Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
FADE IN:
1. INT / COURT ROOM / DAY
The court room fades in. We see montages of court room with different court
aesthetics. The titles appear along with it.
CUT TO:
2. INT / SATHYADEVS HOUSE / DAY
The house of renowned lawyer A. Sathyadev. The camera moves on a wall of the
room where many photo frames have arranged attractively which eventually shows
us his journey and achievements so far. Same time we hear V.O. by Adv.
Sathyadev.
Sathyadev (V.O.)
Im Sathyadev10 yrs Im practicing law. Im one of the
top lawyers of the city. But this was not an easy journeyI had
no family background in this field. Actually I was the only guy from
my village who became lawyer. Nobody had faith in me that Ill
do something in my field. But I worked hard. I worked hard for days
n nightsfor 17- 18 hrs a day. And today Ive become one of the TOP
and influential lawyers of the state. Many different n critical cases
I have made it to my side. Thats why people call me Hopeless cases
only hope. But having said that I cant forget that one case..which
stunned my whole life.I never saw such an astonishing case.
It was a regular date.
CUT TO:
3. INT / SATHYADEVS HOUSE / ROOM / DAY - Morning
Adv. Sathyadev (30s, energetic) at a dining table, fixing his lawyers band at the
neck. He is in his typical lawyer look of coat n white shirt. His seven yrs
daughter is on her chair, enjoying her breakfast. He calls his wife, Uma.
Sathyadev
Uma...where are you??
(to daughter)
Come on make it fast childdont make me
late today
Uma, typical housewife, comes in a hurry with Sathyadevs bag, briefs n files.
She gives daughter her school bag and kisses her.
CUT TO:
4. EXT / SCHOOL GATE / DAY
Sathyadevs car stops outside the city primary school. His daughter gets out of the
car and waves her hand saying Byebye.
Sathyadev
wait in the school till mom comes to receive
you in the eveningok? Bye.
He waves his hand and starts the car.
CUT TO:
5. INT / SATHYADEVS OFFICE / DAY
Sathyadevs office, very polished, impressive, everything is well arranged. Loads
of law books are everywhere. In between all this we see a young man, RAJESH
(27) associate advocate of Sathyadev. He has lot to learn because most of the time
he does mistakes n gives misleading advices to the clients. Thanks to Sathyadev
who takes care of everything. He is busy looking something in his law books.
Suddenly a phone rings on the table. He takes it.
Rajesh
Hello!! Who? Haanyes...yesPathansaab. Im
adv. Rajesh Sathyadev sirs associateyes..!!
Sir, has not reached yetappointment? One second
Rajesh holds the phone and checks a diary on the table.
Rajesh (continued)
Haan Pathansaab evening6.30yes you
can comeok? Thank you!
Rajesh puts the phone down. He checks one of the files on the table. And
finds some mistakes in it. He takes another phone and calls typist, Priya
(young n beautiful) sits in the outside room of the office.
Rajesh
Priyacome inside!!
Rajesh puts the phone down n looks into another file. Same time Priya enters
in the room. She is energetic, young but little dull in her work. She in her
typical office dressing, comes near to Rajesh.
Priya
Yes Rajesh sirwould you like to have a tea?
Adv. Rajesh takes the particular file and shows her.
Rajesh
Look herewhat is this?
Priya takes the file and checks it.
Rajesh (continued)
see, how many typing mistakes you have done here.here you
actually forgot to add one word.
Priya
Only a word? Whats a big deal..?? Wait a minute...Ill
correct it.
Rajesh
Hey! How can you say so? Word is everything herejust miss the
word NOT from Im not stupid and dont do a mistake like
the Shetty case .remember?
Priya
What?
Rajesh
Only because of the typing mistakes his whole estate went to his
second wife.
Priya
(laughs)
..no..no nothing like that will happen again
Priya leaves the room. Rajesh moves to some of the books in the shelf. Same time
adv. Sathyadev comes into the room, keeps his bag aside n sits on his chair.
Sathyadev
Good morning Rajesh..!!
Rajesh turns back.
Rajesh
Oh! Good morning sir!!
Sathyadev
What happened todaynobodys outside?
Rajesh
I think you came early sir.
Sathyadev
Yes! You are right!! I have to study one caseand this case is against
Adv. DeshpandeI tell you Rajesh he is very talented lawyer
Rajesh
Yes you are right sir!!
Sathyadev(continues)
But still after all these years he always asks the witness leading
questions and everything gets into hell.anyway show me todays
diary.
Rajesh moves to the diary but same time a phone rings on the table. Rajesh takes it.
Rajesh
Haan Priyawho? Bhaskar Rajyes..yes..yes..
send him in.
Sathyadev
Who is it?
Rajesh
Sir...Bhaskar Raj I told youI called him
Bhaskar Raj (28, good looking) in his simple look enters in a room and
comes near to the table.
Bhaskar
Namaskara Rajesh sir!!
Both Sathyadev and Rajesh look at him.
Rajesh
HaanBhaskar comecome! Heres our
Sathyadev sir
Bhaskar
(to Sathyadev)
Namaskara sir!
Sathyadev just nods his head. Rajesh shows one file to Sathyadev.
Rajesh
(to sir)
Sir if you look into this file.we immediately have to take
an action
Sathyadev
Arre first tell me whats the case
Rajesh
Sir, Ms. Nayana Rao murder caseyou must have heard in the news?
Sathyadev
Yes! Yes! Yesnow I get it. I read about it in the news papers.
Rajesh
Yes sir, thats why I called himso we can hear his side also
Bhaskar suddenly comes ahead.
Bhaskar
(to Sathyadev)
Sathyadev sirit seems silly to me but my wife thinks I
may be arrested at any minute.
Sathyadev
Arrested for what?
Bhaskar
Wellfor murder.
Sathyadev looks into the file.
Rajesh
(to Sathyadev)
As you have probably read the reports in the newsMs. Nayana Rao
was 50 yrs old, unmarried, rather well-off, living with a housekeeper,
Saraswati, normally of her age. Mr. Bhaskar was with her earlier in the
evening. When the housekeeper returned from her day-off at eleven
p.m. She found everything was in disorder and her mistress dead
shot on the back of the head and killed.
Sathyadev
I see.
Bhaskar
Thats right sirI saw in the news that poor Ms. Nayana Rao found
dead, then it said in the news that the police were anxious to interview
me since I had visited Ms. Rao in that eveningso naturally I went to
the police and told them everything I could
Sathyadev surprisingly looks at him.
Sathyadev
Mr. Bhaskar, whatever your statement or what you told them did they
caution you that the statement might be used against you in court?
Bhaskar
Yes they said that!
Suddenly Bhaskar stands up and starts moving here and there. He looks
uncomfortable. Sathyadev stops talking and looks at him.
Sathyadev
Hello!! What happened? I told you to relax
Bhaskar
(impatiently)
I cant relax and sit here.Im not a criminal to do this kind of violent
act Sathyadev sir.I have done nothingwhy should I be arrested? I
mean this is Indiayou dont get arrested or convicted for something
you havent done, right?
Sathyadev
We try not to make a habit of it. And Bhaskar till now at least our
judiciary system is one of the best in the world. So dont worry at all.
Rajesh
Yes and you are in the hands of the finest and most experienced
lawyer in the city.
Rajesh sits down on a chair nearby the table. Sathyadev takes a paper and starts to
note down.
Sathyadev
Let us get into the detailstell me what you do?
Bhaskar
No nothing sir....I dont have any job.
Sathyadev
How many days have gone since you left the job?
Bhaskar
Two months sir
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Sathyadev
Two months and before that?
Bhaskar
Before that I was in a car servicing center as a mechanic. The foreman
kept riding me all the time. I took it as long as I could, then I quit. And
before that I was in a departmental store.
Sathyadev gives a penetrating glance at Bhaskar.
Bhaskar (catches that)
..you must be thinking Im a bit drifter, sir. Its true, in a way, but
Im not really like that. Before that I was in Mumbai. Thats where I
met REVATHI, my wife
Again Sathyadev glances at him.
Bhaskar (continues)
.she was a fashion model...often worked at cultural eventsshe was
an actress too. Shes been a wonderful wife to me. We married there
and came back to this city. But I cant seem to settle down properly
since I came back to this city. Off course if I could just put my new
innovative car parts across.
Sathyadev
Car parts?
Bhaskar
Yes sir Im sort of an inventor, nothing big. I really like inventing this
innovative car parts. The trouble is I would need some money for
manufacturing and promotion well thats really what I was hoping
Ms. Nayana Rao might do for me after I met her.
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Sathyadev rises and crosses the table. He then tells Bhaskar to sit near the window.
Sathyadev
Bhaskardo one thingcome and sit on this chair.
Bhaskar does that so that the sunlight from the window hits and reflects directly in
his eyes. Rajesh changes his side and Sathyadev comes next to him. Bhaskar tries
to hide his face from the sunrays.
Sathyadev
Take your hands down Rajlets face it. Now tell
me exactly how did you meet this Ms. Nayana Rao?
Bhaskar
It was 2-3 months back.I was crossing a street near
the famous market..
INSTANT CUT TO:
6. EXT / MARKET STREET / DAY - Flashback
On a busy street we see Bhaskar waiting to cross the road. Ms. Nayana Rao,
in modern attire and with her shopping bags in hands; standing near to Bhaskar.
Few other people are also standing aside by them.
Ms. Rao moves ahead to cross the road suddenly a fast car passes them closely,
But thanks to Bhaskars presence of mind he quickly pulls Ms. Rao to backward.
She is so thrilled that she holds Bhaskars hand for a minute.
INSTANT CUT TO:
7. INT / SATHYADEVS OFFICE / DAY
Sathyadev and Rajesh listening to Bhaskar.
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Bhaskar
She thought that I saved her life.
Sathyadev
Is there any possibility?
Bhaskar
Of what?
Sathyadev
Is there any possibility that you saved her life etc.?
Bhaskar
No no sirthese things happen only in cinema.but Sathyadev sir
honestly, whatever Im telling you is the truth and I never dreamed
that Id see her again.
Sathyadev
But you did..
Bhaskar
Yes. A few weeks later again quite accidently. I was in a
movie theater and she was sited behind meand there she
saw me and insisted to come homeusually I dont go
but she forced me a lot.so I told her that on Saturday Ill
come to her house.
Sathyadev
Of course this time you had no idea who Ms. Rao was?
Bhaskar
Absolutely not! All I knew was that she seemed to be very lonely
had no friends and relatives whatsoever.
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Sathyadev
Mr. Bhaskar how was her financial situation?
Bhaskar
(excitedly)
Oh great!! She was well-off sir. She used to tell me that.
Sathyadev
She used to tell you that? Ok! And how is yours?
Bhaskar (very dull)
As always my pockets are empty?
Sathyadev
not good Raj.this is not at all good for you.
Bhaskar seems to be worried a little.
Rajesh
You often used to meet her?
Bhaskar
Yeahtwice or thrice in a week.
Rajesh
You never took along your wife with you?
Bhaskar
NoI didnt.
Sathyadev
Why not?
Bhaskar
She would not have liked it.
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Sathyadev
Who your wife?
Bhaskar
No sirNayana would not
Sathyadev (interpreting)
Nayana?
Bhaskar
I mean Ms. Nayana Raoactually she told me to call her by her
name
Sathyadev
In just two months you started calling her by name?
Rajesh makes some notes.
Rajesh
Ok! What happened then?
Bhaskar
(blushing)
Then she started liking me.
Sathyadev
May be because she was in love with you?
Bhaskar
Nononot like that sirshe liked me she pampered me like
a mother.thats all.
Sathyadev
Rajwe dont know whether the police filed a case against you or
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not but if they did so then the only question will be asked to you again
and again that why this young fellow was wasting his precious time on
this rather old woman?
Bhaskar
And the only reason they can find is money.
Sathyadev
Naturally.tell me one thing Bhaskardid you tell her that you were
married man?
Bhaskar
Yes I did.
Sathyadev
Then this Ms. Rao never insisted you to get your wife along with you
to her house?
Bhaskar
Nonever.
Sathyadev is quite surprised.
Sathyadev
Ok! Then you never thought of introducing your wife to her?
Bhaskar
NoI never thought that.
Sathyadev
Why?
Bhaskar
Because Ms. Rao was under the impression that Revathi and I didnt
get along well
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Sathyadev
Is that true?
Bhaskar
Nowe love each other.
Sathyadev
Then how did she get that impression? Did you give it to her?
Bhaskar
No..no sir! She seemed to want to believe in that way
Sathyadev
But you never corrected her impression? Why?
Bhaskar
I was afraid she would lose interest in me.
Sathyadev earlier relaxed in his seat now becomes serious and moves ahead.
Sathyadev
Because she was rich? You were after her money?
Bhaskar
Well yesin a wayI was hoping to get a little moneyfor my
new invention of car parts.
Sathyadev
(suddenly, cutting Bhaskar off)
how much money did you get from her?
Bhaskar
Nothing sir. Not a rupee!
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Bhaskar
Nopolice said thatshe forgot something at homethats why she
came back to take it and that time she heard Ms. Rao speaking with
somebody, at least she says like that
(very emotional)
.but Sathyadev sir, Rajesh sir whatever it isI didnt do itno
matter how bad things look, I didnt do it. You must believe me.
Sathyadev
Can you prove it?
Bhaskar
Yesabsolutely! Sir, I left Ms. Rao at nine o clock.
Sathyadev
How did you go home?
Bhaskar
I walked. It was a fine night.
Sathyadev
Did anyone see you?
Bhaskar
Off course, Revathi saw me when I got home. It was exactly nine
twenty six. My wife will tell you that.
Sathyadev
Your wife loves you?
Bhaskar
Very much! And I love her. We are devoted to each other.
Sathyadev
For your kind information, Mr. Bhaskar, the testimony of devoted wife
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Bhaskar
(quite sober now)
This inheritanceit doesnt make things look any better for me,
does it?
Sathyadev (rises and moves to the window)
HaanyesSo now they will say that you have a motive
and now it makes a very handsome motive.
Bhaskar
I guess now they will arrest me.
Sathyadev is looking outside on a street.
CUT TO:
8. EXT / SATHYADEVS OFFICE / DAY
From Sathyadevs POINT OF VIEW:
A police car slowly enters in the parking.
CUT TO:
9. INT / SATHYADEVS OFFICE / DAY - Continues
Sathyadev turns back from the window and sits on the chair. Bhaskar gets
disturbed after hearing police car siren.
Sathyadev (continues)
Yes youre right!
Bhaskar (emotional)
I knew nothing about that will! I didnt know Ms. Rao had any
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a robbery?
Rajesh
May be they have sufficient evidence against you.
Suddenly Priya enters in a room.
Priya
Excuse me sir, inspector Joshi is here
Sathyadev
Yes I saw him, send him in.
Priya
Yes sir!
Priya walks out. Bhaskar starts to worry.
Bhaskar
Sathyadev sir how the hell they got to know this that I am here, in
your office?
Rajesh
They are following you.
Bhaskar
It means they have already decided this that Im a murderer.
Same time Inspector Joshi enters in the room with a warrant in his hand.
Inspect.
(to Sathyadev )
Good morning sir
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Sathyadev
Good morning.what is that?
Inspect.
Warrant sir.
Sathyadev takes the warrant and looks into it.
Inspect.
(to Bhaskar)
Bhaskar Raj, I arrest you in the case of Ms. Nayana Rao murder as the
prime accused.
Bhaskar
Inspector I havent killed her
Inspect.
The case will be filed against you under IPC section 302. Come on.
Bhaskar looks at Sathyadev. Sathyadev addresses him to go. Bhaskar walks up to
Inspect. Joshi and shows his hands.
Inspect.
Whats this?
Bhaskar
I thought Ill be handcuffed?
Inspect.
That wont be necessary. Bhaskar you have many surprises ahead to
come. Go and sit in the car.
Bhaskar
One second sir
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Sathyadev
(on phone)
Haan Priya? (becomes serious) What? Mrs. Raj? Aahan?
One sec holdone sec.
Sathyadev holds the phone and looks into his diary and checks his schedule.
Sathyadev (continues on phone)
quickly send her. Ok! And Priyacan you arrange a cup of coffee
for her? Pleaseyeahthanks.
Sathyadev keeps the phone down and looks at Rajesh.
Sathyadev
Arre Rajesh! We have to handle Mrs. Raj gently, especially when
breaking the news of the arrest. Better have a box of tissues.
Revathi (O.S.)
I dont think that will be necessary.
They look off.
In the entrance stands REVATHI RAJ.
She is beautiful, calm and self contained. She wears jeans and modern, suitable
attire. She removes her glasses and talks in with a slight Hindi accent.
Revathi
I never use tissues because I look terrible when I crythats why I
never cry. (moves closer to Rajesh) Namaskara! Im Revathi Raj.
Youre adv. Rajeshright?
Rajesh
Right! And here is our sir
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Revathi
Adv. SathyadevI heard a lot about them. Hopeless cases only hope
etc. etcNamaskara!
Sathyadev
Namaskara! Mrs. Raj please comesit.
Revathi sits near Sathyadev.
Sathyadev
There is a bad news Mrs. Raj
Revathi
Bhaskar has been arrested and charged with murderI just saw
himI knew he would be..I told him so.
Sathyadev is quite surprisedhe looks at Rajesh.
Sathyadev
Please dont feardont be upset.
Revathi
Im not upset or do I look upset?
Sathyadev
Im glad you are showing such courage.
Revathi
Call it what you like. Whats next step? But I have one conditionI
want to know everything related to this case.
Sathyadev
Ok? Good! Rajesh you start
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Revathi
Bhaskars company is always pleasant
Rajesh
You never offended their relationship?
Revathi
Never
Sathyadev
Why?
Revathi looks at Sathyadev.
Revathi
Because I believe in Bhaskar. He will never do anything wrong.
Sathyadev
I really appreciate your love for your husband.
Revathi
How do you know about my love for my husband?
Sathyadev
What do you mean I know?
Revathi
Sir Im sorry I dont have that much knowledge of law but being a
lawyer how can you believe on such overheard things?
Sathyadev stumbles.
Revathi
do you have any personal experience of our love?
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Sathyadev
You are right Mrs. Raj.but your husband Bhaskar said this all to us
and as far as this case goes I must believe him and this is good for
him also.
Revathi
Bhaskar was saying this all? Surprising!!
Rajesh
Why?
Revathi
I thought men are always a dumb one.
Sathyadev
Mrs. Raj, can you speak clearly
Revathi
Thats not important
(to Rajesh)
you were asking me something?
Sathyadev
No! No! Mrs. Raj I was asking you something
Sathyadev walks to his window and again opens the window and suddenly a bright
gleam of sunlight hits her eyes. Still Revathi is controlled and calm.
Sathyadev
NowMrs. Raj did you know that Ms. Rao has left her whole
property to your husband?
Revathi
Yes, I know that. I read in the newspapers.
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Sathyadev
Okit means before this you and your husband had no idea about
this Will?
Revathi
Is that what he told you?
Sathyadev pauses.
Sathyadev
Yeswhy? Do you want to suggest something else?
Revathi thinks.
Revathi
NoI dont want to suggest anything.
Sathyadev
Ok! This Ms. Rao was treating your husband like a son.
Revathi laughs.
Revathi
Really? Do you really believe on this, Sathyadev sir?
Sathyadev
Yes and this is quite ideal and natural in present situation.
Revathi
You all men are hypocrites in the country!
Sathyadev and Rajesh exchange a look.
Revathi (continues)
I mean Im sorry!! Did I shock you?
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Rajesh
Nonomam
Sathyadev (to Rajesh)
RajeshRajeshwait
(to Revathi)
Mrs. Raj, its good for you if you listen to me carefully. This attitude
of yours is not helpful for Bhaskar. I assure you it would be most
unwise to suggest that Ms. Rao had feelings for your husband other
than mother.
Revathi
Ok! Ok!
Sathyadev
You realize that your husbands entire defense rests on his and yours
words. And another thingmost important, which I have told to your
husband alsothat the jury will be quite skeptical by the word of a
man accused of murder when supported only by the word of his wife.
Revathi becomes serious.
Sathyadev (continues)
solet us then at least make sure that the two are not in conflict.
Revathi
Ok!
Sathyadev stands and walks around to Revathi.
Sathyadev
On the night of the murder, your husband came home before nine
thirty
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Revathi
Nine twenty six!
Sathyadev
Good!
Revathi
Isnt that what he wants me to say?
Sathyadev again stumbles.
Sathyadev
Isnt it the truth?
Revathi
(after a pause)
Off course!!
Sathyadev
Police asked you something?
Revathi
Yesterday evening they came to me.
Revathi is moving her head; tries to avoid the glare from the window. She casually
reaches for the window shade and pulls it down a couple of inches..enough to
cut off the sun rays.
Revathi (continues)
When I said this to police I dont think they believed me.
May be because of my accent. But I told them everything because I
had to tell those things that waymore than anything it was useful
for Bhaskar.
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Rajesh and Sathyadev stare at each other, then at her. There is a moment of
shocked silence.
Revathi
We went through a form of marriage in Mumbai, but I had a husband
living at the time when I met Bhaskar. I wanted to get free from that
marriage.then we came here but somehow never told this to Bhaskar
that Im married and my husband is still alive. (pause) is this
information enough for you
Sathyadev
Mrs. Raj whatever your gambit may be.just repeat in court what you
said to police.
Revathi
Dont worry about that.I shall give him an alibiI will be very
convincing. There will be tears in my eyes when Ill sayBhaskar
came home at nine twenty six and after that he never went out.
Sathyadev
Youre very remarkable woman, Mrs. Raj.
She walks towards the door but quickly turns and comes near to Sathyadev.
Revathi
And you are satisfied, I hope!
She exits.
Sathyadev
Im damned if Im satisfied! That woman is up to somethingthe
prosecution will break her down in no time.you know, defending
this case is rather difficultquite one sided, with the odds all on the
other side. I havent got much to go onin fact I have got NOTHING.
39
CUT TO:
10. EXT / POLICE STATION / DAY
A grim, high walled building looming against a leaden sky. Sathyadevs car
comes through the open gate. The gate closes behind the car.
CUT TO:
11. INT / CELL BLOCK / DAY
A guard is leading Bhaskar between rows of cells.
CUT TO:
12. INT / PRISON / INTERVIEW ROOM / DAY
A small, grey room with a single desk and three chairs. Sathyadev and Rajesh, in
their overcoats, are waiting. Bhaskar enters; the guard closes the door and remains
outside.
Bhaskar
Namaskara Sathyadev sir! Thank you for coming here.
Sathyadev
Let us hope that we will both survive.
Bhaskar
Why worry? My wife knows what time I came home that night.
Sathyadev
A disinterested witness may be of more value.
40
Bhaskar
Oh, yes, off course! Revathi is an interested witnessI dont
understand why she hasnt come to see me? Its been a week.
Meanwhile Rajesh has opened a briefcase, brings out few files.
Sathyadev
Rajesh, give me the reports.
Bhaskar
Have you talked with Revathi? Whats the matter with her?
Sathyadev
(distracting him)
Now, what about this cut on your wrist? You told the police you cut
yourself with a knife?
Bhaskar
(showing the mark)
Thats right. I was cutting bread, and the knife slipped. But that was
two days after the murder. Revathi was thereshell tell them when
she gives evidence.
Bhaskar sees Sathyadev and Rajesh exchange glances.
Bhaskar
Are you keeping something from me? Is she ill? Was she shocked by
what happened to me?
Sathyadev
All things considered, she took it very well. Of course that may have
been on the surface. Wives are often disturbed at such a time
Bhaskar
It must be hard on her. Weve never been separated before.
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Sathyadev
How did you meet your wife?
Bhaskar
(smile)
It was six months back, the very first time I saw her
Sathyadev
(with raised eyebrows)
Oh?
Bhaskar
I was at a cultural event in Mumbai, when I saw her
INSTANT CUT TO:
13. INT / CULTURAL EVENT / NIGHT - Flashback
We see a fashion show is going on. And Revathi is in her complete Indian attire,
wearing designer sari, looking very pretty, beautiful and attractive. Bhaskar is
frozen after watching her. He instantly falls for her. They look at each other and
share a glance.
Bhaskar (V.O.)
as they say, its true that love starts in the eyes. love starts
through the eyes and develops with the meetings
CUT TO:
14. INT / RESTAURANT / DAY - Flashback
Both Revathi and Bhaskar are sited at the table. Both are happy, talking to each
other.
CUT TO:
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Sathyadev
And she already had Mangalsutra
Bhaskar
Thats right. We got married, and when I got out of the service, I
brought her to this city. It was wonderful.I rented a little room.
When Revathi saw it for the first time, she was so happy that she
broke down and cried.
Sathyadev
Naturally she had a solid roof over her head.
Bhaskar
Oh! Noit wasnt that at allit was me. She was lonelyher
parents died in an accidentIm all she has.
Rajesh
Strange Mr. Bhaskar every time you find these lonely women.
Bhaskar
You dont really know Revathi the way she feels for mebut
youll see when she gives her evidence.
Sathyadev
Mr. Bhaskar I must tell you this that Im not putting her in the
witness box.
Bhaskar (shocked)
What? Why?
Sathyadev
Well for one thingshe is an outsidernot too familiar with the
subtleties of our languagethe prosecution will easily trip her up
(pause for second)
44
Intermission
45
46
47
48
49
Deshpande
Whose fingerprints did you discover?
Inspect.
I found the fingerprints of Ms. Rao, Saraswatibai and of
BHASKAR RAJ.
Deshpande
(to judge)
And BHASKAR RAJ my lord, point to be noted, please.
(to inspect.)
And no others, inspector?
Inspect.
No others.
Bhaskar keeps his hands on the rails and moves uneasily at his place.
Deshpande
Now did you say that the room had the appearance that a
robbery had been committed?
Inspect.
Yes, things were strewn and a window had been broken. There was
glass on the floor. The glass outside was not consistent with the
window having been forced from the outside.
Deshpande
What you are saying is that someone attempted to make it look as
though the window had been forced from the outside, isnt that so?
Sathyadev (rises)
Objection, my lord! The reputed lawyer is putting words in the
witness mouth.
50
Judge
Dont you think so, Adv. Deshpande?
Deshpande
Yes, my lord.
(to inspect.)
Inspector, did any of the murdered womans property was missing?
Inspect.
According to the housekeeper, nothing was missing.
Deshpande
In your experience inspector, when burglars.
(a glance at Sathyadev)
or burglaresses break into a house, do they leave without
taking anything?
Inspect.
No!
Deshpande crosses the table on which the exhibits are put outa shirt, a pistol,
a knife, the will and other papers. Adv. Deshpande picks up the shirt and takes it to
the inspector.
Deshpande
Is this the shirt of Bhaskar Raj?
Inspect.
Yes!
Deshpande
Where did you find this?
Inspect.
We found it in the prisoners flat, which I handed to our lab
51
52
53
tell you he had cut himself with a kitchen knife while slicing bread?
Inspect.
Yes sir. That is what he said.
Sathyadev
And were you not told the same by prisoners wife?
Inspect.
Yes, sir but then.
Sathyadev
(sharply)
A simple yes or no, please.
Inspect.
Yes.
Sathyadev
I will ask you to examine this knife.
Sathyadev crosses the table, picks up knife with tag on it, and brings it to
inspector.
Sathyadev
Just test the edge of the knife.
(inspect. does so)
carefully!
(inspect. Gives it back)
You agree that the point and the cutting edge are razor sharp?
Inspect.
Yes sir.
54
Sathyadev
Now, inspector. You have stated that the bloodstains on the prisoners
shirt were analyzed, as was the blood of Ms. Rao, and they were both
found to be the same group, group O?
Inspect.
Thats right.
Sathyadev
However, if the prisoner blood were also of the same group then the
stains on his shirt might very well have resulted from the house hold
accident he described to you?
Inspect.
Yes, sir.
Sathyadev
Did you analyze the prisoners blood group?
Inspect.
No, sir!
Sathyadev
I have here a certificate
(Rajesh gives is it to him)
..stating that Bhaskar Raj is a blood donor at the city hospital
and that his blood group is.( he gives it to inspect.)
Inspect.
GroupO!
A buzz in the court room. Bhaskar relieved.
Sathyadev
Thank you, inspector!
55
56
Deshpande
What I meant was that you were on friendly terms
not like a servant.
Saraswati
Ten years I was with her and looked after her. She trusted me.
Deshpande
Please tell us about the events of the evening of Jan. 14 th.
Saraswati
It was Friday and my night out. I was going round to see my niece. I
left the house at half past seven. I had promised to bring her a dress
pattern. When I got to my niece I found out I had left the pattern
behind. I got back at nine twenty five. I went upstairs to my room.
(glances at Bhaskar)as I passed the sitting room, I heard the prisoner
in there talking to Ms. Rao.
Bhaskar
(jumping up)
No, it wasnt me. It wasnt my voice.
The policeman near him restrains him.
Deshpande
Are you sure it was prisoners voice?
Saraswati
I know his voice well enough. They were always talking and laughing.
But it was no business of mine, so I went upstairs and took my cloths.
Deshpande
Let us be exact about the time.
57
Saraswati
The cloth pattern was on a shelf in my room, right next to my clock
and I saw the time. Twenty five past nine.
Deshpande
Yes! Go on!
Saraswati
I went back to my niece. I stayed there until eleven. Then came home.
I went into the sitting room to see if the mistress wanted anything, and
there she was, DEAD. With everything tossed here and there.
Deshpande
Did you really think that a robbery had occurred?
Sathyadev doodling with his pen, but at this question he leaps to his feet.
Sathyadev
My lord, I must protest.
Judge
I will not allow that question to be answered, adv. Deshpande.
Deshpande
My lord!
(to Saraswati)
How much do you know about the prisoner?
Saraswati
I knew that he needed money.
Deshpande
Do you ever hear him ask Ms. Rao for money?
58
Saraswati
He was too clever for that.
Deshpande
Were you aware that Bhaskar was a married man?
Saraswati
No indeed! Neither was the mistress.
Bhaskar
Saraswati!
Sathyadev
(rising)
Objection, mlord. What Ms. Rao knew or did not know is pure
conjecture on Saraswatis part.
Deshpande
Let me put it this way
(Sathyadev sits)
You formed the opinion that Ms. Rao thought Bhaskar a single man?
Have you any facts to support that?
Saraswati
There were several books she ordered, about women who married men
younger than them. I knew what she was thinking.
Judge
That doesnt make any sense, Saraswatibai. It is possible for any
woman to read anythingthat doesnt mean she apply that.
Deshpande
What you know about Ms. Raos will?
59
Saraswati
She had her old will revoked and a new one drawn up. I heard her
calling her solicitor. He was there too, the prisoner.
Deshpande
You heard Bhaskar and Ms. Rao discussing her new will?
Saraswati
He was to have all her money. She told him as she had no near
relatives or anybody as close as he.
Deshpande
And when did this take place?
Saraswati
On January 8th, one week to the day before she was murdered.
Deshpande
Thank you!
Sathyadev rises. Saraswati is about to leave but he stops her.
Sathyadev
Not yet, Saraswatibai!
She gives him an angry look and resumes her place in the box.
Sathyadev
Saraswatibai, you have given testimony about two wills: in the old
will, the will that was revoked, were you not to receive the bulk of
Ms. Raos estate?
Saraswati
Thats right!
60
Sathyadev
Whereas in the new will, except for a small annuity to you, the
principal beneficiary is the prisoner, Bhaskar Raj?
Saraswati (angry)
It will be a wicked injustice if he ever touches a penny of that money.
Sathyadev
It is entirely understandable that you are antagonistic to the prisoner.
Saraswati
Im not antagonistic to him. Hes a scheming rascal.
Sathyadev
I think you have formed this opinion because his friendship with your
mistress cost you the bulk of her estate.
Saraswati
I never liked him.
Sathyadev
Ok! Did you know that Ms. Rao had a pistol?
Saraswati
Yes, I knew.
Sathyadev
Did you know where she used to keep that?
Saraswati
No, I did not.
Sathyadev
Oh! Thank you very much. Now, on the night of January 14 th, you say
you heard Bhaskar and Ms. Rao talking together. What did you hear
61
them say?
Saraswati
I didnt hear what they actually said.
Sathyadev
You mean you only heard the voicesthe murmur of voices?
Saraswati
They were laughing.
Sathyadev
What makes you say the mans voice was Bhaskar Raj?
Saraswati
I know his voice well enough.
Sathyadev
The door was closed, was it not?
Saraswati
Yes.
Sathyadev
You were no doubt in a hurry to get the pattern, so you probably
walked quickly past the closed dooryet you are sure that you heard
Bhaskars voice?
Saraswati
I was there long enough to hear what I heard. I know it was him in
there with her. Who else could it have been?
Sathyadev
Exactly! What you mean is you wanted it to be him. Thats the way
your mind worked. Now, tell me, did Ms. Rao sometimes watch
62
63
Sathyadev
(in a lover tone)
A hearing aid?
Laughter in the court room.
Saraswati
What did you say?
Deshpande
My lord, I must object at the manner in which this question is
being put
Sathyadev (loudly)
I repeat the question, my lord.did you apply to the National Health
Insurance for a hearing aid?
Saraswati
Yes, I did.
Sathyadev
Did you get it?
Saraswati
Not yet.
Sathyadev
However, you walked past the door which is four inches of solid oak,
you heard voices, and you are willing to swear that you could
distinguish the voice of the prisoner, Bhaskar Raj?
Saraswati
Who?
64
Sathyadev
No further questions!
He sits down.
CUT TO:
21. INT / COURT ROOM / DAY
MONTAGES accompanied with the following court procedures:
#1 Deshpande, my lord, I want to call police constable.
#2 Deshpande, in his proceedings, with the constable. We see their actions only.
#3 Sathyadev making some notes in his brief.
#4 Deshpande stands on his place, The prosecution will now call the solicitor of
Ms. Raos will.
#5 Sathyadev in questions with the solicitor. We only hear serious background
music.
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
22. INT / COURT ROOM / DAY
The judge looks up from notes he is making.
Judge
Adv. Deshpande, does that conclude your case?
Deshpande (on his feet)
No, my lord, now I call my final witness, REHANA SHIEKH.
65
As the usher and policeman repeat the summons.an excited murmur springs up.
Sathyadev looks up sharply. Bhaskar looks slowly toward the witnesss entrance.
Revathi, Bhaskars wife, enters the courtroom. There is stunned silence for an
instant. She is calm, poised and straight as she walks toward the box.
Bhaskar (excitedly whispers as she passes)
Revathi?
She does not look at him, nor does she react to his voice. She takes her place in the
witness box, takes the oath on the holy Quran.
Revathi
I swear by the almighty god that the evidence that I shall give shall be
the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
As she completes her oath, Sathyadev is already on his feet.
Sathyadev
My lord, I have the most serious objection to this witness being
summoned by the prosecution as she is the wife of the prisoner,
Bhaskar Raj.
Deshpande
My lord, I call my learned friends attention to the fact that I
summoned not Mrs. Bhaskar, but Mrs. Sheikh.
(to Revathi)
Your name in fact is Rehana sheikh?
Revathi
Yes.
Deshpande
You have been living as the wife of the prisoner, Bhaskar Raj?
66
Revathi
Yes!
Deshpande
Are you actually his wife?
Revathi
I went through a marriage ceremony with him in Mumbai. But I
already had a husband.he is still alive.
Bhaskar leaps to his feat.
Bhaskar
Revathi! Thats not true.
Revathi
(never looking at him)
This being so, my marriage to Bhaskar was not..
Deshpande
Not valid?
Revathi
Not valid!
Sathyadev
My lord, there is a proof of marriage between the witness and Bhaskar
Raj. There is no proof whatsoever of an alleged previous marriage.
Deshpande
My lord, the alleged previous marriage is in fact well documented.
Deshpande takes the document and shows it to Revathi.
67
Deshpande
Mrs. Sheikh, is this a certificate of marriage between yourself and
Abdul Rehman Sheikh?
Revathi
Yes, that is the paper of my marriage.
The clerk hands it to the judge. He looks at it quickly.
Judge
(to Deshpande)
I think this witness is qualified to give evidence. You may proceed.
Deshpande
(to Revathi)
Mrs. Sheikh, are you willing to give evidence against the man you
have been calling your husband?
Revathi
I am willing.
Deshpande
On the night that Ms. Rao was murdered, you stated to the police that
Bhaskar Raj left the house at seven thirty and returned home at twenty
five minutes past nine. Did he, in fact, return at twenty five past nine?
Revathi
No. He returned at ten minutes past ten.
Bhaskar
What are you saying! Thats not true. You know that.
The court is in an uproar.
68
Judge
I must have silence! As your lawyer will tell you, Bhaskar, you will
very shortly have an opportunity of speaking in your own defense!
Deshpande
Ok! Go on Mrs. Sheikh!
Revathi
He was breathing hard, and then he told me to wash his shirt. They
had blood on them. He said, Ive killed her!
Bhaskar
Revathi! Why are you saying these things? Why are you lying?
The spectators are whispering excitedly to each other. The judge calms down the
court.
Judge
Proceed, adv. Deshpande.
Deshpande
Mrs. Sheikh, when the prisoner said, I have killed her, did you know
whom he referred?
Revathi
Yes. The woman he had been going to see so often.
Deshpande
Now, then, when questioned by the police, you told them that the
prisoner came home at nine twenty five?
Revathi
Yes. Because Bhaskar told me to say that.
69
Deshpande
But then why are you changing your story now?
Revathi
I cannot go on lying to save him! I said to the police what he wanted
me to say because Im grateful to him. He married me and brought me
to this city. I have always done what he asked for because I was
grateful.
Deshpande
It was not because he was your husband, and you loved him?
Revathi
No. I never loved him.
Bhaskar is leaning on his hands staring dully straight ahead.
Deshpande
It was gratitude to the prisoner but now you feel that it was wrong
to do so?
Revathi
It is murder. That womanshe was a harmless one. I cannot come
into court and swear that he was with me at the time when it was
done. I cannot do it.
Deshpande
Then this is the truth? That Bhaskar returned that night at ten minutes
past ten. That he had blood on his shirt and that he said to you, I
have killed her?
Revathi
That is the truth.
70
Deshpande
Are you sure?
Revathi
Yes, that is the truth.
Deshpande
Thank you.
Deshpande sits. The whole courtroom is focused on Sathyadev. For a while he sits
still. Bhaskar and Rajesh, anxiously waiting for him to rise for the cross
examination. Finally, he lifts himself to his feet.
Sathyadev
Mrs. Bhaskar.or Mrs. Sheikh which do you prefer to be called?
Revathi
It does not matter.
Sathyadev
Does it not? In this country we are inclined to take a rather more
serious view of marriage. However, it appears that when you first met
Bhaskar in Mumbai, you lied to him about your marital status, even
your religion, culture?
Revathi
I wanted to get out of Mumbai
Sathyadev
You lied, did you not? Just Yes or No please.
Revathi
Yes.
71
Sathyadev
Thank you. And subsequently, in arranging the marriage you lied
to the authorities?
Revathi
I did not tell the truth to them.
Sathyadev
What does that mean? You lied to them!
Revathi
Yes.
Sathyadev
And thenwhen police questioned you about this man who believed
himself married and loved. You told them.
Revathi
I told them what Bhaskar wanted me to say..
Sathyadev
You told them he was with you at nine twenty five p.m. and now you
say thatthat was a lie?
Revathi
Yes. A lie.
Sathyadev
And when you said that he accidently cut his wrist? Again you lied.
Revathi
Yes.
Sathyadev
Now today you have told us entirely new story. The question is,
72
were you lying then, are you lying now. In fact you are a chronic
and habitual liar
Deshpande (rises)
My lord, is my learned colleague allowed to bully and insult the
witness in this fashion?
Judge
You are right adv. Deshpande. But this is a Murder charge. And within
the bounds of reason I would like the defense to have every latitude.
Sathyadev
My lord may I also remind my learned friend that their witness, by her
own admission, has already violated so many oaths that I am surprised
the testament did not leap from her hand when she was sworn here
today. (to Revathi)
I doubt if anything is to be gained by questioning you any further,
that will be all!
He sits. Adv. Deshpande rises.
Deshpande
Mrs. Sheikh, I ask you once moreis the evidence you have given the
truth, the only truth?
Revathi
What I told you is the truth, the whole truth!
Deshpande
Then that, thats all, my lord.
He indicates Revathi to step out and sit. The courtroom is buzzing with excitement.
Revathi crosses exit. Bhaskar sits his head bowed.
Judge makes some notes.
73
Judge
Adv. Sathyadev, are you ready for the defense?
Sathyadev
(rising)
My lord, the prosecution has presented their witnesses against the
prisoner, Bhaskar Raj. A case of the most overwhelming
circumstantial evidence. Among the witnesses you have heard chief
inspector Joshi, who has given his testimony in a fair and impartial
manner, as he always does in these cases. However you will decide for
yourselves whether the crime was committed or not. Then you heard
the evidence of Saraswatibai. A worthy and devoted housekeeper, who
has suffered two most grievous losses. One, the death of her beloved
mistress and second, in being deprived of an inheritance of 5 crore
rupees.5 crore, my lord! Which she had fully expected to receive.
And finallymost damaging of allthe prosecution has produced a
surprise witness, Rehana Sheikh. Whom the prisoner married and
brought from the rubble of her home land to the safety of this city,
giving her his love and protection of his name. I objected to her
testimony because a wife cannot give evidence harmful to her husband
but it has been proven that her marriage to the prisoner was fraud.
Therefore her evidence must be admitted and you must consider it for
worth. Such is the prosecutions case. Now it is the turn of the
defense. We could present.we could present on behalf of the
prisoner, a variety of witnesses to his character, his lack of criminal
and evil association in his past. However, only one witness can shed
new light on this tragic riddlethe prisoner himself. Bhaskar Raj!
The entire court room is intent on Bhaskar as he raises his head, gets up slowly
and proceeds to the witness box. The clerk hands him the book and holds up the
oath book.
Bhaskar
I swear by almighty god that the evidence I shall give will be the truth,
74
75
Deshpande
Mr. Bhaskar, at the time of your meetings with Ms. Rao,
were you employed?
Bhaskar
No sir.
Deshpande
Did she ever give you any money?
Bhaskar
No, sir!
Deshpande
Did you expect to receive any?
Bhaskar
No, never.
Deshpande
Did you know that in her new will, you were the beneficiary to the
extent of 5 crore ?
Bhaskar
No!
Deshpande takes the shirt and shows it to Bhaskar.
Deshpande
Now Mr. Bhaskar when you went to visit Ms. Rao for the last time did
you wear this shirt?
Bhaskar
Yes, I did.
76
Deshpande
My lord, the defense will be pleased to learn that at the last moment a
witness has come forward, and that the prisoner had been seen,
wearing this shirt.
Reactions from Bhaskar, Sathyadev.
Deshpande(continued)
strangely, he had not been seen on the night of the murder, but
exactly one week before. On the afternoon of January 8th, were you or
were you not in a travel agency inquiring about prices and schedules
of foreign flights?
Bhaskar (thinking)
I dont remember anything like that.....I dont think I went there.
(instantly)
Ohyesyes! I remember.I went there.yes! But I think thats
not a crime?
Deshpande
Not at all. Many people go for it.when they can pay for it. But you
couldnt pay for it, could you?
Bhaskar
No. I was hard up.
Deshpande
And yet you came into this particular travel agency with a beautiful,
young lady.you then admit that you made enquiries about the
expensive and luxurious flights. How did you expect to pay for such
a thing?
Bhaskar
I dont know, it was.
77
Deshpande
If you dont know then perhaps I can help you. On the morning of the
very same day, you heard Ms. Rao change her will, leaving you the
bulk of her money
Bhaskar
I didnt! I knew nothing about the Will!
Deshpande
And in the afternoon, you started making plans to dispose of
the money.
Bhaskar
No! It was nothing like that. I was crossing this travel agency.and
those ads and fancy posters attracted me.and may be same time that
lady and I walked together or enquired together but I dont know
her.I didnt even see her. So I went inand the man there gave me
a funny lookmay be because of I looked a bit shabbyand it
irritated me so I kept asking for the different tours
Deshpande
An act? No, not an actyou knew that in a week you were going to
get rs.5 crore!
Bhaskar
Noit was nothing like that! It was childishit was funI enjoyed
it. I wasnt planning something..
Deshpande
It was just a remarkable coincidence that Ms. Rao should be killed
only a week later?
78
Bhaskar
Ive told you, I didnt kill her!
Deshpande
Can you suggest any reasonwhy Rehana Sheikh should deliberately
give evidence she has given if it were not true?
Bhaskar (starting to break)
No, I dont know. I dont know why my wifeI dont even know why
I still call her my wife.she must be lying or out of her mind.
(tortured) Oh god! What happened to her! What changed her?
Deshpande
Very effective, but in this court we deal with facts. And the fact is,
Mr. Bhaskar, we have only your word for it which says you came
home at five and twenty minutes past nine, and that you did not go
out again.
Bhaskar
Someone must have seen mein the street (to judge) or going
into the house.
Deshpande
One would certainly think so but the only person who did see you
come home that night says it was at ten minutes past ten. And she says
that you had blood on your clothes.
Bhaskar
I cut my wrist!
Deshpande
You cut your wrist purposely!
Bhaskar
No I didnt do anything. But you make it sound as though I did!
79
80
Rajesh
No, they didnt like her but they believed her. They liked Bhaskar, but
they didnt believe him.
Sathyadev
That travel agency business doesnt help, either. And do you think
she lied?
Rajesh
I dont know. Im not sure.
Sathyadev
But I am. She lied. The only question in my mind is ..Why? Whats
her game? What is she up to?
Rajesh
Sir, I hope in your final speech tomorrow, you wont let yourself
become too emotionally involved. I want to see you save yourself.
This isnt going to be your last case.
Sathyadev
Yes, thats right. But until it is over, I am still a lawyer and my
clients life is at stake. Thats all that mattershis life. He is
entitled to the best I can do.
During this the phone has been ringing. Rajesh picks it up.
Rajesh
Yes?
CUT TO:
81
82
Woman
Its about that Mumbai lady and its for sale.
Sathyadev
What you have?
Woman
Listen to me carefully; Im in the ROSY night club, at the far end of
the bar. And Ill be here for just thirty minutesif you want some
documents on that Mumbai fraud, you get yourself over here.
Sathyadev
What documents? What you know about her?
Woman
Aahan...not on the phone. You better get on over here.and bring
plenty of money!
Sathyadev slams down the receiver.
Sathyadev
.....a stupid one! You get those in every murder trialdrunk and
disorderly.giving ME an ultimatumROSY night club in thirty
minutesgot some documents of Mrs. SheikhIm too tired and sick
of.I never became this much pressurizedand thats why Im
keeping no stone unturned.
Sathyadev starts walking outside the office.
Rajesh
Sirsir!
Sathyadev
Come on, Rajesh!
83
CUT TO:
25. EXT / CITY ROAD / EVENING
Adv. Sathyadevs car on a road; leading ahead in high speed.
CUT TO:
26. INT / ROSY NIGHT CLUB / NIGHT
The place is mirrored bar, crowded with public. Its shining in the lights. Table
and chairs fill the room. Sathyadev comes in briskly, followed by Rajesh. They
scan the room for their rendezvous. Some hot, sexy ladies are dancing on the floor.
They move in the bar until they see someone who fits the bill. A middle aged
woman, flamboyantly dressed. She is overly made up. She senses their presence
when they stop and look at her.
Woman
Are you adv. Sathyadev?
Sathyadev
Yes.
Woman
I wonder why you are in a court dress. This is not a court!
Sathyadev
You called us?
Woman (glance at Rajesh)
Who is this guy? I dont want to talk to him.
84
Sathyadev
He is Rajesh. He is my associate lawyer.
Woman
Lawyer? Ok!
Sathyadev
Youre name please?
Woman
No need for names. Have a drink, boys.
(to the barman)
two whiskeys for my gentlemen friends.
Sathyadev
You realize that you are in duty to come and give us the evidence
that you have.
Woman
Oh! Come off it. Did you bring any money?
Sathyadev
What do you have?
Woman
Letters. Letters of that Mumbai wife
Rajesh
Letters written by Rehana Sheikh to her husband?
Woman
To her husband? Oh! Dont make me laugh!
Sathyadev
If you will let us see these letters, madam we shall be able to advice
85
86
Woman
Oh! She wrote them all.
Rajesh
Ive had messages from her. It looks like her handwriting.
He reads one letter.
Rajesh
Sir, look at this.
Sathyadev (scanning the letter)
Incredible!
Woman
Yes! Now what about money?
Rajesh
Where did you get these? Why are you against her?
Woman
Ill show you something
She pushes back her hair. Her left side neck is slashed.
Woman
Wanna kiss?
Sathyadev and Rajesh take a shocked step back. She laughs harshly.
She lets her hair fall back in place.
87
Sathyadev
Rehana did this to you?
Woman
No, not her. The guy I was in love with. Then she came along. And
started seeing him. One day I went after him and I found them
together. I told them what I thought for her and in anger, he cut
my neck.
Sathyadev
Did you go to the police about it?
Woman
Who? Me? Not likely. It wasnt his fault. It was all hers. Getting him
away from me. Turning him against me. But I waited my time to pay
her back. And this is the TIME!
Sathyadev takes out extra five thousands and gives it to her. She snatches eagerly.
Woman
Oh! Finally, my tears have more value than these letters.
Sathyadev and Rajesh, standing close together, read the letter.
Sathyadev (to Rajesh)
Unbelievable! Wed better have the full name of the man to whom
these were addressed. Madam.
He looks around for the woman who has disappeared.
Sathyadev
Where is she?
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Rajesh
Gone, Id say. She just doesnt want her other side to be slashed.
Cant blame her!
Sathyadev gathers the letters together.
Sathyadev
Come on, Rajesh, chase her.
Along with Rajesh, Sathyadev run outside.
CUT TO:
27. EXT / ROSY NIGHT CLUB / ROAD - Continues
Sathyadev and Rajesh come at the road side. They look for the woman.
Sathyadev
Rajesh, you go this way.we need to find her
Rajesh runs his side. Sathyadev crosses the road and comes in the next lane. There
he finds that woman in the crowd.
Sathyadev
Hello, ma m!
CUT TO:
28. EXT / SMALL LANE / NIGHT - Continuous
Sathyadev comes near to that woman and stops her. The road is empty. Only a
street light is flashing.
Sathyadev
Hello! Mam, please wait! Listen! Where are you going?
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Woman
Arre? These are my peak hours.lawyer! Off course if you want
any other help then I
She comes close to him.
Sathyadev
I want his name, your lover. Where is he?
Woman
Sir, I dont want to trouble him
Sathyadev
Absolutely dont worry about it.
Same time somebody comes from the backside of Sathyadev. In a second, he takes
his gun and shoots that woman. Killer runs away. Sathyadev takes her in his arms.
She is dead. Sathyadev keeps her aside and runs behind that killer.
CUT TO:
29. EXT / LANES - Continuous
Sathyadev is running behind that killer; crossing all odds. Finally he catches him.
fights with him. But again he pushes Sathyadev back and runs away. Sathyadev
follows him.
CUT TO:
30. EXT / ROAD - Continuous
Sathyadev comes out of the lane on the main road. He looks for that killer. The
road is empty, nobody is there. Sathyadev seems tired and depressed. Same time
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91
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Sathyadev
Letters, my lord. Written by Rehana Sheikh.
There is sharp reaction from Bhaskar. Sathyadev has given the letters to clerk,
who takes them to the judge. As the judge inspects the letters..
Deshpande
My lord, the prosecution continues its objection. If my memory serves
me well, your lordships similar objection.in State vs Balkrishna
Bhat..was sustained.
Judge
Your memory serves you ill, adv. Deshpande. My objection was over
ruled by Justice Shastri.as yours is now, by me!
He hands the packet of letters to the clerk, who carries them back to Sathyadev.
Sathyadev
Now, I want to call Mrs. Rehana Sheikh!
His voice echos in the hall. Revathi enters the court. Bhaskar stares at her blankly.
Then he looks at Sathyadev, he gives him an encouraging nod. Revathi is now in
the witness box.
Sathyadev
Mrs. Sheikh, I appreciate that you are still under oath.
Revathi
Yes.
Sathyadev
Mrs. Sheikh, do you know a man named Yusuf?
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Revathi (puzzled)
Who? I dont know what you mean
Sathyadev
Its a simple question. Do you or do you not know a man
called Yusuf?
Revathi (quickly)
No, I dont know.
Sathyadev
Its fairly a common name. And yet you mean that you have never
known a man by the name of Yusuf?
Revathi
Oh! In Mumbaiperhaps.that was a long time ago.
Sathyadev
I shall not ask you to go back that far.just a few weeks.
Sathyadev takes a folded long white letter from a pocket.
Sathyadev (continues)
.to the 6th of February last.
Revathi
What have you got there?
Sathyadev
A letter. I suggest that on the 6th of February you wrote a
certain letter.
Sathyadev opens the folded letter.
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Sathyadev (continues)
.addressed to a man named Yusuf.
Revathi
I did nothing of the sort.
Sathyadev
A letter. Which was one of the series written to the same man.
Revathi
Lies..all lies!
Sathyadev
You seem to have been on.on intimate terms with this man
Bhaskar gets angry.
Bhaskar
How dare you say things like that? It isnt true.
Judge
The prisoner, in his own interest, should remain silent!
Sathyadev
Did you hear that? Huun? Sokeep quite.
Rajesh gestures to Bhaskar to keep calm, and he does so.
Sathyadev
Im not concerned with the general trend of this correspondence.
(unfolding the letter) only one particular letter. (glancing down the
letter).My beloved Yusuf. An extraordinary thing has happened. I
believe all our difficulties may be ended
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letter paper, now if you like, I can have an expert identify your
handwriting.
Revathi
This is wrong! This is illegal to read somebodys personal letters.
Sathyadev
Really?
Revathi
this is a kind of stealing.you cant read my
Sathyadev
My? My what?
Revathi remains silent. Sathyadev looks at Judge.
Sathyadev
Youre honor?
Judge
Mrs. Sheikh, you need to answer this
Revathi
Who gave you these letters? Any woman gave it to you?
Sathyadev
Mrs. Sheikh, I want answer for my questiondid you write this
letter to Yusuf?
Revathi
No, no.this is conspiracy against me.
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Sathyadev (angry)
Conspiracy you are doing.consistently you are lying in the
courtand the proof for that is the letter.
Revathi
Why should I write letter? There is no need of it.
Sathyadev
No need? Every possible need is there, Mrs. Sheikh.
Bhaskar
Leave her alone!
Revathi
Let me out of here.let me go!
She rushes from the box but the policeman stops her. Revathi cries, her head
buried in her arms.
Judge
Adv. Sathyadev, will you now read the letter?
Sathyadev (reading)
My beloved Yusuf. An extraordinary thing has happened. All our
difficulties may soon be solved. Bhaskar is suspected of murdering the
old lady, Ms. Nayana Rao, I told you about. His only hope of an alibi
depends on me..on ME alone. Suppose I testify that he was not at
home with me at the time of the murder.that he came home with
blood on his shirt and that he even admitted to me that he had killed
her. Strange, isnt it.he always said he would never let me leave
him.but now, if this succeeds, he will be leaving me.because they
will take him away, forever.and I shall be free, and yours, my
beloved.I count the hours until we are together.your beloved,
Rehana.
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During this, SHOTS of the judge, of Deshpande and Bhaskar staring at his sobbing
wife. Revathi is pale, her cheeks streaked with tears.
Sathyadev
I now ask you again, Rehana Sheikh, did you write this letter?
Revathi looks from judge to Sathyadevthen to Bhaskar. Bhaskar looks at her
with affection.
Sathyadev
Answer my question.did you write this letter?
Bhaskar
Tell him you didnt write it!
Revathi (instantly in anger to Bhaskar)
Yes! I wrote those letters! I wrote them to my loved one. I always
hated you.you bloody.
A hush in the court room. Bhaskar looks down and starts crying.
Sathyadev
Then, my lord, this is the case for the defense.
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
33. INT / COURT ROOM / DAY
There is a hush of expectation in the court. Bhaskar Raj, nerves strained to the
breaking point, is in the prisoners dock. His eyes anxiously scan the judge, as if to
guess their verdict.
Revathi in the witness box tensely awaiting the verdict. In the court, the spectators
are silent, motionless. Sathyadev and Rajesh just seating themselves.
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Judge
Bhaskar Raj, you have been found not guilty of the murder of
Ms. Nayana Rao on the night of 14th January. You are hereby
discharged and free to leave the court. And court announces to file a
perjury case against Mrs. Rehana sheikh for lying on the oath and
misleading the court in the above case.
Bhaskar sits down abruptly, exhausted. His eyes close tightly for a moment. There
is a burst of excitement in the court. Some cheers. Revathi is standing, her face
completely immobile.
The judge rises. The court room rises with him. He bows to the court and then the
judge exits, followed by his Alderman and judges clerk.
Deshpande turns toward Sathyadev and makes a gallant gesture of salute in defeat.
Adv. Sathyadev moves to Deshpande, with a casual gesture of acknowledgement.
There is an excitement in the spectators and some media people. They are trying to
reach Bhaskar, but are pushed toward the exits by the police. Deshpande and his
associates move out. The court room, too, is emptying.
Bhaskar has come down and is shaking hands with Rajesh. Finally comes to adv.
Sathyadev.
Bhaskar
Thank you, sir. Thank you for everything. You were wonderful.
Sathyadev
Lets say we were lucky all around.
A policeman comes in.
Policeman
Mr. Bhaskar, if youll be kind enough to come with us and sign the
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CUT TO:
35. INT / COURT ROOM - Continuous
Sathyadev is alone in the court room with Revathi. She is calm, quiet. She clears
her tears and straightens her face. Sathyadev is collecting his documents.
Revathi
I never thought you men could get so emotional.especially in
a public place.
Sathyadev
Should I apologize for my approach?
Revathi
Its all right. But finally I cried. I look terrible when I cry.
Sathyadev
Dont worry; nobody is going to look at you in prison.
Revathi
Prison? Will I go to prison?
Sathyadev
Yes! You heard the judge. You will certainly be charged with perjury.
Revathi
Well.it wont be for life.
Sathyadev
If I were retained for the prosecution, it would be.
Revathi
You hate me, dont you? Like the people outside. What a wicked
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woman I am, and how brilliantly you exposed me, and saved
Bhaskars life. The great adv. Sathyadev did it again!
(firmly) Well, tell me one thing, did you do it alone? Or you
had a help.
Sathyadev
What do you mean?
Revathi
I mean nothing.Bhaskar is free, and we did it!
Sathyadev
We?
Revathi
Thats right. Remember when I came to see you, and you said that no
jury would believe an alibi given by a loving wife, no matter how
much she swore that her husband is innocent? That gave me
the idea..
Sathyadev
What idea?
Revathi
The idea that I should be a witness, not for my husband, but for the
prosecution.that I should swear that Bhaskar was guiltyand that
you should expose me as a liar.because only then, would they
believe that BHASKAR WAS INNOCENT!
He stares at her. She slowly crosses toward him.
Revathi
So now you know the whole story, adv. Sathyadev.
(in an act of the woman)
Ill give you something youll dream about, mister.
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She acts like the murdered woman, who gave the letters, pulls the hair from side of
her face.
Revathi
Wanna kiss me?
Sathyadev
(shocked)
You? That was you? I suspected something.but not that!
Revathi speaks gently to Sathyadev, who is plainly stunned.
Revathi
Thank you for the compliment. Its been a long time since I was an
actress, and I never before played such an important role
Sathyadev
And murder of the woman youand all those blue letters?
Revathi
The murder was a fake oneand It took me hours to write the
lettersto invent Yusuf(laughs). There never has been anyone but
Bhaskar.only Bhaskar.
Sathyadev
.why? Could you not have trusted me? Worked with me truthfully
and honorably? We would have won.
Revathi
I could not take that risk. Have you ever thought that he was
innocent?
Sathyadev
Yes and even you knew he was innocent. I understand.
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Revathi
No, sir, you wont understand at allI knew HE WAS GUILTY!
Sathyadev (shocked)
What? No, that cant be true
Revathi
Bhaskar came home a few minutes past tenhe had blood on the
shirts.he did tell me he had killed the woman. He cried like a
child.only I could save himhe pleaded to me.
Sathyadev
And you saved him? A murderer!
Revathi
Again, you dont understand, I love him.
Suddenly she looks off at the entrance where Bhaskar is standing. He is smiling
complacently. He has overheard everything.
Bhaskar
(to Sathyadev)
I told you she is an actress.and a good one.
Bhaskar moves to them.
Bhaskar (continues)
I knew she would do something for me.but I never expected
this.
Revathi
Bhaskardarling!
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She starts to embrace him. He doesnt respond her, instead looks over her shoulder
at Sathyadev.
Bhaskar
She fooled you completely, didnt she?
Sathyadev
Not she. Its you, Bhaskar who really fooled meyou have insulted
the law, the judiciary, even humanity.
Bhaskar
Really? You think so?
Sathyadev
Yes!
Bhaskar
Sathyadev sir, its you who saved me.take it easy sir, we both got
out of it safely.lets stay this way
Sathyadev
Bhaskar, most of the time people think that Justice is imbalanced but
at the end of the day it reaches to the balance. You are going to pay
heavily for this.there are still courts in Indiathey are not through
with you yet.
Bhaskar
Oh, yes they areyouve done a good job. You got me off, and I cant
be tried againthats the law, and you know it.
Revathi
You cant touch him nownobody can.
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Sathyadev
(passionately)
Youll pay for this somehow.theyll hang you
Bhaskar
No, they wont. As for paying for itwhy not double your fees?
Whats say? Now Im not a cheapIm not a bad guy. I want
everyone to get something out of it. Theres Saraswati, lets
get her hearing aid.(to Revathi)
Revathi, youve done a lot for me, when they try you for perjury,
Ill pay to get you off easy.
Revathi
I dont care, Bhaskar.just well be together againyou dont know
what I went through standing in the witness box, having to face you
and saying I never loved you
She looks at him with affection. He draws away, looking past her. She turns in the
same direction. Priya, Sathyadevs clerk, standing there.
Sathyadev
Priya?
Priya runs to Bhaskar. They hug each other.
Bhaskar
Priya! Oh Priya! Theyve been trying to keep me away from you
Revathi
(shocked)
Bhaskar, who is this girl? What she has to do with you?
Priya
Im not this girl.Im his would be WIFE! And other wise also
your marriage is illegal!
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