"Why shut your mind in darkness?"
"Son, open and let in awareness"
"If you are determined to succeed the world is in your hands indeed"
"Life is rigged in your favor, son"
"It's time for the spring season"
"No time to be weary, my boy"
"Youth is the time to enjoy"
"Did anyone teach a fish so tiny to swim in the vast deep sea?"
"Did anyone take lessons in the sky for the koels to confidently fly?"
"Why eclipse your heart? Son, let doubts within depart"
"Why shut your mind in darkness? Son, open and let in awareness"
"Do cottony clouds sail by paving a specific path in the sky?"
"Does the cool breeze blow only after rules are laid to follow?"
"In life's garden where might is right"
"Even if a few flowers bloom bright only those that bloom blossom in delight"
"Succeed as a flower par excellence Blossom and spread your fragrance"
"Like the stream and the sparrow flow and fly for a better tomorrow"
"Why eclipse your heart? Son, let doubts within depart"
"If you are determined to succeed the world is in your hands indeed"
"Don't sleep, for shut-eyes will miss a new dawn's glory and bliss"
"Life is in sync with your thoughts true"
"Think wise, you'll find strength anew"
"Like your mother's lap so warm, my son you have your dad's shoulder to lean on"
"Success is yours, crystal clear Don't lose hope, my dear"
"Awards and rewards will seek you as tributes to your efforts true"
"Defeat or victory not defined by boundary"
"Keep running to re-create history"
"Why shut your mind in darkness?"
"Son, open and let in awareness"
'Hey!'
'Why are you racing?'
'Show this speed in your race'
'It's an old vehicle, son'
'Hey Kathir...Kathir'
'Look in front...careful!'
KATHIIIIIIIIIIIIIR!
- Appa - 'Move...move aside'
Where is my dad?
Sir, don't worry Be calm
Come this side
Nothing is wrong with me
I'm telling you I am fine
Lift 1-2-3
Noooooo!
My leg
My leg!
- Hurts like hell - What happened?
Next month is my National Meet
Lift...lift
APPAA!
- 'Sir, nothing...please, sir' - DAD!
Lift, sister
Hey...hey!
'APPA!!'
Sir...sir
'My appa, sir'
APPA...!
'CLAP'
'Can the athletes hold their nerves?'
'Another step up in class'
'The most expected event of the games'
'400m dash is set to start'
'The players need a minimum of 46.09 to qualify for the finals'
'China'
'India'
'Russia'
'Philippines'
'Indonesia'
'Japan'
'South Korea'
'These are the countries that are a part of this heat'
'Will they be able to make it?'
'The lights are up and the energy is high'
'The look out players for the evening'
'4 times gold medalist and world record holder Xi Long, China'
'This time the young and super talented man from India'
'Vivek is set to create a new record in lane 4'
'The whole of India is waiting and watching'
'The players are set and the gun is shot'
'The tension is high and the excitement is at peak'
'Fantastic take off'
'My god! Vivek sets back letting others take the lead'
'This is a disappointing debut for the Indian'
'Poor performance and lack of energy'
'Xi Long takes a fantastic lead to maintain the first pos-'
[crowd cheering]
[loud scream of anguish]
[louder scream of pain]
Good morning, dear
'Why are you giving me rotten tomatoes?'
'Pick good ones, mind you!'
Hello, my dear new bride
Are you comfortable in our quarters?
Basic facilities may be less here
You'll get used to this in course of time, okay?
I have no problem with comfort
Must be around 11:00 p.m
'I don't know who'
'Someone was screaming like a lunatic'
'I just couldn't sleep'
That is...her husband
Has a problem with his leg
Sorry, madam
Sir, good morning
Last night, did you watch Asian Games on TV?
Our man Vivek was a damp squib as always
If he had run like he did in the Nationals he would've at least got the 4th position
But his younger sister isn't one bit like him
She will definitely bag a medal Just wait and watch
Then that Chinese-
'Babu, I asked you for masala milk?'
Sir
People here often say the sports buff in this office
...was only your father
They are not the least bit bothered if India bags a medal in the Asian games
Only concerned about not getting 'masala milk'
Plus their problem is why you got your father's job after his demise
- 'Babu?' - Coming, da!
'Whaaat?!'
Ready, sir Your masala milk
Madam, sir wants you in his cabin
Sir...?
What is this?
You come in as you please
Sir, I had some work
- That's why I was delayed - Hahn! I understand
Your husband is a handicap
'Isn't he disabled?'
You have to do all the work singlehanded
If you want, I can pitch in-
I won't be late again, thank you
Desperate scumbag!
"Asking permission from me or you"
"Does the fresh breeze blow?"
"Does the cloud shower rain asking the soil or the grain?"
"Even the moon that feeds the night shines for the world so bright"
"A moonbeam's shining light follows you day and night"
"Does the fresh breeze blow asking permission from me or you?"
"Life is never what it is as per anyone's wish list"
"What you desired, what transpired like chalk and cheese; misfired"
"A girl as tender as a flower has waltzed into your life forever"
"Even if you are sinking in melancholy she gave herself to you willingly"
"Wanting you to win once more she prayed for you as never before"
"In a garden filled with flowers bountiful among the flora she is a rose beautiful"
"Why be in solitude like this without living together in bliss?"
"Does the fresh breeze blow asking permission from me or you?"
[loud scream of agony]
Kathir sir
A newcomer has been appointed in the Accounts department
DSO sir wanted you to sign this circular
Attempting an exam for this post
...he was the only eligible candidate amongst 10 people selected on merit
Eligible!
Only him
The most unfair news
In the merit list of 10 candidates Bagyalakshmi was a participant
In the State level Junior 400 meters race held last year
...she is the State record holder, sir
I expected her to bag the gold in the National race
But she didn't participate at all
After that there was no news about her
After many weeks in some small-time newspaper
I read about the demise of that girl's father
And that was why she didn't participate in the Nationals, sir
Now she doesn't even have a job
There are many who share her fate, sir
"Like the sea ever so deep tunes and tones in a veena sleep"
"Like waves touch the shore veena yearns with desire underscore"
"When destiny rules your life why does fate single you with strife?"
"In dreams that disperse into a void why do you have a dream so varied?"
"Even when we share the same roof now"
"You are alone and I am aloof somehow"
"7 hues of the rainbow; vibgyor"
"Like a flash of lightning disappear"
Hear me out, Mithra
After Kathir and you get over this phase you may also have a daughter or son
Take my case I have a daughter
But my husband filed for a divorce and went his separate way
Everyone has ups and downs in their lives, Mithra
This too shall pass No need to worry
"Are you melody or clouds grey? Let me know either way"
"Does the fresh breeze blow asking permission from me or you?"
You'll win hands down in State level
That isn't enough
One gold in National level
Kathir sir, sign this please
Babu
Sir, did you call me?
Tell me, sir
You spoke about that girl the other day
Is it true?
Which girl?
That...junior State record holder
You said her father passed away So she couldn't participate
Yes, of course Bagyalakshmi
True, sir
The news published last year has been archived in our record room, sir
[bell ringing]
Sir, boss is calling me
Just wait till lunch break, sir
I'll get the paper cutting for you
Thank you, sir
You can find her details in this folder
'Madurai athlete bags the gold in State level'
'In the State level 'Under 19' 400m race conducted toda-'
Sir
This is a video about Bagyalakshmi
'She created a State record by finishing in 52 seconds'
That's Bagyalakshmi, sir
'Not only that'
'Bagyalakshmi will represent Tamil Nadu in the Nationa-'
Give me the phone, sir Look over there
DSO is coming
If he sees all this I'll get into trouble, sir
Give it to me Sir...sir
Sir
'Sir...? God help me!'
Sir, 1 minute
This girl's name is Bagyalakshmi
In the State level meet she ran 400 meters in 52 seconds
Only 3 seconds more than the National record
Instead of participating in the Nationals this year
- She has applied for a job - So...?
Sir, I meant that girl-
By the way who gave this to you?
- If you support her, she can- - You attend to your work
Don't tell me what to do
Useless!
You snitched on me Didn't I caution you, sir?
I want to meet that girl
What do you mean, sir?
I want to meet that girl, Babu
Do you know her address?
Sir
Bagyalakshmi's address
- Thanks, Babu - Sir, don't get me wrong for asking you
Why are we going to meet her, sir?
It isn't easy for such a young girl to achieve this record, Babu
Talent shouldn't go waste
I don't know how I can help her in my present condition
But I want to find her a good coach and get her back on track
Soooper, sir
[Islamic prayer]
'Take your position, hurry up'
Why didn't you pick my call?
Why did you come here all of a sudden?
I told my parents I want to marry you
'They didn't accept'
So I came here
Go back home, Mithra
I don't bloody deserve you
Get married to someone else
You don't get to decide that!
I fell in love with you
Am I an idiot?
I can't even look you in your eye, Mithra
It's all over
Don't say that, Kathir
I can't bear it
You will be fine
Trust me
If I can't live with you as your wife
If that's true
I will definitely die
I want you always in my life, Kathir
I'll take care of everything and fulfil the wedding formalities
Sir?
Who are you, sir? What do you want?
We've come from Chennai, sir
I'm working in SSDA as an accounts officer
We came to meet Bagyalakshmi
What is it about? You can tell me
Please call Bagyalakshmi We need to talk only with her
It's okay Tell me
I am related to her father Mookaiyah
Bagyalakshmi had applied for a job as accountant in our office
She won the State level gold last year and she's a record holder
If trained a bit more she can win the Nationals
If she takes up a job she can't achieve this
She'll be wasting her talent
So what about that?
If a professional coach trains her in Chennai, she'll perform well for sure
- If you send her with us- - What?
Send her to Chennai with you?
We won't even allow her to take up a job
We are getting her married
Anyway who are you?
Are you really representing the Govt?
Do you have an authorization letter?
- Er...no, sir - Then kindly leave
Didn't you hear what he said?
Please leave now
Random strangers walk in here and want to talk to our girl?
Send them away
Hey! We want you to leave
Reason we came all this way Please try to understand
- 'No, sir- - All of you, calm down'
Silence!
I know him very well
He was also a runner just like our Bagya
Hey PT master! She's in her late teens
Will we get her married or allow her to run a race?
You had better clear out This is our family problem
What is your problem, sir?
A girl stepping out to achieve her goal?
Don't lock up that girl's talent within 4 walls thanks to your ignorance
Besides this is Bagyalakshmi's life
To run or not is her wish
Let her come out and tell us she isn't inclined, then we will leave
Please call Bagyalaksh-
I'm telling you Are you deaf?
Sir, watch your step
Are you okay, sir?
He was just talking to you How dare you raise your hand!
Yov! Not wanting that child's talent to go waste, he came all this way
How can you do this to-
- Barbaric brutes! - Hey!
We don't want to help your girl Keep her with you-
- Listen, Babu - Sir
- Why aggravate the situation? - Sir, please keep quiet
Having travelled 500 km in search of her what do they think we'll do to their girl?
So many people who pray fervently yearning for someone to give them a hand
...end up with their hopes buried like this
Marriage it seems...! Where is that girl?
Look here, Bagyalakshmi
'Overhear our conversation and sit tight inside'
Don't come out or run any race You may wilt and wane
- Babu - Get lost, buffalo brain fellows!
- Listen - Let's go, sir
- How dare they insult you - Let's ask once
- They are uncouth beasts - 1 minute, sir
She is so lucky to get someone like you-
'I agree to come'
Hey! Bagyalakshmi, go back inside
Can't you see, we elders are handling this?
Why shouldn't she speak her mind?
Who are all of you to decide how she should lead her life?
Old lady, what are you blabbering?
Pandi's son is here as a prospective groom for her
- How can you object now? - Who is he?
Wanting to marry my granddaughter now?
When her parents were murdered where was he hiding then?
What about all of you? Where were you?
She will run
That was her parents' dream too
If anyone stands in the way
You will lose your self-respect
Old hag is ruining this girl's life instead of advising her properly
Why stand here when we have been treated with such disrespect? Let's go
[overlap of voices]
'Whatever happened here don't take it to heart, son'
I'm not strong enough to chaperone her
Trusting you totally I'm sending her with you
Take good care of her
Ma, you can trust us 100% We will look after her
Sir, somehow please ensure Bagyalakshmi runs in the Nationals, sir
If she was here, I knew they will get her married
I made her attempt all the competitive exams
- I'll take care - Thank you, sir
Bagyalakshmi
You must run fast Be brave and confident
Come back with the medal Best of luck
Okay, sir
- We'll take care of her - Thank you, sir
Bagyalakshmi
What is it, Bagya?
Nothing, sir
My deepest desire right from childhood was to run and win medals, sir
Even my father wanted to see me win the national championship
But he isn't here now
If you keep thinking of our loss you'll be stuck only with the pain
But if we make the brain accept the inevitable
A new path will unfold
[knock on door]
Bagyalakshmi, come in
Keep your bag in this room and quickly freshen up
We have to leave
I need a week off as medical leave, sir
1 week?
Why so many days?
I need to go out of town regarding treatment for my leg
Sir?
Medical leave for leg treatment
Is it for that girl?
Tell me, what do you think you can achieve?
That girl will bag the gold in the Nationals??
If trained properly
- Definitely- - Stop it, man
You think a little talent and 2 legs will get her the gold medal?
If you assume so you are a fool!
Even if I object you'll anyway go
Go
'Let me see what you can achieve'
Thank you, sir
If trained, she will win it seems
'Sir...?'
Kathir sir
Did he sanction your leave?
Yes
Are you serious?
How many times I've asked for leave to go meet a bride for myself?
He hasn't sanctioned even a single day, sir
He is the sole reason for my sad state of bachelorhood!
Ignore my life's tale of sorrow
I'll deal with him later
Here, sir
This is for you, sir
The list you wanted
Current coaches in good form
And their contact details, sir
For the past 3 years consecutively in all the National Meets
...their students have bagged all the medals
- Let's go, Bagya - Okay, sir
How can I let him go scot-free?
If he had given me just 1 day off I would have a 10 year old son
I swear I'll-
DSO, I'll get even with you
Hi, I'm Joseph
- And you? - My name is Kathir, sir
- This is Bagyalakshmi - Okay
She is the State champ last year in 400m setting a record of 52 seconds
Wait, I remember this day
So this is the girl, is it?
Very good
Tell me What should I do?
You should train her, sir
If you coach her, she'll bag the gold in the Nationals for sure
Yes, she will
Whom did you train with earlier?
Until last year, PT master in my school was training me, sir
After that?
After that, I didn't run for a whole year, sir
Whaaat?
Didn't run for a whole year?
Lactic acid level won't be under control
Stamina, speed, consistency Everything would've dropped
Very difficult to win this year We'll try next year
No, sir, she will definitely run, sir
When did you last watch her run?
I can't-
- High hopes! - Bagya, will you run now?
- Yes, sir - Sir...?
Will you watch her run once?
Now?
Without even shoes?
I can still run, sir
I can run without my shoes
Let's try just once, sir
On your mark
'Set'
53.4 seconds
Fantastic running
Ask her to join tomorrow
Thank you, sir
[mobile ringing]
- Yes, sir - 'Kathir'
'I can't train her this year We'll see next year'
Why, sir? You just agreed
Shall I meet you in person?
'No...no, it won't make a difference'
'We'll see next year, sorry'
How is it, sir, you agre-
Her name is Bagyalakshmi
Her name is Bagyalakshmi, sir
I am Kathir, sir
She won the gold medal last year in the State Meet
If trained this year I believe she will win the National
That's why I brought her here
Did you meet Joseph sir a while ago?
- Yes, sir - He must have refused to coach her?
I can't train that girl either
I shouldn't
- Why not, sir? - No means no
We've been informed We can't train her
Who told you?
I'm not at liberty to tell you
First take the girl and leave
By the way, that girl
- Which caste does she belong to? - 'Athlete' caste
One who runs and wins!
That caste is not in demand here
- You can leave - Come, Bagya
If you can train her-
No need
Let's go
- Sir? - Didn't you hear me?
Let's go
Sorry, Kathir
I have got-
I can't train her
I don't know why all of you are refusing to coach her
But I know this for sure
After she wins the gold, realizing you didn't contribute to her victory
I swear you'll regret it
What happened, sir?
Nothing, go and freshen up
We can have dinner
'Kathir, you do as you please I am going back to my mother'
Didn't she push aside her own parents choosing a nobody over us?
Why is she back now bag and baggage?
Ask her
Look here, ma
Dad is losing his temper without reason
I came to stay here for a while
My situation is such
If he doesn't want me to stay ask him to be upfront
I'll go and stay in some hostel
- Mithra - Akka, please wait
Dad, why are you reacting like this?
Then what, son?
The anguish I went through unable to see my daughter for 6 years
Only I know that pain
At least once
Did she visit us?
Alright
If a grandchild had been born
Using that as an excuse
We thought we could go and meet her
Even that wish of ours
Anger
I just spoke in a fit of emotion
What does she want now? I shouldn't speak a word, right?
You can stay here as long as you want
'I won't say a word hereafter'
'Okay?'
When will your wife be back, sir?
She has gone
...to attend a function at her parents' place
She will be back after a few days
Eat
[loud scream of intense pain]
Sir, what happened?
Mirror box
Come soon
- I can't find it here, sir - Look behind, Bagya
Keep it here
On this table
On top, here
Don't be scared
I'm alright
I'm fine
Why does this happen, sir?
Phantom Limb pain
It's called PLP
The amputated leg will hurt like hell
I don't understand, sir
Suppose
When a limb is lost unexpectedly
Our brain doesn't accept the loss easily
Our brain will try to make the missing leg or hand move
At that time, pain will shoot up the missing limb
That pain seems real
That shooting pain occurs
Every time I feel terrible I can't achieve what I want to
If the mirror box is placed over the amputated leg
This leg's reflection will send a signal
To the brain
An illusion as if it wasn't amputated
Only then the pain will slowly recede
The pain of this loss
For some people will recede in some weeks or a few months
But for me
This pain has stuck to me like second skin!
Bagya
Go to bed
- Go, sleep - No, sir
I'll stay here, just in case the pain occurs again
'Don't worry'
I'm alright
Go to bed
Hey! 2 minutes
Why do you keep looking at me like that?
You are very beautiful
So?
- I love you! - Hahn?!
You can take 1 minute
But accept my love
What if I don't accept in 1 minute?
Take 1 more minute
If I don't accept even then?
Marry me and take your time lifelong to think about it
But accept
Hey Hockey, why walk away without saying anything?
Seriously Let me wait and watch
How long you'll run around me!
Sir, not a single coach accepted to train her?
- No, Babu - Pccht!
Forget it, sir, there are so many other reputed coaches
We can try askin-
You should have come with us yesterday, Babu
Then you would've understood I don't think we'll find a coach for Bagya
Sir, we could ask my PT master to come here and train-
- Bagyalakshmi, you don't underst- - Babu
You've come this far thanks to your PT master's training, Bagyalakshmi
National training pattern is different
Only those who know in and out of Athletics can coach you
As far as I know
Only 1 coach left for us to meet
Who is that, sir?
My coach Prabhakaran
Prabha- Sir...soooper, sir
But he doesn't train anyone these days
'Good shot Very good'
'Pass...pass Hey! Look down'
Go for defense
Defense...defense
Play defense...go
Ranjith, pass the ball
Very good
Go defend
Aim below
Pass the ball, da
How are you, Kathir?
I'm good, sir
Is this the Bagyalakshmi you are taking all over the town?
No one is willing to coach her
It would be great if you can train her
I can't, Kathir
Ages since I stopped coaching for Athletics
I've even forgotten it
Hey! Why are you standing there?
Play defense Buffalo!
How can you of all people say this, sir?
When you lost your leg didn't you lead a secluded life?
Why start this now?
First send this girl back to her village
- No one will coach her here - No need to train her, sir
But may I know the reason?
You have this habit of taking everything at face value?
Aren't you working in SSDA?
Who do you think the new SAA president is?
Venkatraman sir
'You saw his car the other day at our office'
He is your opponent Vivek Venkatraman's father
Even when he didn't hold a post he hated your skill and spunk
Today he is the President of SAA
Whatever you intend doing won't he put a spoke in the wheel?
'Bagyalakshmi is a drug addict'
'If anyone disobeys me and coaches her you will face the consequences'
He called all the coaches including me and threatened us
All because he hates you
'Even if she had come by herself someone would have trained her'
Bagyalakshmi
Holding such a high position you stooped so low
- Aren't you ashamed of yourself? - Kathir!
DSO sir
Will you leave us-
No, sir
Didn't you hear me?
What did you ask?
I asked, 'aren't you ashamed?'
Why do you want to ruin Bagyalakshmi's career?
You grabbed my shirt and insulted me in front of everyone
Do you think I'll forget it so easily?
If I let you and the people connected with you climb up the ladder
What is the guarantee, the hand that grabbed my shirt won't strangle me?
Not a single coach will come forward to train that girl
Hey! Come out
You heard me? Come out
Take whatever action you want
You got a problem with me it is only between you and me
Why drag that girl-
'I said, come out'
Get up Drag him out
Don't hit him
Please don't, brother
Don't hit him
Please stop hitting him
Please...please Don't hit him
Don't hit him, please Sir, stop them
Enough, stop it
- Don't hit - THAT'S ENOUGH
Poor fellow!
He'll create unnecessary sympathy claiming we hit a man with a disability!
DSO sir
Inform Kathir he has been suspended
- Sir...? - Tell him, sir
Sir, didn't I offer to accompany you?
You refused to take me in case it boomerangs on me
Didn't our DSO stop this either?
Cha!
What happened, Bagyalakshmi?
I'm going back to my village, sir
What are you saying?
Why did they hit you, sir?
What did we ask them to deserve this treatment?
Everything is drastically wrong here, sir
It is all because of me
I'll go back home, sir
What is this, Babu?
- Explai- - Let her go, sir
Go and get married, dear
No one respects real talent here Only authority and power get priority
Till our last breath, we must watch someone else win the race
That is our blessed fate
That's the unwritten law for us
'How much more can we struggle?'
[quiet sobs]
Check the train timings, Babu
Sorry, sir
Cha...cha!
I should be the one to apologize to you
Like my coach Prabhakar sir said
If you had come by yourself you could've found a coach
Okay
Go home safe
I've informed your PT master
He will pick you up from the station
Side...side
Ba...Babu
[loud scream of angst]
Sir...sir? What happened, sir?
Drink some water, sir
What happened, sir? I don't understand
Where does it hurt?
What is causing this pain?
Unless you tell me how can I help?
Sir...sir, shall we take you to a hospital?
Get up, sir
Tell me, sir
Where does it hurt, sir?
Tell me, so I can help
Sir...please tell me Let me help you
Mirror?
Someone has a mirror?
- I want a mirror - Come, sir
Get up, sir
If we think of what we have lost only the pain will remain
If we send a signal to the brain to make it accept the loss, problem solved
Didn't you tell me, sir?
To make your brain understand the truth that your leg has been amputated
I couldn't think of any other way, sir
That's why I hit you, sir
Has your pain lessened now, sir?
I'll take leave, sir
'Will we get her married or allow her to run a race?'
'Don't lock up that girl's talent thanks to your ignorance'
'I can't train her this year'
'I can't train her either I shouldn't do so'
'Sorry, Kathir I can't train her'
'All because of you'
'Even if she had come by herself someone would have trained her'
'Not a single coach will come forward to train that girl'
'Only those who know in and out of Athletics can coach you'
Bagya!
1 minute
'I am there, sir'
I will coach Bagylakshmi
You might have forgotten to coach an athlete
But all I remember
...is only that
Sir
I need your 'CLAP'!
Sir, good morning
'State Meet Under 19' date has been announced, sir
Let go...it's okay
Let go of me, Babu
Continue practicing
You seem to be really stressed out
Instead of finding out who she is and why she is here
If you imagine all sorts of things and get worked up like this
Shouldn't you find out more details?
Babu, take her for registration
- When is our event? - As usual, sir
3rd event in Girls category
Due to surplus of registrations Heats in the morning
- Finals is post lunch - You both go
- I'll wait in the parking lot - Okay, sir
- Which event? - 400m
'Stand in this line'
'Next'
Which event?
Next?
Which event?
400 meters
Go
- Who are you? - I am her coach, sir
- Next - Ah! Next
I want her to participate in Nationals, Internationals, up to Olympics
Next
Oh! You are the 'next', huh?
I thought 'our next'
Kathir sir?
Babu?
Registration done? No problem I hope?
All okay, sir
With me there what do you expect?
'Next event 400m Girls Heats'
That's for you
- Hurry up - 'Participants to assemble at the track'
Babu, go with her
- I'll be at gate #3 - Okay, sir
Pccht!
What is all this?
Best of luck
- Come - 1 minute
Get the 2nd place That's enough
- Sir - Go, Babu
All the best Do a great job
Go
Stand up please
On your mark
Set
Sorry
What a performance, sir
Sir, why did you ask me to be the runner-up?
Even I had the same doubt, sir
You'll be identified easily if you are 1st in this Heats
What if they stop you from participating in the Finals?
- 'Girls 2nd Heats' - Valid point
'Athletes, assemble'
Watch them run in this Heats
'Venkatraman sir will be coming Have you arranged everything?'
1 minute
Hello, excuse me
Hello...Bagyalakshmi?
Hello? Bagyalakshmi?
He...hello
Bagyalakshmi
Resembled Bagyalakshmi
Sir?
What happened, Durga? I was going to the restroom
DSO saw me and started following me, sir
- I got scared and rushed back - Okay
Don't get flustered, sit down
Don't let anyone see you till the finals
- Sit - Babu
- Water bottle, Babu - I forgot, I'll get it now
Here
Eat
Okay, sir We can do it
You know Mr Singh
Yes, DSO sir
- Everything going smooth? - 'Sir, I saw a girl ditto Bagyalakshmi'
Whaaat?
Just a minute
Did you see properly?
'Yes, sir, she seemed to resemble Bagyalakshmi'
'I have asked my man to check the list'
Check and tell me now
I'll wait on the line
- Check fast and tell me - 1 minute, sir
Sir, no it seems
Sir, her name isn't listed
'But I have my doubts it is her, sir'
Why are you confusing me?
Anyway check once again and confirm
I'll try to come there at the earliest
'Okay, sir'
- Let's go and check directly - Okay, sir
What happened?
Why are they hell bent on chasing us, sir?
They think that will scare us and we will withdraw
Many athletes have won here despite such egoistic power maniacs
Those who chase you can only see your image in front
But only you, running ahead will see the goal in front of you
Run to win
Run faster by digging your heels with more speed and focus
We'll win
'Next event 400m Girls' Finals'
- 'All athletes, come to the track' - Wait for the final call, sit down
- Sir, I'll go tackle DSO - Go
'Final call for 400m Girls Finals'
Go
'Athletes, final call for girls, 400 meters'
- Fast...fast - 'All come to the track'
Final call has been announced for the 400m Girls Finals, sir
Track #3 Durga absent
Track # 3 Durga, present
Stand up please
'On your mark'
Hey! Open
Hey stop!
Stop
Shit!
- Hello? - Sir, I was right
She's in track #3 in the name of Durga
Changing her name is a forgery case
Stop it at once
- Sir? - I said, stop immediately
Okay, sir
Set
[cheering]
Okay, I'll announce
Under 19 Girls 400 meters event
In 51.9 seconds
Durga has created a State record
Congratulations, Durga
Record holder in State level How do you feel being the winner?
Reason behind my success is my coach Kathir sir
'Hello...hello'
No...no...no
This girl's name isn't Durga
Her real name is Bagyalakshmi
She should be disqualified for registering under a false name
No, sir, my name is Durga
My name has been changed in the gazette, I even have proof
- Where is the proof? - Sir?
Name change certificate
'Sir, hold the form steadily'
'Zoom the camera'
Durga
[mobile ringing]
- Hello? - 'Mithra, did you watch the News on TV?'
No, what happened?
Didn't you say your husband brought a girl home?
'Is that girl's name Bagyalakshmi?'
Yes, why?
Super! She has won the gold medal in today's Under 20 Athletics State Meet
'Your husband has trained her'
Oh! Is that so?
Congrats, watch the News I'll talk to you later
'Name change certificate'
'Did Kathir produce a fake certificate?'
Sorry, sir
I tried my best to stop her
But I failed
She entered the track by cleverly deceiving us with the name change
Clever move, huh?
Great
Sir
PT sir watched the News it seems
He called to congratulate me
What is the matter, sir?
Nothing
You go to bed
May I help you, sir?
She needs a pair of good running shoes
Show me spikes
- Mani - Hey hi!
Sir, Mani and I were classmates till 10th grade, sir
- Hello, sir - He is really popular in Facebook, sir
Nothing like that, sir
I upload videos now and then I have some followers, that's all
I watched you on TV, sir I couldn't place you all of a sudden
I watched Bagyalakshmi set a new record too
I am so happy for her, sir
But you changed your name to Durga and-
Pcccht! That's a long story
What are you doing here?
I study in the college nearby and work part time here
Super, Mani
Sir, you asked for shoes, right?
Spikes, Mani
This is a new model, sir
Really durable also
Take whichever one you like
- Show it to her - Okay, sir
Come this way
'My son'
Shoes carry you like a chariot carries God
It lifts you when you run
Don't worry about the money
Buy what you like most
'Sir...?'
This shoe fits well
But the cost is a bit too hig-
- Doesn't matter, take it - Thanks, sir
Bro, bill it in my name
Under staff discount
Rs 6500, sir
[mobile ringing]
Hello?
Yes, Babu
'Our Durga's name is missing in the National list, sir'
- What are you saying? - 'Yes, sir'
- Did you check properly? - 'I did, sir'
'Her name isn't listed, go to the Association office at once'
Sir, you aren't allowed inside Press Meet is in progress
Soon we will be declaring the-
What is going on here, sir?
This girl who bagged the gold in State isn't in the National list
- What are you rejoicing in this meeting? - Excuse me
You've barged into our Press Meet
Who are you?
Who is he? Why is he shouting?
Sir, Bagyalakshmi matter
Oh!
Confused regarding that girl's name
...didn't we send a notice asking her to come in for verification?
'Instead of coming in then why are you creating a ruckus now?'
What notice?
Whom did you send to and when?
Making excuses to the Press, huh?
Look here, sir, we don't have to make excuses and manage anything of that sort
Even in the State Meet
You are aware of the confusion and problems we had to face regarding her name
Giving her a chance to clarify
...we sent notice twice to the address furnished by her
'But there was no response'
We have the postal acknowledgment also
You can check if you want to
So will you delete her name if we don't respond?
Sir, we have a deadline to send IAA the final list of athletes for Nationals
We waited till the last minute
After that, we had to proceed
Sir, didn't he show the proof to media right then?
Even if there was a confusion in the name what is your problem in a name change?
How can you say that so flippantly?
Just suppose an athlete failed the dope test
What is the guarantee he won't participate in the next Meet under a different name?
We face 1000s of problems like this, sir
Not 1000 problems, sir
Their only problem is this girl participating in the National
If they were truly concerned, they would've somehow included her name in the list
Listen
This association does not operate for you alone
Moreover this is connected to our State's reputation
We cannot take any risk and we have to go by the rules
'It's very simple'
If you hadn't created a confusion with name change
It wouldn't have come this far
Ask him to get out
Hey! Clear out
Come, Durga
Sorry for that
Sir
Did you go and check?
Have they really sent a letter?
'No, your grandma didn't get any notice'
'But they took her thumbprint claiming she will receive it!'
'Any problem, dear?'
They have tricked us, sir
- Hello, Babu? - 'Tell me, sir'
'What happened?'
Using the change of name as an excuse in the Press Meet
They have played it real smart
Durga can't participate in the Nationals
'Bagyalakshmi not listed in the 400m Girls' National Meet'
Is SAA President Venkatraman's accusation true?
'Result of the Dope test?'
'Is name change the reason for excluding Bagyalakshmi?'
Don't get tense, sir We'll look at other options
Did you both eat?
Let me make some tea for you
Sir, cardamom tea
Please drink, sir
Should I tell you specially?
Drink it up, dear
[pounding on door]
I'll get it
Sir, can I meet Mr Kathir?
- You are...? - My name is Ramanujam
Sports journalist in Times of India
Oh! Please come in, sir
Please come
Sir, he is from Times Of India
I'm Kathir, sir
Hello...hi
- And she is Durga, right? - Yes, sir
Please sit
Would you like some tea?
- Babu? - No, I'm good
I am Ramanujam
Tell me, sir
I was at SAA office this morning I was a witness to what transpired
'I even made my enquiries about you'
I felt you may need my assistance
So I came to meet you
Changing Bagyalakshmi's name to Durga and making her participate in the State Meet
Smart move indeed
But after that you took it easy and relaxed
You assumed Venkatraman can't do anything
But he used the same smart move
'And deleted her name from the list'
But without delivering the letter
...they have cleverly taken her grandma's thumbprint, sir
We can't prove much even if that point is in our favor
Then what else can we do, sir?
Our people are media driven, sir
Even the truth, people believe only if it makes the headlines
Super, sir
What if we expose their fraud as headlines in the papers?
We can do that, but I don't know how effective that will be
If it is cricket, even if it is a scratch that will cover half the page
But this is Athletics
News content has to be interesting
Otherwise it will vanish into thin air
If Durga had participated in the Nationals you would have got the News you wanted
But they have made it impossible
'What more can we do now?'
I got an idea
Senior State Meet
Sir, Senior State Meet means
Athletes who have already participated in the Nationals
And those who have won are only qualified to participate, sir
Maximum age limit is 35 years, sir
No chance our girl can win in such a race filled with experts, sir
I came here to run, sir
I will run
Register her name, Babu
This IS News indeed!
"Onto the wings of the wind"
"Climb determined"
"8 directions of unrivalled glory"
"Hoist your flag of victory"
"Life by far"
"Battlefield to wage a war"
"Rebel & revolt; emerge as the star"
"Let the world mark your forehead with vermilion's victory crimson red"
"You should cross defeat and victory Stand unrivalled creating history"
"You should succeed Just you, yourself indeed"
"All challenges & confrontations erupt behind trials and tribulations"
"Handle the hurdles on the way Success is yours come what may"
"You need faith in your heart daily to hold the trophy victoriously"
"If you give up your goal and wilt discipline won't become a habit"
"Onto the wings of the wind"
"Climb determined"
"8 directions of unsurpassed glory"
"Hoist your flag of victory"
"Life by far"
"Battlefield to wage a war"
"Rebel & revolt; emerge as the star"
These are the 3 participants in the Open Seniors State Meet
Anugraha, Keerthi
And Swetha, my daughter
Sir, they have represented India in International level
Besides that, your daughter Swetha is a national record holder in the 400m race
- Why should she run in this small event? - She has to!
Isn't he bringing her on the track with media support?
We will defeat him in the same track
Bloody
Okay, in this State Meet, only the first 2 positions are important
Only they are eligible for an entry into the Nationals
My daughter Swetha will definitely be first
I have no doubts about that
For the 2nd position
...that girl can come as Durga or as Bagyalakshmi
Poor thing!
She'll disappear without a trace
Start the registration at once
"If a speed energizes in you anew Adrenalin rush head to feet in you"
"Won't mountains that hinder your progress decrease as molehills and dust particles?"
"If strength in excess in your heart you possess"
"Won't victory's crown and halo adorn your head today or tomorrow?"
"Victory in any which way won't take rest any day"
"Youth has no ifs and buts here"
"In our dictionary 'cannot' won't feature"
"On the wings of the wind"
"Climb determined"
"8 directions of unsurpassed glory"
"Hoist your flag of victory"
"Life by far"
"Battlefield to wage a war"
"Rebel & revolt; emerge as the star"
"Let the world mark your forehead with vermilion's victory crimson red"
"You should cross defeat and victory Stand unrivalled creating history"
"You should succeed Just you, yourself indeed"
"All challenges & confrontations erupt behind trials and tribulations"
"Handle the hurdles on the way Success is yours come what may"
"You need faith in your heart daily to hold the trophy victoriously"
"If you give up your goal and wilt discipline won't become a habit"
"All challenges & confrontations erupt behind trials and tribulations"
"Handle the hurdles on the way Success is yours come what may"
"You need faith in your heart daily to hold the trophy victoriously"
"If you give up your goal and wilt discipline won't become a habit"
"On the wings of the wind"
'For our 34th Athletics Senior State Meet'
'We extend a hearty welcome to everyone'
'Following 400m Men's event'
'400m Women's Event is about to commence'
So we request all the athletes to come and wait near the track
Go
- All the best - Perform well, dear
All the best, go
On your mark
Set
Come on
No!
In the 400m Girls' Finals
We have a tie between the girls in tracks 3, 4 and 5
So the winner is being checked through Photo Finish
Result will be announced shortly
If that President tries his dirty tricks here
I'll show my nasty side, sir
No, Babu
No one can tamper with Photo Finish
Finish line photo has to be produced when the result is announced
Okay
400 meters Women Final results
1st place Swetha Venkatraman
She sets a new National record of 50.3 seconds
In a difference of merely 30 milliseconds
2nd place is bagged by Durga M
Only these 2 participants qualify for the upcoming Nationals
'Congratulations, winners'
Come...come, let me shake your hand, sooooper!
Change your dress Let's go home
Let's go, dear Come, sir
'State level Girls 400m event was held in Chennai today'
'SAA president, Mr Venkatraman-'
Hello, Bagya
Well done! Congratulations
- I saw the News now - Thanks, sir
'Our entire village is watching only your News'
Whichever channel we tune into
'We hear only your name, Bagya'
1 minute, dear Grandma wants to talk to you
Grandma, talk
- Bagyam - Grandma
'Be brave, my dear'
You will definitely win, dear
Your parents will always bless you from above
Right?
Talk to her without crying
Don't cry, grandma
My sir takes very good care of me
Give it to me
Your grandma is bound to get emotional
Practice with utmost diligence And bag the gold medal, okay?
- 'I will disconnect now' - Okay, sir, thank you
Durga
Do you know when we lose in life?
The moment we lose faith in our own talent
That fleeting second
We lose
The day you lose your confidence and look back, not running ahead
From that day on, you can't take a step forward
That's the same reason you receded to 2nd position when you were leading
Sorry, sir
Durga, Keep this firmly in your mind
You are not competing with human beings
But with Time
Come, let's eat
What happened, sir?
That girl
She's another Kathir
Let it be, sir But our girl won, right?
It was a close call
Just 30 milliseconds
Can't let it go so easily
Thank you
Thank you for coming
Congratulations to Swetha
- And...? - Durga
Durga!
For getting into Nationals
And special congratulations to Swetha
My daughter
Any-
Sir, how will the State Govt support both these winners?
The State Govt is fully supporting us
As soon as he heard this News
Sports minister personally called me and wished
Sir, in any State Meet held in India this year
In 400m race, no one else has achieved Swetha and Durga's record so far
One of them will definitely bag the gold medal in the National Meet
But Swetha has beaten Durga by only a few milliseconds
So do you think Swetha will bag the gold in the Nationals or otherwise-?
Uh...sit down
Swetha is not only talented
But a properly trained athlete
'This wasn't her best performance'
She will use her full potential
She will definitely win the gold in the Nationals
Are you hinting Durga has no chance of bagging the gold?
No...no, no I didn't say that
I know Swetha and I have been coaching her from her childhood
She has also completed an advance training course in Pune
But-
Durga's coach
Someone
He is some new coach
What do you mean by 'new coach', sir?
Few years back
Have you forgotten your son Vivek lost to Mr Kathir in the State event?
May be so
But there's no assurance a runner can be a successful coach
True, sir
A 19 year old girl, by winning the State Seniors Meet
...has been selected for the Nationals
Not only that, like she said the difference is negligible
Just 30 milliseconds Swetha has beaten Durga
One who brought that girl to this level isn't a 'good' coach apparently!
Mr Ramanujam
You shouldn't be defending that side
May be because you are on the wrong side
...you don't get what I'm saying
Don't make me your headlines!
I support only the side with talent, Mr Venkatraman
Okay, I've arranged breakfast for all of you
Thank you
'On your mark'
Set
Whose saliva is he nourishing on to be beefed up like this?
Hey girl! Come and watch the next race without fail
I will be the winner
You can kiss me
After that kiss him
Then this fellow, you can go on a kissing spree
By the way
If a single race makes you kiss him
What is the gift for a championship?
Smash-
Beat him to a pulp!
Die...you deserve to die
How dare you ask for kisses?!
Dai!
Hey! Let go of him
Kathir, stop it
Did you come here to fight? Let go of him...let go
'Kathir...Kathir'
'Come away'
Leave me, I say
Sir
Kathir
What is it?
What is your problem?
What is your problem with me, sir?
Your progress is my problem
I did all this to hinder your progress
You've risen above your crisis and brought some village bumpkin here
And making her compete with my daughter
Bloody
I am not the reason she's here as your daughter's rival
Besides that, sir
Don't we have the right to participate?
Shouldn't we win?
Did we say 'Move aside, only we have the right to run?'
We are saying 'Permit us to participate too'
'Don't you have the heart to accept even that?'
You can hinder us all you want
Durga will run and she will win
She will win, hmmm?
Listen
6 years ago you defeated my son in a Seniors Meet
Do you remember?
That was also the day you won for the last time in your life
Hey!
Why are you looking at me accusingly?
Implying as if I conspired and orchestrated that accident for you?
No...no...no
I am in no way connected to that accident whatsoever
But
But using the incident, greasing the palm of that doctor to have your leg amputated
...was by yours truly!
'I knew you would win if you got back on your feet'
So I used the situation to my advantage
Amputated your leg that could have been saved
Just by crushing the talented you cannot taste success
Your son lost, didn't he?
Even if we lose, let it be our stepping stone to success!
Using your accident in my favor I rewrote your destiny
Won't I know to fabricate another accident now?
I'm hoping you won't play with the life of a young girl
'Mr Venkatraman'
1 minute
You are the sole reason I lost my leg 6 years ago
You are the only reason too I'm standing before you now
If someone had come forward to coach Bagyalakshmi
I wouldn't have come this far
You had my leg amputated because you were scared I'll win
I'm minus a leg today
But still I will oppose you
With Durga's talent I will definitely ensure your daughter loses
Do whatever is in your power, da
Gutless son of a gun!
You-
[flurry of voices]
Let me tell you before you bombard me with questions
Whatever News you read is false, fabricated information
'I don't know why they hold this kind of enmity against me'
'I won't stop anyone's progress Neither have I ever stooped so low'
'Because I'm a coach myself, thank you'
1 minute
We heard all the coaches were warned not to train Durga
These calls were made from your office it seems
Do you have any proof?
Can you show any proof those calls were made from my office?
That's all fine, sir But why rough up Mr Kathir?
Tell us, sir
No...he came to my office and asked me
'Sir, your daughter is already an international runner'
'If your daughter should not participate in this Meet'
'Where should I send Durga to curry favors?' he asked
So as a father I lost my coo-
But what is the need for him to stoop so low?
You shouldn't ask that question to me
Ask Mr Kathir
Sir, 1 minute Another question-
'Is the accusation flung by Mr Venkatraman at coach Kathir true?'
'If it is true why would Mr Kathir behave in this disgraceful manner?'
'What will Mr Kathir's answer be to all these questions?'
'For News One'
'With camera man Lokesh, signing off Anu'
[loud knock]
What happened? Were you sleeping?
Nothing, sir Feeling a bit tired
Have dinner and go to bed early
[alarm ringing]
- Hello? - Tell me, Mr Kathir
- Durga is missing, sir - What?
She must have watched the News on TV
Okay, don't get tense
I'll request my friends in the police force
'...to look for her unofficially You continue your search'
What brings you here so early? Want to buy something?
Did Durga- Did Bagya call you?
No, sir
She is missing from yesterday
That's why
She wouldn't have gone anywhere If you want, shall I take off?
No, it's okay
- Let me know if she contacts you - Okay, sir
Let's go
She isn't here, sir
No one is here, sir
Okay, sir
No trace of her it seems, sir
Look for her tonight
Ramanujam sir asked us to file an official complaint if we don't find her
[mobile ringing]
Who is this?
- Hello? - 'Hello, Babu anna?'
Who is it?
'I am Mithra speaking'
- Tell me, madam - You said Mani is that girl's friend
'Did you ask him?'
We asked him in person first thing this morning
He said he doesn't know either
'Then after that, did he call you by any chance?'
Somehow I have a strong doubt that girl is in his house
'She doesn't know anyone else other than him in Chennai'
'Shall we go and check in person, anna?'
Come
- Is Durga inside? - No, sir
Don't lie to me
It's just me
Anna, he's lying
I know she is inside
- She isn't here, sir - Hey!
Move aside Go in and check, ma'am
Then who is this? I'll kick you
Are you even aware of what you are doing?
I don't know what else to do, sister
Sir is a wonderful person
Everyone is saying all sorts of awful things about him
I agree they are random strangers
But even you didn't understand him
You walked out on him suspicious of his activities
I know everything, akka
I read the note you left behind
Compared to the dignity of the man who has my best interests at heart
Participating in this race or winning is of no consequence, akka
It matters to me
Your win matters the world to me
Whose image are you trying to protect?
One who has lost his leg and who struggles to stand
One who turns a deaf ear to rude remarks ever so calmly
Kathir's image?
Have you seen him participate in a race?
Have you watched him win?
'I didn't know that day'
He will be involved in such a major accident
'That life will give me such a nasty blow'
'Kathir who lost his father'
'He lost his leg too and stood all alone'
'But I didn't let go of his hand'
I literally forced him to marry me
But the inferiority complex within him of not being able to achieve his goal
...made us drift apart
At first he was talking to me at least bare necessities
Past 4 years even those few words dwindled to total silence
But one day he spoke to me
Next day, after he brought you home
Through you, I felt he will achieve something worthwhile
I decided I should not be
...a hindrance to his success in any which way whatsoever
I penned a note and left him
The real meaning of what I wrote was
'You do as you please' means follow your heart
I'll be 'safe' in my parents' home
Kathir understood my message
All you have to understand
...is only this
The finish line his own feet couldn't touch as winner
He wants to cross through you
Once they amputated his leg
And made sure he didn't win
Don't make him lose again now by not participating in the race
You are the leg he lost!
Please run
'Next event will be Women's 400 meters'
'Participants, assemble near the track immediately'
You said she won't come?
Track #01 Divya Mehta
Track #02 Anjali Kaur
Track #03 Durga M
Track #04 Swetha Venkatraman
'Track # 05'
Bagyalakshmi akka!
Stand up please
On your mark
'Set'
'49.09 seconds'
'Breaking the previous National record of'
'50.03 seconds by Swetha Venkatraman'
'This is such a proud moment for all of us'
'Congratulations, Durga'
Soooper!
'Carry her, lift'
'First lift our girl'
'Very, very enjoyable race'
Mithra
Babu, can you bring those pending account files?
- Why have you returned to your seat? - Why?
Yesterday was the National Meet So I got back to my office routine
Oh! You dont know, right?
My suspension ordered by DSO was cancelled
I'm glad, sir, but Durga and I were planning to come and meet you at home, sir
- Is Durga here? - Yes, sir
- Where is she? - Come, dear
Why are you standing there, Durga?
Come here
Why did you leave me half way through yesterday, sir?
Who...me?
I watched you win the race
Even if I had participated, I doubt if I would have won the way you did
I did not desert you, Durya
Now the whole of India
...is with you
- Babu, book her ticket back home - Definitely, sir
Sir, vanakkam
What is this, Kathir?
Why are you sitting here?
Why is everyone asking me the same question?
The goal I wanted to achieve Durga accomplished it with aplomb
She made me win big time
My dream has come true, sir
My amputated leg
Will never pain again
Oho!
Requests from States all over India to assign you as their coach
Printouts
The day you believed your success is your student's victory
You turned into a full-fledged coach
Don't add a fullstop here, Kathir
One Durga is not enough for our nation
subtitled by rekhs