis had dropped in, unexpectedly,
a week ago… they, too, had no idea that she was
staying with me let alone…being in love with me…
Prem
I’m starving, guys… !
Milith
(teases)
You were the one who said… we’ll wait, right?
Now suffer !
Prem
I never knew she’d take ages… !
Nehal exits her room.
Everyone gets seated around the dining table and have a sumptous meal (non-veg. incl.) They get seated on the sofa. Milith, however, is lost in his thoughts.
Sanjay
Thanks for the sumptuous dinner, Nehalji ! The Chicken
curry was delicious !
Nehal
In fact, I learnt the dish very recently… your friend likes it
a lot !
Milith seems forlorn.
Sanjay
What’s the matter Milith… you seem lost ?!
Milith
… wish Mom and Dad were here ! They’d have been
so happy to know that their would-be bahu is the
sweetest girl on Earth.
Nehal blushes.
Prem
I beg to differ, Milith. If Mummy and Daddy were alive
Nehal wouldn’t have been living with you in the first
place ! “Every cloud has a silver lining,” eh ?! (winks)
Nehal breaks into laughter.
Nehal
I’m sorry… you guys chat along… I’ve got some
work to do! (leaves)
Sanjay
Arey Prem, what kinda lousy joke is that ?!
Milith
Don’t be rude to him, Sanjay… I know he meant no
offence ! Honestly, I didn’t realise what I was missing
out on, until Nehal came along !
Milith
… she is so enigmatic… she has this tough TOMBOY
exterior, but she is so emotional, so sweet deep inside…
Yaar, she weeps along with the film actors… watches
cartoons… but I swear guys…she is one of a kind !
Milith winks at Prem; smiles.
Charan
You are lucky to find someone like her ! I kinda envy
you, Milith.
Everybody breaks into laughter. Milith hugs each one of his friends as they get up to leave.
Nikhil
Bhabhiji, the dishes were absolutely lip-smacking !
Prem
(joining in)
I wish… I could dine evryday at your place !
Nehal
Thank you ! (smiles)
Charan
Nehal, would you teach my wife some of your
recipes… she’s such a bad cook !
Nehal
(coy)
Oh, c’mon… you guys are embarassing me… I’m no
master cook… !
The gang bids adieu. Milith and Nehal kiss each other goodbye.
#62. THE FLAT – MORNING, 8:00 AM
Nehal knocks at Milith’s door while Jyoti, too, looks on concerned. Milith opens the door. Nehal feels his forehead.
Nehal
Didn’t I ask you to go to a Doc, see… what you’ve done
to yourself ?!
Milith
(to himself) Tension thoni sasthunna eeda ! The fever
has subsided… just that I’m feeling a li’l week !
Milith switches on the TV. An advertisement, endorsed by a celebrity, detailing the modes of transmission of AIDS, is on-air. He changes the channel and immediately gets back to it.
Nehal
(nags)
What’s wrong in going for a check-up ?! With strange
diseases like swine flu, etc it’s better to rule them out !
He remains silent.
Nehal
… I bunk college to take of this guy and he doesn’t
care a damn… ! Chalo, get ready… I come along !
Milith
… you’ve skipped two working days already… !
Don’t worry… I’ll go !
Nehal
When ?!
Milith
Later !
Nehal
(grim)
You don’t get it do you ?! If it’s some kinda
communicable disease… I’ll get infected as well… !
Milith
Aaah.. now I see… the reason behind the concern !
Milith
(to himself)
Guess I need to get myself checked… thoroughly !
While driving along the road, he notices hoardings warning people about AIDS… ANYONE CAN GET AIDS, BUT EVERYONE CAN PREVENT IT” says one hoarding. The fear of having contracted the dreaded Virus, however, eats him up.
#63. THE HOSPITAL – MORNING
Milith shows up at the reception counter and asks for Dr. Sanjay.
Young girl
(on the phone)
Dr. Sanjay, someone by the name Mr. Milith is here…
OK Sir, I’ll send him to you !
Girl
Mr. Milith… his is the first room on the second left…
Milith
Thank you, Ma’am. (leaves).
DR. SANJAY’S ROOM
Milith
Good morning, Doc… may I come in ?!
Sanjay
Hi, Milith… was waiting for you… have a seat ! How
are you doing now ?!
Milith
Not bad, Mate ! I took the pills that you had prescribed,
still… the appetite is all gone ! Know what ?!… I’ve
gone down quite a lot in a fortnight…
I’m worried, yaar !
Sanjay
Avunu… you’ve gone down !
Milith
Didn’t I tell you so !
Sanjay
Chup bey… I don’t see any change… !
Inserts the thermometer.
Milith
Eluka praanam…!
Sanjay
(charming smile)
Shut up and sit tight… I just listed out HIV symptoms…
Don’t take them seriously! Relax… will you ?! (takes it
out)… Temperature is normal !
Milith
Emo ra bhai… I want to get this done and dusted with !
How long would it take to get the Reports ?!
Sanjay
Haven’t you heard about the test called NEVA, i.e.,
Naked Eye Vissible aglutination Assay… 5-10 minutes
at the max !
Sanjay
Milith, before going in for the test, would you like to have
a session with an AIDS counsellor… ?!
Milith
(scared)
AIDS counsellor ?! Why ?!
Sanjay
(smiles)
Don’t panic, Mate… it’s regular practice… !
Milith
OK… what’s there ! (shrugs)
Sanjay
Wait, I’ll get you through to someone special !
Sanjay calls up Ms. Puja.
Sanjay
Ms. Puja… Dr. Sanjay here… there’s this friend of mine
Mr. Milith who wants an audience with you… OK,
ma’am… he’ll see you in a minute… Thank you !
Sanjay
(hangs up)
Tests after the session… OK! Don’t worry !
Milith nods and rises from his seat.
#64. Ms. PUJA’S ROOM - AIDS COUNSELLOR
Puja
So, what do you do for a living, Mr. Milith ?!
Milith
(nervous)
I’m a Fashion Photographer, Ms. Puja… !
Puja
That’s an exciting profession and “high-flying” if I
might add… by the way, how long have you guys been
staying together… ?!
Milith
(to himself)
Saalah Sanjay… ! (aloud) Seven months… !
Puja
If you are planning to have a baby, don’t…
Milith
No Ma’am… we haven’t tied the knot as yet… you
know she’s still pursuing her Master’s !
Puja
Oh ! A live-in relationship, huh ?!
Milith
Yeah, something like that !
Puja
May I know what kind of relationship do you have with
her… I mean do you guys share a physical relationship ?!
Milith
Haven’t come thus far, Ma’am !
Puja
I see ! So, tell me Mr. Milith, what prompted you to go
in for the NEVA test ?
Milith
I had slept with a woman… she’s an IDU as well ! A
month later, I was down with fever; had lost weight
and the appetite is gone… !
Puja
Does your partner have any idea about this ?!
Milith
She does ! She’s been taking care of me all these days !
Puja
People like her are a rarity even now… should have
brought her along for this session…
Milith
Nehal ?! But why ?!
Puja
Family counselling is just as important… everyone has a
part to play in these circumstances… it helps no end if
you have a comforting and an understanding partner…
Milith
I’m all at sea, Ma’am… could you be a little more specific !
Puja
I know Mr. Milith it’s really hard to deal with such
things, but ten years is a pretty long time… you’d
know as much as I do that even now you can freely
mingle with people; do all sorts of things, provided
you play it safe this time around… if you know
what I mean ! (smiles).
Milith
(startled)
Wait a sec, Ms. Puja… I don’t get what you are trying to
say !
Puja
All hope is not lost, Mr. Milith… a person with HIV can lead…
Milith feels stiffled and sweat starts pouring down.
Milith
(shocked)
HIV… whose got HIV ?!
Puja
One never knows… scientists could even come up with a cure
by then ! Mr. Milith, the first step towards treatment or recovery
for any illness is ‘ACCEPTANCE’. Everything falls into place
once you accept facts and condition your mind to do something
about it !
Milith
(reasoning)
Excuse me Ma’am, I think you’ve got it wrong somewhere… !
Puja
This is what happens, Mr. Milith… one tends to lose their
senses… that’s where people like us come into the picture…
Milith is stunned and looks on speechless.
Puja
Don’t consider yourself lonely, Milith… right here in Hyderabad
we organise numerous Recreational camps for our patients, this
in addition to the Counselling sessions… to help them get out
of their depression and back into the mainstream of the society.
Milith
That’s so thoughtful of you !
Puja
Do you know, around 14,000 people are infected with the
disease every day !
Milith
(to himself)
Is that intended for general consumption or as a consolation ?!
Puja
Worldwide about 30 million people have already died of
AIDS… 40 mn are living with it… out of which, according to
official estimates 8 mn of those are Indians !
Milith
Gosh… ! That’s an awful lot of people !
Puja
Mind you, these are only the reported cases ! AIDS afflicts
majority of the people in their most productive stage and
thereby has an adverse impact on the Economy of the
country, let alone the families, what with patients
being forced to quit jobs… !
Puja
… I must mention here that there are some corporate
organisations that don’t allow discrimination against
people with HIV/ AIDS…. but, they are few and far
between !
Milith
Yeah ! It’s a shame that masses, even highly educated
people for that matter can’t bring themselves to respect
a person for what s/he is… !
Puja
That’s the saddest part of it all ! Most folks despite
being aware about the modes of transmission, still have
a mental block as regards mingling with… HIV afflicted
persons ! Having said that, it’s not as bad as it used to be… !
Milith
Yeah, I completely agree with you on this count !
Puja
Keep yourself occupied… do things that please you…
things that give you a high. In short, be yourself ! In
addition to that, see if you can find some solace in
helping the needy, the underprivileged. Trust me
it works… I’ve seen it happen to umpteen
number of people !
Milith
(giving up)
OK, I will… nothing wrong in giving it a try, eh ?!
Puja
That’s much better, Mr. Milith… see my session already
has had a positive impact on you !
Milith
Rightly so ! (looks at his watch) I gotta go Ma’am,
thanks for everything ! (to himself) Eemeni Counsellor
evadu chesaadu ra bhai ?!
Puja
Mr. Milith, please get your partner along with you the
next time you come here… family counselling, too is
very important.
Milith
(fake smile)
Yes, Ma’am, definitely !
SANJAY’S ROOM
Sanjay
How was the session yaar… did you find it useful ?!
Milith
(sarcastic)
You bet it was ! Aame screw koncham loose aa ?
Sanjay
Why do you say that, Mate ?!
Milith
She was talking to me as if I had been diagnosed with
HIV… I was terrified at first, but half way through the
session, I could see the other side of it !
Sanjay
(taken aback)
That’s a surprise… she is the best that we have !
Milith
(teases)
If she is the best that you have… God save the patients
who have sessions with the other Counsellors !
Sanjay
Something’s amiss… I’ll look into it !
#65. SANJAY’S ROOM -
KNOCK KNOCK.
Ramu, the compounder gets Milith’s reports and hands them over to Sanjay.
Milith
(nervous smile)
What’s it with the reports ?!
Sanjay
(grim)
Yeah, I’m getting there. Do you inject drugs ?!
Milith
(exclaims)
Why do you ask me that Sanju ?! You know that I
don’t… !
Sanjay
Did you at any time undergo any operation or a blood
transfusion ?!
Milith
(nervous)
Nope… why ?!
Sanjay
(serious)
What kind of lifestyle to you lead, Milith… your sex-
life that is ?! Do you practice safe sex ?!
Milith
(baffled)
The last time that I had… I was totally knocked out yaar !
Now, come clean Sanju… you are driving me nuts !
Sanjay
(sad)
I don’t know how to say… you’ve tested HIV
antibody… negative ! (laughs)
Milith
(exclaims)
Arsehole… you almost killed me !
Sanjay
Hahaha… ! Should’ve seen your expression !
Milith
(curious)
… but the fever ?!
Sanjay
… neeku ontlo veedi ekkuva ayyi nattundi ?!
Milith
(relieved)
Chupp be ! (laughs) Thank God… that Counsellor…
Puja thought that I was an AIDS patient !
Sanjay
Oh, that ?! There was this namesake of yours, an IDU,
Injecting Drug User… look at the coincidence… he had
an appointment with Ms. Puja… that was the cause for
the misunderstanding… he turned up after you had left !
Know what ? He wants to meet you… Would you…
Milith
Why not ?!
Sanjay sends word for him.
Milith
Thank God, the similarities end there ! I feel sorry for him
though !
Milith ponders what might have been. Milith 2 enters the room along with his wife Prerna; greets Sanjay and Milith.
Milith 2
Good Morning, Dr. Sanjay !
Sanjay
Good Morning, Mr. Milith… please have a seat ! You
too, Ma’am !
Milith 2
Thank you, Doc. Meet my wife, Prerna !
Sanjay
Good Morning, Ms. Prerna ! Ms. Puja was telling me
that you are an exceptionally courageous person !
Prerna
Maybe, I am ! What’s courage, anyway ?! It’s about
overcoming fear, but when you love someone to the hilt…
fear, rationality, discreetion…what have you… become
inconsequential !
Sanjay
(smiles)
I’m not really qualified in that department… having
said that… it’s hard to find people like you
especially these days !
Milith 2
Couldn’t agree with you more, Doc ! She’s truly
inspirational !
Sanjay
Lucky you… ! Forgot to introduce my friend… this is
Milith… a renowned Fashion Photographer !
Milith
Good Morning, Milith (shakes hand)
Milith 2
(pleased)
Good Morning, Milith… feels strange to address
someone else… by one’s own name, eh ?! Anyway,
meet my wife, Prerna !
Prerna
(pleasant smile)
Hello !
Milith
Nice to meet you, Ms. Prerna !
Prerna
(still smiling)
Likewise ! Sope you were the one who got the scare
because of my hubby, huh ?!
Milith
Yeah ! (pause) Must confess I’d been to hell and back !
Milith 2
But for my wife, who’s so true to her name, I’d have
remained there ! (holds her hand) For no fault of her’s,
she’s having to put up with… !
Prerna
Oh, C’mon Sweetheart how many times should I tell
you… I’m staying with you as a matter of choice
and not out of compulsion… I loved you then…
I love you now and will till the end of time !
Wouldn’t want to hear anything like that from you, ever !
Milith 2
O.K. I’m sorry… bas !
Prerna holds his hand.
There’s silence in the room.
Milith 2
(smiles)
Having said that, it’s not the end of the road for me ! I
still have many more productive years ahead of me
and I, nay we (winks) shall make the best use of it !
Prerna
(smiles)
You bet !
Sanjay
That’s the way to go ! Like that attitude !
Milith 2
(prophetic)
She made it happen ! (turning to Milith) So, it was an
eye-opener, eh Milith ?!
Milith
Yeah… it was a blessing in disguise ‘cos this scare
made me realise the essence of life. Made me realise that
each moment of our lives is precious and we shouldn’t
risk it all for a moment’s pleasure or pain… whatever the
case maybe (winks).
Milith 2
Mate, there’s just one thing that I want to tell you…
… ZARA BHADRAM, it could’ve so easily
happened to you !
Milith
I would be a fool not to !
Prerna
Hey, we are getting late for the movie… don’t want to
miss the beginning !
Milith 2
(smiles)
She’s a huge fan of Shah Rukh… !
Milith thinks to himself, “so are most women, even my woman for that matter ! “What’s so special about SRK, man ?”
Milith 2
O.K, Doc… see you next week ! Catch you later, Milith !
Milith
(hugs)
Here’s my card… buzz me anytime… we shall meet up !
Milith 2
We shall… surely ! It’s a shame that there aren’t many
broad-minded people like you ! (smiles)
Prerna
So long then, Mr. Milith ! (smiles)
Milith
(smiles)
It was really a pleasure to meet you, guys ! Take care !
Milith and Prerna in chorus “yep, you too” ! (leave)
Sanjay
Milith, bata yaar… would Nehal have reacted the way
Prerna did, if you...
Milith
Shubham paluka raa… !
Sanjay
Kaadu raa… hypothetically speaking… !
Milith
Neee ayya… looks like you aren’t gonna leave me until
you hear it from me… I feel… she would have !
Sanjay
So do I ?! I firmly believe that NEVA test should be
made mandatory…for all couples prior to their
getting hitched… this way we can contain the
spread of HIV… from person to person and
more importantly…Vertical Transmission…
that is, from mother to child !
Milith
Fair enough ! I agree !
Looks at his watch.
Milith
Chalo yaar… thanks a lot ! You have no idea how
relieved I am…
Sanjay
Take care, Yaar… ! Say hi to Bhabhi from my side ! (winks)
# 66. THE STUDIO – MORNING
Milith enters the Studio in high spirits. He hums a song from the latest Hindi flick. Manisha, Gaurav and Mona look on impressed.
Gaurav and Manisha
Morning, Boss ! How do you do ?!
Milith
Morning… Thanks to your dear friend… I’m
doing great ! (winks)
Mona
Good morning, Boss ! How are you doing now ?!
Milith
Good morning, Mona ! Never felt more relieved… er…
better ! (smiles)
Gaurav
Is my hearing O.K. or am I imagining ?! Boss and a
Hindi song ?!
Manisha
(smiles)
Aaru maasalu kalasi unte… veeru vaaru… vaaru veeru
avuthaaru, remember ?!
Gaurav and Mona too break into a smile.
#67. THE FLAT – EVENING
Milith returns home, elated.
Nehal
Didn’t I tell you that it’s better to have your doubts cleared!
Milith
Yes ! Your highness !
Nehal
By the way, what did Sanjay say ! Did he prescribe any
medicines ?!
Milith
He said… I need love and not medicines ! (winks)
Nehal blushes.
Milith
(excited)
Nehal, I’m so happy (to himself; relieved) today… let’s
celebrate !
Nehal
(surprised)
… what’s the occasion ?!
Milith
Do you need an occasion to celebrate life, Honey ?!
#68. THE NECKLACE ROAD – NIGHT
Milith and Nehal spend some ‘tender moments’, in the car. Milith plays a soft number.
Nehal
(jests)
Looks like you’ve changed for the better !
Milith
If you are referring to the music… don’t read too much
into it… it’s just that it goes with the mood ! There’s a
song for every occasion, right ?!
Sweet little nothings; romantic song in the background.
FADE OUT:
THE END
