Simanaheen Together, Forever

Screenplay by Rahsaan Islam Ria Mahtab Jinat Ahmed

Copyright © 2011 Ziryab Society Entertainment. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. COPYRIGHT ©2014 ZIRYAB SOCIETY ENTERTAINMENT. NO PORTION OF THIS SCRIPT MAY BE PERFORMED, PUBLISHED, REPRODUCED, SOLD OR DISTRIBUTED BY ANY MEANS, OR QUOTED OR PUBLISHED IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING ANY WEB SITE, WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT OF ZIRYAB SOCIETY ENTERTAINMENT. DISPOSAL OF THIS SCRIPT COPY DOES NOT ALTER ANY OF THE RESTRICTIONS SET FORTH ABOVE.

1

INT. ZAMINDARI HOUSEHOLD – DAY (1947) Classical dance music and sound of gungroo with dance steps fill the air. Camera shows a piano, white lace curtains flowing with wind, old style furnitures. The silhouette of two women - one sitting on floor doing dance ‘taals’ (shot is sideways), other younger girl we see dancing to the taals of her Guruji (Amar’s Sister).

Cut to: Hallway, marble hallway, we see male feet, walking, we only see the steps he taking (from top, above should). The male figure is walking toward a door. He matches the gungroo sound with whistles.

Cut to: Dance finishes. Guruji (Amar’s Sister) gets up and excuses herself for the day.

Cut to: He opens the glass French doors, sees the girl (still whistling). Girl turns her head (first time her face is shown). She walks over to her belongings.

AMAR What? Dance lesson is over? Ki? Naach shekha shesh?

SURAIYA Are you not embarrased to watch women dancing? Apnar lajja korey na, meyder naach dekhtey?

AMAR Are you not embarrased to secretly learn dancing? Listen, your dance is quite nice. Just like the women of my dreams. Apnar lajja korey na, lukiye lukiye naach shikhtey? Shonun, apnar naach khub bhalo. Amar mon-er manushir moton.

2

SURAIYA

(laughs) Really? She must be very disappointed Tai? Shay to eta shuney onek dukho pabey.

Suraiya puts on her black shawl, covering her head. Amar laughs off her comment, noticing Suraiya is actually a Muslim.

SURAIYA

I hope you meet her one day. Asha kori apnar tar shathey ek din dekha hobe.

AMAR Maybe I already have. Hoytoba dekha hoi gechey.

SURAIYA Maybe. Hoyto.

AMAR Maybe it’s you. Hoyto (pause) Apni ee shei…

SURAIYA (interrupting and laughing) Me? No. You don’t even know my name. Ami? Kintu apne to amar namtai janen na.

AMAR (mockingly laughs) What? We don’t fall in love with names; we fall in love with people. Taate ki? Amra to naam ke bhalobashi na, amra manush ke bhalobashi.

3

SURAIYA Wow, I see you can speak to women very well. Bah, meyeder saathe to khub guchiye kotha bolte paren?

AMAR

(laughs) Not women…only with one woman. Meyeder saathe na.. sudhu ekti meyer saathe (pause, smiling and hinting) Jodi tar khoj pai

SURAIYA

No one said it was easy to find love. Ke-o to boley nai prem khuje powa shohoj.

Suraiya begins to leave but Amar calls for her attention. She turns her head.

AMAR Oy! It’s not safe for Muslims to be in this area these days… Shunun! Aaj kal ei eleka-ta musulman-der jonno nirapod noi…

Suraiya stares blankly at Amar while he approaches her.

AMAR Especially for an innocent girl like you...Don’t be scared. Apnar moto mey-der ikhaney eka asha uchit na...Bhoy paben na.

SURAIYA

(defiantly) What makes you think I’m scared? Amar bhoy lagchey ta ki kore janen?

Suraiya begins to leave the auditorium again but Amar stops her by grabbing her hand.

AMAR What’s your name? Apnar naam ta janalen na?

4

SURAIYA

Does it matter? Jenay kono laab hobey?

AMAR

Let me know and see. Ek baar janiye dekhen.

Suraiya then abrubtly leaves the auditorium, Amar stands behind amused by her defiance and lost in her love.

Cut to: Intro titles playing. EXT. COLONIAL INDIA (MARKET/ALLEYS) – DAY (1947) Simanaheen Title Song - Suraiya enters the market in the street, knowing Amar is behind her, she often looks back, just to get a glance of him – her smiles indicate she would rather be with him. They make eye contact and exchange smiles through the windows created by the stalls and booths of the market. The tension of the Hindu Muslim divide is in the air, much like the tension between the two warring hearts.

Fade out:

INT. KAVITA’S BEDROOM – DAY (2011)

Fade in: The sun is shining through the window and onto Kavita sleeping, sprawled out. Kavita wakes up peacefully in her own bed.

5

INT. MANDIR ROOM (HOUSE) – DAY Kavita, in concentration, is performing her daily morning puja for her family. INT. MUKHERJEE HOUSEHOLD KITCHEN – DAY Kavita’s mother, Soumitra, and Nani are preparing breakfast. Priya is sitting next to her father eating cereal and Arun is sitting at the table, reading the paper.

SOUMITRA

Look Priya, how nicely Kavita comes down and does the prayers. We don’t have to tell her. Dekho Priya, Kavita koto shundor korey nichey eshey pujo korey. Okey bholte hoina.

PRIYA Uff mom! How many times will you say the same thing? Uff ma! Kotho baar ek kotha bolbe?

ARUN (reading the newspaper) Priya, you’re going to have to learn soon. This is our tradition. Priya, tomar shiktey hobey. Eta amader dhormo. Our tradition.

PRIYA Papa, it is good to swim in the waters of tradition, but to sink in them is suicide.

ARUN Uffo, again with your philosophy. You can live with your philosophy. Uffo, abar shuro hoilo tomar philosophy. Ei philosophy niye thako, bhagovan ke prarthorna kortey hobey na.

Kavita walks into the kitchen with the prasad.

6

SOUMITRA Sit down Kavita, I’ve made some breakfast. Bosho Kavita, khabar rakha achey. Khey-ee jeyo

KAVITA Papa, I’m going to stay a little longer at school tomorrow. Papa, amar kalke school thekey ashtey ektu deri hobey.

ARUN Ok that’s fine. But make sure you come home on time. Gautam Uncle will be here. Kalke Gautam uncle ashchey, beshi deri koro na. Tomar help lagbey.

KAVITA Don’t worry papa, of course I’ll help. Chinta koro na papa, ami bari thik time-y choley ashbo.

SOUMITRA You’re always staying after school, don’t burn yourself out. Mon-ey hochey tumi proti din schooley deri korey thakcho.

KAVITA

I have studies. I have to go. Amar porashuna thakey. Ami jai.

ARUN Wait for me. Amar jonno wait koro.

KAVITA No papa, I’m running late. No papa, amar deri hoye jachey.

7

ARUN Kavita, why waste the gas…I said I’ll drop you. Shudhu, shudhu gas noshto korbe keno? Kaj-ey jowar pothey, tomake namiye debo.

Kavita sits back resigned in her seat (showing her trapped in a box) while her parents go about their ways around her.

INTERCUT: KABIR’S KITCHEN/RAIYAN’S APT. – NIGHT Raiyan is in his room talking to his parents on the phone. Raiyan’s parents are in the kitchen cooking.

RAIYAN

I’m fine Ma, I had some of the chicken and polao you dropped off. I’m fine ma. Ami tomar palao ar mangsho kheyichi.

FARZANA Okay.

RAIYAN It was fine Ma…didn’t you say Dad wanted to talk to me? Kichu hobey na Ma…Abba amar shathey kotha boltey chachilo na?

FARZANA

Yes, your dad right here. Hein, tomar abba ekhaney.

MOHAMMAD Hi Raiyan.

RAIYAN

Hey Dad. Did you read the paper I sent you? Hey Abba, amar paper ta porecho?

8

MOHAMMAD Yeah, I didn’t quite understand it though. What were you trying to say? Hein, kintu thik bujtey pari nai. Tumi ki bujatey chachhiley?

RAIYAN I was trying to say the Qu’ran is not a literal text, it’s interpretive. In order to understand the truth, one must understand the history and context behind each revelation.

MOHAMMAD (grabbing for food) That makes more sense Oh acha, ekhon bujte perechi.

FARZANA (hitting Muhammad’s hand) Stop it! Stop it! Khabar dekley-ee kethey hobey.

Salman and his friends (Nazia, Arnab and Sonia) bust into the room.

RAIYAN

Oh hey, Dad…I have to go, Salman just brought some guests over. Acha Abba…I have to go, Salman, taar bondhu-bandhub niye eshchey.

MOHAMMAD Ok, we’ll talk later… Acha, porey kotha hobey.

Mohammad hangs up the phone.

SALMAN Raiyan, what are you doing? Hang out with us!

RAIYAN I can’t, I have to finish this paper.

9

SALMAN Come on man…atleast take a break. Come on man, atleast ekta break nao.

Salman tosses a beer to Arnab.

ARNAB (To Raiyan) Want one?

RAIYAN No thanks.

SONIA Hi Raiyan

It’s Sonia - a beautiful, young girl who has a crush on Raiyan. She’s walking toward him to sit down next to him.

RAIYAN

Hi Sonia.

SALMAN Sonia, don’t bother him. He’s researching. Sonia, okey disturb koro na. O research niye besto.

SONIA

I think its good he’s researching. (to Raiyan) Can I see? I think it’s good that he’s researching. (to Raiyan) Ami ki dektey pari?

Salman starts motioning with his eyes towards Sonia, encouraging him to make a move. Raiyan is shaking his head while Sonia is looking at his book.

10

SONIA Raiyan, did you know that Salman is throwing a famous Salman style party for my birthday? Raiyan tumi jano to, Salman amar jonmodin-ey ekta killer party dibey(dichey).

RAIYAN Oh acha?…Salman, you’re so sweet Tai naki?...Salman, you’re so sweet.

SONIA You’re coming right? Tumi ashcho, na?

RAIYAN Of course Sonia.

Raiyan gets up and walks away from Sonia. He puts his book away. After he puts it away, he looks at his book collection. His friends conversation is lost to him.

NAZIA

Salman, you’re parties are so much fun Salman, tumi ekdom jakkas party dithey paro

SONIA

My party is going to be the best though, right? Amar party ta shabchey bhalo hobey, taina?

SALMAN

Of course Sonia.

ARNAB Remember last time that guy passed out in the pool? Money achey? Last party te ekjon pool-ee bhomi koreychilo?

Friends’ conversation. Girls are in disgust of what Arnab said.

11

SONIA Oh God

NAZIA He was trying to talk to Sonia all night Oi chiley ta Sonia-r shathey shara raat kotha bholtey chesta korechilo. (teasing) Hello madame, friendship korben?

SONIA Let’s not have that happen again. Please, ota abar hotey diyo na.

SALMAN Of course not Sonia.

ARNAB Ready guys? Let’s go to the concert now, its about to start Tomra ready? Concert shuro hoye jabey, chalo jai.

Salman throws a ball and hits Raiyan in the face. He motions to him why’s he’s not interacting with Sonia. Everyone starts leaving. Arnab notices that Salman isn’t getting ready to leave.

ARNAB Salman!

SALMAN Yeah, you guys go ahead. We’ll catch up. Hein, tomra jao. Amra ekhoni eshey porbo.

Group says their byes and leave.

SONIA

Bye Raiyan.

RAIYAN Bye Sonia…Sonia, you left your… Bye Sonia…Sonia, tomar…

12

Sonia has already left the room.

SALMAN

I think she purposely left that for you. Mon-ey hochey shay ota tomar jonno reke geche.

Raiyan shakes his head.

SALMAN You need to lighten up.

Salman pats Raiyan on the back and leaves the room. Camera pans to Raiyan’s face, which has a thoughtful but amused expression on his face. INT. DANCE STUDIO – DAY (2011) Kavita is dancing with her dance team in the school’s dance studio. Raiyan is running late to class but stops when he hears something in the dance studio. Raiyan peaks in and sees the dance. He is taken by the beautiful girl dancing in front (Kavita) and is enjoying the dancing – he secretly enjoys classical dance. Raiyan looks at his watch though and leaves, as he is almost late for class. Kavita continues to dance, she never saw Raiyan there. After Kavita’s dance piece is finished, camera zooms into her face - showing Kavita yearning to break free but stuck within tradition.

INT. MUKHERJEE’S LIVING ROOM – DAY (2011) The room is filled with laughter. Kavita’s parents are meeting with Gautam and Shefali. They are having a friendly conversation. Priya is also in the living room and Kavita is on her way down.

13

ARUN (laughing) You have a good sense of humor Gautam…That’s enough sugar Priya… You have a good sense of humor Gautam…Bas, bas Priya. Etho chini diyo na.

Kavita enters the room.

ARUN

Kavita, you’re home late... Kavita, eto deri korey phirecho?

KAVITA Sorry dad. I had class. Sorry papa, class chilo.

GAUTAM You have such beautiful daughters Arun…I’m sure it’s all because of Soumitra Arun, tor mey duto khub shundor…Nishchoi Soumitra-r thikey ei gene ta peyeche.

SOUMITRA Actually, everone says Kavita looks like her Nani. Khub mauja-r kotha bholen. Asholey, shabai boley Kavita taar Nani-r moto dekhtey.

ARUN Gautamda, I’m not that bad looking myself Ami nije-o eto karap dekhtey na.

GAUTAM (laughs) You also have good sense of humor

Everyone in the room laughs but Arun laughs hesitantly as he is a bit insecure about the joke.

14

SOUMITRA Gautam bhai, Parveen bhabhi, would you like anything else? Gautamda, boudi, aro ektu debo?

SHEFALI

No Soumitra, you’ve given so much food already, your gajar ka halwa was very good. Na, na Soumitra, beshi khawa hoy geche. Tomar gajar-er halwa khubi bhalo legeche.

GAUTAM

It is really enough, thank you Soumitra. You’re a great host Hein, onek kheye felechi. Bari-te Shefali amake eto khetey dey na. Thank you Soumitra.

Kavita begins cleaning the table, feeling bad she could not help out earlier.

SOUMITRA It’s the least we can do. Arre na, emon ki kheylen?

Gautam, looking at Kavita, has gotten an idea. He calls for her.

GAUTAM

Kavita

KAVITA (caught off guard) Hein uncle?

GAUTAM What do you study? Tumi kisher pora shuna korcho?

KAVITA I’m in medical school now. Ami medical school-ey pori.

GAUTAM Wow, Doctor. That is great.

15

ARUN

(jokingly) Yes, Kavita is going to look after us when we get old. Hein, amra jokhon buro hobo, Kavita tokhon amader dekha shuna korbey.

GAUTAM Arun, have you thought about getting Kavita married? Acha Arun, Kavita biye-r bepare kono chinta babna korecho?

ARUN Na, keno?

KAVITA

(after a brief silence) Excuse me

Kavita leaves the room upon hearing her name mentioned with regards to marriage.

GAUTAM (laughs) She must be shy Nishchoi laja peyeche.

ARUN (smiling) Kavita is still in school. Kavita ekhono school-ey porchey.

SHEFALI These things happen fast Arun. I know someone who has a very handsome son, he would get along very well with Kavita. I’d like to introduce them to you. Arunda, biyer bepar ta jotoi thara tari shara jai totoi bhalo. Amra ekta bhalo chiley ke chini, very handsome boy. Kavita-r shathey besh manabey.

ARUN (unsure of what to say) Shefali

16

GAUTAM

Arun listen. I think he would make Kavita very happy and it will help both of your businesses, his family is in distribution. It’d be such a shame to let this opportunity slip away. Shon Arun. Chele ta Kavita ke shukey rakbe. Ebong eita toder bepshar jonno bhalo hobey, oder ekta distribution business achey. Ami chai na tora ei shujok ta hara.

ARUN Are you talking about Prasenjit’s son? Gautam, you know our family is very conservative…my relatives… Tui ki Prasenjit-er cheley-r kotha bolcheesh? Gautam, tui bhalo korey janeesh amader family ei biye te raji hobe na.

GAUTAM (interrupting) Arun, this is America…we’re in the 21st century. Caste doesn’t mean anything anymore. This will be a very good relationship for you. Trust me Arun Arun, this is America, we’re in the 21st century. Ke kon caste theke elo, sheta niye ikhaney keo kono dar darey na. Eta tod-er jonno khub bhalo hobey

Arun is contemplative of what Gautam has just said, taking in Gautam’s comments. INT. MUKHERJEE KITCHEN – NIGHT Priya’s in-laws have left - Kavita and her mom are cleaning while her dad is sitting at the dinner table and Priya is waiting in the hallway for Kavita.

17

PRIYA Kavita, come…Salman Khan’s new special is on Didi, asho! Salman Khan-er nothun program shuro hochey.

KAVITA Coming! I’m almost done

SOUMITRA Go beti, I’ll finish Jao Ma, ami shesh korchi.

KAVITA Ok, thank you ma. Acha, thank you ma.

ARUN Kavita…what do you think about what Gautam uncle said? Kavita, Gautam uncle jeta bolechey, tomar ki mon-ey hoi?

KAVITA

Papa, I’m still in school. Papa, ami ekhono school-ey porchi.

ARUN Yes, but you’ve almost finished. Hein, kintu tomar college to koi ek mash-er modhey shesh hoye jabey

SOUMITRA Yeah Kavita, it’s not easy to find good boys these days Hein Kavita, aaj kal bhalo chiley pawa khubi mushkil.

KAVITA (sighs) What if I want to marry someone of my own liking? Ami jodi nij-er pochondo korey biye kortey chai?

18

ARUN Why? Is there someone? Keno? Keo achey naki?!

KAVITA Um, no…not yet…but… Um, na nai…kintu

ARUN

(smiling) Acha? No problem as long as you don’t go outside our rules. Acha? Kono shomosha nai, tumi amader niyom-er bairey kichu na korley

Kavita is not sure how to respond.

PRIYA (impatient and motioning to leave) Didi…

KAVITA

(to her dad) Acha papa.

Kavita leaves the room with Priya. Arun is seriously considering the option.

INT. RAIYAN’S APARTMENT – NIGHT Nazia is in the living room impatiently waiting for Raiyan to come out of the bathroom.

NAZIA Ready yet?! Ready naki?

RAIYAN (coming out of the bathroom) Yep, ready!

NAZIA Oh wow, looking very smart Mr. Khaled Oh wow, tomake khub smart lagche Mr. Khaled.

19

RAIYAN Ishtyle hai Naziaji, ishtyle

NAZIA Acha?

RAIYAN Of course.

Raiyan laughs at and walks over to the counter looking at his watch.

RAIYAN

Where’s Salman? Isn’t he supposed to be here by now? Did he call you? Salman kothai? Tar ekhaney ashar kotha chilo na? Phone korechey tomake?

NAZIA No…he’s probably still setting up…for Sonia’s birthday Na, o bodhai ekhono party-er jonno shajachey…For Sonia’s birthday

RAIYAN Stop

NAZIA Oh come on Raiyan, don’t be such a party pooper.

RAIYAN You know I hate this Nazia. I don’t like Sonia. I can’t see her as more than a friend Amar eshob bhalo lagey na Nazia. Ami Sonia ke pochondo kori na. I can’t see her as more than a friend.

NAZIA Then what do you like? Ta holey, tomar pochondo ta ki?

RAIYAN

(contemplatively) What do I like? Amar pochondo…?

20

Raiyan starts walking toward Nazia, thinking. As Nazia lists off traits, Raiyan shakes his head “no” to each one. When she says the last one, he stops and pauses

NAZIA

Who is your andekha, anjaana?...A beautiful, smart, spirtitual girl…A super sexy girl…a classic girl from a bollywood film, who sings and dances…a good modest muslim girl, who can cook a mean biryani Tomar sapnor rani ke? Ekta shundor, smart mey? Ekdum super sexy ekta mey? Ekta bollywood naika, je nachthey parey, gaithey parey? Ekdum ekta sida-sada Musulman? Je bhalo korey biryani rantey parey?

RAIYAN I…like…you

Raiyan gives Nazia a noogie.

NAZIA

My hair, my hair! Amar chul, amar chul!

Raiyan is laughing and lets Nazia go.

NAZIA (fixing her hair) Stupid

SALMAN

(walks into the room) Hey guys, ready?...Nazia, what happened to your hair? Tomra ki ready? Nazia, tomar chul-er ei ki abosta?

NAZIA Shutup

Salman and Raiyan look at each other laughing.

21

NAZIA Go ahead laugh…I was just trying to get Raiyan to admit what type of girl he likes Hasho, hasho, ar kotho hashbey…

RAIYAN

Ok guys enough…please don’t do this at the party. I don’t want to hurt her feelings. Acha Salman, tumi ar Nazia, Sonia-r shamne kono ulta palta kotha bholba na. I don’t want to hurt her feelings.

SALMAN

Ok sorry, I won’t. Don’t get so upset. Ok, ok. Nazia, tumi Raiyan ke ki bolecho?

RAIYAN Salman…

SALMAN Ok Raiyan, cool down bhai. (gesturing by pinching his throat) Promise

NAZIA I feel sorry for your andekha anjaani…whoever she is Jai hok, tomar sapnor rani-r jhono khub karap lagchey.

INT. KAVITA’S ROOM – NIGHT Kavita getting ready and Seema is waiting for her. Priya is also in the room.

SEEMA Kavita, are you ready for your first Salman Khan party!

Seema looks at Priya. They share a laugh.

22

KAVITA Sorry, I’m almost done

Seema notices the picture of Kavita’s grandma on her dresser.

SEEMA

(pondering) Ok, I’ve always wondered Acha, ami onek din dorey ekta jineesh bujar chesta korchi.

Kavita gets out of the bathroom.

SEEMA

You’re looking glam-sham, you will definitely meet your Salman Khan today Wow, tomake onek glam-sham lagche. Aaj ke mon-ey hoy tomar sapner Salman Khan-er saathe dekha hobey.

KAVITA (laughs off the comment) Go on, you were saying. Bolo, tumi ki bujar chesta korchiley.

SEEMA Oh yes, I’ve heard of people praying to God. But why do you pray to your Grandmother? Oh hein, ami jaantam manush bhagovan ke puja korey kintu ami dekchi tumi tomar dida ke puja koro?

KAVITA I pray to my Grandma for the same reason we pray to God. My Grandma died before I was born and she told my mother, that wherever I went she’d look after me. Manush je karoney bhagovan-er kachey pujo korey, ami eki karoney amar dida-r kachey pujo kori. Amar jonmer agey dida mara gechen. Mara jawar shomoy uni maa-ke bholey gechen je uni shabshomay amar upor nazar rakben.

23

PRIYA (teasing) That’s why she’s already chosen a nice boy for you. Taito uni tomar jonno ekta chiley thik korey felechen?

KAVITA

Shut up Priya

SEEMA What are you talking about Priya? Priya, tumi eshob ki bolcho?

KAVITA Nothing. Kichu na.

PRIYA

(teasing) Seema, her Salman Khan is already arranged Seema, or Salman Khan thik hoye gechey.

SEEMA

What? Are you serious? Who? Ki? Are you serious? Ke?

KAVITA No, she’s not. I’m not going to get an arranged marriage. Na, she’s not serious. Ami biye korchi na.

SEEMA

Oh Priya, how dare you suggest that our one and only Kavita Mukherjee will get an arranged marriage? Arre Priya, tumi kon shahoshey chinta korley je amader Kavita Mukherjee love marriage chara biye korbey?

Kavita emphatically agrees with Seema.

24

PRIYA I know Kavita…but what about our parents Jani Kavita, kintu baba-ma ki raji hobey?

KAVITA

How can papa ma say no to my choice? Baba-ma ki amar pochond-er birodhey jabey?

PRIYA

(shakes her head) Your choice will be perfect. Tomar pochondo hobey ekdum first class.

KAVITA I’ll admit, love can be found in an arranged marriage but some love you have to find…and I’m going to find Salman Khan tonight! Let’s go Seema! Ami jaani arranged marriage-o bhalobasha kujey powa jai kintu kichu bhalobasha tomake nijey kujey nitey hoy (pause) Ami aaj ke Salman Khan ke kujey ber korboy! Chalo Seema!

Kavita and Seema run out of the room.

PRIYA (laughing) Pagol.

EXT. ROOFTOP – NIGHT The party has started and everyone is having a good time. Seema and Kavita arrive and are making their way through the crowd. Raiyan and Salman are hanging out by the bar. Seema is looking for Salman and finally finds him.

SEEMA

Salman!

25

Seema and Kavita approach Salman and Raiyan. Raiyan from behind Salman makes eye contact with Kavita who is behind Seema. There is instant attraction, instant connection.

SALMAN

Hello Ladies

SEEMA Salman, this is my friend Kavita! Salman, eta amar bandhobi, Kavita.

SALMAN Ah Kavita, like a poem

KAVITA Hi, nice to meet you.

ARNAB

Does anyone want anything to drink?

SALMAN I’ll come with (turns to Raiyan) Raiyan, keep Kavita company. I’m going to get a drink. Do you want one? I’ll come with (turns to Raiyan) Raiyan, Kavita-r saathe ektu thako. Ami drink antey jachi. Tomar jonney ekta anbo?

Raiyan shakes his head no to Salman’s sarcastic question.

KAVITA (After Salman walks away) You don’t drink? Tumi drink koro na?

Raiyan doesn’t say anything, annoyed with the question.

KAVITA Ah your Salman’s friend, you’re Muslim… Ah, tumi Salman-er bondhu, you’re Muslim

26

RAIYAN Salman is also Muslim Salman-o Muslim.

Salman and Arnab are taking shots together, with a crowd cheering behind them.

KAVITA

Then why not?

RAIYAN Do you smoke? Tumi smoke koro?

KAVITA

Na

RAIYAN Why not? Keno na?

KAVITA It’s gross Amar kachey disgusting lagey

Raiyan gives her a that’s why look.

KAVITA That’s funny you’re here and… (interrupts herself mid-sentence) I’m sorry, I don’t even know your name That’s funny, tumi ekhaney ar… (interrupts herself mid-sentence) I’m sorry, tomar naamta ekhono jana hoy ni.

RAIYAN My name is Raiyan, Raiyan Khaled Amar naam Raiyan, Raiyan Khaled

KAVITA (makes a disgusted/mocking face) Eee, why couldn’t you have a cooler name? Eeee, tomar aro cool ekta naam thaka uchit chilo.

27

RAIYAN Cooler name? What? Cool naam? Jemon?

KAVITA Yeah, like Khan…Khan of Khan’s, Raiyan Khan

RAIYAN Khan? Sorry, I’m not a big actor…please forgive me. Khan? Sorry, ami Bollywood-er hero na. Maaf karo.

KAVITA I’ll let this one pass…Bartender, two cokes please. Teek achey, maaf korlam (turns to the bartender) Bartender, two cokes please.

RAIYAN

Two cokes?

KAVITA (smiling) For us. Amader jonno.

Sonia with Arnab - Sonia is a bit jealous that Raiyan is talking to someone else.

SONIA

Who’s that? The girl talking to Raiyan. Oi mey ta ke? Raiyan-er saathe je kotha bolchey?

ARNAB

Ah Sonia, that’s just my friend Kavita. Don’t think anything about it. Ah Sonia, oita Seema-r bandhobi. Kichu mon-ey karo na.

Salman and Nazia who are intrigued that Raiyan is actually talking to a girl.

28

SALMAN Look, I think Raiyan found someone. Dekho, Raiyan ekta mey-er saathe kotha bolchey.

NAZIA (in disbelief) Nooo

Raiyan and Kavita continuing their conversation by the rooftop ledge. Raiyan is searching for something to say.

RAIYAN

So who’s eye are you trying to catch? Tomake khub sparly lagche, kar jonno aaj ei shaj?

KAVITA What? Ki? Sparkly?

RAIYAN Your dress is so shiny, I’m sure you’re trying to catch the sparkle in someone’s eye…which boy is it? Tumi nishchoy karo ke dekhatey emon shundor shejecho, taina?

KAVITA Is that joke? You think I’m like that? Is that a joke? Amake ki tumi oi doroner meye mon-ey koro?

RAIYAN Uh…no…I was just saying…a pretty girl like you must have someone in their life. Uh…no…ami shudho bholthey chachilam tomar moton shundori meye-r nishchoy keo ekjon achey.

KAVITA

Maybe I dressed up for you. Hoitoba ami tomar jonno-e sheyjey eshechi

29

RAIYAN (smiles) Acha? (pause) So you’re from West Bengal Acha (pause) To tumi Ghoti?

KAVITA

Ah what? And you’re from Bangladesh? What’s the difference between West Bengal and Bangladesh? Ah what? Ar tumi Bangal. Ghoti ar Bangal-er modhey difference ta ki?

RAIYAN (smiling and realizing her point) You’re right, before we drew a border on the map, nothing… Teek bolecho. Britishra map toiri korar agey kono difference chilo na….

Seema comes to get Kavita.

SEEMA Kavita, let’s go. It’s getting late. Kavita, chalo. Raat hoye jachey.

KAVITA Hey Seema, Ok… (turning to Raiyan) See you later Mr. Bangladesh Hey Seema, acha. (turning to Raiyan) Dekha hobey Mr. Bangal.

RAIYAN Uh uh, Mr. Bengali

KAVITA Acha, Mr. Bengali…bye

RAIYAN

Bye

30

Kavita and Seema walk away and Nazia and Salman approach Raiyan from behind to tease him.

NAZIA

(singing) Koi Mil gaya…

SALMAN (singing) Mera dil gaya…

RAIYAN Shut up guys.

EXT. SHORE OF A RIVER – NIGHT (1947) Prem is rowing a small boat to the shore. EXT. SURAIYA’S TERRACE/COMPOUND Suraiya is standing on her veranda looking at a full moon. Amar sneaks into the compound to find Suraiya. Suraiya comes down by Prem.

SURAIYA

You? What are you doing here? Apni? Aapni ikhaney ki korchen?

AMAR

Like you were doing. I came to see the moon. Apne ja korchilen, tai. Ami purnimar chand dekhtey eshechi.

SURAIYA

You’re not safe here. You need to leave. Apnar jonney ei jaiga nirapod na. Apne ekhoni choley jaan.

31

AMAR I can’t. I’ve lost myself in your eyes. Seeing these eyes, led to my destruction. Only your breaths keep me alive. Parbo na. Apnar chok-er modhey, nijke hariye phelechi. Ei chok duto amar shorbonash. Apnar shash, amar nishshash.

SURAIYA What’s your name? Apnar naam ki?

AMAR

(smiles) Amar Amar.

SURAIYA

Amar, please leave here before someone finds you. Amar, ikhaney keo ashar agey, doya korey ikhan thikey choley jaan.

AMAR Won’t you tell me your name? Apnar naam janaben na?

SURAIYA

Amar…

AMAR I know your name’s not Prem. Ami jaani apnar naam Amar na.

SURAIYA Badmash…my name is Suraiya… Badmash (pause) Amar naam Suraiya.

AMAR

Suraiya, what a lovely name…come with me Suraiya, ki mishti ekta naam. Amar shathey ashen.

32

SURAIYA

I’m really sorry, I can’t. My family will never accept. Especially, with all the fighting that is happening now. Maaf karun Amar. Eita oshombhob. Bishesh korey ei dur shomoy-ee ekjon Hindu o ekjon Musulman ke keo-ee ek saathe thakhtey debe na.

AMAR

Then I’ll convert to Islam. Ta holey ami Musulman hoye jabo.

SURAIYA You’d do that for me? That won’t change anything, I hope I am re-born a Hindu. Amar jonney apni eto ta kortey parben? Taa korleo kichu hobey na. Asha kori purno janmai ami ekta Hindu hoi janmo neyi.

AMAR Why not? All we have to do is show them. Keno na? Shabai ke shudho dekhatey hobey.

SURAIYA Amar, I’m already engaged. Amar, amar biye thik hoye gechey.

AMAR Oh…are you happy? Oh (thinks about what to say) Apne ei biye te khushi?

SURAIYA (pauses and says very seriously) Yes… Hein.

Suraiya gets up and goes inside. Amar is broken.

33

EXT. TRAIN STATION – DAY (2011) Raiyan and Salman get off the train and approach the street to hail a cab.

RAIYAN Arnab has a drinking problem. He’s always asking me to drink with him. Doesn’t he know I don’t drink? Arnab-er ekta drinking problem achey. Amake taar shaathey mot kethey dakhey. Doesn’t he know I don’t drink?

SALMAN Arnab is an idiot. Arnab ekta chagol. (pause) Taxi!

On the other side of the street, Kavita is walking with Priya, looking for something in her bag.

KAVITA

Kavita, did you bring the list? We need to make sure we get everything for the wedding. Priya, tumi ki list ta enecho? Oi list-ey shab kichu ja lagbe lekha chilo.

PRIYA

Here I have it didi. Hein didi, amar kachey achey.

Raiyan sees Kavita walking on the other side of the platform and Kavita notices Raiyan too. Priya is looking through her bag.

34

AMAR’S VOICE The minute I heard my love story, I began searching for you. That search kept me blind. Today I realized that lovers don’t ever meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along. Amar prem-er kahini shunar por, thokon theke tomar jonno kujey berechi. Ei khoj amake ondho rekeche. Aaj ami bujechi, je do premi kokhono porichoy korey na. Ei duijon, chirodin, ek shonge mon-er bithorey chiley.

Priya turns to see Raiyan at the other side of platform. Kavita tries to act cool and turns toward her sister to talk but continues to steal glances at Raiyan just as Raiyan is doing from across the platform. Raiyan and Salman get in the cab and drive away. Priya notices that her sister was looking at the cab driving away. They smile and walk away.

INTERCUT: RAIYAN’S APT/KABIR’S KITCHEN – DAY Raiyan is getting ready for class in the bathroom.

RAIYAN

(singing) Jai ki phera, badhoon haara…

Mohammad and Farzana in the kitchen.

MOHAMMAD Uff, my stomach hurts. Uff pet ta betha korchey.

Farzana Did you call Raiyan? Raiyan ke phone korecho?

MOHAMMAD No, I think it’s just gas. Na, mon-ee hoye amar beshi gas, ar kichu na.

35

FARZANA Yuck, just call Raiyan. Uff! Khalie pet-er chinta! Raiyan ke phone koro.

MOHAMMAD Why? He hasn’t called me. Keno? O to amake phone kore ni.

FARZANA

Are you taking Raiyan to the hospital or is he taking you? Tumi Raiyan ke hospitaley niye jacho, na o tomake niye jaachey?

MOHAMMAD Allah, is taking me! Allah, amake niye jaachey!

Mohammad gets out the phone and calls Raiyan.

RAIYAN Hello Aba.

MOHAMMAD Raiyan, did you get my email? Raiyan, amar email ta peyecho?

RAIYAN Yeah I did. Sorry, I’ll reply now. Hein. Ekhoni reply korbo.

MOHAMMAD

Ok, do it now. Otherwise, I won’t be able to get the application through. Ok, here’s your mother, she wants to talk to you. Ekhoni koro. Na holey, application petey koshto hobey. Acha, tomar maa-r shathey kotha bolo.

Muhammad hands the phone to Farzana and begins to leave.

MOHAMMAD

I’m going to pick up my medicine. I’ll be back. Oshud tultey jaachi. Ashchi ami.

36

FARZANA

(to Raiyan) Hello, remember me? I’m your mother. You don’t pick up our calls, reply to our emails. Hello, mon-ey achey amake? Ami tomar maa. Amader phone doro na, email reply dao na, ki bepar?

RAIYAN

Sorry ma, I’ve been busy Sorry ma, ektu besto chilam.

FARZANA Busy? Busy with what? School or a girlfriend? Besto? Ki niye besto? Lekha pora na girlfriend niye besto?

RAIYAN

What? What are you talking about? Ki? What are you talking about?

FARZANA Haan, you think I’m dumb? Try to flirt less with those girls at college. I’m looking for a nice bengali girl for you. Haan, tomar maa ke boka mon-ey koro? College-r meyder saathe ektu kom tunky maro. Tomar jonno ekta bhalo Bangali meye khuje peyechi!

RAIYAN Mom, you don’t have to look for any girl for me. Maa, amar jonno kono mey tey kujte hobey na.

FARZANA (teasing) Why? Is their really somebody there? Don’t bring home any white girl. Keno? Okaney asholey keo achey? Kono shaada mey ke bashai anbe na khobordar!

37

RAIYAN Maa, I have to go bye!

Raiyan hangs up the phone. Farzana is laughing at how easily her son gets annoyed/embarrased.

INT. MUKHERJEE’S KITCHEN – DAY Arun is frustrated because he can’t find his papers that he needs for work. Soumitra is helping but Kavita is lost in her own thoughts at the breakfast table.

ARUN

Kavita, didn’t I give you the sales papers last? I need them for the meeting… Kavita, ami sales-er khagoj tomake diye nai last? Meeting-er jonno lagbey…

Priya nudges Kavita, awakening her from her thoughts.

PRIYA

(teasing) Where were you? At the train station? Kothai chiley? Train station-ey?

Kavita laughs off her sister’s comments and gets up to help her father.

INT. HOSPITAL WARD – DAY Raiyan is talking to a doctor. He’s listening attentatively to the doctor’s instructions and holding a file in his hand.

DOCTOR

Make sure your dad sticks to his new diet.

RAIYAN

Yes, doctor. He’s a bit stubborn but I’ll make sure he does. Thanks.

38

DOCTOR Take care Raiyan.

RAIYAN Take care.

Raiyan begins to walk out and looks in through the window into the Hospital’s nursery and his stopped in his tracks. Raiyan smiles as he watches Kavita go through her rounds, checking on the new borns and then decides to walk into the nursery. Raiyan clears his throat and knocks on the door to get Kavita’s attention.

RAIYAN

(teasingly) Excuse me Doctor.

KAVITA Yes?

Kavita looks up and his shocked to see Raiyan.

KAVITA

You? What are you doing here? Tumi, tumi ikhaney ki korcho?

RAIYAN My heart hurts. Amar bukh betha korey.

Kavita smiles, pokes Raiyan with her pen and begins walking away looking at the babies.

RAIYAN Listen…I think it’s good that you’re a doctor. Shuno, ami mon-ey kori tomar moton ekjon doctor huwa bhalo.

KAVITA

Why? Keno?

39

RAIYAN Because your religion says to treat the body like a temple. Who does that better than a doctor? Karon tomar dhormo te bola achey shorir ke mandir-er moton raktey. Ei kaj doctor-che bhalo ar ke kortey parey?

KAVITA (knodding her head and smiling) What else do you know about my religion? That’s what you study right? Amar dhormo-r bepare ar ki jano? Etai to tomar subject, taina?

RAIYAN I believe all religions to be the same. Amar kachey shab dharma hochey ek.

KAVITA Acha? What about in my religion we’re supposed to be vegetarians? We do puja, you do namaz. Acha? Kintu amar dhormo manush ke bholey vegetarian khabar kethey. Amra puja kori, tomra namaz poro.

RAIYAN (laughs) Tell me, which one of these babies is vegetarian and which of these babies prays namaz? Acha? Ei ghar-er bithorey ja bacha gulo achey, Kaunta vegetarian ar kaunta namaz porey?Amake bholtey parba?

KAVITA (pointing to her file) Mmmm….This one is Christian. Mmmm, eita hochey ekta Christian bacha.

Raiyan looks at the file and then begins to correct Kavita’s mistake.

40

RAIYAN (laughing) Acha? Joshua Stein is a Jewish name. I’m right, you’re wrong! Acha? Joshua Stein to Jewish-der naam.

Kavita realizes her mistake. She turns around, elbowing Raiyan in the stomach at the same time and begins walking away.

KAVITA

(smiling) I heard somewhere that honesty is the most mentioned word in the Qu’ran, what do you think? Ami shuneychi Honesty shabdo ta Qu’ran-ey shabchey bishi bar ulek kara hoyechey, tumi ki mon-ey karo?

RAIYAN I think honesty is very important, regardless if it is mentioned in the Qu’ran or not. Truth is love. Tomar shakti to kum na. Honesty shabdo Qu’raney lekha thakook ba na thakook, shottotha hochey prem-er mul-mantra.

Kavita looks at Raiyan with a smile when her phone rings.

KAVITA Hello, Papa. I’m in the hospital (looks up at Raiyan) seeing a mental patient. I’m coming now… (to Raiyan) Time to go. Hello Papa. Ami ekhono hospitaley, (looks up at Raiyan) Ekta mental patient-er saathe dekha korchi, tar mathar screw ektu dhila. Ekhoni ashchi… (to Raiyan) Amake ekhon jethey hobey.

41

RAIYAN That’s ok…me and Salman are having some people over tomorrow. You should come by Ok, by the way, kalkey amar bashai koi ekjon ke dekechi. You should come.

KAVITA I’d like that. I’ll see you tomorrow. Bye. I’d like that. Kalkey dekha hobey. Bye.

RAIYAN Bye.

Kavita leaves. Raiyan stands still in the nursery, looking at the babies, looking at the new life.

INT. RAIYAN’S APARTMENT – NIGHT A game of charades is going at Salman’s place. Everyone is having a good time. Raiyan is up getting some snacks but fixated on Kavita, who is trying to guess. Arnab is acting out Miss America.

SALMAN

Miss America…Really? Who gave Arnab Miss America? Really Seema? Miss America! (pause) Really? Arnab-ke ke Miss America diyeche? Really Seema?

NAZIA That’s one point for us. Amader jonno ekta point.

Raiyan comes and sits down next to Kavita.

KAVITA (Writing) Ok…

42

NAZIA It’s my turn. Acha, ekhon amar turn.

Nazia goes up for her turn. Raiyan and Kavita are paying more attention to each other than the game.

KAVITA

(Writing and speaking to Raiyan) That’s one point for the Good Team…none for the bad team. Good team-er jonno ek point, bad team-er jonno – zero.

Raiyan takes the pen from Kavita and writes on her paper. Kavita smiles at the gesture but doesn’t react right away. The game continues.

ARNAB

Al Pacino?

SALMAN The Godfather?

Kavita picks up the pen again and writes on the paper and looks back at Raiyan with a smile. Nazia notices Raiyan and Kavita aren’t paying attention to the game as she is playing. Nazia clears her throat and catches Raiyan and Kavita’s attention.

NAZIA

Wah Wah Ramji, jodi kya banaye…

SALMAN That’s cheating! No talking!

SEEMA That’s from Hum Apke Hain Kaun Oi gaanta Hum Apke Hain Kaun thikey

RAIYAN (to Kavita) Hum Apke Hain Kaun

43

INT. MUKHERJEE’S LIVING ROOM – NIGHT Kavita comes home, Arun and Soumitra are still up waiting for her.

ARUN

Kavita, you’re home Kavita, bari phirecho?

KAVITA Yeah, I’m feeling tired and I have to go to the store tomorrow. I’m off to bed, Goodnight. Hein, amar tired lagchey ar kalkey round dithey jethey hobey. Ghumatey jaachi, goodnight.

ARUN Goodnight

INT. UPSTAIRS MUKHERJEE HALLWAY – NIGHT Kavita goes upstairs and sees Priya.

PRIYA

Hey Kavi, how was the party? Hey didi, party kemon chilo?

KAVITA (smiling) It was fun.

PRIYA What? Ki?

KAVITA What? Ki?

PRIYA You have that look on your face. Tomar mukhey birat ekta hashi keno?

44

KAVITA What look? (Kavita can’t hide her thoughts anymore) I can’t tell you, it’s a surprise Kothai hashi? (pause) Bholtey parbo na, it’s a surprise.

PRIYA

Surprise? What? Surprise? Ki?

KAVITA Yep, goodnight!

Kavita goes to her room and we have shot of Priya’s confused and amused face.

INT. MUKHERJEE’S LIVING ROOM – NIGHT Arun is sitting at his chair thinking and turning to his wife.

ARUN

What do you think about what Gautam said? Priya is getting married now and we should start thinking about Kavita, no? Gautam-er seydin-er kotha tomar ki mon-ey hoi? Priya-r biye hoye jachey, ekhon to Kavita-r biye niye chinta kora uchit, taina?

SOUMITRA With Prasenjit’s son? Jaydeep? What about your family? Prasenjit-er chiley, Jaydeep-r saathe? Tomar parivar ki bholbey?

45

ARUN I know about my family but we’ve known them for a while, they’re good people. This is a good opportunity. It wouldn’t hurt to meet them about it no? Amar parivar ki mon-ey korbe, eta niye chinta koro na. Amra to Prosenjit ke onek bochor dorey chini, tara to bhalo parivar theke ashey. This is a good opportunity. Oder saathe dekha korley to paap hobey na.

SOUMITRA

We should ask Kavita, no? Kavita-r saathe kotha bhola uchit na?

ARUN

I know my daughter, she’ll agree. This will make her happy. Ami amar mey ke bhalo korey chini. O raji hobey. Ei biye okey khub shukey rakbe.

EXT. DAS MANSION – DAY (2011) A nice luxury car pulls up in the driveway of a mansion. Jay gets out of the car, he’s back home. Doorbell rings. Asha answers the door, her son Jay has come back home after being away for so long. His parents are happy to see him home and have a surprise for him.

ASHA Jay!

JAY Hi Ma…

INT. DAS LIVING ROOM – DAY Jay and his parents settled in the living room.

46

ASHA Jay beta, have these pakoras. I made them fresh today for you. Jay, ei pakora gulo kao. Ami aajke fresh baniyechi tomar jonno.

JAY

Thank you maa.

PRASENJIT Jay, remember Arun uncle’s daughter? Jay, Arun uncle-r mey-er kotha mon-ey achey?

JAY Kavita?

PRASENJIT Yes, her…she’s very pretty. Hein Kavita...O khub shundoor ekta mey.

ASHA

Remember, you used to have a crush on her when you were younger. Mon-ey achey, tumi jokhon choto chila? Tar saathe kotho flirting flirting kortha.

JAY Flirting? Maa, I was a kid.

PRASENJIT (taking out a picture) Look, this is what she looks like now. Ajey dekho, this is what she looks like now.

ASHA She would make a wonderful wife. Khub shundoor ekta bou hobey.

It then dawns up on Jay what his mother really meant.

JAY Maa, wife? Are you serious? Maa, bou? Are you serious?

47

ASHA Yeah, why not? She’s beautiful, she’s smart. Hein, keno na? Shundoor, smart ekta mey. Tomar saathe khub manabe.

JAY Well yeah, but who says she’ll want to marry me? Hein, kintu shay ki amar saathe biye kortey raji hobey?

PRASENJIT

(smiling with confidence) Let’s see what she says. Dekhi ki boley.

Camera closes in on Jay as faces the reality of getting married.

INT. DANCE STUDIO – DAY (2011) Kavita is practicing her dance as Raiyan comes into the room and copies her movements. Watching Raiyan’s moves, she can’t help but burst out in laughter. She goes to take a seat by her bag to take a rest.

RAIYAN

Please, allow me. Raiyan kneels down by Kavita to help her with her put things back in her bag.

KAVITA Don’t you feel ashamed to watch a girl dance alone? Lukiye lukiye naach dekha hocchilo, tai na?

RAIYAN

Hey, this not the old black and white days. Tumi ki black and white-er jhug-ee bhash koro

48

KAVITA (smiling) You know, whenever I’m with you everything seems so familiar. I feel like I’ve known you forever. As if you’ve come straight out of my dream. Jaano? Jokhoni ami tomar saathe thaki, somostho kichu khub porichito lagey. Amar mon-ee hoi tomake chirodin dorey chini. Jeno tumi amar sapn-er thecke ber hoi ashecho.

RAIYAN So that means you dream about me? Your dance is very sexy. Tar mane, tumi amake niye sapno dekho? Tomar sedin-er naach amar kachey khub bhalo legechey?

KAVITA (laughing) Bharatnatyam? Are you serious?

RAIYAN

Sexier than Sheila ki Jawani. Hein, Sheila ki jawan-ir theke onek bhalo.

KAVITA (laughing) Your screws really are loose. Tomar mathar screw asholey deela.

Kavita’s phone rings. It’s her dad.

KAVITA Sheesh. (answers the phone) Hello? Papa, I’m driving right now. I’ll be home soon. Sheesh. (answers the phone) Hello? Papa, ami raastai, gari te. Ekhoni ashchi. Ok bye.

Raiyan is a little confused.

49

RAIYAN Lied to your dad? Very bad. Pretty girls like you have to lie to their dads a lot, no? Papa ke mitha kotha Bolle? Very bad. Abossho, tomar moto shundor meyeder bod hoi papa-der kacche mitt-tha kotha bole tei hoy, taina?

KAVITA (jokingly taunting) I should go. If my dad finds out I’m here with a guy like you alone, he’ll break your bones! Amar jawa uchith. Papa jodi jeney jai ami ekhane tomar moton ekta chile-r saathe ekla, ta holey o tomake pitiye lomba baniye debe!

Kavita laughs and begins to leave the room as Raiyan grabs her hand.

RAIYAN Drive carefully. I want to see your smile again. Shabdhane jeo. Tomar ei haashi ta abar dekthey chai.

KAVITA Just keep seeing. Dekthey-ee thako.

Akash Jemon music begins as Kavita leaves the room. MONTAGE – VARIOUS LOCATIONS AAKASH JEMON SONG SEQUENCE

50

INT. RAIYAN’S APARTMENT – NIGHT Raiyan trying to work on his paper but can’t concentrate and is a bit restless. He then turns to Nazia who is watching TV.

NAZIA

Raiyan (pause) I was talking to Salman about you and Kavita. We were thinking. You guys aren’t together, right? Raiyan (pause) Ami ar Salman tomake ar Kavita ke niye, maney tomader niye chinta korchilam. You guys aren’t dating, taina?

RAIYAN (confused) Why? What were you guys talking about? Keno? Ki chinta korchila?

NAZIA

(trying to say as nicely as possible) It’s just, the way she was raised. You’re family. We don’t think it’s such a good idea. It’s just, Kavita jemon boro hoyechi. Tomar family. Amader mone hoina eta good idea.

INT. KAVITA’S KITCHEN Kavita talking to Seema.

SEEMA

Get out of here! You can’t be serious! Raiyan? Chup karo! You can’t be serious! Raiyan?

51

Kavita motions to Seema to quiet down and looks to see if anyone is around.

SEEMA Kavita no!

KAVITA Seema, Ever since I met him, I feel like I’ve known him my whole life…He’s the one Amar kotha ta shuno Seema. Raiyan ke dekhar por, amar lage okey shara jibon dorey chini.

SEEMA No, no, no…Kavita, be realistic. This will never work. You know your family will never accept! No, no, no Kavita, be realistic. Eta oshombhob. Tumi jano tomar parivar kono din-o Raiyan ke accept korbey na.

Cut to:

Raiyan and his friends.

SALMAN You’re better off dating a white girl. She’s Hindu. You’re Muslim. It’ll never work. Er-cheye ekta shada ke mey date kora bhalo. O ekta Hindu. It’ll never work.

RAIYAN Aren’t we both US citizens? (pause) I’m not going to date her religion. Aren’t we both US citizens? (pause) Ami to tar dharma ke date korchi na.

SALMAN You’re going to marry her religion. Her family is conservative. They wont accept. They’ll make your life hell. Tumi tar dharma-r saathe biye korba. Shay ekta conservative family theke ashey. Ora tomake accept korbey na. They’re going to make your life hell

52

Cut to: Kavita and Seema.

SEEMA Even if they do accept, can you do it? Would you feel comfortable in such a relationship? Ora accept korle-o, tumi kortey parba? Tumi ei doron-er relationship-ey comfortable feel korba?

KAVITA Why not? There are so many successful Hindu-Muslim relationships… Keno na? Kotho successful Hindu-Muslim relationship achey.

SEEMA

Kavita please think about it. How is Kavita, who wakes up everyday and does prayers, going to handle living in a Muslim household? Chinta korey dekho. Kavita, je protek din ghum thikey utey puja korey, shay kemon korey ekta musulman-er bari-te thaktey parbey?

KAVITA (thinking) That’s a part of his culture…I’ll have to accept his and he’ll have to accept mine. Amader sanskriti-r modhey ektu mathro difference. Amake tar-ta bujtey hobey ar take amar-ta.

Cut to:

Raiyan and his friends.

SALMAN Don’t be so stubborn Raiyan, don’t blind yourself to reality. Eto stubborn hoyo na. Nijeke ondho korey rekho na.

53

NAZIA I agree Kavita is a very nice girl. Very pretty, very smart…but in the long run this wont work out. Your families will get in the way. I agree, Kavita ekta bhalo mey. Very pretty, very smart kintu shesh modhey eita tikbey na. Tomader dui family te legey jabey.

RAIYAN Come into the 21st Century guys!

Cut to:

Kavita and Seema.

KAVITA

Seema I know your worried but trust me. Raiyan is someone who my parents will support and he is definitely the type of person I want to be with. Seema, ami jani tumi ektu chintai acho kintu amake bishash karo. Amar baba-ma Raiyan ke accept korbey karon ami jani ami ek mathro Raiyan-er saathe thaktey chai.

SEEMA I don’t know…what about in the long run, when children are involved. Life is involved Ami jani na (pause) Tomader bacha howar por ki hobey? Kichu bochor ek saathe thakar por, ki hobey?

Cut to:

Raiyan, Salman and Nazia.

54

SALMAN There are a lot of things that could ruin this. You have to think about this. Eshob relationship-ey onek jamala achey. Decision nowar agey ektu chinta korey dekho.

RAIYAN

Alright, alright…I’ll think about it. Acha, acha. Chinta korey dekhbo.

Raiyan tries to start working on his paper again, but can’t.

INT. KAVITA’S ROOM – NIGHT Kavita is awaken by her phone ringing.

KAVITA Hello?

EXT. OUTSIDE KAVITA’S HOUSE – NIGHT Raiyan is waiting for Kavita.

KAVITA

Raiyan? Do you know what time it is?

RAIYAN No, I don’t know! Just come out, quick Na, shudho shudho baire dariye achi! Jaldi baire asho.

Kavita gets out of bed and meets Raiyan outside in her PJs. Raiyan grabs her arm and takes her to a special place where the full moon is in full sight.

KAVITA Where are you taking me? Kothai niye jacho amake?

55

RAIYAN Kavita, shh. Be quiet!

Cut to: Kavita and Raiyan run through the streets and reach the Gazebo.

KAVITA

What are we doing here? You’re not going to kill me are you? Amra ikhaney ki korchi? Tumi ki amake merey felbey?

RAIYAN Shutup… (points to the sky) Look Shutup (points to the sky) Dekho.

Kavita looks up at the full moon.

RAIYAN

Do you like it? Kemon lagey?

Kavita nods her head with a smile.

RAIYAN (Mocking Kavita’s head nod) What’s this? Say something Eta ki? Kichu bholo.

Kavita shakes her head no with a smile.

RAIYAN

(Mocking Kavita shaking her head) No you won’t say anything? Na, bholba na kichu?

KAVITA (smiling) You say something. Tumi kichu bholo.

56

RAIYAN Me? Why should I say something? I brought you here Ami bholbo keno? Ami tomake ikhaney niye eshchi.

KAVITA Say something sweet Kichu sweet bholo.

RAIYAN Something sweet?...um…Roshmalai…mmmm, I could eat some hot roshmalai now Kichu sweet? Um…roshomalai. Acha, bholechi kichu sweet.

KAVITA

Badmash

RAIYAN (Grabs Kavita’s hand) Tonight is the night of a full moon. A moon that is so far from us. Some even worship this moon. But I’ve come to worship the full moon that’s so near to my heart Aaj raat purnimar chand-er raat. Ekta chand amader theke kotho took dur. Onekra ei chand ke pujo korey. Kintu ami oi purnimar chand, je amar dil-er kachey thake, taa-ke pujo kortey eshchi.

Kavita is smiling and blushing.

RAIYAN

Now your turn. Ekon tomar turn.

KAVITA

What? My turn? No Ki? Amar turn? Na.

RAIYAN

What no? Ki na? Ok, fine.

57

Kavita shakes her head no with a smile. Kavita and Raiyan begin to get closer. Feeling that she is getting close to Raiyan, she finally decides to ask him questions that have been on her mind.

KAVITA Will you do morning puja with me? Tumi amar saathe shokaley pujo korbey?

RAIYAN Morning puja? What? Shokal? Pujo? Ki?

KAVITA

Will you do it with me or not? Everyday Tumi korbey, na korbey na? Protek din.

RAIYAN

I’ll do anything with you everyday Tomar saathe protek din ja kichu kortey parbo.

KAVITA

Will you learn the Gayatri Mantra? Tumi Gayatri Montro shikbey?

RAIYAN What kind of inquisition is this? Are you trying to turn me Hindu? Eta ki doroner proshno korcho? Amake Hindu banathey chacho?

KAVITA No I’m not. But will you learn the Gayatri Mantra? Will you pray with me? Na, Hindu banathey chachi na. Kintu tumi shikbey Gayatri Montro? Amar saathe montro porbey?

RAIYAN I’ll pray for you…If I learn the Gayatri Mantra, will you learn Surah Fatiha? They mean the same thing. Tomar jonno dua porbo. Ami Gayatri Mantra shikley, tumi Surah Fatiha shikba? Meaning to ek.

58

KAVITA I will…what about kids, how will we raise kids? Ami-o shikbo. Ar bacha? Amra bacha kemon boro korbo?

RAIYAN Kids? What kids? What are you trying to…what is this about? Bacha? Kar bacha? Tumi ki bholtey chacho? Eshob proshno korcho keno?

KAVITA

(revealing her concerns) My parents are a bit conservative, we need to make them understand our relationship. Amar baba-ma ektu old fashioned, oder ke amader relationship-ta ektu bujatey hobe.

RAIYAN Oh…How? Oh, kemon korey?

KAVITA

(thinking) Do you want to meet my parents? Amar baba-ma-r saathe dekha kortey chao?

RAIYAN Now? Ekhon?

KAVITA

Not now buddhu…they’re sleeping…at my sister’s wedding!...I can introduce you to everyone Ekhon na buddhu, ora ghumachey. Amar cousin-er biye te! Oikane, shabar saathe introduce kortey parbo!

RAIYAN Everyone? Shabar saathe?

59

Kavita nods her head with a smile.

EXT. OUTDOOR WEDDING – NIGHT Kavita’s cousins wedding. As Raiyan enters the room, kids are running around chasing each other – someone has just stolen the groom’s shoes. Kavita finds Raiyan inside and approaches him.

KAVITA

Finally, you made it…listen, I’ve been thinking…today your name is going to be Raj…I’m going to introduce you to everyone as Raj Finally, tumi eshcho. Shuno, ami chinta korchilam...Aaj ke tomar naam hobey Raj. Ami shabai ke tomake Raj naam korey introduce korbo.

RAIYAN Raj? Why Raj? Is my name that bad? Raj? Raj keno? Amar naam ki eto karap?

KAVITA No…

RAIYAN No, Kavita…

KAVITA Raiyan please…you don’t know my familly. Let them like you first. Raiyan please, tumi amar family ke chino na. Agey ora tomake pochondo korey neek.

Raiyan looks at Kavita angrily and she smiles back, as if to say that’s just how it is. Kavita takes Raiyan where the festivities are taking place. People are mingling and in a merry mood. Kavita takes Raiyan run into Kavita’s parents.

60

KAVITA Papa, here’s my friend I was telling you about. His name… Papa, ajey amar bondhu, jar kotha bolchilam. Or naam Ra…

RAIYAN Rajasundaram Sen Gupta but you can call me Raju Khaka with love. Rajasundaram Sen Gupta kintu apne amake ador korey Raju Khaka daktey paren.

ARUN (confused) Rajasundaram? Raju Khaka?

RAIYAN Yes uncle, my parents like classical names…Namaskar Aunty. Gi uncle, amar baba-ma purano din-er naam pochondo korey. Namaskar Aunty.

Kavita gives Raiyan a dirty glare.

ARUN Rajasundaram, what do you do? Are you still in school? Rajasundaram, tumi ki koro? Ekono schooley poro?

RAIYAN Gi uncle, I’m going for my PhD

ARUN Kavita, you should spend more time with Rajasundaram, it might make you smarter Kavita, tomar Rajasundaram-r saathe aro time spend kora uchit, tomar buddhi barbe.

Arun is the only one who laughs at his bad joke.

61

SOUMITRA Arun… (turns to Raiyan) Ok, it was nice meeting you Rajasundaram but we have to greet the other guests…we’ll talk again later. Arun chalo… (turns to Raiyan) Acha, tomake dekhey bhalo laglo Rajasundaram. Onno guester saathe ektu alap kortey hobey. Porey abar dekha hobey.

RAIYAN Ok Aunty, bye Uncle

Kavita’s parents walk away and Kavita continues to give Raiyan the dirty glare.

RAIYAN

(With a smile on his face) Great! Now who else can we meet? Great! Ekhon kar saathe dekha kortey pari?

Raiyan and Kavita run into Priya.

KAVITA Priya! This is my friend Ra… Priya! Ajey amar bondhu Ra…

RAIYAN

Rajasundaram SenGupta

PRIYA Rajasundaram SenGupta?

Priya laughs, amused by the name. Raiyan affirms Priya by knodding his head.

RAIYAN

Why are you laughing? Hasheesh ken?

Kavita walks away.

62

PRIYA Didi?

RAIYAN Your sister is very moody.

We move into a wedding song sequence, where Raiyan tries to cheer up Kavita and make up for making her mad. Everyone is enjoying themselves, Arun is standing off to the side, watching the festivities. EXT. OUTSIDE THE WEDDING – NIGHT After the festivities, Raiyan is leaving and Kavita sneaks out to catch up with him alone.

KAVITA

Mr. Rajasundaram! RAIYAN

(turns around smiling) Hello, Ms. Mukherjee…so you’ve come to like the name? Hello, Ms. Mukherjee. Ekhon naam ta tomar pochondo hoye gechey?

KAVITA

I like any name you have. Tomar naam jai hok, amar pochondo hobey.

RAIYAN

Even Raiyan? Raiyan-o?

KAVITA Of course, we don’t fall in love with names, we fall in love with people Oboshoi, amra naam ke bhalobashi na, manush ke bhalobashi.

63

RAIYAN You mean that? Sometimes I feel you have trouble with me being Muslim Tai? Sometimes amar mon-ey hoi, ami musulman dekhe tomar oshobida lage.

KAVITA No, I accept it…it’s just different, so I have to get used to it Na, kono oshobida na. Ektu different, shay jonno amar time lagbe used to howar jonno.

RAIYAN Don’t worry, we have time and it will become normal for us Chinta korba na, amader shomoy achey ar astey astey amader kachey shob normal-ee lagbe.

KAVITA Thank you for coming. My family really liked you…it means a lot to me Thank you for coming. Amar parivar tomake khub pochondo korechey

RAIYAN

Anytime Ms Mukherjee…It’s getting late, shall I leave? Anytime, Ms. Mukherjee (pause) Deri hoye jachey, ami jai?

KAVITA

(knods her head) Goodnight.

Raiyan leaves with a smile on his face. Kavita watches him leave, happy everything worked out.

INT. KAVITA’S ROOM – NIGHT Kavita is getting ready for bed when Priya walks into the room. She has a mischevious smile on her face.

64

PRIYA Hi didi.

KAVITA Priya? Do you need anything? Priya? Kichu lagbe?

PRIYA

No. How’s Mr. Rajasundaram? Na. (long pause) Mr. Rajasundaram kemon?

KAVITA What? Ki?

PRIYA Come on didi, don’t act like I wouldn’t catch on. Come on didi. Tomar ki mon-ey hoyna ami bujey jabo?

KAVITA Promise you won’t tell anybody? Promise korba keo ke bholbe na?

PRIYA

Promise!

KAVITA Well, his name isn’t Rajasundaram Or naam Rajasundaram na.

PRIYA Thank god, what ugly name Thank God, ki oshojjo ekta naam

KAVITA His name is Raiyan… Thar naam Raiyan (pause) Khaled

PRIYA Raiyan Khaled? Didi!

KAVITA

Shh! Priya, you promised!

65

PRIYA

He’s Muslim, mom and dad will never accept. You know this! And to bring him to the wedding?! O ekta musulman! Baba-ma okey accept korbey na. Tumi eta bhalo korey jano.

KAVITA That’s why I brought him to the wedding. So they can like him. Shay jonno shabar shatey biye te porichoy koratey chachilam. Jatey Raiyan oder bhalo legey jetey parey.

PRIYA

Our parents are going to be so angry. It will be difficult for everyone. Baba-ma khub raag korbey.

KAVITA

They won’t be angry. Watch. Raag korbe na, dekho.

PRIYA Didi…

As Priya gets ready to respond she looks over at her door and sees Arun standing at the doorway. Kavita turns her head and realizes that he has heard everything.

ARUN Kavita, come…we’re going home now. Nichey asho Kavita. Tomar saathe kotha achey.

Arun walks downstairs. Kavita is sitting on the bed scared and gathering herself to go downstairs.

Fade out to Intermission:

INT. MUKHERJEE LIVING ROOM (FIREPLACE) – NIGHT

Fade in:

66

Arun is sitting in his armchair by the fireplace as Kavita walks up and kneels beside him. Arun is clearly angry and Kavita approaches him scared and pleading.

KAVITA

Papa…

ARUN You lied to me? Amake mitha kotha bolecho? Rajasundaram SenGupta?

KAVITA Papa, please don’t be mad Papa, please raag koro na.

ARUN

That scoundrel came to my daughter’s wedding and lied to me? Oi badmaash-ta amar shamne amake mitha kotha bolechey?

KAVITA

No papa, he wanted to be honest…it was my idea! I didn’t want people to harass him from the beginning…I wanted to show everyone the person he was without them judging him Na, o shothi kotha bholtey chaichilo, ami bholtey di ni. Ami chai ni je shabai or shathey karap bhebwar korook...Ami chachilam je shabai okey manush hishabey dekhuk.

ARUN

So? That doesn’t matter. Our family will never accept, he’s Muslim…I would’ve expected better from you. To? Eta ki kono kotha holo? O ekta musulman, amader parivar kono din-o or bepare raji hobey na. Tomar theke aro bhalo asha korechilam.

67

KAVITA Papa, Muslims believe the same thing as Hindus Papa, musulman ar hindu-r modhey kono difference nai.

ARUN There is! Their religion is different. Their beliefs are different. Difference achey! Oder dhormo alada. Oder niamkanon alada.

KAVITA We’ll make it work Papa, we’re ready to accept each other. Na papa. We’ll make it work. Amra ek saathe thaktey raji hoyechi.

ARUN Kavita, how can you support this boy that you’ve know for a few months over your family who you’ve known for 20 years? Kavita, tumi ei chiley ke koi din dorey chino. Amra tomake 20 bochor dorey bhoro korchi. Ar tumi or side ta nicho?

KAVITA

(starting to cry) Papa, this is not about choosing sides

ARUN

Kavita!... Think about it, all the difficulty you will face…our family will give us hell, our reputation will be ruined…in our business…in our community. Kavita! Okey biye korley, kotho jhamela hobey. Amar baba-ma, bhai-boan koto koshto pabey. Amader mukey chun kari porbey.

68

KAVITA Papa, you really think it will hurt those things? Don’t you think those people care for us? Tumi eta asholey bishash koro? Ora ki amader ke bhalo bashey na?

ARUN And he studies Sociology of Religion. What is he going to do with that degree. I’m sure he’ll be successful but can he take care of you? Why not someone like Jay, he’s good looking, smart and can take care of you. Sociology of Religion porey, tomake kemon korey take care korbey? Jay-er moto ekta chiley ke biye korley aro bhalo na? O tomake shukey rakbe.

KAVITA

Papa…

ARUN It will be too difficult for you, it will make your marriage unhappy. You’ve really disappointed me today, didn’t you think about any of this? Tumi ki amader ke chara thaktey parba? Musulman ke biye korley tai kortey hobey. Eshob niye chinta koro ni keno?

KAVITA I didn’t think papa, I only loved… Chinta kori ni papa (pause) Shudhu bhalobeshichi

ARUN

Loved?...I was so proud of you Kavita, I thought you were my daughter that understood me…I’m very hurt Bhalobeshecho? Tomake ke niye kotho proud chilam Kavita, ami bhabtam tumi amake buhjo. Aaj tumi amake onek dukho diyecho.

69

KAVITA Papa, please don’t be hurt…I never wanted to hurt you. Papa, please dukho koro na. Ami tomake dukho dithey chai ni.

ARUN I know he is a nice guy but I’m thinking about your best interest. Please, also think about your family. Hoitaba shay bhalo ekta chiley, kintu ami tomar bhalo-r jonnoi chinta korchi. Tomar family-er jonno ektu chinta koro.

KAVITA (after a pause) Amar family

ARUN (after a pause) I know this is difficult Kavita, but think about it…it won’t work Shuno, shesh porjonto ei biye tikbe na…

KAVITA (Interrupting) Enough dad, you don’t have to say anymore. Bas papa ar boltey hobey na.

Arun looks contemplatingly at Kavita.

KAVITA You’re right Papa. How could I have been so short-sighted. I didn’t think about our family, our business…Whatever you think is best, I’ll do it Tumi thik bolecho papa. Ami tomake dukho dithey chai ni. Tumi eta bhalo-r jonnai bholcho, to ami raji hobo na keno? Tumi ja bholbey, ami tai korbo.

Kavita nods her head while crying.

70

ARUN We’ll call him…Raiyan…tomorrow and try to break it off as nice as possible…I know he’s a good boy but this will be in his best interest as well. Kalkey Raiyan ke phone korbo. Nicely okey ei kotha ta bholtey chesta korbo.

Arun gets up and walks off screen while the camera pans into Kavita’s face, who is devastated but resigned to accepting the decision.

EXT. SURAIYA’S TERRACE – DAY (1947) The women are singing in excitement for Suraiya’s upcoming wedding. It’s Suraiya’s Gaye Holud. Prem enters Suraiya’s family’s haweli without fear and a sense of purpose. Amar is walking the halls in search of Suraiya. As he is walking, he can hear the echos of the singing. He enters the main room and the singing dies down as everyone is confused by who has just entered the room. Amar and Suraiya steal glances at one another and their attention is interrupted by Suraiya’s father Chowdhury speaking up.

CHOWDHURY

Can I help you? Apnar kichu lagbe?

AMAR

(Clears his throat) Sir…my name is Amar Mukherji and I have come to ask for your daughter’s hand in marriage. Sir, amar naam Amar Mukherji ar ami ikhaney eshechi Suraiya-r biye-r prostab niye.

71

CHOWDHURY (Getting angry) Ask for my daughter’s hand in marriage? Do you know that my daughter is already engaged? Amar mey-er biye-r prostab enecho? Tumi ki jaano tar biye shaadi thik hoye gechey?

AMAR Yes, I do uncle…but do you know that your daughter is in love with me? Gi sir, kintu apni ki jaanen apnar mey amake bhalo bashey?

CHOWDHURY

In love with you? Tomake bhalo bashey?

AMAR

Yes, we want to be together and I know that I only can give Suraiya the happiness that will last her a lifetime Gi, amra ek shongey thaktey chai ar ek mathro ami Suraiya ke shukey rakte parbo.

CHOWDHURY

What nonsense are you talking? Get out of my house immediately! Faizlami-r ar jaga pao nai?! Amar basha-r theke ekhoni ber ho!

AMAR

No, sir I cannot do that. Na sir. Ami eta kortey parbo na.

CHOWDHURY Can’t do that? Parba na?

AMAR Uncle, I think you should listen to me reasonably. Sir, amar kotha ti apnar ektu thik moto shunar uchit.

72

CHOWDHURY (Approaching Prem) Listen to you reasonably? Do you have any idea where you are? You are a Hindu in a Muslim household. We are as different as night and day. Thik moto shunar uchit? Tumi jaano tumi kothai? Tumi ekta Hindu, ek musulman-er bashai dariye acho. Jemon din ar raat, temon ami ar tumi.

AMAR Uncle, I believe both our bodies have 5.5 liters of blood Sir, amader duijon-eri rakto lal.

CHOWDHURY

Do you understand the fighting that is going on outside? People are dying, how can you expect a relationship with my family? Bairey je maara maari hochey, tumi jaano? Manush morey jaachey, tumi kemon korey bhabcho amader parivar-er samne prostab antey parba?

AMAR Me and Suraiya are not fighting, we have accepted each other Ami ar Suraiya maara mari korchi na, khoon korchi na.

CHOWDHURY (slaps Prem and looks at Suraiya) Stop talking back to me! Amar mukher upre ar kotha bholbe na!

Suraiya is shocked by the slap but avoids eye contact by looking down.

73

CHOWDHURY How can you be stupid? Once people hear of this, they will kill the both of you. How will you protect her? Tor shahosh to kum na. Manush jodi ei kotha ti shuney, tomader ke khoon korey phelbey. Tumi Suraiya-ke ki bhabey rokha korba.

AMAR Nothing will happen to Suraiya. Suraiya-r kichu hobey na.

CHOWDHURY

No…you’ve asked permission and I’ve denied. This is not a relationship that should happen. Na. Tumi prostab niye eshecho ar ami na bholechi. Ei biye hotey dhibo na.

AMAR

Isn’t our love enough to prove that we should be together. Amader bhalobasha dekhey bujtey paran na ei biye howar uchit?

CHOWDHURY No, now leave or else we’ll force you to leave. Na! Ekhon ber ho, na holey amra tomake ber korey dhibo.

Amar stands firm but Chowdhury walks away and tells his nephews to take Amar out. Suraiya’s brothers and cousins gang up and beat Amar and kick him out of the house.

EXT. OUTSIDED THE GATE – DAY (1947) Amar is thrown to the ground outside of the compound. The cousins are standing over him.

74

SURAIYA’S BROTHER Don’t think about coming here again loverboy…you won’t come out alive Ekaney ar ashar chinta koro na. Tomake merey phelbo.

Suraiya’s brothers and cousins close the door behind them and leave Prem on the ground in pain. INT. SURAIYA’S TERRACE – NIGHT (1947) Suraiya is angry abour Amar being thrown out. She is confiding to a friend.

SURAIYA He’s willing to become Muslim for me. (pause) If dad doesn’t let me marry Amar. I’m going to become a Hindu and marry Amar. Amar jodi amar jonno Musulman hoyte parey (pause, thinking) Abba jodi amake Amar-er saathe biye kortey na de, ta holey ami Hindu hoye Amar ke biye korbo.

INT. RAIYAN’S APARTMENT – DAY Raiyan’s cell phone rings and he picks it up.

RAIYAN

Hello?

KAVITA Raiyan? Can you meet with me right now? It’s important. Raiyan? Tumi amar saathe dekha kortey parbey? It’s important.

Raiyan is puzzled and alarmed.

75

INT. COFFEE SHOP – DAY Kavita is sitting in a booth in the coffee shop, across from her is Raiyan.

RAIYAN Kavi, is everything okay? Kavita, shab kichu thik achey?

A tear runs down Kavita’s face.

RAIYAN

Kavita, what’s wrong? What happened? Kavita, ki holo?

KAVITA I’ve been thinking a lot about our relationship and my parents are also very worried… Ami amader ke niye bhabchilam. Amar baba-ma amader beparey chintai achey.

RAIYAN Worried? They know about us? Chintai achey? Onader ke bolecho?

KAVITA

(struggling to get it all out) Yes, they found out about us yesterday…they overheard me talking to my Sister…they won’t allow this. They know you’re a good boy but there is so many other things to worry about…our families getting together, raising our children…My family will never treat you well, my relatives…and I… Kal rathey jokhon didi-r shathey kotha bolchilam, baba shuney felchey. O tomar saathe ar thaktey dibey na. Bolchilo amader parivar amader ke koshto jamala dibey, amader bacha-r jonno bhalo hobey na. Onara karap bhebwar korbey. Ar ami…

76

RAIYAN And how do you feel? You don’t want to try? Ar tumi ki kortey chao? Tumi chesta kortey chao na?

KAVITA I tried… Chesta korechi…

RAIYAN Tried? Chesta korecho?

KAVITA My parents were saying things like how I can be on your side over them who I’ve known my whole life, they’re my parents… Amar baba bolechey onara amake etho koshto korey manush korechey, ami kemon korey onar bipoke jai (pause) Onara amar baba-ma

RAIYAN Before that, can you do it? Can you live a life with a Muslim like me? Onader kotha apathatho baad dao. Tumi ki amar moto ekjon Musulman-er saathe shara jibon katatey parbey?

Kavita knods her head ‘yes’ in response. Raiyan is looking at Kavita and contemplating.

KAVITA

(softly) My parents are here. Amar baba-ma ashchey.

Kavita and Raiyan look up to see Kavita’s parents. They sit down, Arun next to Raiyan.

77

ARUN Raiyan, nice to see you again…this is not an easy situation for any of us Raiyan, nice to see you again. Eita amader pokhey bhola shohaj na.

RAIYAN Uncle this is not right Uncle eta thik na.

ARUN (nervous laugh) Trust me, this is the only way. You don’t know my family Trust me, ei chara amader ar kono poth nai. Tumi amar family ke chino na.

RAIYAN And your family doesn’t know me Ar apnar family amake chiney na.

ARUN Raiyan, we see you as our own son…but our family will never accept…I don’t want my dad to get a heart attack after he finds out you’re a Muslim Raiyan, amra tomake amader nijer chiley mothey dekhi, kintu bishash koro amar family eita meney nibey na.

Raiyan is searching for what to say.

ARUN (nervous laugh) Trust me, one of Kavita’s cousins married a Das and her parents have not spoken to her for 10 years, you can imagine what will happen if Kavita marries a Muslim Trust me, Kavita-r fupatoboan 10 bochor agey ekta ninmoborner Hindu ke biye korechilo, tar baba-ma ekhono ta meney nithey parey nai. Kavita ekta musulman ke biye korley, tumi jano ki hobey?

78

RAIYAN So you’re saying if Kavita marries me you’ll never talk to her again? Kavita are you listening to this? To apne bolchen, Kavita amake biye korley, apne or saathe ar kotha bolben na?

ARUN

No, that’s not it…listen, Raiyan…I have to worry about my reputation…my reputation in three areas…my family, my business and in my community Shuno Raiyan, amar reputation niye chinta achey (pause) Thinta jagai amar reputation maintain kortey hobey, amar family, business ar community.

RAIYAN Am I not human, am I less than human that if you’re associated with me your reputation will be ruined? That, uncle, is called hate Ami ki manush na? Ami ki manush-er nichey je apnar bod naam hobey?

ARUN

Raiyan, my family will not understand. Raiyan, amar family bujbey na

RAIYAN Uncle, atleast try…you never know what will happen unless we try…I know I can win your family’s heart Uncle, atleast chesta koren. Chesta na korley kemon korey bujben?

ARUN

No…no…no…Trust me Raiyan, trust me. Soumitra, Kavita. Chalo

The four of them get up. Arun and Soumitra are walking away but Kavita is still with Raiyan, she wants to say one last thing to him.

79

KAVITA Papa, ma…one second, I’ll see you in the car… (approaches Raiyan) Raiyan, I’m really sorry…I hope we can still be friends Papa, ma…ek second, ami ashchi… (approaches Raiyan) Raiyan, I hope we can still be friends.

RAIYAN (laughing, stunned) Yeah, it’s fine. I understand. Yeah, it’s fine. Ami buji

Kavita knods her head and walks away sadly. We have a shot of Raiyan in a state of shock and anger.

INT. MUKHERJEE CAR – DAY On the drive, Arun tries to help Kavita. She is staring out the window.

ARUN Kavita…I know this is very painful for you but the best way to get over your pain is to move on…I think you should accept the proposal from Prasenjit Uncle. This will make you happy again. Kavita, ami jaani tomar koshto lagche, kintu tomar ekhon ekta nuthon jibon shuro kortey hobey. Nuthon biye niye chinta korley, ta holey ei dukho ta bhuley jabey tumi.

Kavita looks up but doesn’t say anything.

ARUN Kavita, do you accept? Kavita, tumi ei biye niye raji?

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KAVITA (pauses for a moment) Ok papa, I accept. Hein papa, ami raji.

Arun is happy with her agreement and begins to pull out his phone. Kavita is still sad.

ARUN

Prasenjit! Listen good news Prasenjit, shuno, bhalo khabor achey.

Sound drowns out as we move to a shot of Kavita’s resigned face, someone who has accepted her destiny. INT. KAVITA’S ROOM - NIGHT (2012) Kavita is sitting in her room, getting ready for Jay and his family to arrive. She’s sad and lonely; she flashes back to a memory of Raiyan: EXT. ABANDONED GARAGE – DAY (2012) Raiyan and Kavita run into a garage to take cover from the rain. After a moment to catch their breath, Kavita asks Raiyan something that she was thinking of.

RAIYAN

Wow, it’s raining hard. Wow, khub jorey to brishti porchey.

KAVITA How do you like the names Aaliyah and Raj? Our daughter would have a muslim name and the son a hindu name. Tomar kache Aaliya aar Raj naam duto kemon lage? Amader meyer muslim naam rakhbo and cheletar hindu naam, kemon?

81

RAIYAN I like Aaliyah and Rajasundaram better. Why are you always talking about our kids? Unless, are you pregnant? Amar kache ‘Rajasundaram’ beshi valo lage. Tumi amader chile-mey ke niye eto chintai acho keno? Unless, are you pregnant?

KAVITA What?

RAIYAN But we haven’t, you know, done it. (beat) If you want to, I’m ready. Kintu amra to kokhono, you know, kori ni (beat) Obossho....Kortey chailey, I’m ready

KAVITA What? Chi! Shameless! What? Chi! Besharam!

RAIYAN Oh come on, that’s how Aaliyah and Raj are made. (beat) Atleast give me a kiss! Oh come on, Ta na hole Aaliyah and Raj koththeke ashbe? (beat) Atleast amake ekta chumu dao na.

KAVITA We should get married first! Biyer age na!

RAIYAN We need to get married before we kiss? What kind of rule is that? Chumu dowar agey ki biye kortey hoi naki? Eta kon desh-er niyom?

82

KAVITA America! (long beat) Close your eyes. America! (long beat) Chok bondho koro.

Kavita closes Raiyan’s eyes, covering them with her hands. She then quickly kisses him on the cheek and moves away. Raiyan, surprised the kiss was on the cheek, grabs Kavita by the arm. As the rain comes down, he slowly moves in for a kiss. Right before the lips meet: INT. KAVITA’S ROOM - NIGHT Kavita is snapped out of her memory by the call of her mom.

SOUMITRA Kavita! Come down, Jay is here. Kavita! Nichey asho, Jay ar Uncle-Aunty choley eshechen..

INT. MUKHERJEE LIVING ROOM – NIGHT Kavita’s family is celebrating with Jaydeep’s family.

ARUN

(announcing to the room) I’m so happy that our two children have decided to come together. May this be the beginning of a wonderful relationship between our families. Amar onek khushi lagche je amader dui parivar ei biye niye ek hoi jaabe. Asha kori Durga Ma ei biye ke bhalo rakhey.

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PRASENJIT (chiming in) I know my son must be surprised by how lucky he has gotten. Our whole famlly is truly lucky to be bringing in a wife like Kavita. Ami jaani Jay nischoi obhak, Kavita-r moton mey tar saathe biye kortey raji. Amra shabai onek khushi.

Priya is looking at Kavita during the speech, noticing that Kavita is looking down. Time elapses and Jay asks Kavita to go to the basement.

JAY Kavita, will you come downstairs with me? I’d like some time to talk to you. Kavita, amar saathe nichey jabey? Tomar saathe ektu ekla kotha bholtey chai.

KAVITA

Of course Jay. INT. BOSE BASEMENT – NIGHT Kavita and Jay is setting up the home theater.

JAY You know Kavita…what my dad said in there about being lucky. He’s right, I really do consider myself lucky. You know Kavita (pause) Amar baba upre ja bholchilo, shaab shothi chilo. I’m very lucky.

KAVITA

Don’t say that Jay, this relationship is between the two of us. I should be every bit as lucky as you. Eshob bholo na Jay. In fact, ami lucky.

84

JAY I couldn’t help but notice you were a bit sad in there. I hope you’re not worried about getting into marriage or anything. Hein, kintu amar money hochilo tumi bithorey ektu sad chiley. I hope tomar bhoy lagchena, biye-r kotha niye.

KAVITA No Jay, I’m...I’m just going to need some time. No Jay, amar...Amar shudho ektu time lagbe

JAY What do you mean?

KAVITA

All this is just so new for me…I don’t want to take things too fast… (takes a deep breath) some things in my life… Eshob amar jonno q It’s very new. Ami beshi tara tari kortey chai na. (takes a deep breath) Amar jiboney…

JAY Hey…hey…I understand…I’ll give you all the time you need. Okay? Just know that when you give me your hand in marriage, I’ll make sure you never cry again. Hey, hey (pause) I understand. Tomar time lagle, ami debo. Okay? Kintu jeney rekho, amake biye korley, tomar chokey kono din jol ashtey debo na.

KAVITA

(knods her head) Thank you, its very sweet of you.

85

Jay walks to put a movie in to comfort Kavita. We begin to hear Amar’s voice, as if Kavita is remembering something Amar told to Suraiya. Jay looks back, he is also unsure of the situation.

INT. JUNGLE – NIGHT (1947) Amar and Suraiya are in the jungle. They have run away from home and are in hiding.

AMAR’S VOICE

B makes bhalobasha (love). B makes bhoyi (fear). The two are forever together. Remember, to love is to remove all your fears. However distant the sky and stars appear, overcome all obstacles with your soul. Because B also comes with Bahudur (Brave) Shuno, B diye hoi bhalobasha. B diye hoi bhoyi. Dutoi ek shonge roi. Mon-ey rekho, bhalobasha maaney shab bhoyi bhangano. Jothoi lagook, aasman ar taara kotho took dur. Poth-er borobeshi mon diye porajeet korbey. Karon B-or shaatheo hoi Bahadur.

INT. DANCE STUDIO – DAY Kavita is trying to practice dance but she can’t concentrate. Her heart is not in it today. As she is packing up to leave, Raiyan walks in.

RAIYAN

Hi.

KAVITA (surprised) Hi. What are you doing here? Hi. Tumi ekhane keno eshecho?

86

RAIYAN I was on my way to class. Thought I would come say hi. Haven’t seen you for a while. Ami class-er jawar pothey, bhablam tomake ektu hi boley jai. Tomar saathe onek din dekha hoi na.

KAVITA Oh. Sorry, I can’t talk for long. Oh accha. Sorry, ami beshi khon kotha boltey parbo na.

RAIYAN Its okay. We can still be friends right? Friends. Its okay. Amra toh, friends taktey pari, taina? Friends?

Raiyan extends his hand, Kavita just looks at Raiyan’s hand then him.

KAVITA

(shaking her head) Raiyan, seeing you...It’s very painful. All of our memories...In order for me to begin my new life, I have to be away from you. Raiyan, tomar sathe dekha holee ...amar onek koshto lagey. All of our memories...Amar notun jibon shuro korar jonno, tomar theke amake durey thaktey hobey. Na holey ami parbo na.

RAIYAN New life? Notun jibon? Mane?

KAVITA (getting irritated) Raiyan please, I need some time. Raiyan please, amar time lagbey.

87

RAIYAN Okay, geez. Sorry, I won’t come by anymore. Okay, geez. Sorry, ami ekhane ar ashbo na.

KAVITA (angrily, sternly) Why don’t you get it? I’m getting married. It’s not right to still be seeing you! Tumi bujcho na keno? Ami biye korchi. Tomar saathe ei bhabe dekha kora thik na!

RAIYAN Biye? Whtat? You’re getting married? Are you crazy? Just like that?

KAVITA

I have to go. Ami jai.

RAIYAN Is this what this is all about? You want to get married? You could have just told me there was someone else. That you didn’t love me. (Angrily) Wait! Is that what this is all about? Tumi biye kortey chachiley? Amake bholtey to partey je tumi onno kauke biye kortey chachiley. Amake bhalobashtey na!

KAVITA I did love you! I do love you! But we ha