(voiceover)
Smoking is injurious to health, it causes cancer.
Have you read Shankar's "Chowringhee"?
Yes, Uttam Kumar played the role of Syata Bose in the film adaptation.
It was a timeless novel before it was made into a film.
Given up your reading habit I see...
Anyway, my story is similar.
I mean, it's like "Chowringhee".
The setting?
This city.
Leela Majumdar had once said...
So many people can't cohabit in one city.
Most of them are ghosts.
But I would say that not just people, here even places have spirits.
Shankar's "Chowringhee" was set in Gothic hotel area of the '60's.
That has now been replaced by the cluster of hotels near the Byepass.
Stories, histories and love stories disappear into thin air here.
The colours of the city are fading.
Anyway, everyone knows the story I'm about to tell.
Although, neither the setting nor the characters are the same.
If you believe in rebirth...
then you can assume that my story is "Chowringhee" reborn in 2017.
And Calcutta is reborn as Kolkata.
My story is a record of its time just like "Chowringhee" was.
Shankar used fictitious names except for his own.
I'm changing my name too from the very beginning.
Lord Shiva's name is very popular in Bengali literature.
Bhootnath, Shankar, Byomkesh, Mahesh, Girish...
Let's say... My name is Rudra.
I am Rudra.
And I've just lost my job.
Take the rook out with the queen.
Hey brother! Why the long face?
Who are you?
I am... Wait.
- Barun Raha... We met at the lawyer's. - Oh, it's you!
Yes, we met at the lawyer's last time.
Since we've met after such a long time, let's have some tea and fish fry.
I didn't see her in Gariahat.
She's very cunning.
Wait in front of her house. I'm sure the guy will drop her.
Yeah.
Keep an eye.
I'm fibbing.
Your cases must be very twisted.
Twisted?
Do you know what a private eye is?
Detective.
Detective...
Let's say Gopa's husband...
has taken Manti's daughter to Mandarmoni to play hopscotch.
Okay.
Or Ganesh's wife...
has gone to Diamond Harbour to play hide and seek.
Now my job is...
to be Gopa and Ganesh's eyes...
and find out what they are doing.
Take some photos and show them.
Then the usual follows.
Fights, divorce, etc. I look into that too.
If the fictional detectives got cases like these...
they would hand them over to their sidekicks...
and kill themselves out of frustration.
Why are you looking so down?
I don't have a job anymore.
Oh, no! Why?
Everything is online now.
Boss said there's no need for door-to-door salesmen anymore.
Fired.
Do you have a kurta?
- Traditional Bengali clothes? Yes, I have. - That's great.
Go home quickly.
Get a shave, put on the clothes...
And meet me here in an hour. Got it?
I'll take you somewhere.
Is it a wedding? Can't be a waiter.
Come along. What are you staring at?
Good evening.
Come.
- Good evening. - He's with me.
Brother, I'll be right back. Wait here.
You play the sitar beautifully.
This is not a sitar. It's called a "sur bahar".
It's a cousin of the sitar. Just like the lute.
Lute as in the musical instrument Goddess Saraswati used to play.
Yes, according to the myths.
And according to history, it was Emperor Aurangzeb.
Wow! Sorry, I don't know much about these things.
I just loved your performance that's why...
Music is not something you understand. You feel it.
That's why you felt it.
That's true.
But a layman like me has no idea about the classical Indian music.
Do you know the source of classical music?
The first ever notations?
Must have been some maestro.
Not at all.
In fact, it wasn't even created by man.
It's inspired by Nature.
- Actually... - Rudra.
Rudra, tell me...
The chirping of birds, the gurgling of rivers...
the rustling of the leaves, snake's hiss, tiger's roar...
Do you need to be a maestro to understand this music?
I guess that's right.
What's up, brother?
- You seem to have grown roots here. - No...
- Greetings, madam! - Greetings!
- How goes the "tung tang"? - "Tung tang"?
Barun, what makes you think I run a Chinese restaurant?
Please don't get offended.
I was referring to your musical conference.
Hope all's well.
- Let's go brother. We're late. - Let's go.
- Please continue. - Good bye.
Who is she?
She's Gayatri Chakraborti.
She's been playing here since a long time.
You can call her Shah Jahan Regency's Jahanara.
Let that be.
Now remember to just nod your head to whatever I say.
Yes, okay.
Who are we meeting?
Makaranda Pal, the owner of Shah Jahan Regency.
Oh, it's you. I was waiting for you.
Do you have any news?
Not yet.
What should I do with you? Am I not paying you enough?
- Who's this? - My cousin, Rudra Mukherji, very nice guy.
And this is the famous hotelier, Makaranda Pal.
He is presently the owner of this hotel but he started out as a boy...
in Chowringhee's Spence's Hotel.
He knows everything about running a hotel.
Running this hotel is his addiction and profession.
And I guess that's why, even though he has many houses in the city...
Even though he has a GM...
- He lives in this hotel. - Will you shut up now?
Have you been to this hotel before?
I have never had the opportunity...
You know, Rudra... Not just hotels...
From the most expensive scotch to the rarest art...
He has the eye for all the best things in the world.
But he is very proud of his Indian identity.
That you can tell from the hotel.
His motto is think local, act global.
- Isn't it? - What do you want?
A job.
In this hotel? There are no jobs.
There is, sir.
I won't know what's happening in my hotel?
There is no job.
- There is... There is... - There are rooms but no job.
The Chinese lady who assisted Sameeran in running your Mughlai mess...
has eloped at midnight with a middle aged businessman.
- What? - Not what but 'e'. 'E' for elope.
Basically, she has disappeared.
You mean Rosy?
Impossible.
Let me check.
Spouting nonsense has become a habit.
Hello, Jamini?
Hope Rosy has reported to duty.
Oh, okay.
Who is the job for?
For my nephew, sir.
You just said he's your cousin.
Well, I meant distant relative.
It doesn't work this way. I need a CV...
It's already in your inbox, sir.
You turned out to be quite the jack of all trades.
Good... Very good.
- Sameeran. - Yes, sir.
Please take him in as your intern.
Groom him, train him, show him the ropes.
Right, sir.
You'll be on probation.
- I guess you've heard about Rosy. - Yes, sir.
- Are you happy? - Yes.
I need to give you some new brief about Mala.
Bye.
Come with me.
So, what has happened...
- Sameeran. - Rudra.
Welcome to Shah Jahan Regency.
Thank you.
You really can't call Kolkata the city that never sleeps.
But if we have to, Shah Jahan is responsible for it.
If you go to other big hotels, you'll see...
- Hey, I'm cutting out the formality. - Yes, please.
People are usually dozing off between 1 am and 5 am.
But not here at Shah Jahan Regency.
People here have unlimited energy.
Let me give you a tour and introduce you to the other staff.
This is the kitchen of our 24 hour coffee shop, Diwan -i-aam.
There are two more kitchens like this.
For our two speciality restaurants, Dastarkhaan and Diwaan-i-khaas.
Whatever goes on in here is this gentleman's responsibility.
Janardhan, Executive Chef.
There's an Executive Sous Chef and three Sous Chefs under him.
For the three different restaurants.
Alright.
Wait, let me introduce you to him.
- Janardhan! - Sam!
Sorry to disturb you.
This is Rudra Mukherji, my new intern.
- Hello. - Hello.
And this is Janardhan.
Although, he's a chef, I feel like calling him an artiste.
Replace the spatula with a chisel and a hammer.
He'll build you Shah Jahan's Taj Mahal.
Oh, Sam, really!
You talk too much.
Rudra, welcome to Shah Jahan Regency.
Thank you.
Do you have any food allergies?
Why are you asking me this question?
Just like that.
See you around.
Of course.
- Let's go, Rudra... - Wait, wait...
What is it?
Why did he ask me about allergy?
Fear not.
He cooks something for the newbie.
A surprise dish.
He's very sweet... Just like your Hindi.
I've been fascinated with something since I was a kid, Rudra.
I'm staying at a hotel and I leave in the morning.
The room is a mess.
- Watch your step. - Yeah.
But you can't tell when you come back in the evening.
Everything in it's place. The bed is made.
- As if by magic. - Oh, yes.
My mother did this magic at our home.
Lucky you.
I'm an orphan.
So, have never known how magical it is to have parents.
I'm a born vagabond.
Institute, hostel, relative's homes...
It's not just my name Sameeran that means wind.
What should I call you?
You can call me Sameeran.
But I'm very sure it'll soon become Sam.
So, this is where the magic happens.
- Where the rabbit is pulled out of the hat. - You have really high demands...
They must be called associates.
- They must be called assistant managers. - Here we go again.
- They must be called floor supervisors. - Nitya is angry again.
No wonder we call him Nitty-gritty.
Rubbish! Only big names!
What kind of floor supervisors are you?
How do the guests complain about cleanliness...
when I'm the executive housekeeper of this hotel?
Some call it nitpicking, I call it "Nitya-picking".
What is happening here?
There are three big spots like the Australian map in Room 204.
Wrinkled bedsheets in Room 317.
The pillows smell of cheap hair oil in Room 402.
There's a Bible instead of a Quran in the Muslim guest's room.
And there are no candies in the room where kids have checked in.
Do you want me to kill myself out of shame?
Damn it! Hey, Nitty-gritty!
What's wrong? Why have you lost your temper?
Hang your temper, Sam.
Do you even know the kind of shoddy work that goes on over here?
And we claim to be one of the best in the city.
- Relax. - No!
How long can the hotel run on the oriental exotica and nostalgia?
Isn't it time that the bosses got some efficient people on board?
Correct! That's the point.
And the process has already started.
This is the new intern, Rudra Mukherji.
And this is everyone's favorite, Nitty-gritty.
Sorry, Nitya Banerjee.
- Hello... Hi... - Hello.
When Sam has certified you, you must be top-notch.
Not that much. His description is overrated.
Today is my first day here.
Even I don't know how good or bad I'm at this job.
But I'll try to perform my best.
True, only time will tell.
Anyway, you must excuse me now.
So, what do we do in the next 10 minutes?
Do you stand here like a bunch of idiots?
Or clear the mess that you've already created?
Let me show you your room.
My room?
Were you planning to come here daily from Shonarpur?
- Yeah, I mean... - No, absolutely not...
All the employees stay in one of the wings here.
Unlike other hotels.
Like Mr. Pal himself.
Like me. Like the runaway Rosy.
Like our sushi expert...
who has to wake up very early to prepare the Diwaan-i-Khaas breakfast...
What are you thinking?
I was just thinking...
I came looking for a job. I got a room too.
When the Almighty showers blessings...
He doesn't hold back.
This way.
Here you are.
Sam, I was just looking for you.
Tell me.
Mr. Pal told me about this new bugger.
Is this the guy?
He's not a bugger.
He's very skilled, experienced and energetic intern.
Rudra Mukherji meet Jamini, our General Manager.
Yes, I heard he's very experienced in selling vacuum cleaners and baked goodies.
That's how he got our Rosy's job.
What else have you sold? Massage oil for men?
Do you need some?
He should have used "my" instead of "our" to be more accurate.
He was very close to Rosy.
I'm very sorry for blurting it out like that.
Hospitality 101.
When you sign the hotel roster in the morning...
leave your self-respect, ego, happiness, sadness...
your judgements at the door.
No matter what people say, there are three essentials.
The smile on your face.
Politeness in your voice.
And pace in your work.
Welcome home, Rudra.
Good morning, sir!
Great! You've moved in. Very good.
Yes, I did.
- I'll unpack slowly... - Wait.
Let me introduce you to someone.
My man Friday, Gul Mohammad.
- He'll help you unpack. - Okay.
Gul, come in.
Yes, sir.
This handsome youth is Gul Mohammad, our very own Romeo.
- Good morning, sir. - Good morning.
Are you feeling shy?
He was serial dating but now he's fallen in love with Latika.
Also known as Tuni.
Tuni's dad is the head of the bearers here, Purandar Singh.
There's just one issue.
Tuni's parents are against the marriage.
Musl... Religion...
Not for such a stupid reason.
Basic... Salary.
He is a good, honest guy.
But his salary is still towards the lower end.
That's why he runs errands for me to earn some extra money.
And he's trying very hard to convince Tuni's parents.
Don't worry. Things will work out.
Yeah, sounds good.
I'll try to contribute to the Gul relief fund too.
Without a doubt.
Give that to me.
You help him unpack.
- Please keep that... - Here you go.
Just like I told you yesterday.
This is Janardhan's gift for you.
Oh, yes. Thank you.
Wow!
"Dear Rudra, welcome to Shah Jahan. A little..."
"foie grass"...
"from me."
Why has he sent me grass?
Oh God!
That's pronounced "fwa:'gra:"
It's French. The "s" is silent.
Do you know what a goose is?
Something like a duck?
This is an NRI duck.
A delicacy made with it's liver.
Grass? You're going to kill it!
No, I'll be thrown out. I know it.
I'll be thrown out in a couple of days. I don't know anything.
No one knows when they first come into this industry.
Then, everyone learns. You will too.
Don't worry.
Gull will help you out. I have to get going.
Take care.
Let's go.
What are you doing?
Hurry up.
I don't feel like it. I'm telling you over and over again.
Shut up and come with me.
Don't put up that act.
- Don't create a scene. Let's go. - Leave me.
- Come with me. - Leave me.
- Why are you doing this? I'm telling you... - Kamal, listen to me...
Listen to me!
F*** off!
At least, hear me out.
I'm not your cheap street call girl.
Find someone else.
Is that what I called you?
Why will you be a street call girl?
You're Vijay Aggarwal's hostess.
You are special, okay?
And you don't warm the bed with just your body.
The heart is part of the body, Mr. Chatterjee.
It's not an accessory I carry around in my Louis Vuitton bag.
Brilliant.
Use it on your literary clientele.
They'll tip you well.
I'm feeling down today.
I don't feel like it. I really can't do it today.
No one is interested in your feelings.
I'm interested in your head along with other surfaces.
Don't make this difficult for me.
Go to hell, you f***er!
You've entered this hell to pay the hospital bills.
You'll have to come with me to hell, sweetheart.
Move.
Move out of my way.
Sin rushes through your veins like venom
Your sky is covered in smoke
How long will you run?
The glass, the table, the bottle
Even your fingers are intoxicated
You've had too much to drink, sir.
Please stop now.
Of course, I'll drink.
Do you want me to play the harp in the bar?
Everyone comes here to drink.
Everyone is the same. The rich and the poor.
Some like me, lovelorn...
cast out by the lover will drown their misery.
Tomorrow, they'll return with someone new and have fun.
- Hello, sir... Yes. - Get me a whiskey.
Any news?
I did.
Take a look at the photos.
Mala... why did...
Where does she find such ugly men?
She has told me very clearly that she'll not divorce you.
She told you clearly?
You mean to say you met her?
How else would I negotiate?
Barun, who are you working for?
Who's paying you?
Who is your client?
I'm telling you honestly. I can't live with my wife.
There's not a single producer in Kolkata she hasn't slept with.
Except for my hotel, she's been sleeping around everywhere.
- Let it go... - She's doing whatever she wants...
She is a famous actor. She is...
a celebrity. I don't care.
I just want to be free from this lifelong pain.
You have to make it happen.
That's why you're taking money from me, Barun.
That's where the problem is. She...
She's a celebrity that's why she'll divorce you. You can't leave her.
Actually, she has an image to live up to.
Image...
Tell me plainly. Will the divorce come through or not?
It will happen but you'll have to create the grounds for it.
So, you'll have to fake it?
What will I have to fake?
Basically, she'll find another woman...
She'll find you an actress.
She'll pay for her too.
Then, you'll have to pretend to have an affair with her.
You'll have to create strong points for adultery.
She told me she'll give a discount on the alimony.
Adultery? Discount?
Is this a bloody sale, Barun?
Everyone knows she's a little crazy.
But you'll never find a better opportunity to get out of this mess.
Then it began.
That was really funny.
So, what do you think about the new guy?
What?
- He's okay. - Just okay?
- Naughty. - I know.
Hey, good morning!
Yeah, good morning.
Did you sleep well?
Just took a little time because it's a new place.
You'll get used to it.
Do you wear a watch?
Me? No... Not very comfortable for me.
I check the time on my phone.
Why do you ask?
Well, see for yourself.
Why gift such an expensive watch?
Supreeta Mitra, air hostess.
I upgraded her to a suite last time, so...
- What's wrong, Purandar? - Sir, please come with me.
Boss has been drinking all night. He's started again.
Damn it.
Let's go. Rudra, come.
- Me? - Yes, come.
- Where is he? At the Mumtaz? Hurry up. - Yes, sir.
What should I do, my lover didn't come...
Good morning.
I'm looking for my lover...
But she is not coming back...
I said good morning.
All that is great but you have to get up now.
The guys are waiting to clean the bar.
How will they work if you're lying around over here?
I've lost everything.
Where will I go?
Where should I go?
I'll not go...
What are you saying, Mr. Pal?
This empire is yours.
This is your universe.
Why are you mourning the absence of a person...
who was never there for you?
- Come with me... - Leave me alone.
I've tried to make this relationship work all my life...
It didn't last. What should I do now, Sameeran?
Where should I go? Leave.
Mr. Pal, you'd once told me...
"Our life is but a winter's day:
"Some only breakfast and away.
"Others to dinner stay and are full fed.
"The oldest man but sups and goes to bed.
"He that goes soonest has the least to pay."
Mr. Pal, you can't give up like this.
We're here for you. This is your family.
Look at Purandar there.
He took care of you all night.
What about that?
I'm here for you. Rudra is here too...
Who? Who is Rudra?
Take it easy.
Does he know?
Do you know?
Do you know why I'm crying like an idiot?
No, he doesn't know.
But he knows very well that you're a genuine man.
That's why, you loved without holding back.
He also got to know that...
there's no place for sexist thoughts like men can't cry.
- I'll help you... - No... - Yes.
- Hold him. - Let's go, sir.
I feel like Bishshombhawr Ray, Sameeran.
"Jalshaghar, the Music Room"...
Everything has fallen apart...
- Hold him properly... Careful... - Yes, sir.
I mean...
Tradition, culture, family...
Shah Jahan Regency... It's all the same.
- Right buttons on the right side... - Broken glass on the floor...
- Sir, there's glass... - All the switches on the left side...
The patterns of the doors, the rooms, the homes, the hotels...
- The bodies... All are same. - Right.
I loved Mala seriously.
- But she cheated on me. - I know, Mr. Pal.
But this too shall pass. Let's go.
Bring his shoes and glasses.
The entire matter is quite terrible.
From a traditional marital butterfly to a social one.
Mr. Pal is rich and well connected.
Why can't he do something about that woman?
- Have you ever fallen in love? - What?
Not on a regular basis.
Do you have a girlfriend or not?
No.
Then you won't get it.
Even the greatest emperors crumble when they fall in love.
- Let's begin. - Yes.
- He's from Singapore... - Come with me.
Welcome to Shah Jahan Regency.
- Good morning, Mr. Chatterjee. - Good morning.
- Good morning, Mr. Sarkar. - Good morning.
- When did you return to India? - Last night.
Great!
I brought my nephew to taste the your new Mughlai lunch.
- Excellent! Great reviews. - Really?
- Janardhan has outdone himself. - Good!
Hopefully, we'll see more of you now.
We've hosted you only once before.
Let's see.
Of course, you will.
Just keep me posted about the double suite.
By the way, who is he?
- He's Rudra Mukherji, our new intern. - Hello.
Good, very nice.
Let's go, nephew.
- Goodbye. - See you.
Mr. Sarkar has a great personality, doesn't he?
Why won't he?
He's the scion of the Sarkar Group of Industries.
You know Biswaroop Sarkar? His next in line to the throne.
The gentleman with him is his uncle, Dhananjoy aka Dheno Chatterjee.
He's like a tout you can say.
You must have heard about the missionary zeal.
He has commissionary zeal.
- Basically a pimp. - Yeah, I know.
How?
I've seen him.
The lady who lives in the double suite...
I've seen him with her at night.
Sameeran, the thing is...
Does this place serve as a... As a... As a...
Remember one thing.
You haven't joined a temple.
Excuse me.
Rudra, I've got the news.
- Congratulations! - Thank you.
- Good morning. - Morning.
Are you going to play now?
May I play something in your honour?
- Raga Kedar? - It's all the same for me.
That's just your humility.
I know there's a discerning listener in you.
The artiste and the listener are in it together.
- Wait. - Okay.
I can't deal with your nagging anymore.
Mala, I don't want any trouble.
Neither do I.
Then leave me.
I want a divorce.
I'll leave you.
But I'll file for the divorce. Not you. Got it?
You'll only sign the papers.
I have enough evidence to prove your adultery...
Makaranda, maybe you're unaware the law favours the woman now.
I'm sure you've heard about 498A.
Apart from that, sexual harassment, marital rape, domestic violence...
If I file charges of domestic violence under 498A on Friday...
Then, we'll talk later. You'll be arrested first.
Let's not even start with the media.
What do you want?
You don't have to sell your image for money, Makaranda.
I do.
This marriage isn't working. We want a divorce.
No problem there.
At least, let me write the script for the divorce.
Public sympathy will be great for me.
Understood?
Young girls are coming up in the industry.
I don't have a film right now.
Just doing TV serials and appearances to stay in the spotlight.
Please try and understand, honey.
What's your plan?
Plan?
This is Disha.
Disha is a very good TV actress.
Thank you.
You'll have an affair with her for 2 months. Okay?
Then I'll file a case against you, with evidence.
Then you'll divorce poor me. That's it.
All that is fine but...
Who will pay for her?
He will.
I'll pay some part of it.
And I'll give you alimony too.
There's a limit to how low one can go, Mala.
Please take your dirty self somewhere else.
- Just leave... - Tell me talk to her...
- Get out! - Barun...
- Please calm down. - Just get out...
- Barun, listen to me. - Yes, madam.
I've said what I had to.
Please discuss it and get back to me.
I'm running late. I'll have to leave now.
I'm meeting a producer.
Bye.
We'll negotiate the terms...
- Good night, ma'am. - Good night.
What did you just do, Mr Pal?
I got a discount on the amount of alimony and you...
Please deal with your own ego.
- Is this a store, circus or stock market? - Madam! Madam!
- Sir? - Yes.
Can I say something?
Please go ahead.
Why should you be left out? Please say whatever you want.
- Tell me... - Doctors charge money to treat patients.
Just assume this is also something similar.
I need some money.
I can feel that you're hurt.
But believe me everything will be alright.
Everything falls in place.
The scars disappear, sir.
Sometimes a bigger scar makes it look trivial.
Spoken like a true pessimist...
My wife is employing someone to have an affair with me.
So that, she can divorce me and have fun.
And you're asking me to be an optimist.
But it could have been worse.
Why are you so worried? I'm here.
You won't have to do anything.
I'll teach you how we kiss onscreen.
We'll cheat the rest.
Just for the evidence, sir.
Can I get a drink now?
It doesn't make sense to sit at a bar and not drink.
Purandar!
- Where do you live? - What?
Don't you say to him
Please don't leave, my love
Don't you say to him
Please don't leave, my love
If he wants to leave
Please set him free
Don't you say to him
Please don't leave, my love
Like the flowers at the end of spring
Like the heart that has forgotten it's desires
All you can keep are the memories
- The banquet is next week. Right. - Human Heart.
This is completely new information.
The banquet is being hosted by Aggarwal of Aggarwal Industries.
They've turned snacks into staples.
He's on the Board of Directors of Shah Jahan Regency.
And he has a... double suite.
- Oh, okay. - That's where he hosts his guests.
Okay, okay.
I have a question.
They pick out the bones.
- Not that... - Go ahead.
You're here day and night.
You don't have a life or a family outside this hotel.
Don't you feel sad and lonely?
Our paths must have crossed.
We've spoken to each other, unknowingly.
Life, completely drunk on itself.
I must have seen you at a hotel.
My Urdu is a little weak...
I guess your Hindi is a little better.
It's the same.
No, I don't understand, if the company is supposed to take care of everything...
then why is this joker over here telling me...
that it's just showing room charges?
Yes, absolutely.
Yes, most definitely.
Yes, talk to him. Here, talk to him.
Hello... Yes, sir. Sam, here.
Yes, sir. Tell me.
Yes, I can hear you.
No, sir.
Do you remember the name of my colleague...
with whom you had a discussion about this BTC?
Starts with a "B"?
Okay, let me guess.
Bikram?
Binoy?
Balraj?
Okay, yeah...
I'm sorry, sir. He's on leave.
And I guess he forgot to mention it.
No, I'm really sorry. Really sorry.
I'll take care of it.
Yeah, I will.
Okay, sir.
I'll call you back.
Can I have your photo ID please?
Please make a copy.
- The formalities will be taken care of... - Yeah, yeah, I'm sure...
- I'm really sorry. - Yeah, you should be.
- You can collect your... - You should be very sorry.
You can collect your photo ID and room keys from the reception.
And have a nice stay, sir.
Yeah, I'll try.
But given the idiotic people around, I'm not very sure whether I'll succeed or not.
Have a nice day...
Have a nice day, my left foot!
Idiots!
Hey, how do you keep your cool? I felt like slapping him...
Not so loudly...
- Then we would have to close down the hotel. - Who cares?
Now, stop with the angry, young man act.
Finish up over here.
Yeah, right here.
Hey, welcome, Rakesh.
Your suite is ready.
That's good.
- Is she here? - Not yet.
No problem.
Did you recognise him? He's a famous model.
Must have seen him somewhere.
He checked in alone.
But he booked a double occupancy room with breakfast.
He must have a client meeting.
You're right about the client meeting. But you can replace the "ee" with "a".
Really? Is he a regular?
"Familiar sadness, familiar happiness Familiar are the smiling faces"
"Familiar light, familiar darkness"
So, this is where we stand.
We'll just attend seminars on trafficking and prostitution.
Eat lots of food, dose off and come back to our lives.
Right?
Sorry, madam.
Just give us a few more days. There'll be some progress.
We've received the grant from the government.
Should we add it to the current project?
Half... The rest of it will go to the Shonagachi Rehabilitation Fund.
I want the reports by tomorrow morning.
- You may leave. - Okay, ma'am.
Yeah.
Done with the meeting?
Yes, done.
Anything urgent? I'm a little busy.
Sorry, I'll call later.
I'll be busy all day. Call me tomorrow.
Okay. Talk to you tomorrow.
Don't you have your music class today?
That's on Saturday, Bishwa.
Yeah, you're right. Bye.
Hello?
I got the familiar darkness bit.
But who is she?
There is someone.
She'll appear in sun glasses only after sunset.
Even though she owns 8 or 9 cars, she'll come in a cab.
Remember Arnab Sarkar?
His mother.
Mrs. Sarkar.
During the day, NGO, high society...
responsible, loyal wife, loving mother, music teacher.
And at night...
- Is he here? - In the room.
I've sent your bag up.
Please feel free to call me if you need anything else.
- Thank you. - Welcome.
Mrs. Sarkar, how are you?
Good.
Where's Bishwa?
Actually, he... there was... A meeting...
You know how it is. And I got...
Stuck?
Can I drop you?
Let's have a coffee and then I can drop you.
No need... I have my car.
Are you here for some work?
Yeah, I mean...
Madam, please wait a little longer.
Our PRO will be right back.
Please speak to him once.
The system is showing full but you might get Sheesh Mahal.
After all, it's a noble cause.
That would be great.
Actually, an international charity is also involved.
- Right... - What are you doing, Sam?
How can Bishwaroop Sarkar's wife not get a banquet in Shah Jahan Regency?
Mr. Roy, I'm trying my best.
- We'll figure something out. - Thank you.
Mrs. Sarkar, I'll take your leave.
- You'll have to wait for the date. - Yes.
- Bye, Sam. - Bye.
Thank you.
Hey...
The lights will stay on.
I want to see you tonight.
- Good morning. - Good morning.
So, you're an early riser?
I'll have to go downstairs in a bit to play.
I had taken a vow when I joined my guru.
So, I had to wake up very early.
The time when one plays the Raga Ahir Bhairav.
Do you know what "Ahir" means?
Cowherds.
The time the cowherds leave in the morning.
I don't wake up that early.
But today I woke up because of acidity.
Kolkata is very beautiful in the mornings.
Only if there were a few more birds and trees...
We're lucky to have whatever little is left.
The way flyovers and metros are coming up...
Soon people will be paying to visit the lakes and the parks just for fresh air.
I agree...
The poet Jibananda had once said...
"The morning sun peeps through my window
"Watches me sleep.
"It plays with my weary eyes And my crestfallen hair.
"It knows the mistakes I've made in the past.
"I've loved the most unforgivable, beautiful woman in this world."
- Have you checked the mail? - Does number 6 have...
- Thank you. - You're most welcome.
Put the contents of the envelope in the charity dropbox.
Wow! This is a lot of money.
Are you feeling greedy?
Nope.
There's a good thing about being a middle class, simple Bengali.
No high ambitions, no trickery, no greed.
And no greed means no sin. Hence no death, right?
Absolutely!
My ex-boss would always say.
If there's a nuclear holocaust, only cockroaches would survive.
We're like those cockroaches.
No death for us.
Shah Jahan Regency.
Yes, yes. Tell me.
I'm really sorry for this.
I'll look in to it.
Okay.
Looks like we're on the verge of a nuclear explosion.
Mrs. Sarkar's special friend just called.
One pillow was missing from the suite.
It shouldn't be.
- Do something. - Yeah.
Go to the room.
Investigate the matter with Nitty-gritty and report to me.
I have a meeting with Makaranda.
Okay, captain.
Just keep in mind that Nitty-gritty shouts a lot but he means well.
And he is very lonely.
Human Heart is one of the biggest NGOs.
They have an international delegation in December.
If we can host this conference successfully...
then we can host a lot of these international conferences here.
Right?
- Right, sir. - Right, sir.
For that matter, we're extremely well equipped.
Only if our experienced Duty Manager...
concentrated more on the game instead of coaching...
then it would have been better for the team.
What is your problem with Rudra?
Is it because he replaced Rosy?
What do you mean?
You bloody well know, what I mean.
You are angry because your garden of Eden has become a desert overnight.
Mind your tongue, Sam.
I don't spend the day gossiping.
What is this?
I've appointed Rudra for the internship.
Not you.
- You stay out of it. - Right, sir.
Sameeran, why do I have to hear about people neglecting their duty?
Sorry, sir.
- Rudra. - Yes?
Rudra?
Ye... Yeah... Tell me.
Can you hear me?
I can hear you.
Please come here... Under the bed.
Come here.
- Under the bed? - Yes.
When the massage goes on all night...
There'll be strange complaints when it's light.
The lost pillow will be found Just out of sight.
That's right.
I must say you're looking very cute.
Thank you.
- Be careful. - Oh, no.
Is it hurting?
Please be careful.
- Are you alright? Are you hurt? - No, I'm fine.
Are you homophobic like your coach, Sameeran?
What is that?
- Are you scared? - Of what?
Oh, okay.
No, no, no... I'm not...
Let's say, you really like a girl.
You find her very cute.
Will you necessarily jump on her?
Not at all.
- Will you propose to her? - No...
- Will you stalk her? - Absolutely not. I'm not crazy.
Then, take the compliment the way it's meant to be.
I'm very happy and gay.
And I have a very sweet boyfriend.
- I'm ecstatic about him. - That's great.
- Congratulations. - Thank you.
- Actually, I'm a little... - Old-fashioned.
I know. The entire country.
Time to be normal now.
This is the country of Khajuraho and Kama-sutra.
The country of the androgynous diety, "Ardhanarishwara".
You'll never really know our country.
Grow up, mister!
There are mainly three kinds of parties that take place in our banquet halls.
Business, weddings and entertainment.
I can tell you exactly when who will enter each party.
Hello and welcome...
And the condition they'll leave in.
Mainly, there's one kind of person you'll find here.
- Intellectual people? - Nope. Party people.
They don't cook after the sun sets.
- Hello. - Hello.
That's why they attend all the parties.
Today this hotel, tomorrow somewhere else.
And if their photos are not on media, they create a huge fuss.
- Hello. - Hello.
When the photos are printed then they are best friends.
Then those photos are uploaded on social media.
Welcome, Mr. Sarkar. So good to see you.
- Hello... I'm fine. - How are you?
- Thank you for coming... - It's been a while...
- Hello, ma'am. - Hello.
- Please let me know if you need anything. - Hello. - Hello.
- Okay. Thank you. - Thank you.
Excuse me.
- Welcome, sir. - Here you are.
Sameeran, just the man I was looking for.
I have two guests visiting Kolkata.
I could have arranged for their stay at the club but...
- I can't because it has to be discreet. - I understand.
Do you have a suite here?
Dates?
17th and 18th of this month.
We're completely booked, sir.
Actually, there are two weddings and a corporate event.
Please try.
I'm sure you can find something for us.
This is very important for Sarkar Group of Industries.
This is a matter of our prestige.
Absolutely.
I've always taken special care about the prestige of the Sarkar Group of Industries.
You know that very well, madam.
Is there any problem?
I needed a suite but nothing is available.
There are two weddings...
Mr. Sarkar, what are you saying?
I've a permanent suite in this hotel. When will it come in handy?
Not just the suite, there's a sweet hostess too.
Don't worry about it.
- Mr... Mr. Rudra... - Rudra Mukherji...
Go to my suite and ask Kamalini to meet me.
Tell her Mr. Aggarwal wants to meet her.
Okay, sir.
Yes?
What?
Sameeran was calling you.
Who the f*** is Sameeran?
Actually, Sam... Sam... Sameeran...
Oh... Why?
Actually, not Sam...
Mr. Aggarwal wanted to speak to you.
Do you mind coming in?
- I'm feeling a little cold, mister... - Rudra... Mukherji...
- Yeah, Rudra... - Yes.
- Just come in, Rudra... - I'm done... I just wanted to give you...
Please come in. I insist.
I'm feeling cold.
Please come in.
Sin rushes through your veins like venom
What were you saying?
I was saying...
Mr. Aggarwal told Sam...
to tell me...
to tell you... To call you...
- Actually, Mr. Sarkar... - Please sit...
Are you generally this awkward in front of women?
Or is your middle class upbringing making you awkward because I'm a hostess?
Which one is it?
No, I'm not awk...
Why should I be?
I... I...
It's a good thing to be a hostess...
In a way, all of us are hosts.
We host guests in the hotel.
What happened?
So you're trying to tell me, Mr. Rudra...
that you've been stalking me for all this time...
Your curiousity about the double suite...
You don't know what the word hostess means in simple terms?
I know.
What I don't know is...
Why? In what kind of situation?
Someone like you...
What do you mean by someone like me?
- You don't look like... - An escort, right?
That's not what I meant.
I've a long list of reasons. You'll get bored.
Uncle who swindled us.
Cancer ridden brother. Dead father.
Mother who had never worked.
I was responsible for the family.
I'll get ready. Please wait.
What are we doing...
as our brothers go to sleep hungry in various parts of the country?
That our sisters have to walk kilometers...
in order to get a glass of muddy drinking water?
Is our combined conscience letting us sleep in peace...
when we know of the living conditions of most of the population?
Mark my words, ladies and gentlemen. This is where Human Heart comes in.
Home is where the heart is.
And this is the home where charity must begin.
Thank you.
Your guest is my guest.
Don't worry.
Ms. Guha, you have to take very good care of them.
Don't worry, Mr. Aggarwal.
They'll experience hospitality at it's best.
They will be very well taken care of.
Thank you.
Arnab, my son, will personally come and check all the facilities in the suite.
- Okay? - Sure, sir.
You don't have to call Arnab for this. I'll look into it.
- Have you been drinking again? - Just a couple of drinks.
Even that's too much.
Because you can't control yourself.
Be careful, Dheno. You don't have to worry about Arnab.
He's more than capable himself.
You just make sure that he's introduced properly to everyone in this hotel, okay?
No problem, sir.
Let's go.
One has to interact with so many types for a livelihood. Isn't it?
That's right.
That's why keep some antiseptic by your sink.
Interact and then wash it off. Interact and then wash it off.
If only it was just the heart.
What's the matter with you?
Are your primitive instincts making you think like this?
Rubbish! Do you think I'm crazy?
It's not like that. Just shared what came to my mind.
If only it was just the heart.
Mom was saying she is a hooker.
Listen, nephew.
In our country, hookers are batsmen who can play short pitched balls well.
She is an escort.
Whatever... Escort service.
So, this is our business strategy?
And this is how we'll crack the deal?
She is not an ordinary escort.
Really? How is she any different?
Her body is an added service.
She has interest in different subjects.
She is someone you could say has it all.
- What's the Japanese for flower arrangements? - Ikebana.
That's how she arranges flowers in her room.
She loves interior designing.
She's extremely intelligent.
She's studied a lot of things.
Say the client is a Math professor...
She'll solve a tough problem in the shower.
Or if the client is a Gujarati businessman.
While doing it... right at that time...
She'll teach him a thing or two about the share market.
- Vasantasena. - Who?
Vasantasena was the heroine of Sudraka's play, "The Little Clay Cart".
Actually, in ancient India, prostitutes were given a lot of respect.
Hello, Mr. Sarkar.
- Good morning. - Hello, good morning...
I need to see Ms. Kamalini Guha.
Please come with me.
Wait here. I'll be right back.
Let's go.
Actually, he does everything himself... Go...
Are you busy?
Where is Sameeran Bose?
He is almost omnipresent here.
Yeah, if he's here, then I'm just present.
That's why, he's asked me to handle things alone for some time.
My case is similar.
Instead of Mr. Bose, I have Sarkar Senior.
I have no idea how things work here.
Don't worry. This way.
There's nothing better than learning on the job.
And your hostess is very responsible.
So you don't have to worry about that.
You know everything.
Sherlock Holmes.
Not at all.
I'm a true blue Bengali!
I'm more like Pheluda or Byomkesh.
Are you a bachelor?
Yes, why?
Then Pheluda suits you better.
Please come in.
You were supposed to be upstairs. What are you doing here?
I did go.
I'm sure the father must have briefed him.
I have solid intel.
You have to find out what Mr. Sarkar is doing.
Something big is cooking.
It's something about the BPL.
- BPL? - Yes.
And these two people from BAC...
They are very important officials.
Something isn't right.
Find out.
I had no idea that there was a suite with 6 rooms here.
It's just a suite by name.
It's actually an apartment in itself.
Anyway...
If you don't mind, would you like to brief me on your guests.
It's very confidential.
But you must know.
That's why I'm a little confused.
I've no idea why I got involved in this mess.
This is just not my cup of tea.
I'll arrange for the tea. Don't worry.
If you can't trust me with the information, you can skip the details.
As in who they are or what they do.
I'm sure you'd understand.
In our line of work, we're not too big on names.
Real ones, at least.
So what's your real name?
Raabeya or Rukshana?
You know your Bengali music well.
You didn't give up on it even when you went abroad?
I'm exceptional.
My name is my reputation.
Have you heard of the Kolkata Warriors?
It's a team in the Bengal Premier League.
They stood 7th, 8th and then 6th in the first three years of the tournament.
In the next three years, they were runners up...
Then they defeated Malda Mavericks and Bardhaman Superkings...
to become champions.
They've bought Australian all rounder Mark McDowell for 3 Crores last year.
Their team captain is Laxmiratan Shukla.
Their vice captain is Ranadeb Bose and coach is Sambaran Banerjee.
Their team owner is Anup Neotia.
Is your nickname Wiki?
No... No...
I have an USP.
People pay for not just my body but my brains too.
You're quite... candid about it.
Can I ask you a question?
Go ahead.
You are well read, educated...
You could have done something else. I'm sorry but why this?
The short version is lots of money in very little time.
And if you want details, you'll have to have a coffee with this fallen woman.
Please don't say that. Of course... Of course.
Okay, I'll get going.
Thank you.
Nice meeting you.
Same here. See you.
Just one moment... Arnab!
- Are you leaving? - I was just looking for you.
- Please tell me. Rudra? - Your assistant... Yes, Rudra.
He said you disappeared after giving him homework.
Sam, my nephew is helping out in his father's business.
That's great! So you've ascended the throne.
Nothing of the sort. I'm just trapped in this mess.
I thought I'll go trekking once I'm in Kolkata.
But this is what I have to...
But not for long. I'll run away soon.
That's great!
Just imagine.
Do you know what a black sheep is?
Not "baba" but the son.
- See you. - See you.
Do I need to be here anymore?
- Not really but... - But there is...
If it's not too much of a trouble you can stay a bit longer.
You want to escape? Awkward?
Not awkward... Actually...
I'll leave now. You can carry on.
So, the Kolkata Warrior runs away from the battlefield.
Lord Buddha deserted his kingdom too.
Thank god he did.
How else would he have met Amrapalli?
You've a point.
Don't you like travelling?
For the last three years, I've hardly stepped out of this room.
Sometimes to meet my brother and mother.
Travelling...
Sounds familiar.
Bye.
Madam had called.
There's a press conference, followed by lunch.
- I'll make all the arrangements... - You're here, right?
That's it.
I will be here.
Bye.
I'm telling you the truth. Why should I lie?
Yeah.
There's talk of buying the Kolkata Warriors.
Not just a stake, the whole team.
Yeah... You have to move very quickly.
And there'a an easy way to find out about the tender and conditions.
Where are we going?
We're going on a trip.
Just like that?
I don't want to be in this anymore.
Anyway, the talks are finalised.
And they have happily gone off to Darjeeling.
The deal is fixed.
They'll come back and sign the papers. That's it.
The problem lies with my mother, you know.
She can't imagine that the son of such a big industrialist...
can travel, do music, write blogs and travelogues.
My mom is a very important person in my life.
I've got my values and education from her.
That's why I can never say no to her.
Gul, what are you watching?
Nothing, ma'am, nothing.
- Let me see... I want to see too... - It's nothing, ma'am.
- Give that to me. - Ma'am, ma'am...
What's wrong?
You still have options.
You can choose your profession.
Kamalini, can you cut out the formality, please?
Kamalini, I want an ordinary life.
You might think I'm crazy but...
Are we living to just save money?
What do you mean?
What are we living for?
One day, I'll be older...
My face will be as wrinkled as my hands...
I won't be able to travel then, even if I have a lot of money.
I won't be able to write travelogues even on expensive tablets.
Even gold plated strings won't create good music.
I won't be able to sit for hours in a forest with a camera.
When a common green magpie would sit on my shoulder...
Who will I pour my heart out to?
Who will share this sorrow?
Do you want to grow old with me, Kamalini?
Will you grow old with me?
There was a lot of trouble in the ancient city of Vaishali.
Friends were fighting with friends, families were breaking up.
So the king decided that she'll be the city's wife.
She'll belong to everyone.
She could choose her partner for the night.
But she wasn't allowed to choose one person to spend the rest of her life with.
You were talking about Amrapalli the other day.
Will you be my Ajatashatru?
Will you be my redemption?
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
Our palace in the skies is covered by the grey smog
We die a million deaths just to be together again
Our palace in the skies is covered by the grey smog
We die a million deaths just to be together again
The old adages in the air and the ancient North star
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
I've never wanted anything but love
I die a million deaths...
Isn't Ganga Kutir becoming a little boring, Ms. Guha?
Do you want to shift the lover's nest?
Mr. Aggarwal...
See, Ms. Guha.
Everything you've done so far is great.
Verma and Singh are very happy with your service.
Now you must take advantage of the situation.
I can get them to agree to me but...
There's one small thing you have to do, Ms. Guha.
Understood?
Where is the contract going to be signed?
What is the amount of the tender?
What are the terms and conditions?
You'll have to get me all these informations, Ms. Guha.
It's possible, right?
I don't know. Really...
Tomorrow night, Arnab will sign the contract on behalf of Sarkar Group of Industries.
Followed by official announcement and jersey handover.
There will be an agreement. It will be signed too.
But I'll be the one signing.
Aggarwal Industries will buy Kolkata Warriors.
In a last minute coup.
And you'll play a major part in this coup.
Ms. Guha, tomorrow you'll call Arnab...
You know him quite well, right?
You'll call him to the place I tell you.
He won't have any trouble there.
My people will be there to receive him.
- Mr. Aggarwal... - Don't try to be too smart.
Keep one thing in mind.
This man is your boss. Not Mr. Sarkar.
He's the one who pays for everything.
Anyway, let's say you get arrested for something naughty.
Think about what might happen to your mother and brother.
Damn!
Now what? Are they planning to kidnap Arnab?
They are capable of much worse.
Can you please call Arnab?
Please... He really needs to be protected.
- Can you call him once please? - I get it but why me?
I can't call him.
If they see my number...
Dheno Chatterjee is always around him.
- Yeah, yeah... - I don't want him to get warned.
Please try and understand.
Please just make the call once, Rudra. Okay?
Please call Arnab.
- Call him now! - Right.
I don't have his number.
Arnab, please hold the line.
Thanks. Hello. It's me.
Please come here right now.
Yes, come to me.
No, there's no problem.
Nothing's wrong, Arnab. I'm telling you.
I'm asking you to come. Isn't that enough?
Please come over immediately.
I want you... Now.
Come to me.
Nephew! Ne...
Mr. Aggarwal, the bird has escaped.
- What's wrong? - Come in.
What happened? Are you okay?
Tell me what's going on.
Is everything fine?
What happened?
You'll go to the signing directly from here with me.
That's it?
Okay.
That's what all this panic is about?
Don't know why but I'm scared.
Mom, not here, not now, please.
Take your pill.
I'll have it later.
Why didn't you have it at home?
I'll have to take care of you if you fall sick.
Here, have it quickly.
There's my good boy.
Now sign the papers and make me proud.
Us.
It's yours.
- Finally. Thank you. Congratulations, my son! - Thank you.
It's a pleasure to have all of you here.
This year onwards and for the coming next three years...
we'll be owning Kolkata Warriors.
That's great!
And by God's grace, we'll try winning Bengal Premier League every single year.
Getting the ownership of this incredible franchisee wasn't easy.
But the presence and the presence of mind of a very special person...
made it possible.
I'd like to call on stage...
Ms. Kamilini Guha.
Please come.
I have another announcement.
Kamalini and I, we're getting married.
Thank you.
Do you have GST for your profession?
What do you mean?
How much should I pay you after taxes?
What is this about, Mrs. Sarkar? I'm not getting it.
How do you spell your name?
Spelling of your name.
Why?
No, I don't want to get it wrong.
How do you spell it?
What are you talking about?
I know your lifestyle.
I'm sure you charge quite a fair amount.
I run an NGO that works in the red light district.
I know the situation is bad there.
I know you people need money.
So just tell me. How much do you want?
You're crossing a line.
You can't talk to me like this.
How should I talk to you?
Should I bless you first?
Don't you dare talk to me like that.
How did you think you're suitable for Arnab?
I guess cheque payment is an issue.
Tax problems, right?
Okay. Here you go.
Take the cash and just leave him.
Okay?
I'm not saying much keeping your age in mind, Mrs. Sarkar.
Please go home.
Calm down and then speak to your son.
Arnab will explain everything.
This MOU wouldn't have been signed without me.
Okay?
- Really? - Yes.
Okay, fine. Then charge us for that as well.
What are the damages?
I'll pay you.
But don't think even for a moment that Aggarwal's escort will be our bride.
- Mind your language, Mrs. Sarkar! - I'll never let that happen.
- What the hell are you talking about? - Don't raise your voice.
Don't raise your voice with me.
Sorry.
I'm very sorry, ma'am. Please...
Your son and I want to settle down...
We're very serious about each other.
You can ask Arnab, I really love him. I love him a lot.
Believe me, ma'am, please.
Do you really love him?
Yes.
I'll die without him.
Okay.
You don't have to take cheque or cash. I'll transfer the money to your account.
Leave him.
Just get the f*** out of here.
Get the hell out of my room!
Don't you dare shout at me.
How do you have the gall to disobey my order?
You dirty prostitute!
It'll just take me two minutes.
You'll be in the lock up before you know it.
You have no idea who I am.
- I'll make your life hell. - You're not the only one who can...
What?
The fact that you spend nights in this hotel with young boyfriends.
I have recordings of the games that you indulge in.
I have video recordings.
There's content for at least two seasons of a raunchy web series.
Do you want to watch?
Mrs. Sarkar, Arnab is not your puppet.
Do you know what I'll do if you try to take him away from me?
I'll share those videos with everyone.
I'll send it to your husband, your NGO members, your friends, the police.
So, stop this nonsense and go home quietly.
I'll see you after the wedding, okay? Out.
I don't have the courage or the right to say anything to you.
I'm not justifying my deeds.
As a wife may be I am...
As a human being too...
There's just one thing...
And that's my son.
Please don't take him away from me.
I won't be able to live without him.
I'll do whatever you want.
Please...
I love him too much.
Just a minute.
Rudra, did I do the right thing?
What else could I have done? Right?
- Yeah, right? Right? - Right... right...
I didn't have ulterior motives when I fell in love with Arnab.
I didn't calculate so far...
He's actually my client.
No, Arnab is not my client.
He's my client's agent.
My client's agent, so...
Just imagine, my partner is my pimp.
My boyfriend is my pimp. Can you imagine?
He's my pimp, right?
- Yeah, right? - Right.
If I fall in love with him...
If I really fall head over heels in love with him...
Then what should I do?
I'll have to be desperate.
I was desperate. I am desperate.
That means I'll have to blackmail my mother-in-law.
I'l have to do it all my life.
I'll have to run the family on blackmail. There's no other way.
I want to have a family. Should I not do it?
- Should I have a family? - You should.
- I should, right? - You should.
Then why am I feeling guilty?
Then why am I disgusted?
Why can't I stand it? Why do I feel like peeling off my skin?
Why do I feel like tearing off my nails?
Why am I feeling so disturbed?
Why am I f***ing feeling like s***?
Where is Arnab? Where is he?
He is going to come...
He's going to stay here with me.
Where is he? He's not here.
I called him a million times but he didn't answer.
He didn't show up.
On a white horse...
He didn't come.
But his mother came...
His mother...
Did Arnab send his mother to me, Rudra?
Does he know everything?
Was he just having fun?
Boyish fun?
I can't take this anymore.
I can't do this any longer.
Listen...
Can you take me away from all this, Rudra?
Arnab, his mother...
I just want to live peacefully...
Will you take me away, Rudra?
I want to go on a long holiday.
Will you come with me?
You can do this much for me, right?
Don't I mean anything to you?
Don't you...
Not even a little bit?
Just a little, Rudra...
You're very tired, Ms. Guha.
You need to get some sleep.
You need to sleep for a long time.
Come... Come with me.
Rudra.
You are also leaving me when I need you the most.
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
Epitaphs set in stone waste away with time
I am the lonesome hope of a lover waiting alone
Epitaphs set in stone waste away with time
I am the lonesome hope of a lover waiting alone
The old adages in the air and the ancient North star
I've never wanted anything but love
I've died in your arms making love to you
I've travelled across the universe to find my way back to you
I've looked for you in all the fairytales
Memories of the magical princess live on
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
Our palace in the skies is covered by the grey smog
We die a million deaths just to be together again
Our palace in the skies is covered by the grey smog
We die a million deaths just to be together again
Every house in this city reminds me of yours
They call out to me like the little girl I've known for ages
- Welcome to Shah Jahan Regency. - Thank you.
Let's go.
They suddenly showed up. Comepletely unplanned.
There must have been some technical problem on the plane.
There are no other rooms.
I'm sure you get it.
How can we ask them to leave in the middle of the night?
I mean we can't give them to our competitors.
Right? Where did she go?
Here you are.
I've made the arrangements... Please...
What are you doing? I can take it.
Absolutely not.
First of all, you're a guest. And you're a little girl.
If you patronise me, I'll call you uncle.
Would you like that?
Would love it.
- We will see. - Sure.
I'm intruding in the middle of the night. I'm displacing someone.
Whose room is this?
"Uncle Tom's Cabin".
TouchÃ©!
But I can't do this.
- I can't barge in... - Hear me out.
- Your Highness, Supreeta... - Your highness?
Please sleep peacefully here.
We're on night duty.
We'll wake you up in the morning in time for your flight.
- Okay... - That sounds good.
Go ahead. Don't look at me.
Please relax and have a restful night.
Do you speak to kids this formally?
Very strange I must say.
I thought it would be more informal.
Won't that be a bit too much?
How about we strike a balance and call each other by our first names.
Only if it's mutual.
- Deal? - Deal.
Then I must tell you not to bind me in time like this.
Woah! You liked it!
I thought people of your generation might like it.
We check time on our mobile phones.
- Thank you. Generation talk yet again... - That's a great idea.
- Okay, bye. - It's okay.
- Good night. - Good night.
It was a Delhi-Kolkata-Chennai flight.
They are stuck because of some technical snag.
It's really late, that's why...
It's okay... It's okay...
What's the matter with you?
Why are you saying the same thing trying to justify it?
Actually, they always stay with us. So...
Now where is he off to?
Where are you going, Nitty-gritty?
For a late night walk.
My day is full of soiled bedsheets and dirty pillow cases.
How can my bed feel good at night?
A diabetic confectioner?
Somewhat like that but I'm not sleepy.
I've been thinking of Kamalini.
I remember her face.
- I'm scared. - Scared of what?
A marginalised person is helpless, careless, lonely.
What if I in a state of madness...
tired of various sobriquets like...
ladies, tranny, faggot, homo...
- end my life? - Come on, Nitty-gritty.
The situation is not that bad.
It is.
- I'll see you later. - Wait. I'll come with you.
I'll confirm Ms. Mitra's drop and transport.
You be here.
Where's your boss?
He's gone to look into your transport.
Oh, nice!
Okay, tell me this.
- Rudra, there's a problem... - Yeah...
- Oh, hello, Ms. Mitra. - Hi!
Makaranda has been missing for a while now.
His phone is switched off. Can you look into this?
I've asked for a car.
Of course, I'll look into it.
You guys stay and look into it too. Okay.
See you later.
You know, it's very unusual for an owner to stay at his own hotel.
But there are no more benefits.
First, a cheating wife...
Then, falling in real love with the fake girlfriend.
So, now he doesn't have any time for the hotel.
Tons of renovation work needs to be done.
Maintenance of interiors... Nothing is happening.
Cheating wife, fake girlfriend...
Are you still single because of this?
No, not at all.
I'm not anchored at one place.
Here today, there tomorrow.
Why involve another life?
So, essentially tackling all the housekeeping issues here...
you've lost interest in homekeeping.
Right...
Although you are young, you have a wise head on your shoulders.
Since I have broad shoulders, I can have more heads.
Are you, by any chance, flirting with me?
Are you, by any chance, getting intimidated?
I'm just dated, not intimidated.
That's because you've dated poorly, uncle.
Uncle, your current dating process is carbon dating.
I didn't tell you, did I?
They called me to tell me they've changed the roster.
So, I'll be flying after three days.
So, I'm going to be here.
Only if rooms are available, that is.
I can't occupy Uncle Tom's cabin indefinitely...
You can stay in my room indefinitely.
Should I arrange for a new room for myself?
Why?
Too scandalised to be your roomie?
It's not that.
"Out beyond the ideas of rightdoing and wrongdoing...
"There is a field. I will meet you there."
That's a nice quote. Who is it by?
Another Rumi.
Oh, you haven't checked out yet?
You look depressed.
You're informal wth Sam and formal with me.
I'll remember this.
No, nothing like that.
- Okay, I'll be informal with you too. Okay? - Yes, please.
Actually, our roster changed.
The others have left. I'm here for the next two days.
Two days?
That's great!
Since you here, we should order for some breakfast.
- Of course. - There's no need for that.
No more formalities. Just sit.
I'll feel spoilt.
You guys get everything at a dial.
I have to do everything at home.
All that glitters is not gold, my dear.
Those who don't have houses know the true meaning of home. Right?
So who has asked you to be a gypsy?
Has someone asked you not to settle down?
That's a good question.
I'm sure you are a nomad too. I mean a gypsy.
- I'm a Bengali from Mumbai. - Mumbai? Not Michigan?
- I figured that from the accent. - Will someone please keep quiet?
- Someone, please keep quiet. - Okay.
- Continue. - Gul, what's the matter?
Boss, Purandar has fixed my marriage with Tuni.
Great news! Bravo!
- That's really great! - You've done it!
- Congratulations! - Thank you.
I'll have to go to the village. Can I take a few days off?
Don't worry at all.
Rudra will write a leave application for you. You will get the time off.
No problem at all.
- Boss? - Now what?
I'll never forget you, boss.
I'll pray to God so that you get all the happiness in the world.
So that you get married soon.
- Yes, enough of that. - That's what I was wishing for too.
I'll deal with marriage my way...
But it's time for you to concentrate on your new family.
- Rudra, please help him out. - Gul, come with me.
Let's see how I can help you.
Let's go, Gul.
Everyone loves you a lot, right?
I mean Rudra, Gul...
I know Gul for a long time.
He's like a younger brother.
Not just Gul. Makaranda, Janardhan, Gayatri, Rudra...
These are the people I live with. They are my family.
That is it?
From uncle you went on to become the universal grandfather.
You need to chillax.
Chill... You need to chill.
- Chill... - I think you should...
Apply for leave too.
- What do you mean? - I mean...
You're going out with me for a day.
Day?
- Yes. - Okay.
You act older than your age.
You need a proper haircut.
Some jazzy shoes, sunglasses and...
- Some nice clothes. - This is fine...
We'll go pubbing and then finally to the disc...
And we'll dance till the wee hours of the morning.
If I dance at this age, there's a high possibility of injury.
You're bringing up age again.
Can you stop your grandfatherly nonsense?
- Have you watched "Baby's Day Out"? - Yes, I have.
This is going to be the uncle's day out.
Listen to this song of mine
You might just like it
Give it some time
You might just love it
It's time to wave a new flag
Walk on this path with me
You might just like it
This rain soaked darkness
The heady fragrance of flowers
Don't go crazy with worry
Let's play ping pong on the dining table
Let's write a theme song for stupid heartbreaks
Let's bask in the winter sun
Like two peas in a pod
Look at me
Look at me now
Come home with me
You might just like it
We'll dream on the same pillow
You'll leave marks on the mirror
Let your hair clip scold me
Touch my hand
You might just like it
Let my waves carry you home
All I'm asking for is one chance
Let's play ping pong on the dining table
Let's write a theme song for stupid heartbreaks
Let's bask in the winter sun
Like two peas in a pod
Rudra, I've always maintained that I don't like you.
But you're a useful resource.
That's why we need your support.
The hotel ownership is changing.
Although Ranganathan is buying it...
But the de facto owner will be Mr. Chatterjee.
Gayatri's lullabies and the old fashioned uniforms have to go.
No oriental.
We'll have to give it a make over.
Bring in the American style.
You have an option to stay on.
But, of course, we'll be taking in younger staff.
- The rest of the staff... - Golden handshake.
Pink slip.
Freedom in pink.
They had their eyes on the property for a long time.
They were just looking for a way in.
Do you know what time is?
Nothing lasts.
Everyone has to leave.
You should leave too.
I'm serious.
You won't find another girl like Supreeta.
You've got a great offer from Mumbai. You should go.
She's too young.
She's half my age.
Are you saying, there won't be issues?
If you want to think like that...
My grandparents had a similar age gap.
Your grandparents...
You should leave.
Get out of here.
She needs you more than Shah Jahan Regency.
And you need her too.
Presenting Mr. Sameeran Bose.
You didn't have to do all this.
The cutlery set is from the kitchen... You'll be in trouble.
What's this, Gul?
Boss, this is not from Shah Jahan.
All of us put in money to buy these.
This is ours.
Yeah, Sam.
This is from all of us to you.
I've made your favourite dishes.
- Thank you. - Thank you.
The linen decor was my idea.
I hope you like my parting gift to you.
Thank you.
Say something.
What should I say?
I never thought that one day I'll leave Shah Jahan Regency.
Plan was to take the hotel's car straight to the crematorium.
But the laws of Time...
I'll never forget any one of you.
Purandar...
Poonam...
Shamim...
Sam...
Mukesh...
Sundar...
All of you...
The time I've spent with you...
Your love...
It'll be with me till the end of my life.
What's the matter?
You're throwing a farewell party for Sameeran.
And no one informed me?
Answer her.
- You were busy so... - Yes, I was rehearsing.
If it was up to me, I would have set up a classical music concert for him.
But I'm not capable of that.
That's why I've composed a tune for this occasion.
I'm going to call the piece "Sameeran".
It would nice to play it for you before the feast.
- Wow! - That's great. Of course. - Thank you.
Good move.
Very good move.
- All the best. - Thank you.
Thank you for everything.
I wanted to see you because...
Disha has been acting very strange for the last few days.
I've quit.
What?
I've quit this profession.
Why?
I've caused a lot of divorces.
Probably, that's why God...
Can you please tell me what's wrong?
Nothing really...
I went on an assignment.
I was there spying on a man, taking his photos. Just doing my job.
We're running late. Let's go.
Don't rush me.
I saw my wife there...
- What are you doing? - One last kiss.
- What's so dirty about it? - Let me go.
I've get home soon. Barun will be back.
Forget about him. Must be clicking photos somewhere.
Shut up.
- Let's go. - Yeah, let's go.
- Book a cab. - I'm on it.
She shouldn't have worn that saree.
It was an anniversary gift.
Very irresonsible of her.
Have you told your family?
I don't have any family just like Sam.
I have an apartment in Mumbai.
We'll just move in. That's it.
Are you sure you don't have any family?
No relatives?
Some distant relatives, maybe? Think about it.
Maybe, in Kolkata?
Someone who is related to you?
Very far fetched relationship.
Maybe someone who works at a hotel?
No?
Sorry, I stand corrected.
What happened?
12 years ago, I was standing in front of Makaranda with an application.
It takes years to build something.
And to destroy it?
And gone.
Just like that.
You know, Rudra...
Makaranda reminded me of Shah Jahan.
Standing all alone by the window.
Staring at the Taj Mahal.
The lonely emperor.
Shah Jahan is dead.
Long live Shah Jahan!
I'm leaving.
Gul is getting a taxi.
- What about the hotel's car... - Let it be.
Sorry.
I could never imagine that I'll be bidding farewell to everyone...
The prologue and epilogue are both important.
Have you packed everything?
Yes.
Whatever a suitcase can carry.
The rest...
You know what Makaranda once told me?
I'm the conscience of the Shah Jahan Regency.
Once the conscience leaves, one is dead.
Rudra, one doesn't realise by the look of it.
Actually, we are...
This hotel...
All this has been dead for a long time.
But just like we see stars twinkling even years after they've died...
Just like that, us, this hotel...
Are probably shiny and bright...
Those neon lights...
are all fake, Rudra.
It seems alive because of the distance.
Good bye. Take care.
Gul, look into the check-outs. I'll be right there.
Hey.
What's wrong?
Why this generation gap?
Missing Shah Jahan?
And Kolkata too.
The city and the hotel were the same thing for me.
You are being pessimistic again.
You should think about me.
You have a city, a hotel that you can call your own... I don't even...
I am constantly travelling from city to city...
Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore... Random hotels...
Life just sucks.
Now things will finally get better.
It will.
So what does the blue print look like?
Blue print? Okay.
Very simple.
We'll have a big family. Monami, Madhu, Mayukh, Max.
- Four kids? - Sea-facing house in Juhu...
Every saturday the whole family will go to the disc.
And every Sunday, the kids will learn Bengali music.
- No, not that. It's very boring. - What's your problem?
I will fall asleep. Please not that.
Apart from a few... There are a few good ones...
There's one that goes... Butt, butt, butt...
Butt?
- Tagore wrote a song about butts? - You are the one who sang it...
What are you saying?
Butt... Butt... Butt...
- You've heard this word. - Oh God!
The old man must be turning in his grave now.
I know this...
- Okay, I'll tell you... - Please tell me...
I know the song.
But before that I want to have some "panipuri".
I want to see how it scores against the Kolkata "phuchka".
- Okay. - Okay.
Set the alarm at 4 o'clock.
Alarm for 4 o'clock in the afternoon?
Sorry, I forgot to tell you.
I requested the roster to be changed.
- I'm taking the earlier flight. - Why?
Staying away from you is becoming a problem.
The sooner I leave, the earlier I can return.
And anyway you work during the day.
So maximising the time spent together.
Understood.
What if the airlines makes an issue out of this?
Let them do it.
They can fire me. Then, I'll live off you.
Would that be good? We just bought a dining table.
Were you thinking about food?
I'll survive on kisses.
Kisses? Then that's okay.
I'll leave you in the morning.
Come back early in the evening then...
- You can take a shower... Clean up... - Hold on... You're such an opportunist...
I'll drop you at the airport tomorrow.
Chuck it. I'll book a cab.
I'm very touchy about airport drops and pick-ups.
I believe it's one of the most intimate acts of love.
Don't worry, dude.
I'll give you more intimate acts of love when I come back.
Please don't wake up.
Sure?
Sure, uncle.
- 4 o'clock? - Yes.
- Good night. - Good night.
I've died in your arms making love to you
I've travelled across the universe to find my way back to you
Every house in this city reminds me of yours
They call out to me like the little girl I've known for ages
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
I've never wanted anything but love
I'm one of them who die over and over again
FATAL PLANE CRASH
ALL PASSENGERS AND CREW FEARED DEAD
There's a requirement in Room 303. Can you look into it?
Sir, the issue that we're trying to deal with here today...
to be very honest with you, it's strictly a company matter.
It needs to be dealt with by your company.
However, since you're a regular with us...
I shall be looking into the matter personally.
I promise you.
But you'd have to give me a little bit of time, sir.
Okay.
Within which I'll try and figure out a couple of things...
I will try and figure out...
what can be done with your concern...
- You have to give a second. - Sure.
Excuse me. Actually, just hang on a minute.
Come here...
- Yes, sir. - Please look into this.
- He'll be with you... - Okay.
Okay, sir.
Hey, what's up?
How are you?
You didn't keep in touch after the incident.
I'll tell you.
But before that can I have my old room for tonight?
That room is not...
That room doesn't exist anymore neither does that hotel.
Everything is built anew.
Bigger, shinier, more... Let it be...
Come with me.
I'll get you a room in our wing.
Do you have any baggage?
Not anymore.
Let's go.
So, how did it all happen?
You know, Sameeran...
"Our life is but a winter's day
"Some only breakfast and away
"Others to dinner stay and are full fed
"The oldest man but sups and goes to bed
"He that goes soonest has the least to pay."
When this path will not have my footprints
I won't row down this pier
When dust will gather on the lute
I'll wrap up my business I'll finish it off
I'll be done with the bargains
You don't have to remember me then
You don't have to call out my name
When this path will not have my footprints
I won't row down this pier
When this path will not have my footprints
When dust will gather on the lute
When creepers will shut the door
When dust will gather on the lute
The beautiful flower garden will be taken over by weed
And the river banks will be covered in moss
You don't have to remember me then
You don't have to call out my name
When this path will not have my footprints
You'll hear the flute playing
Days will go on
Just like they go on now
You'll hear the flute playing
There will be many boats on the bank
The sun will rise, the cows will graze The cowherd will sing, life will go on
You don't have to remember me then
You don't have to call out my name
When this path will not have my footprints
Who says I won't be there at that dawn?
I'll be a part of everything
Who says I won't be there at that dawn?
You'll call me by a different name
Bind me in a new embrace That will be the same old me
You don't have to remember me then
You don't have to call out my name
When this path will not have my footprints
I won't row down this pier
When this path will not have my footprints