Satya Script

107
1 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 / SATHYADEV’S 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.) I’m Sathyadev…10 yrs I’m practicing law. I’m one of the top lawyers of the city. But this was not an easy journey…I 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 I’ll do something in my field. But I worked hard. I worked hard for days n nights…for 17- 18 hrs a day. And today I’ve become one of the TOP and influential lawyers of the state. Many different n critical cases I have made it to my side. That’s why people call me “Hopeless case’s only hope.” But having said that I can’t 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 / SATHYADEV’S 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.

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It's a movie script based on a court room trial.

Transcript of Satya Script

1

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 / SATHYADEV’S 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.)

I’m Sathyadev…10 yrs I’m practicing law. I’m one of the

top lawyers of the city. But this was not an easy journey…I 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 I’ll

do something in my field. But I worked hard. I worked hard for days

n nights…for 17- 18 hrs a day. And today I’ve become one of the TOP

and influential lawyers of the state. Many different n critical cases

I have made it to my side. That’s why people call me “Hopeless case’s

only hope.” But having said that I can’t 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 / SATHYADEV’S 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.

2

Sathyadev

Uma...where are you??

(to daughter)

…Come on make it fast child…don’t make me

late today…

Uma, typical housewife, comes in a hurry with Sathyadev’s bag, briefs n files.

She gives daughter her school bag and kisses her.

CUT TO:

4. EXT / SCHOOL GATE / DAY

Sathyadev’s car stops outside the city primary school. His daughter gets out of the

car and waves her hand saying “Bye…bye”.

Sathyadev

…wait in the school till mom comes to receive

you in the evening…ok? Bye.

He waves his hand and starts the car.

CUT TO:

5. INT / SATHYADEV’S OFFICE / DAY

Sathyadev’s 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.

3

Rajesh

Hello!! Who? Haan…yes...yes…Pathansaab. I’m

adv. Rajesh… Sathyadev sir’s associate…yes..!!

Sir, has not reached yet…appointment? One second…

Rajesh holds the phone and checks a diary on the table.

Rajesh (continued)

…Haan Pathansaab …evening…6.30…yes you

can come…ok? 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

Priya…come 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 sir…would you like to have a tea?

Adv. Rajesh takes the particular file and shows her.

Rajesh

Look here…what 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….

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Priya

Only a word? What’s a big deal..?? Wait a minute...I’ll

correct it.

Rajesh

Hey! How can you say so? Word is everything here…just miss the

word NOT from “I’m not stupid”… and don’t 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 today…nobody’s outside?

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Rajesh

I think you came early sir….

Sathyadev

Yes! You are right!! I have to study one case…and this case is against

Adv. Deshpande…I 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 today’s

diary.

Rajesh moves to the diary but same time a phone rings on the table. Rajesh takes it.

Rajesh

Haan Priya…who? Bhaskar Raj…yes..yes..yes..

send him in.

Sathyadev

Who is it?

Rajesh

Sir...Bhaskar Raj I told you…I 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.

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Rajesh

Haan…Bhaskar come…come! Here’s 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 what’s the case…

Rajesh

Sir, Ms. Nayana Rao murder case…you must have heard in the news?

Sathyadev

Yes! Yes! Yes…now I get it. I read about it in the news papers….

Rajesh

Yes sir, that’s why I called him…so we can hear his side also…

Bhaskar suddenly comes ahead.

Bhaskar

(to Sathyadev)

Sathyadev sir…it seems silly to me but my wife thinks I

may be arrested at any minute….

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Sathyadev

Arrested for what?

Bhaskar

Well…for murder.

Sathyadev looks into the file.

Rajesh

(to Sathyadev)

As you have probably read the reports in the news…Ms. 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

That’s right sir…I 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 evening…so 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!

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Sathyadev looks at Rajesh with a sigh.

Sathyadev

I don’t think anything has left in our hands.

Bhaskar

No sir but then I directly went to my house. I told everything to

Revathi…ahha….Revathi my wife sir! Then she told me police will

definitely take action against me….I must go to any lawyer….that’s

the time I met Rajesh sir….they told me that Sathyadev sir will

definitely help me…..

Sathyadev gives a doubtful glance at Rajesh.

Rajesh

Bhaskar seems a harmless chap sir – caught in a web of circumstantial

evidence…there are naturally no previous convictions, he is a man of

good character.

Sathyadev looks at Bhaskar and addresses him to sit on a back side sofa. Bhaskar

sits on it.

Sathyadev

(to Rajesh)

Rajesh how long do you know Bhaskar?

Rajesh

Actually I met him yesterday after office hours…why sir?

Sathyadev

Then how can you say he is harmless? In just one meeting? Rajesh

you are lawyer…how can you ….

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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 can’t relax and sit here….I’m not a criminal to do this kind of violent

act Sathyadev sir….I have done nothing…why should I be arrested? I

mean this is India…you don’t get arrested or convicted for something

you haven’t 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 don’t 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 details…tell me what you do?

Bhaskar

No nothing sir....I don’t 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 I’m a bit drifter, sir. It’s true, in a way, but

I’m not really like that. Before that I was in Mumbai. That’s where I

met REVATHI, my wife…

Again Sathyadev glances at him.

Bhaskar (continues)

….she was a fashion model...often worked at cultural events…she was

an actress too. She’s been a wonderful wife to me. We married there

and came back to this city. But I can’t 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 I’m 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 that’s 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

Bhaskar…do one thing…come 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 Raj……let’s 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 Bhaskar’s presence of mind he quickly pulls Ms. Rao to backward.

She is so thrilled that she holds Bhaskar’s hand for a minute.

INSTANT CUT TO:

7. INT / SATHYADEV’S 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 sir…these things happen only in cinema….but Sathyadev sir

honestly, whatever I’m telling you is the truth and I never dreamed

that I’d 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 me…and there she

saw me and insisted to come home…usually I don’t go

but she forced me a lot….so I told her that on Saturday I’ll

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

Yeah…twice or thrice in a week….

Rajesh

You never took along your wife with you?

Bhaskar

No…I didn’t.

Sathyadev

Why not?

Bhaskar

She would not have liked it.

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Sathyadev

Who your wife?

Bhaskar

No sir…Nayana would not…

Sathyadev (interpreting)

Nayana?

Bhaskar

I mean Ms. Nayana Rao…actually 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

No…no…not like that sir…she liked me …she pampered me like

a mother….that’s all.

Sathyadev

Raj…we don’t 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 Bhaskar…did 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

No…never.

Sathyadev is quite surprised.

Sathyadev

Ok! Then you never thought of introducing your wife to her?

Bhaskar

No…I never thought that.

Sathyadev

Why?

Bhaskar

Because Ms. Rao was under the impression that Revathi and I didn’t

get along well…

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Sathyadev

Is that true?

Bhaskar

No…we 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 yes…in a way…I was hoping to get a little money…for 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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Sathyadev (warns Bhaskar)

Raj, remember….Truth! Here only the truth works. Ok?

(to Rajesh)

Who was that other woman staying with Ms. Rao?

Rajesh checks the file.

Rajesh

Aahn…she is Saraswati…her homemaid.

Sathyadev

(to Bhaskar)

Haan…Saraswati…you knew it was her day off that day?

Bhaskar

Yes. I did.

Sathyadev

So you went there because you knew that she would be ALONE?

Bhaskar

No. I went there because I thought she’d be LONELY.

Sathyadev

What you know about this Saraswati?

Bhaskar (serious)

She was a companion of Ms. Rao. She took care of her but she

used to hate me. She was jealous of me.

Sathyadev

Jealous of you? Why?

Bhaskar

Because I used to help Ms. Rao in her financial problems.

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Sathyadev surprises. He stands up and comes close to Bhaskar.

Sathyadev

What type of financial problems?

Bhaskar

Problem means I used to help her in mutual funds, shares, taxation,

filling forms etc. whatever there I helped her.

Sathyadev

But the night of 14th January when Ms. Rao called you at her house….

Bhaskar

No sir she never called me…actually I had an idea of my invention so

I myself went to her. Because it was Saraswati’s day off Nayana was

alone in that house.

Sathyadev doubtfully looks at Bhaskar.

Sathyadev

This case is over….

(silence for a second)

Ok then…

Bhaskar

I went around about 8 o’clock in the evening. She had her dinner.

Then we talked, we had coffee. Then I left about nine. Then I walked

home and got there about 9.30.

Rajesh

One second! You told me yesterday that Saraswati came back once

before her time…

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Bhaskar

No…police said that…she forgot something at home…that’s 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 is…I didn’t do it…no

matter how bad things look, I didn’t do it. You must believe me.

Sathyadev

Can you prove it?

Bhaskar

Yes…absolutely! 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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…does not carry much weight in a court.

Bhaskar

You mean that people will think that Revathi would tell a lie on

my account?

Sathyadev moves and sits on his chair near the table.

Sathyadev

It has been known that blood is thicker than evidence, Mr. Bhaskar.

Priya arrives in the room with a news paper in her hands.

Priya

Sir! This newspaper…

Priya comes near to Sathyadev.

Sathyadev

Yeah…put it on the table….

Priya

Sir! Please look at this…

Priya shows the headline to Sathyadev. Sathyadev just glances through and

instantly it holds his interest. He reads it carefully. Then looks at Priya.

Sathyadev

Thanks Priya…

Priya

Sir, you want tea, coffee, something…

Sathyadev

No…I don’t want…ask them.

21

Priya moves to Bhaskar.

Priya

You want tea or...??

Bhaskar

No…thank you!

Rajesh shows his hand.

Rajesh

No…

Priya moving out but Sathyadev stops her.

Sathyadev

Priya wait…

Priya stops and looks back.

Sathyadev

(to Rajesh)

Rajesh, find out what’s the timing of Pathansaab’s appointment?

Rajesh looks in a diary.

Rajesh

It’s in the evening, 6.30 p.m.

Sathyadev (to Priya)

Priya how many people are there outside?

Priya

4-5 people were there…asking for the dates…and now around

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…seven people are waiting.

Sathyadev

Tell them to wait for a while…I’ll meet them. And now on don’t give

me any calls or send anybody in without my permission, thanks.

Priya walks out of the cabin.

Sathyadev

Mr. Bhaskar? Did you know that Ms. Rao has made her whole

property on your name?

Bhaskar

(open mouthed)

Left me?

Bhaskar rises up.

Bhaskar

Are you joking?

Sathyadev

Congratulations, Bhaskar!

Bhaskar comes near to Sathyadev to look at the paper. Sathyadev handovers it.

Bhaskar reads it. Then Rajesh takes it and looks into it.

Bhaskar (excited)

….whole property on MY NAME? I was worrying about my silly

inventions….and now…..I must call Revathi…

He reaches for the phone. Suddenly he becomes aware of the way Sathyadev and

Rajesh are looking at him…there’s a second’s silence.

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Bhaskar

(quite sober now)

This inheritance…it doesn’t make things look any better for me,

does it?

Sathyadev (rises and moves to the window)

Haan…yes…So 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 / SATHYADEV’S OFFICE / DAY

From Sathyadev’s POINT OF VIEW:

A police car slowly enters in the parking.

CUT TO:

9. INT / SATHYADEV’S 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 …you’re right!

Bhaskar (emotional)

I knew nothing about that will! I didn’t know Ms. Rao had any

24

intention of leaving me her money. And if I didn’t know about it,

how could it be a motive?

Sathyadev

Are you sure?

Bhaskar

Yes sir! I just read in the newspaper for the first time.

Sathyadev

Ok!! Did Ms. Rao ever discuss with you about the will?

Bhaskar

No…never …

(Suddenly remembers)

Oh yes! I heard once when she was saying to Saraswati that she will

never change the will….but these things were common….anyway

whatever it is Sathyadev sir…the only thing I want to know…will

you support me?

Sathyadev

(Pause for a second)

Yes!

Sathyadev starts writing something in his file.

Bhaskar (relaxed)

Thank you….thank you Sathyadev sir…I’ll somehow manage your

fees sir…

Rajesh

Don’t worry about it….we know how to get it.

Bhaskar

I can’t understand one thing, why police don’t believe that it could be

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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 I’m 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 haven’t 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.

What’s this?

Bhaskar

I thought I’ll be handcuffed?

Inspect.

That won’t be necessary. Bhaskar you have many surprises ahead to

come. Go and sit in the car.

Bhaskar

One second sir…

27

Bhaskar goes to Sathyadev sir and touches his feet.

Sathyadev

(surprises)

Arre??

Bhaskar (emotional)

Please save me sir…

Bhaskar walks out of the room. Police looks at Sathyadev sir.

Inspect.

Sorry to disturb you sir…

Sathyadev

It’s perfectly all right. You are doing your duty...carry on.

Inspect.

Thank you sir….

Police exits. Sathyadev walks to his desk.

Sathyadev

(to Rajesh)

Bhaskar looks innocent but the prosecution will blast him with their

heaviest artillery. All you will have is his WIFE! Isn’t that an

intriguing challenge? He is in a strange situation...maybe he doesn’t

know that…now everything depends on his wife, but who will

believe her? At the end of the day court will only see what police

shows them. But we have to meet her.

Sathyadev starts writing something in his diary. Same time office phone rings and

Priya from the other side informs Sathyadev sir about Mrs. Revathi Raj.

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Sathyadev

(on phone)

Haan Priya? (becomes serious) What? Mrs. Raj? Aahan?

One sec hold…one sec….

Sathyadev holds the phone and looks into his diary and checks his schedule.

Sathyadev (continues on phone)

…quickly send her. Ok! And Priya…can you arrange a cup of coffee

for her? Please…yeah…thanks.

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 don’t 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 cry…that’s why I

never cry. (moves closer to Rajesh) Namaskara! I’m Revathi Raj.

You’re adv. Rajesh…right?

Rajesh

Right! And here is our sir…

29

Revathi

Adv. Sathyadev…I heard a lot about them. Hopeless case’s only hope

etc. etc…Namaskara!

Sathyadev

Namaskara! Mrs. Raj please come…sit.

Revathi sits near Sathyadev.

Sathyadev

There is a bad news Mrs. Raj…

Revathi

Bhaskar has been arrested and charged with murder…I just saw

him…I knew he would be…..I told him so.

Sathyadev is quite surprised…he looks at Rajesh.

Sathyadev

Please don’t fear…don’t be upset.

Revathi

I’m not upset or do I look upset?

Sathyadev

I’m glad you are showing such courage.

Revathi

Call it what you like. What’s next step? But I have one condition…I

want to know everything related to this case….

Sathyadev

Ok? Good! Rajesh you start…

30

Sathyadev looks into his file. Rajesh starts his questions.

Rajesh

Yeah, tell me madam, did you know about Bhaskar and Ms. Nayana

Rao’s friendly relation?

Revathi

Yes! Bhaskar told me everything….how they met …how he went

home.

Rajesh

And about their friendship?

Revathi

Now it seems like that…

Rajesh

You never went to Mrs. Rao’s house along with Bhaskar?

Revathi

No…Bhaskar declined that….

Sathyadev surprises by her answer.

Sathyadev

Bhaskar said no….why?

Revathi

He thought Ms. Nayana would not like it…

Sathyadev

Ok…ok!! Continue…

Rajesh

Ms. Rao was a lonely woman and Bhaskar’s company was pleasant.

31

Revathi

Bhaskar’s 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 I’m sorry I don’t 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?

32

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

That’s 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

Now…Mrs. 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.

33

Sathyadev

Ok…it means before this you and your husband had no idea about

this Will?

Revathi

Is that what he told you?

Sathyadev pauses.

Sathyadev

Yes…why? Do you want to suggest something else?

Revathi thinks.

Revathi

No…I don’t 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 I’m sorry!! Did I shock you?

34

Rajesh

No…no…ma’m…

Sathyadev (to Rajesh)

Rajesh…Rajesh…wait…

(to Revathi)

Mrs. Raj, it’s 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 husband’s entire defense rests on his and yours

words. And another thing…most important, which I have told to your

husband also…that 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)

…so…let 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…

35

Revathi

Nine twenty six!

Sathyadev

Good!

Revathi

Isn’t that what he wants me to say?

Sathyadev again stumbles.

Sathyadev

Isn’t 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 don’t think they believed me.

May be because of my accent. But I told them everything because I

had to tell those things that way…more than anything it was useful

for Bhaskar.

36

Sathyadev (stands up)

What do you mean useful? That is the truth Mrs. Raj, am I right?

Revathi walks to the desk.

Revathi

…now Sathyadev sir this has to clear first….if I tell them that he was

at home by nine twenty six…will they release him?

Rajesh

Yes, absolutely…only if you both telling the truth.

Revathi

Yes but somehow they didn’t believe me…rather I couldn’t convince

them tact fully. I can’t understand one thing….how is it possible that

between nine p.m. to nine twenty six…nobody saw him in the

midway?

Rajesh

No…there is no one …we don’t have that option.

Revathi

It means his word and my words……

Sathyadev

Exactly! That is what I’m trying to tell you.

Revathi

My word…MY word!!

Revathi thinks something in her mind. And then walks to Sathyadev.

Revathi (excited)

Thank you very much adv. Sathyadev, I got everything what…

37

…I wanted…thank you once again.

Revathi takes her purse and starts walking out.

Sathyadev

One sec…one sec…Mrs. Raj…

Sathyadev walks up to her. She stops and looks back.

Sathyadev

Information you need to give us not we….tell me one thing do you

love your husband?

Revathi

Bhaskar thinks I do.

Sathyadev (angrily)

Well, do you?

Revathi

Am I under OATH?

Sathyadev

Mrs. Raj oath is for the court…

Revathi

Ok…as for me …yes I do…but the truth is Bhaskar is not a

wise person…

Sathyadev

Mrs. Raj we are dealing with a crime, the prosecution will try to

hang your husband!

Revathi

He is not my husband!

38

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 I’m 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

Don’t worry about that….I shall give him an alibi…I will be very

convincing. There will be tears in my eyes when I’ll say…Bhaskar

came home at nine twenty six and after that he never went out.

Sathyadev

You’re 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

I’m damned if I’m satisfied! That woman is up to something…the

prosecution will break her down in no time….you know, defending

this case is rather difficult…quite one sided, with the odds all on the

other side. I haven’t got much to go on…in fact I have got NOTHING.

39

CUT TO:

10. EXT / POLICE STATION / DAY

A grim, high walled building looming against a leaden sky. Sathyadev’s 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 witness…I don’t

understand why she hasn’t come to see me? It’s 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? What’s 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)

That’s right. I was cutting bread, and the knife slipped. But that was

two days after the murder. Revathi was there…she’ll 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. We’ve never been separated before.

41

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, it’s 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:

42

15. INT / NIGHT CLUB / NIGHT - Flashback

Both are very close in each other’s arm. Looking at each other affectionately.

Bhaskar holds her palm in his hand. Suddenly he notices Mangalsutra like chain

around her neck.

Bhaskar

Are you married?

Revathi

Why?

Revathi stumbles.

Revathi (continues)

No, I’m not married. I just wear it when I’m outside, it gives me little

protection.

Bhaskar

Didn’t work too well tonight, did it?

Revathi

Tonight was bad. But it’s getting better now…

INSTANT CUT TO:

16. INT / PRISON ROOM / DAY

Bhaskar, Sathyadev and Rajesh as we left them.

Bhaskar

….well, I had a month’s salary in my pocket…

43

Sathyadev

And she already had Mangalsutra…

Bhaskar

That’s 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! No…it wasn’t that at all…it was me. She was lonely…her

parents died in an accident…I’m all she has.

Rajesh

Strange Mr. Bhaskar every time you find these lonely women.

Bhaskar

You don’t really know Revathi …the way she feels for me…but

you’ll see when she gives her evidence.

Sathyadev

Mr. Bhaskar I must tell you this that I’m not putting her in the

witness box.

Bhaskar (shocked)

What? Why?

Sathyadev

Well for one thing…she is an outsider…not too familiar with the

subtleties of our language…the prosecution will easily trip her up…

(pause for second)

44

…ok? Bhaskar, we’d better be going….

Bhaskar

(pleading)

But Revathi must give evidence.

Sathyadev

Mr. Bhaskar, you must trust me. If for no other reason, then because I

am mean, ill- tempered man who hates to lose. Let us wish each other

best luck.

The guard enters and takes Bhaskar out into the corridor.

FADE OUT:

INSERT

17. INT / HOUSE / TV

A TV reporter informs about a Bhaskar Raj case.

Reporter

….much awaited Ms. Nayana Rao murder trial starts today. It’s up to

the court to decide whether Bhaskar Raj the prime accused was the

real mastermind murderer? Or anybody else is trapping him? There is

another suspect Saraswati, her housemaid….so now every eye on the

court….let’s see what happens….

.

Intermission

45

18. INT / CITY COURT ROOM / DAY

The packed court room. Everyone concerned in the trial. Judge, clerks, officials,

lawyers, the defendant and those of the public. In the dock, stands Bhaskar, tense

and pale.

Clerk (to Bhaskar)

Bhaskar Raj, you are charged on indictment for that you on the 14th

January…murdered Ms. Nayana Rao. What you say? Are you guilty

or not guilty?

Bhaskar

(after a pause)

Not guilty.

The judge

You may proceed for the prosecution, Mr. Deshpande.

Adv. Deshpande rising, a keen, dark, relent less figure.

Deshpande

Thank you, my lord! The facts in this case are simple, and to a point,

not in dispute. You will hear how the prisoner made the acquaintance

of Ms. Nayana Rao; a woman of fifty; how he was treated by her

kindness and even affection. The nature of that affection you will have

to decide for yourselves. On the night of January 14th, between nine

thirty and ten o’ clock, Ms. Rao was murdered and medical testimony

will prove that death was caused by the heavy instrument, with the full

loaded GUN, from the backside of her. Though the single bullet was

shot, it ended the life of the woman. And it is the case for the

prosecution that it was shot by the prisoner, Bhaskar Raj.

Bhaskar

That’s not true, I didn’t do it.

46

The police with him stop him.

Deshpande

Among the witnesses you will hear police evidence; also Ms. Rao’s

house keeper, Saraswatibai…and from medical and laboratory experts

and the testimony of the murdered woman’s solicitor, who drew her

final will.

During this, a shot at the witness’ bench outside, with inspector Joshi,

Saraswatibai, laboratory man and the solicitor.

Back in the court room.

Deshpande

I’ll now call chief inspector Joshi, criminal investigation dept.

CUT TO:

19. INT / COURT ROOM - Continues

Adv. Deshpande is standing, examining Inspector Joshi. The packed court is

following the testimony closely.

Inspect.

…from the body temperature and other factors, we placed the time and

death at between nine thirty to ten p.m., approximately one hour

before Saraswatibai, the housekeeper, returned home and called us.

Deshpande

In what position did you find the body of Ms. Rao?

Inspect.

She was lying on her face, with a severe injury to the back of her head.

47

Bhaskar is listening this quietly.

Deshpande

Was that injury the cause of death?

Inspect.

Yes, sir. Death was instant and caused by one blow from a

heavy pistol.

Deshpande

Whose pistol was that?

Inspect.

Ms. Nayana Rao kept it for her security. She had license.

Deshpande

Ok! Were there any other sign of struggle?

Inspect.

No. Just the one shot.

Deshpande

One shot? Would that indicate to you that the murderer had taken

Ms. Rao by surprise?

Sathyadev rises up sharply.

Sathyadev

My lord, I must object….my learned friend refers to the assailant as

the murderer, But we have not yet determined whether the assailant

was a man….or a woman. It could have been the murderess.

The judge

Adv. Deshpande, it seems that Adv. Sathyadev has joined us on a

point of grammer. Please rephrase your question.

48

Sathyadev with a little smile at Deshpande, sits down.

Deshpande

Yes, my lord.

(to inspe.)

Inspector, is it your opinion that the assailant… (glaring at Sathyadev)

…whether he, she or it….took Ms. Rao by surprise?

Sathyadev rises quickly again.

Sathyadev

My lord, I’m taken by surprise that my learned colleague should

attempt to solicit from the witness an opinion, and not a fact.

Judge

Quite so. You’ll have to do better than that, Adv. Deshpande.

Deshpande

My lord, I withdraw the question entirely.

Sathyadev

That’s much better.

Sathyadev sits.

Deshpande

Very well, inspector, let us proceed with the facts in the case. After

establishing the cause and the time of death, what did you then do?

Inspect.

A search was made, photographs were taken and the premises were

fingerprinted.

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, isn’t that so?

Sathyadev (rises)

Objection, my lord! The reputed lawyer is putting words in the

witness’ mouth.

50

Judge

Don’t you think so, Adv. Deshpande?

Deshpande

Yes, my lord.

(to inspect.)

Inspector, did any of the murdered woman’s 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 out…a 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 prisoner’s flat, which I handed to our lab

51

….to test the blood stains.

Deshpande

Was the blood of a particular group or type?

Inspect.

Yes! It is type O!

Deshpande

And did you subsequently test the blood of the dead woman?

Inspect.

Yes, sir.

Deshpande

What type was that?

Inspect.

The same…O.

Deshpande

Thank you, inspector.

Bhaskar hears the excited murmur from the court room. He glances anxiously at

the judge, who is writing a note.

Deshpande

No further questions.

Deshpande sits down. There’s a moment’s pause. Sathyadev rises.

Sathyadev

(to inspect.)

You said that the only fingerprints you found were those of Ms. Rao,

Saraswati and Bhaskar Raj. In your experience when a burglar breaks

52

…in, does he usually leave fingerprints, or does he wear gloves?

Inspect.

He wears gloves.

Sathyadev

So the absence of fingerprints in a case of robbery would

hardly surprise you?

Inspect.

No, sir!

Sathyadev

Can’t we then surmise that a burglar might have entered what was

presumably an empty house, might have suddenly encountered

Ms. Rao and struck her….then realizing that she was dead, panicked

and fled without taking anything?

Inspect.

Yes sir. That’s possible.

Deshpande (rises)

I submit, my lord that it is entirely impossible to guess what went on

in the mind of some entirely imaginable burglar….with or

without gloves.

Judge

Quite right, adv. Deshpande.

(to Sathyadev)

Let us not surmise but confine ourselves to facts, adv. Sathyadev.

Sathyadev

(nods…then to inspect.)

Inspector, when you questioned prisoner as to the stains on his

shirt, did he not show you a recently healed scar on his wrist and

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 prisoner’s 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 prisoner’s

shirt were analyzed, as was the blood of Ms. Rao, and they were both

found to be the same group, group O?

Inspect.

That’s 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 prisoner’s 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.

Group…O!

A buzz in the court room. Bhaskar relieved.

Sathyadev

Thank you, inspector!

55

Sathyadev sits. Deshpande rises.

Deshpande.

You may stand down, inspector.

(to judge)

I would like to call Saraswatibai.

CUT TO:

20. INT / COURT ROOM - Continues

Saraswati in the witness stand, carrying her bag. Her tight lipped face cold and

expressionless. She glares at Bhaskar.

Deshpande

Your name is Saraswati Patil, right?

Saraswati

Yes, that’s correct.

Deshpande

Where do you live?

Saraswati

(turning to the judge)

Now that Nayana mam, poor soul, is dead. I’ve moved with

my niece to the old city.

Deshpande

You were companion – housekeeper of Ms. Rao?

Saraswati

I was her companion not housekeeper.

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. 14th.

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 wasn’t me. It wasn’t my voice.

The policeman near him restrains him.

Deshpande

Are you sure it was prisoner’s 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, m’lord. What Ms. Rao knew or did not know is pure

conjecture on Saraswati’s 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 doesn’t make any sense, Saraswatibai. It is possible for any

woman to read anything…that doesn’t mean she apply that.

Deshpande

What you know about Ms. Rao’s 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. Rao’s estate?

Saraswati

That’s 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

I’m not antagonistic to him. He’s 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 14th, you say

you heard Bhaskar and Ms. Rao talking together. What did you hear

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…them say?

Saraswati

I didn’t hear what they actually said.

Sathyadev

You mean you only heard the voices…the murmur of voices?

Saraswati

They were laughing.

Sathyadev

What makes you say the man’s 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 door…yet you are sure that you heard

Bhaskar’s 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. That’s the way

your mind worked. Now, tell me, did Ms. Rao sometimes watch

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…television in the evening?

Saraswati

Yes! She was fond of comic shows.

Sathyadev

Wasn’t it possible that on the evening when you returned home and

passed the door, that what you really heard was the television, man’s

and woman’s voices and laughter?

Saraswati

It was not the T.V.

Sathyadev

Why not?

Saraswati

Because it was away being repaired that week.

Laughter in the court room. The judge, with a smile, is making a note. Sathyadev

and Rajesh exchange a worried glance.

Deshpande

(with a look at Sathyadev)

If my learned friend has no further questions….

Sathyadev

I have not finished.

(to Saraswati)

Did you recently apply to the National Health Insurance for

a hearing aid?

Saraswati

A what?

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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?

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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. Rao’s 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 witness’s entrance.

Revathi, Bhaskar’s 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 friend’s 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…! That’s 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! That’s 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, “I’ve 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 I’m 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 woman…she 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.

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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 then…when 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 that…that 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 more…is the evidence you have given the

truth, the only truth?

Revathi

What I told you is the truth, the whole truth!

Deshpande

Then that, that’s 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 finally…most damaging of all…the 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 prosecution’s 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 riddle…the 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

the whole truth and nothing but the TRUTH!

Rajesh hands over a long sheet of paper to Sathyadev. Sathyadev keeps it aside.

Sathyadev

(to Bhaskar)

Your name is Bhaskar Raj?

Bhaskar

Yes!

Sathyadev

Bhaskar, did you or did you not, on the night of 14th January, murder

Ms. Nayana Rao?

Bhaskar

(firmly)

I did not.

Sathyadev sits, with a gesture to Deshpande that Bhaskar is all his. Deshpande is

taken by surprise. There is an excited murmur in the court room.

Judge

Have you, in fact, concluded your examination of the prisoner,

Sathyadev?

Sathyadev

(half rising)

My lord, the prisoner has endured three days of the most profound

mental agony and shock. The defense feels that his stamina should be

spared for the cross examination by my learned friend for the

prosecution. I am confident that no matter how searching this may be,

the prisoner will withstand it.

Sathyadev sits. Deshpande walks up to Bhaskar.

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 don’t remember anything like that.....I don’t think I went there….

(instantly)

Oh…yes…yes! I remember….I went there….yes! But I think that’s

not a crime?

Deshpande

Not at all. Many people go for it….when they can pay for it. But you

couldn’t 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 don’t know, it was….

77

Deshpande

If you don’t 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 didn’t! 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 don’t know

her….I didn’t even see her. So I went in…and the man there gave me

a funny look…may be because of I looked a bit shabby…and it

irritated me so I kept asking for the different tours…

Deshpande

An act? No, not an act…you knew that in a week you were going to

get rs.5 crore!

Bhaskar

No…it was nothing like that! It was childish…it was fun…I enjoyed

it. I wasn’t planning something…..

Deshpande

It was just a remarkable coincidence that Ms. Rao should be killed

only a week later?

78

Bhaskar

I’ve told you, I didn’t kill her!

Deshpande

Can you suggest any reason…why Rehana Sheikh should deliberately

give evidence she has given if it were not true?

Bhaskar (starting to break)

No, I don’t know. I don’t know why my wife…I don’t 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 me…in 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 didn’t do anything. But you make it sound as though I did!

79

(hand to head) I can hear it myself!

Deshpande

You came home at ten past ten!

Bhaskar

No, I didn’t…you’ve got to believe me!

Deshpande

You killed Ms. Rao!

Bhaskar

I didn’t do it! I didn’t kill her! I’ve never killed anybody.

He collapses….his head in his hands.

CUT TO:

23. INT / SATHYADEV’S OFFICE / EVENING

The lights are on. It is after office hours. After a few seconds Sathyadev enters in

the office, followed by Rajesh. They are coming back from court. Priya is covering

and managing all the office room.

Priya

Good evening, sir!

No answer. Sathyadev pays no attention. He crosses to the chair behind his desk.

Rajesh

I’m afraid sir. This seems too open and shut.

Sathyadev (sits)

I watched judge when fraud Sheikh was in the witness box,

they didn’t like her.

80

Rajesh

No, they didn’t like her but they believed her. They liked Bhaskar, but

they didn’t believe him.

Sathyadev

…That travel agency business doesn’t help, either. And do you think

she lied?

Rajesh

I don’t know. I’m not sure.

Sathyadev

But I am. She lied. The only question in my mind is …..Why? What’s

her game? What is she up to?

Rajesh

Sir, I hope in your final speech tomorrow, you won’t let yourself

become too emotionally involved. I want to see you save yourself.

This isn’t going to be your last case….

Sathyadev

Yes, that’s right. But until it is over, I am still a lawyer and my

client’s life is at stake. That’s all that matters…his 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

24. INT/ ROSY NIGHT CLUB / EVENING

We see a woman from the backside, talking on a phone with Rajesh.

Woman

Is this sir Sathyadev’s office?

INTERCUT BETWEEN RAJESH AND WOMAN:

Rajesh

Yes, it is.

Woman

Let me talk to adv. Sathyadev.

Rajesh

Who is this speaking, please?

Woman

Don’t mind; let me talk to him…

Rajesh

What you want madam? What’s your business?

Woman

Its business right! I’ve got something to sell. It’s got to do with

that Bhaskar Raj.

Rajesh

Bhaskar Raj?

Sathyadev, Priya look at this. Sathyadev grabs the phone from Rajesh.

Sathyadev

This is adv. Sathyadev speaking, now what is this all about?

82

Woman

It’s about that Mumbai lady and it’s for sale.

Sathyadev

What you have?

Woman

Listen to me carefully; I’m in the ROSY night club, at the far end of

the bar. And I’ll be here for just thirty minutes…if 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 trial…drunk and

disorderly….giving ME an ultimatum…ROSY night club in thirty

minutes…got some documents of Mrs. Sheikh…I’m too tired and sick

of….I never became this much pressurized…and that’s why I’m

keeping no stone unturned….

Sathyadev starts walking outside the office.

Rajesh

Sir…sir!

Sathyadev

Come on, Rajesh!

83

CUT TO:

25. EXT / CITY ROAD / EVENING

Adv. Sathyadev’s 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. It’s 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 don’t want to talk to him.

84

Sathyadev

He is Rajesh. He is my associate lawyer.

Woman

Lawyer? Ok!

Sathyadev

You’re 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! Don’t make me laugh!

Sathyadev

If you will let us see these letters, madam we shall be able to advice

85

…you as to how important they are.

Woman

Well, as I say, I don’t expect you to buy without seeing it but fair’s

fair. If these letters get the boy off…well, you need to offer me a

good sum.

She opens her bags and shows a packet of letters. Sathyadev immediately checks it.

Sathyadev

If these letters contain information useful to the defense….I can offer

you ten thousands.

Woman

What? Bloody ten thousands, for letters like these?

(snaps the letters and walks out)

…good night, gentleman!

Sathyadev

If these should help to prove my client’s innocence, twenty thousands,

I think this is not a bad sum for you….

Sathyadev gates his money packet out from his coat and gives it to her. She

excitedly takes it.

Woman

Oh! Thank you very much….sir, thank you!

She puts the letters on the bar. Sathyadev and Rajesh each take one and start

reading eagerly. The bar man arrives with the two whiskeys.

Sathyadev (to woman)

How do you know these are from Mrs. Sheikh?

86

Woman

Oh! She wrote them all.

Rajesh

I’ve 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

I’ll 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 wasn’t 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! We’d 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?

88

Rajesh

Gone, I’d say. She just doesn’t want her other side to be slashed.

Can’t 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! Ma’m, please wait! Listen! Where are you going?

89

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 don’t want to trouble him…

Sathyadev

Absolutely don’t 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

90

Rajesh comes from the backside of him.

Rajesh

What happened sir?

Sathyadev

That killer ran away….

Rajesh

Killer? Who killer, sir?

Sathyadev

Killer who……

(suddenly remembers that woman)

…oh my god! That woman…..

Sathyadev runs backwards. Rajesh follows him.

CUT TO:

31. EXT / SMALL LANE / NIGHT

Sathyadev comes to the place where that woman was shot. But Sathyadev is

stunned because the body is missing. Rajesh comes in a second.

Rajesh

Sir! What happened?

Sathyadev looks for that woman here and there. Everything is confusing. He just

sits and starts thinking quietly.

CUT TO:

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32. INT / COURT ROOM / DAY

The camera pans up to reveal the court room. It is opening of the fourth day of the

trial and the crowded court room is awaiting the entrance of the judge. In a second,

judge arrives. All rise. Judge moves to his place. Bhaskar Raj standing in the

prisoner’s dock. He looks nervous. The judge bows to the court and sits, everyone

following. Sathyadev and Rajesh at their places.

Judge

Since the defense has called but one witness….the prisoner….it has

the right to be heard last in summation. Therefore, adv. Deshpande, if

you are ready, let us have the final address for the prosecution.

Sathyadev rises.

Sathyadev

My lord, I ask that the case for the defense be reopened and that a

witness be recalled.

There is a reaction in the court room. Bhaskar looks at Sathyadev with a new

hope. Adv. Deshpande is puzzled by this approach.

Deshpande

I strongly object to the reopening of the case which the prosecution

regards as closed.

Sathyadev

Evidence of the most startling nature has come into my possession

only last night…I have anticipated my friend’s objection….there is,

first, 1973’s case of the state vs Humayun Patel, 1988’s case of the

State vs Suresh Ayyangar in which this issue was raised. And I’m sure

your lordship will remember since they appeared for the prosecution.

Judge

Yes, I did. Now what is this new evidence?

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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 lordship’s 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 echo’s 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 don’t know what you mean…

Sathyadev

It’s a simple question. Do you or do you not know a man

called Yusuf?

Revathi (quickly)

No, I don’t know.

Sathyadev

It’s fairly a common name. And yet you mean that you have never

known a man by the name of Yusuf?

Revathi

Oh! In Mumbai…perhaps….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 isn’t true.

Judge

The prisoner, in his own interest, should remain silent!

Sathyadev

Did you hear that? Huun? So…keep quite….

Rajesh gestures to Bhaskar to keep calm, and he does so.

Sathyadev

I’m 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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Revathi comes out of the box and comes near to Sathyadev.

Revathi

I will not stand here and listen to pack of lies….this letter is a

forgery…I’ve not written them….

Everyone else tries to stop her.

Deshpande

You first go to the witness box…..and then say….

The policeman takes her into the witness box.

Revathi

….it isn’t even my letter paper….

Sathyadev

It isn’t?

Revathi

No. I write my letters on small blue paper….with my initials on it.

Sathyadev

Really? Like this?

He holds up the packet of blue letters. She stares.

Sathyadev

(holding up the white letter )

This happens to be my light bill….

Excited reactions in the court room.

Sathyadev

Now, Mrs. Sheikh, you have been kind enough to identify your

96

letter paper, now if you like, I can have an expert identify your

handwriting.

Revathi

This is wrong! This is illegal to read somebody’s personal letters.

Sathyadev

Really?

Revathi

…this is a kind of stealing….you can’t read my…

Sathyadev

My? My what?

Revathi remains silent. Sathyadev looks at Judge.

Sathyadev

You’re 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 question…did 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

court…and 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, isn’t 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 Sathyadev…then to Bhaskar. Bhaskar looks at her

with affection.

Sathyadev

Answer my question….did you write this letter?

Bhaskar

Tell him you didn’t 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 prisoner’s 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 judge’s 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

Let’s say we were lucky all around.

A policeman comes in.

Policeman

Mr. Bhaskar, if you’ll be kind enough to come with us and sign the

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…papers, we can release you.

Bhaskar

Mr. Bhaskar?

Policeman (to Revathi)

Madam, you better wait here until we manage the disturbed crowd

and media outside.

Revathi

Ok!

They walk out. There is the sound of angry crowd outside the court room.

Rajesh is smiling, looking at Bhaskar.

Rajesh

(to Sathyadev)

The lucky one! An hour ago he had one foot on the gallows and the

other on a banana peel. You must be very proud, sir.

Sathyadev

Not yet. We’ve disposed of the gallows, but there is still that banana

peel….somewhere….under somebody’s foot. By the way, you go

along with Bhaskar, help him clear the formalities.

CUT TO:

34. EXT / COURT / ENTRANCE - Continuous

We see a bit of riot. The crowd and media representatives are in an ugly mood,

shouting insults and waving fists. The policemen are trying to control them. We

see that the object of the crowd is Revathi.

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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

It’s all right. But finally I cried. I look terrible when I cry.

Sathyadev

Don’t 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 won’t be for life.

Sathyadev

If I were retained for the prosecution, it would be.

Revathi

You hate me, don’t you? Like the people outside. What a wicked

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woman I am, and how brilliantly you exposed me, and saved

Bhaskar’s 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

That’s 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 guilty…and 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)

I’ll give you something you’ll dream about, mister.

103

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. It’s been a long time since I was an

actress, and I never before played such an important role……

Sathyadev

And murder of the woman… you…and all those blue letters?

Revathi

The murder was a fake one…and It took me hours to write the

letters…to 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.

104

Revathi

No, sir, you won’t understand at all…I knew HE WAS GUILTY!

Sathyadev (shocked)

What? No, that can’t be true…

Revathi

Bhaskar came home a few minutes past ten…he had blood on the

shirts….he did tell me he had killed the woman. He cried like a

child….only I could save him…he pleaded to me….

Sathyadev

And you saved him? A murderer!

Revathi

Again, you don’t 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

Bhaskar…darling!

105

She starts to embrace him. He doesn’t respond her, instead looks over her shoulder

at Sathyadev.

Bhaskar

She fooled you completely, didn’t she?

Sathyadev

Not she. It’s you, Bhaskar who really fooled me…you have insulted

the law, the judiciary, even humanity.

Bhaskar

Really? You think so?

Sathyadev

Yes!

Bhaskar

Sathyadev sir, it’s you who saved me….take it easy sir, we both got

out of it safely….let’s 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 India…they are not through

with you yet.

Bhaskar

Oh, yes they are…you’ve done a good job. You got me off, and I can’t

be tried again…that’s the law, and you know it.

Revathi

You can’t touch him now…nobody can.

106

Sathyadev

(passionately)

You’ll pay for this somehow….they’ll hang you…

Bhaskar

No, they won’t. As for paying for it…why not double your fees?

What’s say? Now I’m not a cheap…I’m not a bad guy. I want

everyone to get something out of it. There’s Saraswati, let’s

get her hearing aid….(to Revathi)

…Revathi, you’ve done a lot for me, when they try you for perjury,

I’ll pay to get you off easy.

Revathi

I don’t care, Bhaskar….just we’ll be together again…you don’t 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, Sathyadev’s clerk, standing there.

Sathyadev

Priya?

Priya runs to Bhaskar. They hug each other.

Bhaskar

Priya! Oh Priya! They’ve been trying to keep me away from you…

Revathi

(shocked)

Bhaskar, who is this girl? What she has to do with you?

Priya

I’m not this girl….I’m his would be WIFE! And other wise also

your marriage is illegal!

107