Phullwanti (2024)

[bunniefuu]

18th century

The Golden Age of Peshwas printed

in gold letters

in the history of Marathi regions.

While art, knowledge,

and culture flourish freely.

When all these talents shone

in all the provinces.

This story is from this period.

This is the story of a Marathi dancer.

Of Phullwanti

Phullwanti

The gait of a deer,

the edge of sight,

the sword of speech, unusual artists.

A fine artist,

winning praise from

art pundits as well,

The one whose dance forms

were praised in fourteen countries.

This Menaka, who gained

the fame of Urvashi,

used to perform

in the whole of Hindustan.

But I never thought

that we will get the responsibility

of carrying this precious invitation

to her from Pune.

- Hearty congratulations.

- Congratulations.

Okay, the alliance is final now.

- Sweeten your mouth.

- Yes yes.

Wow! Wow! Wow!

Let's talk about the dowry now.

What happened?

Why are you quiet now?

I had heard that

on a normal occasion

you had brought your wife home

from Shaniwar Wada

to your house on a mat of silver coin.

Is this true?

Laughing... means it's true.

Yes.

So, what happened now?

In the name of dowry,

why did you suddenly become quiet?

No, Subedar.

Everything I own,

belongs to my daughter.

You can ask anything.

Demand?!

Ask.

Do we lack anything to ask from you?

You wouldn't demand I know.

- Even I am Subedar Mankar.

- Yes.

We don't want any dowry.

But I want you to promise me

to give me what I ask for.

- I promise?

- Wow! Great!

Wow!

Not just silver,

I will give gold anklets.

Great.

This is a wish of my loved ones,

not mine...

I repeat, my loved ones have a wish.

On the night of the wedding,

we want Phullwanti

to dance for the village.

(All in agreement)

General sir,

I'd rather shower you

with gold and silver.

Finding that woman is nearly impossible.

She's forever moving

from one place to another.

But we want that wayfaring dancer

to entertain my villagers.

Why not?

You can't go back on your word, sir.

Even the royal courts

of emperors invite her

but she doesn't pay heed.

Why would she heed me?

That's exactly why I took

a promise from you.

You're a moneylender for the king.

Finding a woman is no big deal for you.

We want Phullwanti

to dance for us, that's it.

Find her no matter where she is.

No! Phullwanti dance

should be done or not?

I'm not... him.

This is the first time I'm seeing

the emperor wait for someone.

It's no ordinary person.

The whole nation waits for her eagerly.

"The world is lit up"

"by her brilliance"

"Spreading joys and cheers around"

"a nymph has arrived from the heavens"

"The jingling of her anklets

fills the air with melody"

"The chime of her bangles

sway the winds"

"Ears yearn to hear the words"

"of this enigmatic poetess"

"All hearts and eyes wait

to get a glimpse"

"of Phullwanti"

Lo behold!

"On a splendid full moon night"

"my beauty lights up the skies"

"Beaming with resplendence

and sparkle"

"I am a heavenly nymph"

"I sway like lightening

amidst colours of joy"

"spreading the fragrance

of cheer like precious musk"

"I am Phullwanti"

"I am Phullwanti"

"I am Phullwanti"

"You sway with a magnificent gait"

"Your moves leaves people mesmerised"

"You sway with a magnificent gait"

"Your moves leaves people mesmerised"

Bravo!

"Be it heaven or earth"

"there's none as pretty as me"

"This beauty is divine grace"

"My style and enigma

is unique like no other"

"The stars and winds"

"envy my charming ways"

- "and lightening energy"

- Lovely!

"I sway like lightening

amidst colours of joy"

"spreading the fragrance

of cheer like precious musk"

"I am Phullwanti"

"Oozing with youth

and charm like fresh flowers"

"She makes hearts swoon with her grace"

"I am Phullwanti"

"Like a dainty rose

and tempting fragrance'"

"she captivates hearts with her charm"

"I am Phullwanti"

"You sway with a magnificent gait"

"Your moves leave people mesmerised"

"You sway with a magnificent gait"

"Your moves leave people mesmerised"

"I am Phullwanti"

Excellent!

What a thing! Very nice!

Wow.

Mashallah!

(crowd cheering)

Wow.

Brilliant.

Your reputation doesn't do justice

to your talent.

Hence, today I bestow you with the title

of 'chand -e-mughal saltanat' (moon)

with 5 villages as reward.

Great!

Hereafter, you shall dance only

for my court.

Forgive me, your majesty,

I am an artist

not a sl*ve.

- What are you saying?

- Phullwanti,

his majesty deemed you a moon

not a sl*ve.

That means he gets to decide

when and where this moon will rise.

Powerful kings and

noble men of the world

yearn to get access to this court.

Who cares!

Back in the day,

our beloved Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

was offered an official's post

with rank 5,000.

He saw through the enslaving tactics

and refused it.

Call it a Marathi peculiarity or trait,

rejecting sl*very

runs in our blood.

Phullwanti,

an artist is above religion.

Likewise, an artist cannot belong

to one court.

An artist bound by restrictions

is but a sl*ve.

Phullwanti!

Bravo.

Spoken like a true artist!

My respect for you has increased.

Now onwards,

Phullwanti shall tour the nation

as an esteemed guest

of the Mughal empire.

Provide her with royal arrangements.

Yes, your majesty.

Wow.

Phullwanti doesn't dance

for royal officers.

Many a merchants beckon my presence

but Phullwanti chooses

who she dances for.

Madam,

don't worry about the money.

You'll get any amount you ask for.

Heard that, Champa?

The emperor of Delhi made the same offer

in different words, right?

You may leave.

You heard her.

She even rejected the emperor.

You're nothing in comparison.

You may leave, sir.

I have given my word

that I'll get your approval.

I've seen many who make such claims.

Even my assistant shows them the door.

- Mind your tongue!

- Really!

Jana!

That's how artists are!

What now?

Nothing.

Let's go back to Pune.

- Baija!

- Yes?

The gentleman has come from Pune,

land of the Peshwa.

You must cater to them.

Get them seated in the royal tent

and serve refreshments.

Gopalnaik Bakhre from Pune,

one who lends money to the Peshwa!

Why bother coming all the way here?

I had no choice.

It's not like I'm a patron

of music and dance.

Dance is cheap for some

and an art for others.

It's a matter of perspective.

With a clear conscience,

you'll see a goddess in a dancer.

Wow!

It's my daughter's wedding.

Her in-laws want nothing else

but your performance.

I have close ties with the Peshwa

so they are convinced

you will grace their invitation.

I haven't dance in Pune yet.

If I ever do,

it has to be in Shaniwar Wada,

where Mastani danced.

All I want is to feel it

so I can die in peace.

Phule!

Don't say such ominous things.

Do this for me

and I'll dance anywhere you ask

that too for free.

The Peshwa's court has a plethora

of unmatched royal dancers.

Who's in need here?

You do what is needed.

Just make this happen

then we'll see

how those dancers beat my talent.

We had no option than to agree

to Phullwanti's condition.

I quickly made Shrimant Peshwa

aware of this condition.

He happily welcomed her condition.

News of her arrival spread

everywhere in Pune.

Village squares and at homes,

she was discussed around everywhere.

Wow, Wamanrao.

On the next Vasant Panchami,

you're all set to see

the resplendent moon.

Indeed, she's a looker.

No wonder the emperor in Delhi

bestowed her with a royal title.

Listen, Wamanrao.

Phullwanti will be coming to Pune.

Let us also honour her with some title.

I suggest, Chimanrao.

You want to honour her, right?

- Yes.

- Punekars

are always expert in this job.

Then title her with

Jahan-e-Sarasbaugh.

Or Noor-E-Kothrun.

- Phullwanti?

- Is she here?

Dear god!

They can't stop praising that show girl!

Oh no,

I've heard she's a great dancer.

She's a divine beauty

and yet she's untouched.

What rubbish!

She adorns expensive clothes

and ornaments.

How can she be untouched?

Her moves

make men go weak in the knees.

- Really?

- So!

You better keep your oldie in check.

Meaning?

Good sense leaves in old age.

Really? Your husband attends the court

not mine.

For all you know, your marriage

will be the first to break!

Forget about my husband age

and worry about your husband's passion.

Oh dear!

- Guess she's here.

- Look she has come.

After winning the whole nation,

Phulla will now reign over Pune.

My sweetiepie!

Welcome.

I welcome you to the land

of Kasba Ganpati.

Come.

I expected the Peshwa would welcome me.

Here he is.

Where?

Here I am.

Every man in Pune considers

himself royalty!

So rumours about Pune are true.

Your highness,

people of Pune better beware.

Why?

The sounds of spiritual chants

will be replaced by her chiming anklets!

Make way, Shastri is here.

Who arrived?

- Long live Shastri!

- Have come

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Pant,

what's this?

What happened?

Your people

ignore this ravishing beauty

for that ordinary man!

A palanquin is headed that way.

Halt it.

You expect my royal carriage to wait

for an ordinary palanquin to pass!

Long live Shastri!

It's indeed an ordinary palanquin

but the person inside is not.

He's a celebrated scholar

of the Peshwa's court.

Long live Shastri!

The sacred congregation of Kashi has

bestowed him with honour allowing

his palanquin to be led by a torch.

A scholar on many topics from law,

politics, logic to philosophy,

author of many renowned books,

a master of scriptures,

that's Venkatdhwari

Narsinha Shastri for you.

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Who cares about his scholastic prowess!

Long live Shastri!

Proceed with my chariot.

That's not possible.

Why?

You see, Pune values intellect

over beauty.

Add to that the fact,

Shastri won a huge intellectual contest.

What kind of contest?

A debate on ideas and opinions.

Various scholars discuss their

understanding of scriptures.

If I lose at such a contest,

I will slit my tongue with a sword.

That's the oath he is under.

Long live Shastri!

Come and See.

Wow! Wow!

My Phulla...

Wow! Wow! Wow!

- Wow!

- What a wonderful presentation!

Looks like Pune is rubbing off on her.

Her dance was different today.

Don't jinx it.

It took 10 days to sync with rhythm.

So tell me,

why doesn't Pune value art

as much as intelligence?

I didn't get you.

Is something lacking

in the arrangements made for you?

You halted my chariot

for a meagre Brahman living off alms.

Hence, this question.

It's ben 10 days

but you haven't forgotten

the scholar yet.

It's not him,

but the humiliation I haven't forgotten.

Oh c'mon! He didn't humiliate you.

Shastri is a simple man

who goes about his business quietly.

Tell me,

will he be present

in the court during vasant panchami?

Of course, goes without saying.

After his grand victory at the debate,

he will be felicitated in the court.

What comes first?

My art or his felicitation?

In Pune, art and intelligence

work hand in hand.

Wow.

Hope you won't ask her

to walk hand in hand with him!

That man is not fortunate enough

to get to hold my hand.

A glimpse of my art is all he gets.

I would like to inform you,

I'm afraid Shastri

won't see your performance.

I mean

I have never seen him

at dance performances.

I thought you should know.

You'll see him this time around.

I've seen many scholars like him

hovering for my attention

no matter where I am.

Wait till he comes

and you'll see.

That remains to be seen, Phulla.

In 10 days

we haven't stepped out even once.

Panta Chitnis,

show us around Pune.

I'll do that

just keep in your hands in check.

C'mon!

Panta,

can you show us

the place where Mastani danced

in Shaniwar Wada?

I can't say for sure

but I can put in a word to the Peshwa.

It's getting late.

After my morning prayers tomorrow,

I'll arrange for your city tour.

Awesome.

Stay away from me.

- Panta,

- Yes.

Don't forget about Mastani's spot.

I'll try my best.

Glory be to Lord Shiva.

It hasn't been opened in years.

Mastani was a curse

that cast a dark spell

on the glorious achievements

of the senior Peshwa.

An brave warrior

that remained undefeated

left the world reminiscing Mastani.

That was the magic of her love.

There's nothing magical about

a dancer's love.

I beg your pardon

Mastani wasn't a dancer.

Educated and trained in warfare,

she was the daughter of King Chhatrasaal.

Dance was her passion

not profession.

Panta,

why is she dancing by herself?

We can only see her

but she probably envisions

Mastani with her.

- Pants, thank you.

- Huh?

You fulfilled my long awaited dream.

- No big deal

- Oh no!

I will forever remain grateful.

- It was my duty.

- I will never forget you, Panta.

Don't touch me. Stay away.

Okay.

Who is he?

He is Nanasaheb Fadnavis.

Oh my!

So he's the one

the nation admires for his wit!

Yes.

Please come.

See you.

This way, Phullwanti.

Tell me...

Yes?

What else does Pune have to offer?

You mean specialities of Pune?

There's a lot.

To know this city better,

know its language,

culture and lifestyle in detail.

To do that, you should stay with

a typical Pune family.

Family?

Artists aren't blessed to have families.

No matter how we yearn to settle down.

We carry our home on our backs.

Even so,

since you insist,

can you find me such a family?

One family?

Why not?

Forgive me,

it's that man's family who

was the reason your chariot was halted.

That's the only family where

affluence and wisdom dwell in tandem.

Moreover,

it's a rustic home run

by his wife Lakshmi

with great devotion.

"This is the place"

"full of knowledge."

"My prayers are answered."

"I'm so fortunate."

"Where there's knowledge,

there's 'Lakshmi' (goddess of wealth)."

"She bestows one

with the immense luxuries."

"May I always envision"

"You in my heart!"

"Bestow me with

perfection in my skills."

"Bless me to serve you in this way."

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"May I always envision"

"You in my heart!"

"Bestow me with

perfection in my skills."

"Bless me to serve you in this way."

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"Life is full of experiences.

Extract the best you can."

"May this journey be pleasant

on a luminous path!"

(Sanskrit)

"It is like a paradise to me,

which is one in a million."

"Your fame abounds in all directions."

"With folded hands,

I bow down to You for my success."

"While I add to my virtuous."

"Bless me to serve you in this way."

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"May I always envision"

"You in my heart!"

"Bestow me with

perfection in my skills."

"Bless me to serve you in this way."

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"O Goddess Saraswati!"

"I bow down to You."

"Always..."

"While doing all my activities."

And that day rose,

which Phullwanti awaited eagerly.

She was going to perform in Shaniwar Wada.

Long live Shastri!

Shastri,

you won a huge debate on scriptures

and upheld the beacon of religion.

You made this court proud.

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Please have a seat.

I am not interested

in a dance performance.

I came here to show my respect.

I'll take your leave now.

Allow me.

Shastri,

a celebrated artist is here today

to showcase her talent.

I have no knowledge of these things.

I have no business being here.

It's not like she'll offer prayers

or recite the scriptures

on this auspicious day.

"Goddess Sharada"

"Sharada, with a face like the lotus"

"of the sharad season (winter),"

"with two eyes, like the lotuses,"

"forever O bestower of all things"

"bless us with prosperity"

"grace"

"and your proximity."

Wow.

"Such a dainty woman with great looks"

"A beauty with a great body"

"O beloved woman!"

"This is some magic"

"that casts an everlasting spell"

"A dagger with looks to k*ll"

"She has the fury of lightning"

"She's blessed with the wealth of youth"

"She's a star that steals hearts"

"She's brilliant, one of a kind"

"I am a melodious beauty"

"People can't take their eyes off me"

"I am an empty slate,

a ravishing damsel"

"I adorn flowers in my hair, darling"

"Oh king, take a look at me'"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"bewitching"

"oozing with beauty"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"resplendent like the moon"

"brightening up the skies"

"She's a sweet darling"

"People go crazy over her"

"She's a sweet darling"

"People go crazy over her"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"bewitching"

"oozing with beauty"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"resplendent like the moon"

"brightening up the skies"

"Can't trust"

"the heart's beckoning"

"You hold my hand

and light up a fire within"

"I somehow"

"controlled myself, O king"

"This is a craze"

"brought about by my anklets"

"I am showered with gold"

"My enigmatic eyes"

"make hearts go bonkers"

"It settles deep within your mind,

darling"

"You... Not you"

"Take"

"Take a look at me"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"bewitching"

"oozing with beauty"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"resplendent like the moon"

"brightening up the skies"

"Her cheeks are red with cuteness"

"She's lovingly called her Phullwanti"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"bewitching"

"like a butterfly"

"I am a seductive enchantress"

"resplendent like the moon"

"brightening up the skies"

"The world loses its mind over

my beauty"

"People swoon over me"

"Whose name should I reveal?"

"Mesmerised by my style"

"they forget day and night"

"Even the strongest

of men can't resist me"

"Even so a guest"

"won't even look at me"

"He got my attention"

"now what trick should I resort to?"

"Let me tell you"

"I don't care a damn"

"and yet I bow down to you"

"I am unmatched"

"and so is my grace"

"My pricey ways are well worth it all,

darling"

"O man with a turban!"

"Yes, you!"

"Just take"

"Just take a look at me"

' "She's a seductive enchantress"

"Bewitching"

"like a butterfly"

"She's a seductive enchantress"

"resplendent as the moon"

"brightening up the skies"

I take your leave, your highness.

That was awesome!

That was impressive dance!

To honour your talent,

you can ask for anything you like.

Ornaments,

gold coins, expensive clothes,

anything at all.

I want nothing of that.

If there's something else you'd like,

just say it.

You shall have it.

That's a Peshwa's word.

Say it.

What do you want?

I want justice.

I want justice to avenge

my humiliation in this court,

said Draupadi.

She was mighty angry.

She wouldn't back down unless avenged.

She took a vow.

Dushasan had dragged her by her hair.

Until she'd bathe in his blood,

she wouldn't tie her hair.

Aunty!

What did she say next?

I seek justice, your highness.

It wasn't just me

but my art was insulted too.

Phullwanti,

do you realise who you're accusing?

He's an unmatched scholar on scriptures.

We revere him.

He gets all my attention even if I'm busy.

He's an expert at judiciary and religion.

That's Venkatadhwari

Narsingh Shastri for you.

Scholar?

In that case, how could he speak ill of me

while I was performing?

Nice performance.

Good dancing.

Take it.

This was the first time you attended

a dance performance.

I'm sure it was worth it.

Here.

Yes, Vithoba?

Panta Chitnis is here.

You've been beckoned

at the court right away.

I'll be there.

Okay.

Right away?

What's the matter?

In a court filled with people,

Shastri called me

an arrhythmic wh*re.

- What are you doing?

- Panta!

Panta! Calm down. Sit.

If you're proved wrong,

you will be punished harshly.

Hope you know that.

Shastri is here.

Your highness.

If I'm lying,

you may slit my tongue with his sword.

Ask your religious scholar

whether or not he called me

an arrhythmic wh*re.

That's absolutely unnecessary.

He can never say that.

Madam,

please collect your remuneration

and leave right away.

Your allegations on a revered scholar

is maligning his character.

Nanasaheb!

Strange you're saying that!

He whispered those words in your ears!

Nanasaheb, is that true?

I don't remember him saying that.

If at all he did say that,

why bring it up now?

What do you expect of a dancer

entertaining the emperor of Delhi?

She's here to malign the Hindu empire!

This Hindu empire belonged

to my revered King.

Women were respected under his rule.

Will you uphold his style of justice?

This court...

Mind your tongue, woman!

The whole nation looks up to

the justice meted out in this court.

What are you waiting for, Nana?

Before she created any more drama,

throw this woman out of here.

Yes, throw her out.

Throw her out.

Yes, throw her out.

I did say the words she's accusing me of,

Nanasaheb.

Doesn't matter what you said,

the reputation of this court does.

The truth is more important

than my reputation here.

This woman is telling the truth,

your highness.

What?!

I did whisper those words to Nanasaheb.

'I don't like her but she's an artist.'

'Unbaked earthen pot.'

'She's no artist.'

'That arrhythmic wh*re

has no sense of art.'

Why are you accepting the allegation?

I can't believe you'd say such a thing.

I did whisper those words to Nanasaheb.

I could barely understand what was said

given all the noise all around.

Play music softly hereafter.

Forgive me, madam.

I was wrong.

I take your leave, your highness.

Stop!

You can't just leave

after admitting your fault.

What you did wasn't a mistake

but a sin!

He was unjust to me.

If he found faults in my skills,

he should've said so.

I'd have undergone any test or trial.

But you didn't ask for a test.

You made a decision.

You called me a wh*re.

No man has dared to touch

Phullwanti's body!

An artist hailing from a long line

of musical heritage

was called a wh*re by the scholar!

What does he understand about music.

I seek justice.

You shall get justice, Phullwanti.

Today is the day we worship

the goddess of knowledge.

A disciple of art form

was humiliated today.

It's a matter of great shame.

This court truly regrets this tragedy.

Tell you what you seek.

What kind of justice do you want?

An appeal.

My anklets and music

are like body and soul.

He insulted me by calling me arrhythmic.

I swear on my broken anklets

and challenge your scholar

in public presence.

My skills were insulted in this court.

I call for a test of my talent

in this very court.

I shall dance for a period of time.

During that period,

if I make even one mistake,

I shall fall at his feet

and beg for forgiveness.

Nanasaheb,

you couldn't hear clearly earlier.

Listen up now.

If I make two mistakes while I dance,

Phullwanti will quit dancing.

If I make three mistakes in that duration,

I shall be his sl*ve for life.

What is she saying?

Stop!

Madam,

calm down.

You're seething with rage.

Do you realise what you're asking for?

Deaf people mustn't be part

of discussions.

Don't you know that?

- Your highness...

- Nanasaheb,

please take your seat.

Let her finish.

Go on.

Nanasaheb,

this isn't a test for me

but for your revered scholar.

All those hard of hearing,

listen to me carefully.

If I don't make a single mistake

while I dance,

I'll make this scholar wear my anklets

and parade him like an animal

all through this city.

What are you saying, woman!

Stop!

Stop!

Why are you listening to this?

Calm down.

Calm down.

Shastri,

you admitted to your crime.

You deserve punishment.

Do you agree to her conditions?

I do.

I have a request though.

I shall play the instrument

while she dances.

- What?

- But...

Why invite trouble?

Have you ever played an instrument?

Arguing is easy

playing a musical instrument is not.

Have you even seen such an instrument?

Hold on.

Nanasaheb! What is she saying?

Go on and ruin the court's honour.

I am ready, your highness.

So am I.

I didn't just say arrhythmic wh*re.

I called you an unbaked earthen pot.

I am ready for the challenge.

Are you?

Take a good look at the anklets.

You'll wear them pretty soon.

I accept your challenge.

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

Very good.

Pandavs and Kauravs gathered

on the b*ttlefield.

From the Kauravs' side,

the indomitable Bhishma

blew the conch with a roaring sound

declaring the start of the w*r.

Duryodhan was mighty pleased.

Aunt, why did Krishna narrate

the Geeta only to Arjun

and not to Duryodhan?

Because Duryodhan was arrogant.

Arrogance kills reasoning.

A man devoid of reason

can't see sense in anything

even if god explains things!

Understood?

This just doesn't make sense.

Why did you insist

on playing the instrument?

Lakshmi, take the kids inside.

Draupadi's story of revenge

just got interesting.

Krishna was about

to declare the start of the w*r

and you arrived!

Enjoy the story while I get you water.

Go inside.

Calm down.

Calm down, Shastri.

What calm down!

He's set to face hell's fury.

Shastri,

the Peshwa's wife called her

a patron of art

and you called her a wh*re!

You landed yourself in a soup.

Just think, Shastri,

if she wins this challenge,

you shall bring shame

to religious authorities.

No ifs and buts,

that dancer won't skip a beat.

The audacity of that woman!

Felt like slitting her tongue.

Subedar!

She's no ordinary dancer.

She's a disciple of the renowned

dance guru Meenakshidevi.

She has the emperor's protection.

The whole nation is a fan of her art.

How do you expect her to lose?

She would've lost for one...

Nana!

She would've lost

but distress beckons calamity.

It's okay.

You defied good sense

and called for trouble.

Why did you insist

on playing the instrument?

This is not befitting your prowess.

It is not.

You're leaving for Prayag in 4 days.

The biggest religious gathering

will be held there.

And this challenge?

Shastri...

Leave that to us.

Panta will try to dissuade her.

Me? How...

If you fail,

do everything within

and beyond your means to stop this.

Nana, she's an artist.

You will leave tomorrow.

I won't.

She will dance to my music.

Nobody can change that.

- Shastri, heed Nanasaheb...

- If you lose, you shall be

paraded like an animal

with anklets in your feet.

So be it.

If that's my fate, nobody can change it.

Please leave.

(Sanskrit chant)

Misfortune blurs the mind.

What are you waiting for?

Let's go.

Let's go. Let's go.

Fastened the anklet?

Forget the anklet,

you're badly injured.

This is nothing

compared to my aching heart.

Baija!

Play the instrument.

Now at this time.

After what happened today,

was beneath the glory of Pune.

How dare they!

Phullwanti,

don't take it heart.

A woman's grief is barely

ever understood by men.

So don't bother placating me.

Baija,

play the instrument.

Phulla,

what's happened has happened.

What did you say?

What's done is done.

We'll leave this village right away.

- Phulla.

- What is this?

Start playing the instruments.

I don't care if your fingers

and my toes are smeared in blood

but you won't stop playing.

Until I make that man wear my anklets

and parade him like an animal,

I should hear music echoing here.

She had flaming eyes.

Not just that,

those were flames of vengeance.

How could a sorted man

like Shastri goof up?

But he did!

He admitted it in the court.

On the occasion

of Goddess Saraswati's veneration,

it was beneath his dignified self

to insult a woman.

Exactly!

Extreme scenario.

I can't believe

Shastri would blurt out

something without reason.

I am sure

there is a reason behind this.

You like Shastri.

Are you being biased towards him?

Acquaintance doesn't matter.

Peshwas do justice based on truth.

But this Peshwa

won't be judging this contest.

Everything depends on her dance

and Shastri's musical instrument.

Phulla.

- She fall down.

- Phulla. What happened?

What happened?

Meenakshi sister.

Gurumai.

Gurumai.

Bless you.

Gurumai.

Phulla was insulted at the Peshwa's court

during Vasant Panchami.

A priest called her...

I know.

That scholar didn't just insult Phullwanti

but every woman who reveres dance.

The chimes of our anklets

won't let him sleep peacefully.

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

You'd better pray more these days.

Or that woman

will enter your home in no time.

(Sanskrit chant)

(Sanskrit chant)

There's very little time.

Start preparing.

My turn?

Go on.

Your scholar

will be paraded wearing anklets!

Rubbish!

Tall claims.

Big deal.

That Phullwanti

will be Shastri's maid.

Don't laugh or I'll thrash you.

- My turn.

- Play.

Pick one,

woman or anklets?

I'll bash you.

Pick one.

The women with anklets

in the scholar's house!

Where is he?

Where is that famous scholar?

Back off!

Wretched scholar,

come out!

Hello!

May you be blessed with abundance.

Wow!

Wow!

What a spectacle I witness today!

A Brahmin priest, scholar of scriptures,

will now don a musical instrument

entertaining people from door to door.

Don't you dare!

Calm down, Acharya.

I'll get you milk.

Have I come here for that?

You tell me.

Weren't there enough scholars

in Pune to compete with

that you chose to berate a dancer?

It's Friday, Acharya.

My temper has to follow the calendar?

No,

I mean you shouldn't refuse milk today.

I'll be back.

Learn from her.

She has better sense of good manners.

How could you stoop so low?

You're an expert in your field.

Likewise that dancer

would be an expert in her field!

Here.

Acharya!

Give it.

Will you utter something

or stand there staring at nothing?

Those words fell out of my mouth.

I can't take them back.

Exactly!

That's exactly my point.

You can't take back your words

so you should think twice

before uttering them.

I goofed up.

I need your blessings.

No way.

Don't do like that.

Give him your blessings.

Lakshmi, blessings alone won't help.

She's raging with vengeance.

I must do something.

Be victorious.

May you succeed.

Your arrival in Pune

made me squirmish.

This village isn't for us, girl.

You know what happened

to Mastani in Pune.

I was yearning to experience her presence.

That's a blessing for any artist.

But you mustn't have the same fate as her.

Madam, Avanti and Ragini are here.

Let's go.

Hurry up! Come on.

Let's go.

Why did you call them?

I had to.

You'll see.

Let's go.

Why did they come here.

- Get going.

- Here.

I called them here.

These are my people.

They've called musicians

from far and wide.

Don't take this battle lightly.

Listen to me.

Ragini,

Avanti,

show her everything you have

learnt from your guru.

This test isn't just for Phullwa.

It's for all of us so get started.

Prepare for what, Guru?

I'm sure that scholar

can't play the instrument.

Your laughter today

will turn to tears soon.

You're wrong in underestimating

the scholar.

Correct.

You're right about that.

This won't be an easy battle.

He's a renowned scholar.

Once he visited my village for a debate.

I have seen my king

bow down to his intellect.

This time too a head will bow.

He will bow down to me.

Let him use all his might

to play the instrument.

It'll be great fun defeating him.

He has some confidence

to play the instrument.

I'm sure

he has some experience with it.

Lord!

What's happening?

What was that you did?

I haven't heard anything

as terrible as that!

At this rate,

all religious institutions will lose face

defeated by a dancer!

When you can't play that instrument,

why did you accept the challenge?

I don't know.

Really?

It's only wise

to do what one knows!

I don't know.

At this rate,

that women will forget her oath

and burst out laughing in the court.

You need a miracle to save you.

He has to use his brains

and bring about a miracle.

Yes.

How much time do we have?

The date isn't declared yet.

I guess we have a month.

That should suffice.

I learned all 4 scriptures within a month.

This can't be tougher than that.

You were competing with yourself then

not with a dancer.

Do you realize that?

Okay, Start preparing.

Take off those rings first.

Nothing should be lacking

in our preparation.

The contest has to be fair.

Phullwanti's challenge isn't

a personal affair any more.

The whole nation is talking about it.

Why do all cursed nymphs

come to Shaniwar Wada!

And a scholar losing out to a dancer

will besmirch

the Peshwa rule's reputation.

We have to be fair with the results.

The whole nation looks up

to Pune's justice system.

Moreover, Phullwanti has fans aplenty.

If the results are even slightly unfair,

disaster will befall.

The results are not in our hands.

Or Shastri would've won hands down.

That's understood

but what's the solution to this?

Nanasaheb, the only solution I see

is selecting informed judges

and accepting their decision.

Thus, we'll be mere spectators.

Mere spectators

for the contest.

Thus, we can enjoy Phullwanti's dance

like other patrons.

Phullwanti's dance or Shastri's defeat?

I feel terrible, Nanasaheb.

But Shastri is done for.

- Great!

- Wow.

Wow.

Great dance.

Too good.

Your anklets are on fire.

That enchanting jingling!

Doesn't matter what music piece he plays.

He won't get too far.

I wonder if he can even

play something simple.

Intelligent people avoid taking

the dirty road.

They pave a separate way.

More than how Shashtri beats his drums,

it's going to be important

as to what he will beat.

Absolutely.

Every intellectual is asked

the same question at the time of exam.

But this Pundit's answers

were heard differently

based on the hour of the day.

Great!

Let him beat anything now.

The judge will hear

only the tinkling of my anklets.

The melodies will be sung by the experts,

Shashtri will beat the drum.

And Phullwanti will dance.

Because according to the plaintiff,

Even if Phullwanti is giving

the performance,

her steps shouldn't go wrong,

because of Shashtri's wrong beats.

Nanasaheb.

She will dance throughout

the whole time given.

Within that time,

If Shashtri beats his drum wrongly,

or if she makes some mistakes

during her performance,

then the judge will decide it, right?

Am I right?

Dabhade sir, you're never wrong.

Nana, I've checked this morning.

Mahashivratri will be the best day.

Now, you fix the time and rules

of this challenge.

Okay.

And Shashtri's horoscopes reveals,

he will always win over his enemies.

He cannot lose on this day.

Wait.

1, 2, 3, 4.

There is a competition today.

Is everyone prepared?

There shouldn't be any mistakes.

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

Listen, Phullwanti.

Will you please bring some flour

to apply on the drum?

What's wrong?

Uncle.

Aunty's name is not Phullwanti.

- But Lakshmi.

- Yes.

Let yours start.

Yes.

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

[Prayer in Sanskrit]

How can I make this mistake?

Today's competition

Is between the drum

and the tinkling bells.

Should you maintain your drumbeat

or your mental balance,

will be more important

from both the sides.

Glory to Lord Vishnu!

Glory to Lord Vishnu!

Glory to Lord Vishnu!

What shall I ask from you?

I don't understand

who's getting testified in all this?

Is she going to give her test

in front of him?

Or is he going to be tested

in front of her?

Or are you testing me in front

of all of them, Lord?

If she wins,

I won't be able to tolerate

his humiliation.

And if he wins,

a woman will enter in my marital life.

In both ways, I'll be at loss.

Peshwa's rules cannot stop her.

Phullwanti is a fiery storm.

You're right.

Phullwanti's victory is final.

It seems that Pundit is dreaming big.

Let him be.

Soon he will

wake up to reality.

Finally, that day rose.

Both the competitors were talented.

Both had their Guru's blessings.

The loser of this unexpected challenge,

would ruin his life completely.

Still,

Shashtri and Phullwanti,

were ready to defeat each other.

Who will win from art and intellect?

Everyone was thrilled and

excited to see that.

Anklets!

Shastri's.

Phullwanti.

And Peshwa's.

Let's your start.

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

Wow, Shashtri!

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

[Sanskrit Mantra]

"Chanting your name all the time."

"I've offered myself at your service."

"Lord Nataraj, give me enough strength."

"Chanting your name all the time."

"I've offered myself at your service."

"Lord Nataraj, give me enough strength."

- Wow!

- "I've staked my existence."

"Redefine my sense, o Lord."

"Glory to Lord Shiva Shambhu!"

"Glory to Lord Shiva Shambhu!"

Wow!

[Melodies of classical dance.]

"Glory to Lord Shiva Shambhu!"

"Glory to Lord Shiva Shambhu!"

"Glory to Lord Shiva Shambhu!"

Amazing, Shashtri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Wow, Shashtri!

This royal court was always proud

of your knowledge.

Today, your artistic skills has made us

all the more proud.

Long live Shastri!

- Glory to Lord Ganesha!

- Sister-in-law!

Sister-in-law!

Stop your prayer now.

Your husband has won the competition.

Sir has won the competition.

Sir has won the competition.

Sir has won the competition.

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Long live Shastri!

Stop.

I will complete an important task first.

Take me to Chafe Mahal.

Komal!

I've been calling you since a long time.

Come on, wrap up everything.

Don't you know,

I've time till tomorrow morning only.

Then I've to go to Shashtri's house.

Come, Baija, come and help me.

You seem to be very happy.

No shame at all.

You've done away with everything.

Decked up like a married woman,

you're not going to that house

as his life partner.

But you will just be his sl*ve.

Since I've lost the competition,

I will have to go.

Lost it?

Have you really lost the competition?

You've learnt dance

before you learnt to take your first step.

And you said, you missed the step?

Sorry, Gurumai.

I don't know how. But I missed the steps.

- Phulla! - Gurumai.

- Stop.

Get back!

Gurumai.

Hello!

I'm here to pick her up.

Right now?

Peshwa had said tomorrow morning.

I'm waiting outside.

Come.

Phulla, wait. Please.

- Phulla.

- Please, don't go.

Don't stop me.

Phulla!

Phulla!

Phulla!

Come and sit in your place.

Phulla!

Phulla!

Phulla!

Vamanrao!

See, Shashtri and that lady are

in in the same palanquin.

My God! Today,

even the god's statue will break.

Poor God! What will he do?

This is the era of Kali.

It's nothing like that.

This is Shashtri's new hobby.

As they say, once if you've kept aside

all the shame,

you lose all your senses.

Shame!

Yuck.

It's okay for him.

After all, he's man.

But she should have some shame.

No. No.

I don't think there's anything suspicious.

Do you think they are going

for religious hymns at this time?

Oh yes!

Time for the sermon and hymns is over now.

Now, only party.

Shh...

Stop.

Take it to Shaniwar Wada, not at home.

What's the matter, Shashtri?

I hope Phullwanti Bai isn't turning

away from her promise.

Because once I've given

the justice, it's final.

Nobody has the right

to go against my justice.

Shreemant.

I wish, she should turn

away from her promise.

What do you mean?

You please keep out of it.

- Shashtri.

- Shreemant.

This is about a woman's opinion.

So, let the decision be taken,

In witness of Mahadev.

Speak up, Shashtri.

She didn't miss her steps during

the challenge.

She's an expert in her field.

She's an extraordinary artist.

But she was blinded by her fame

and success.

Her ego was turning into her words.

And her steps were acting arrogant.

I tried to break that ego.

But her heart is struck by my qualities.

I feel bad about that.

Whatever I had spoken was

to awaken her brilliance.

To awaken the real art

and devotion in her.

An artist and an intellectual

shouldn't be egoistic.

You never know when you will face defeat.

One should be confident.

But not ego.

Even after being at the peak of success,

he should say.

It's God's blessings.

You said it correctly.

Shashtri.

You're correct.

But now this Phullwanti Bai

is rightfully your sl*ve.

And this was already decided

by her promise and our laws.

So, now, this is your

personal matter.

No, Shreemant.

I did this for her betterment.

Not to get myself served

by such a refined artist.

My Lakshmi's house made

of mud and cow-dung

will not suit to her lifestyle.

Will you please accept my request?

Go ahead, Shashtri.

It's not right that my words would become

stormy and ruin her life completely.

Forget everything and she should live

with her art forever.

And she should be awarded

the best and sent back.

That's my request.

I'm sorry,

Anyways, I've no right to speak.

Still, I'd dare.

The storm that appeared

in my life is not because of his words.

But because of my ego.

Now, the ego has melted.

Storm has settled.

Now, this is my new birth.

Now, I want to spend my life

in his service.

He stacked his prestige that he had earned

so far in order to destroy the vice in me.

I have never seen such a great sacrifice

for the welfare of another.

So, not because I've lost it by law.

But for my respect for him,

I want to live in his house as a servant.

I don't mind if he give me

a space in cowshed,

or at the door.

I will happily live as he keeps me.

Now my life is meaningful

in the dedication of all this.

From now on, Phullwanti Bai

will come to your house as your sl*ve.

Next day.

As per the rules of the challenge,

she would come to stay in my house

from the next day.

Please, don't go.

He has freed you from

the challenge, right?

How will we run this group without you?

My drum beats with your tinkling

bells, and not with my fingers.

Be happy,

wherever you are.

Phulle!

Are you Phullwanti Bai?

Phullwanti Bai.

Welcome to your house.

You said, if you will lose you will live

in my house as a sl*ve.

So, from now onwards,

this house belongs to you.

Now, about me.

You very well know..

I did not win..

Neither did you lose.

My Lakshmi lives in my heart.

And goddess Saraswati resides

in my luck.

Apart from them,

no woman has a place in my life.

Leaving your tingling bells here.

Because this isn't just your ornament.

But your soul.

Let God sound from that ornament

that has lost its ego

May you triumph!

This is sir's message for you.

Shashtri!

Where has he gone?

Don't know.

None of us know.

He must have promised

to emancipate me in his last birth.

Now I know..

Why I was attracted to Shaniwar Wada.

If you would not have

had any feelings for me..

You would not have taken this trouble.

If you had given me an opportunity

to serve you..

Maybe we would have cleared

off each other's debts.

In this life.

But we couldn't come together

in this life.

Now, we will meet often.

Every moment.

In every life.

It's only my body that has left behind.

You've taken me along in your heart.

Lakshmi, even after losing you've won.

And she has won, yet lost.

Shall I ask you something?

In all these days, even once,

ever did..

My place in your heart change?

Don't answer.

I know.

You won't lie.

'You've learnt dance before

you learnt to take your first step.'

'And you said, you missed the step?'

You would not have missed a beat..

Even if Lord Brahma

would have played the tabor.

Only I know..

You deliberately falterd because

you are in love with this Shastri.

You deliberately committed a mistake.

Yes, she deliberately lost

the challenge.

Yes, she lost deliberately.

For Shashtri's love.

She reached the epitome of love.

Both of them once again proved that..

True love is in sacrifice.

Their unexpressed love..

Stayed in people's hearts

for a long time.