The Pandalam dynasty comprises the descendants of the Pandya kings
who ruled Madurai in the late 8th century.
After battling with the 'Maravan' army of Tirumala Naikkar,
the Pandya kings first reached Konni
and then Pandalam via 'Achan Kovil'.
Along with them, they brought
the idol of Madurai Meenakshi, their family deity.
The Goddess worshipped at the top of the 'Malika' (mansion),
thus became their 'Malikappurathamma.'
The royal family later enshrined the Goddess in Sabarimala
along with Lord Ayyappan, the Protector of eighteen hills.
Following the austerity measures, when women and little girl pilgrims
make their maiden pilgrimage to Sabarimala
they were addressed this way, the history says.
Malikapuram...
'MALIKAPURAM'
Ayyappa!
You scared me again today!
Ain't I a poor soul?!
-Mwah! -Kallu, dear...
♪ A village where two cute little bunnies Dance and play in merry ♪
♪ A village where a pretty swing is hung For them to play on ♪
♪ As you travel with the mystic wind, You reach 'Appooppankavu' ♪
♪ The village that adorns The sweet beauty of the January mist ♪
♪ A village where two cute little bunnies Dance and play in merry ♪
♪ A village where a pretty swing is hung For them to play on ♪
GOVT. U.P SCHOOL, APPUPPANKAAVU.
♪ As the alluring floret wears The necklace bestowed by the morning bliss ♪
♪ The warm rays of sun Climb down the hill to sneak it ♪
♪ Even the clouds go on a pilgrimage Seeking Swamy's temple ♪
♪ Even the stars become maiden-pilgrims ♪
♪ And set off to light up A holy lamp for the Swamy ♪
♪ The village that adorns The sweet beauty of the january mist ♪
♪ A village where two cute little bunnies Dance and play in merry ♪
♪ A village where a pretty swing is hung For them to play on ♪
♪ As you travel with the mystic wind, You reach 'Appooppankavu' ♪
♪ The village that adorns The sweet beauty of the january mist ♪
♪ Even the clouds go on a pilgrimage Seeking Swamy's temple ♪
♪ Even the stars become maiden-pilgrims ♪
♪ And set off to light up A holy lamp for the Swamy ♪
♪ Even the stars become maiden-pilgrims ♪
♪ And set off to light up A holy lamp for the Swamy ♪
And then what happened, Grandma?
Then...
Ayyappan perched on the tigress and came to Pandalam.
Everybody got startled, seeing it!
Messing with Ayyappan, huh?!
Grandma, when will you take me to Sabarimala?
This time we will take you to Sabarimala for sure.
Is Ayyappan still on the tigress?
Go to bed, Kallu.
Let Dad come. I'll go to sleep after that.
Did he call you?
Not yet, Mummy. His phone is off.
You go to sleep, Mummy. Ajayan will come.
Now tell me another story.
-Once upon a.... -Kallu...
Where's Kallu, Auntie?
How often have I warned you not to come this way at night?
Snakes could be there.
I came seeking my Dad.
Hey, you!
Oh! You were with him?! What's in the box?
Unni brought tender jackfruit in the afternoon. I made 'Thoran' with it.
Wow! Ajayan will have a feast tonight!
What do you have for dinner?
Rice with this 'Thoran'. Will you have some?
-I came here to avoid eating it. -Scram, you!
Kallu, I've a doubt. Come with me.
-What? -Okay then. -Bye.
Bring Dad and come home early.
Did you do today's Maths homework?
-Yes, I did. -Nah!
-I did it! I swear. -But I didn't do it!
Please do it for me.
No can do.
Take your time. You may do it tomorrow.
-Let me give it a thought! -Yeah, think well and do it!
The calculation shouldn't go wrong!
Hi!
Dada!
My baby doll!
Mwah.
What's that foul smell here?
Nothing, nothing.
Did you bring my honey candy?
Oh-no!
You forgot again?!
Will I ever forget?!
Ta-da!
You get her candy everyday and spoil her.
Don't say that, Soumya.
Can one eat sweets after getting diabetic?
So better eat at this tender age.
Why have you kept your phone off?
Is my phone off? I don't think so.
It ran out of battery.
What happened to the bank matter?
That... there's nothing to worry about.
Our bank manager is like,
"Ajayan, don't worry. You may repay the loan in your own time!"
Who's that 'overly-nice' bank manager?!
Isn't the manager still the same guy?
The manager who gave us the loan is still there now.
That day he asked us to repay the loan as soon as possible.
But now he says I can take the house deed back if needed.
But I denied him. I'll take the deed only after repaying the loan.
See! That's how people change in a wink of an eye!
Serve dinner for me.
I'll take a shower and come.
Trust me!
I'll take a shower and come.
One more for you, Ayyappa!
So Ayyappan gets the bigger share today as well?
Poor Ayyappan! Let Him eat one more.
Alright.
What's up with Ayyappan?
Kallu,
don't feed all the honey candy to Ayyappan and make him diabetic.
Is the fashion designer busy stitching, even at night?
Stop pulling my leg.
This is all I know! Let me somehow survive!
Listen,
shall we start a tailoring unit?
No, not now.
Later.
Let me go and eat now. Did you serve my food?
It's on the table.
-Ajayan... - Yes. -Come here.
Mom, I heard you! I should take Kallu to Sabarimala, right?
Rain or shine, we'll go this time!
Kallu, tell Ayyappan that we are coming this time.
Long odds!
I promise! We...
not us, Kallu and me will go to Sabarimala this year.
Won't we?
Will he take me there for real?
He will.
We are also coming, huh!
'Rain, rain, go away.'
'Come again some other day.'
Shall we sing it again?
'Rain, rain, go away.'
'Come again some other day'
'We want to go outside and play.'
-'Come again...' -'Come again...'
'Come again some other day.'
Ayyappan again today, huh?!
Silence!
Present, teacher!
Nobody is taking attendance here now! Sit there, you!
Thank you, teacher.
What's going on?
Kallu was daydreaming.
Is she coming to school for daydreaming?!
Aren't you going to Sabarimala this time?
Yeah. Dada has told me that he'll take me this time.
Is it true that women are not allowed in Sabarimala?
Did you complete yesterday's homework?
Even he didn't do the homework.
Huh?!
'Rain, rain, go away'
'Come again some other day.'
I have no clue if women are allowed inside the Sabarimala.
But I'm sure that we won't be allowed inside the class anymore!
Are you happy now?
I've hired a guy for work here.
But all he does is drink tea and then pee!
He's got no time for anything other than this.
Keep this.
I'll take the money from your wife.
Have you arrived, Milord?!
Can you please be seated inside for at least 10 minutes?
You are always there, drinking tea!
I just went there.
Keep it inside.
Mr Unni is at full blast in the morning itself!
Hey...
The police have been passing through this way several times since morning.
Any clue what's going on?
They recovered a corpse from the gorge in Ayyappan Kavu.
Oh! So, they are going to pick up Pattada, the mortician!
Hey,
Ambadi came seeking you.
Did he? That's okay.
It didn't seem okay.
I know. Shall we have tea?
Okay. Come.
Go in!
Damn, his tea breaks!
Three cups of tea,
One without sugar.
That's your regular kind, right? I know.
Are you diabetic, Ajayan?
-Yeah. -Oh! Were you here?!
Why don't you visit Ayyappan Kavu once in a while?
You could have gotten your photo published in the daily as an unidentified dead body.
His liver is almost gone from boozing, yet he's blaming your diabetes?!
Getting mad, huh?
Kallus...
-Dada... -Kallus... -Baby girl!
Get two glasses of milk for the kids.
I need 'Pappada vada', the snack, as well.
Where did you go, Dada?
I was waiting for my cutie pie.
-C'mon! -Seriously!
I came to pick you up.
Mwah!
Here.
Why are you crunching it so loud? Any enmity with that snack?
Eat without making noise.
You may eat, Daddy.
-Eat it, Daddy. -I don't want.
-C'mon, eat it. -I said I don't want.
Poor child. Eat it.
[Crunching]
Looks like this 'Pappada vada' is our family's sworn enemy!
-What have you made in the name of snacks? -Pappada vada.
Such a scary guy.
Nah. Don't go with his appearance. He's a naive soul.
Well, the real trouble-mongers are walking scot-free outside.
Why are you scared, dear?
Come.
Come, my dear.
I said come.
Mother...
Come, come.
Eat it.
C'mon, eat it. My baby!
Sing a song.
Sing a lovely Ilayaraja song.
I said sing!
Mother...
♪ A ruthless world that cages a cuckoo... ♪
♪ How can it sing? ♪
Mother...
HEY!
How dare you?!
-Hello? -Did you finish?
Hey, Chettiyaar,
the work I came for is over.
Won't you ask for any reward?
A reward for this trivial task?
I got a fabulous feast as reward
from where I came.
Alright.
Seems like you have an eye on something big there.
The next time I'll do a bigger job, and take a tidy sum from you.
Okay.
Just take whatever you like there when you go.
-Is it okay? -Okay.
Mother, I'm getting scared.
Mother...
Sweetie, I am a big fan of Ilayaraja songs.
Wanna come with me?
-Mother... Father... -Valli...
-My daughter! -Valli...
-Oh-no! Don't snatch our daughter! -Valli...
-Oh-no! God! -Mother...
Grandma...
Grandma!
What's it, Kallu? Go to sleep.
I can't sleep, Grandma.
What is in Ayyappan Kavu?
Why are you asking about Ayyappan Kavu now?
Is Ayyappan there?
Ayyappan is in Sabarimala, right?
It is believed that Ayyappan took a rest there
amidst his travel seeking the tigress.
Some evil sorcerer came and did some sort of witchcraft there.
Then people stopped going to that place.
You should never go to that place, Kallu.
No. Dada has promised me that he will take me to Sabarimala.
Did he?! I'll also ask him to take you.
Go to sleep now.
Soumya, here...
O, God! Banana blossom for 'Thoran' again?
Why do you wanna invite diseases by eating pesticide-laced veggies?
This is fresh and full of vitamins.
Your health is my treasure.
Not because you're broke, right?
Who'll spend money and buy banana blossom?!
This is organic. Organic farming, you know!
Oh! I got it now!
Ajayan...
Son, Kallu is 8 years old now.
We vowed to Lord Ayyappan and that's when God blessed us with her.
When the temple opens for pilgrims on this first day of this month,
you must take her to Sabarimala.
Ajayan, that vow is still not fulfilled.
You must take her this time.
Isn't this her maiden pilgrimage? We can't take her just like that.
Shouldn't we conduct the ceremony with Ayyappan Paattu and all?
It's not needed. She's observing fast every day, anyway.
Just adorn her with the holy chain and take her to Sabarimala.
There's no need to follow all those customs and all.
-But mother.. -No more questions!
Days are not like how they used to be.
Well, who has time for all these nowadays?
That's her long-cherished dream.
You need to make it happen for her.
Seriously?
Okay.
Dear...
Shall we go somewhere?
To the school, right?
Vroom, vroom!
Dada, where are we really going?
AYYAPPA!
Enough.
This time Ayyappan has really heard you.
Now you get down slowly.
Do you see that hill?
Sabarimala is right next to that hill.
But grandma said that there are 18 hills.
Eighteen... yeah!
There...
1... 2... 10... 16... 17... 18...
There are almost as many hills.
Hence, that's Sabarimala.
We will first board the bus to Pamba.
We'll go straight to Erumeli and get down there.
I know,
in Erumeli, we will watch Petta thullal, the ritual dance.
After that, we will bathe in the Pamba river.
We climb the holy hills only after bathing in Pamba.
After the hills, we ascend Pathinettaam Padi, the 18 divine steps.
You know everything, Huh! Smartie!
You always make empty promises and cheat me, Dada.
Not this time, my baby doll!
-Look, Mr Ayyappan! -Eh?!
This time Kallus and I are coming there to see you!
Eh?!
-Seriously?! -Yes, didn't you hear. Ayyappan told us to come fast!
Okay, Mr Ayyappan, see you there!
Ayyappa... we'll meet this time.
Yes!
Hold tight.
-Ready, Kallus? -Yeah.
Ten for the Thala, Ajith Kumar!
YAY!
Foul Unni is winning over and over again! Something seems fishy!
Don't you dare call me 'Foul Unni'!
Did your Dad come back from the Middle East?
Hey, Kallu.
Unni etta, you won many cards today.
Do you want some?
Is there Ayyappan's picture in it?
Not Ayyappan, but Thor and Rocky bhai are there. Do you want?
Nah, I'm good.
Shall we go to Ayyappan Kavu this evening?
If it doesn't rain, we'll go in the evening.
-Kallu, what is the next hour? -Maths.
Oh! Then it's sleeping hour!
Listen...
So, Ayyappan kaavu in the evening, right? We'll go!
Sabarimala... Observing a fast is quite tough, okay?
If you wear the chain tomorrow, won't it take several days to go to Sabarimala?
So what?! After all, it's for Ayyappan!
You, too wear the holy chain, Unni etta.
I'll wear it the day before our journey.
Why so?
Since I've gone there several times that would be enough.
You have made the pilgrimage a lot of times, right?
Of course!
How many times!
Thulasi P.P, do you wanna come to Sabarimala?
-No, I'm good. -No?!
I thought if she came, you'd have company.
Foul Unni, come push my bicycle!
Scram, you loser!
You're gonna fall and break your head, man!
How dare he insult me in front of Thulasi P.P!
Unni etta, how does Ayyappan look?
Which Ayyappan?
Oh! The Ayyappan!
Ayyappan looks like...
Unni, you braggy! Run! Run!
What's wrong?!
Pattada, the mortician, is coming. Run for your life!
KALLU, RUN!
Thulasi P.P, come quick!
Eh?
Malikapuram...
O, God!
You are so brave, Unni etta!
This is nothing! I've hidden many such talents in me.
Once he applies his sacred ash on one's forehead, they become his slaves.
-Who told you this? -My Grandma.
Damn your Grandma's stories!
I told you the fact. That's all I could do!
I am off!
Kallu, stop there!
APPOOPPANKAVU SERVICE CO-OPERATIVE BANK
-Why are you here? -To see the manager. -Alright.
Don't get stressed out. Let's figure out a way.
If they had taken the confiscation paper directly to my house,
I would have doomed.
Do I have any other place to take them?
Now I have paid more interest than the loan amount.
I couldn't find a way out of this.
Suggest me a way out of this.
There's no other solution than to repay the loan.
They only smile when we come to take the loan.
After that, there are no sentiments at all.
Apart from this, haven't you borrowed eight lakh rupees from Ambadi?
Since I stood as guarantor for you for the loan, he's now chasing me.
What shall I do now?
You find a job in the Middle East once again.
Your problems can be resolved if you work there for a couple of years.
In that case, these bank people and Ambadi would compromise a bit.
Our Chandu can take you to there within a week.
The Middle East may sound splendid.
But life in a labour camp is miserable. I've lived it.
However, people will still consider you as an NRI.
All thse troublemakers will come after you then.
Listen to me. You go to the Middle East one more time.
If I go to the Middle East, I won't be able to return for the next two years.
By then, my daughter will be above 10-years-old.
I've been giving her empty promises of taking her to Sabarimala for so long.
Taking her to Sabarimala is not your prime concern now,
but to escape from the bankers.
That will be resolved only if you go to the Middle East.
Please do what I say.
For now, I'll convince him to give you some time for repayment.
He won't pay heed to anything more than that.
Please do it.
You get going, then. Let me talk to the manager and come.
Hey, keep this with you.
Why are you giving this to me?
If I take this home, Soumya will see this and it'll cause trouble.
Since I don't have a house of my own, nothing troubles me!
Okay, then. See you at the club in the evening.
O Ayyappa! Things are getting out of hand!
It's not the right time yet!
Ajayan, my child...
When did you get released from the police station?
They kept me hostage for some time and then released me.
Oh!
Drinking too much, huh?! Looks frightening!
Fright!
A condition where you don't trust yourself.
That's called fright for human beings.
Ajayan, your mind is terribly stirred up, right?
Mine?!
-Yes. -Nah!
I'm alright.
Kannimala,
Neelimala,
Karimala,
and Sabarimala!
There's still a maiden pilgrimage left in your house, right?
Time is flying,
Ajayan dear...
For her and for you too.
I'm the one who arranged the funeral pyre
for your father.
Then...
you were hardly eight years old.
Today your daughter is...
eight years old.
Born on the auspicious Uthram star sign!
Stop scaring me!
Listen...
It's going to rain, I guess.
Don't sleep here. You better go to the junction.
MALIKAPURAM!
-Did he attend the call? -Not yet.
He never gets home late like this.
Damn new habits!
His phone is either out of the coverage area or switched off all the time.
It's all a lie!
Dada is here!
My phone got switched off.
Where were you?
I went to Ayyappan Kavu.
I dozed off there.
Is that where you sleep nowadays?
That's a peaceful place to sleep.
No one will come there because of fear.
Keep this in the prayer room.
Vegetables?!
Not the vegetables, but the packet inside the bag.
Dear...
Are you mad at me?
If you smile, I'll give you some news.
Tomorrow you and I...
will wear the chain for the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
Really?!
Yes!
That's our promise to Ayyappan, right?
Dada..
Kallu, Miss Malikappuram is on clud nine!
Yeah.
If you are going, take him too with you.
Oh-no!
Can I adorn the holy chain a day before going to Sabarimala?
That you suit yourself.
That means, are you not going?
If I go, who will handle the shop?
Please keep your phone in full charge atleast when you go with them.
Seek help from your brother-in-law who works in KSEB for that.
Get lost, man.
Dada, will you cheat me again this time?
Mwah!
♪ O little flower ♪
♪ We gotta go all the way Up the hill together ♪
♪ O little friend ♪
♪ I am there with you, to guide you ♪
♪ In the narrow paths ♪
♪ On the hill of dreams ♪
♪ As you progress forward tirelessly ♪
♪ I am with you, To uphold and protect you ♪
♪ O little flower ♪
♪ We gotta go all the way Up the hill together ♪
♪ O little friend ♪
♪ I am there with you, to guide you ♪
Swami Saranam.
♪ O dear child, the beat of my heart ♪
♪ You are the slender smile That soothes my soul's agony ♪
♪ As you climb up your dream With your tender feet ♪
♪ My desires bloom and fulfill ♪
♪ My tears sprinkle out like the rain, My dear ♪
♪ O little flower... ♪
♪ O darling daughter... ♪
♪ As you blossom like a flower, I watch you by your side ♪
♪ I shall grace you a fond shade Like a breeze ♪
♪ As the desires of your heart blossom ♪
♪ As your little face shines Like the blue moonlight ♪
♪ My heart fills with delight, O the virtue of my life ♪
Go to your class.
Good morning, sir.
Take your seat.
Everybody sit down.
For the time being, let this be here.
Okay!
Ashish P.V
Come here.
Move to this side.
Look straight at my face.
I saw you throwing stones at the guava tree last week!
Though I threw the stone, it didn't hit the tree, sir.
Stretch your hand.
C'mon stretch it.
Go.
Are you scared?
Yeah, I am. What about you?
Basil...
Come here.
Wicked beast!
I am really scared.
Why?
Because I copied all answers from his paper.
-Awesome! -2 marks!
-Stretch your hand. -Why, sir?
Wannabe doctor, it seems!
-Scram. -Thank you, sir.
Piyoosh Unni.
Screwed!
Come here fast.
Piyoosh...
What was your score for the last exam?
-Three. -Three?!
That means you have made progress this time.
Three and a half marks!
Stretch your hand.
I said stretch your hand.
Hail to you, Lord Ayyappa! Sir, Swami (pilgrim)!
I'm a Swami!
Are you also going to Sabarimala?
Kallu, Kallu's father and me.
Is it true, Malikapuram?
-Are you telling the truth? -Yes, sir.
Well, this is the wrong time for me. Won't take any risk!
Swami Saranam.
Take your seat, Swami.
Swami Saranam.
Are you not coming to Sabarimala, Unni etta?
I just made it up to escape from the claws of that Chandrappan Pillai.
Nobody would dare to beat someone who has adorned the holy chain.
How intelligent, right?!
Your Grandma told me this.
When did my Grandma say this?
Anyways, your Grandma says all sorts of stories, doesn't she?
Let this be an add on to your Grandma's credit!
If you make such lies, the tigress will catch you.
No chance since I'm not going to Sabarimala!
Right Thulasi P.P?
Come.
Why do you even keep a phone?
-Why? -Why are you not picking up the call?
How can I pick up the call when I'm riding the bike?
Don't you need to go to the Panchayath office?
I went and came back.
That Ambadi came in search of you.
That's all?
With that look on his face, I thought the bankers have gone to my house.
Hey, everything is not a joke.
He's somewhat of a henchman.
C'mon!
After all, he's our friend, Ambadi!
Anyways, I've worn the holy chain to go to Sabarimala.
Now nobody would dare to touch me.
I need to meet the bank manager in this attire to butter him up.
The tenth of this month is the due date.
The bank manager is an atheist. This attire won't help there.
What's up, ward member? How's the carroms game going on?
Not bad. It's going good.
Bloody games!
-Are you planning to go to Sabarimala? -Yes.
I'm on a month's fasting.
Will a tea with me break your fasting?
Come, let's have tea.
Come, man.
Sit there! Sit there!
You already had five or six cups!
Stay put!
Rametta, two cups of tea, please.
A cigarette too.
Ambadi... man....
There is one more month of fasting.
Once I'm back from Sabarimala,
I will return your money immediately.
I... I will... for sure.
I swear.
Here is your tea.
This time I will...
I'll pay you back for sure.
Ambadi...
I'll definitely return your money.
You know me.
Ambadi!
Dada...
You are off to swindle people, aren't you?!
Ambadi...
My daughter is watching, please...
You bloody son of a bitch!
What the hell are you doing, Ambadi?
Hey, if not him, will you repay me?!
One week!
That's your ultimatum to pay my money back!
If not, I will come to your house before the bankers foreclose it.
Did you understand?
Move away!
What's wrong?
Dada...
Nothing, my child.
You go home.
I won't.
Go.
Come, Kallu.
Don't worry, my child.
Go home. Don't tell anyone about this at home.
The sun started going down.
A myna came in while they were merrily playing.
Kuttan has never seen a bird come so close without fear.
He felt that he could slowly approach and take it in his hand.
-But making a niose-- -Teacher...
Good morning, sir.
What happened, sir?
Grandma...
♪ O' dear, my little child ♪
♪ As you tremble in grief ♪
♪ As the beads of smile you wear ♪
Kalloos...
♪ Unfasten and collapse ♪
Dada...
♪ Have your little feet Lost their way halfway? ♪
♪ Is the fire of your heart's desires Getting doused? ♪
♪ Are your teardrops falling down Like rain, o dear? ♪
♪ O little flower ♪
♪ We gotta go all the way Up the hill together ♪
♪ O little friend ♪
♪ I am there with you, to guide you ♪
♪ In the narrow paths ♪
♪ On the hill of dreams ♪
♪ As you progress forward tirelessly ♪
♪ I am with you, To uphold and protect you ♪
Why are you standing here, away from the family?
Come there. The relatives are making a fuss about this.
I was trying to hold up myself since morning.
How long can I...
I too have to cry!
People are watching...
People are complaining it's not right for the daughter to conduct father's rites.
No. He wanted her to do it, so let her do it.
I take refuge in you,
Lord Ayyappa!
♪ O, the star-studded sky ♪
♪ Are you unfastening the holy rosary? ♪
♪ Is your numb soul ♪
♪ Burning like a pyre? ♪
♪ Even the serene moonlight ♪
♪ Blazes in woe ♪
♪ You... all alone now ♪
Dada...
Grandma, I want to see Dada...
Dada will come, my child.
Dada went to see Ayyappan.
He'll come back.
I have to go back tomorrow. That's why I'm saying this now itself.
How many chairs are there in total?
Fifty?
Since Mom is not well,
When we go tomorrow, we will take her with us.
What about Soumya and the child?
What about them?
Let's try to discuss with the bank one more time.
They may give us a little more time.
I understand what you mean, brother-in-law.
You fear that now his wife and child will become a burden on you.
-Hey, no. -Shut up.
Jaya...
I have known you since your childhood.
He mortaged his house deed so that you could build your own house.
-That... -What?!
How many times have you come here after marriage?
That's because he doesn't get any day off from his office.
That's because of COVID--
Both of you don't need to worry about her.
I will take them to my house.
My house may be small.
I'll protect you like my sister.
You sleep here tonight.
I'll come tomorrow morning.
Bro-in-law...
have some gruel.
Is the gruel ready?
♪ As the memories touch you gently ♪
♪ You silently burn ♪
♪ As the days and nights drown in your agony ♪
♪ Are you slowly stitching up your shattered dreams? ♪
♪ Are the nightingales singing their tune again? ♪
♪ Don't let your tears fall down, Dont you cry, my dear ♪
Are you not having your food?
I don't want to, Mommy.
If I tell you something, will you obey me?
You should go to school tomorrow.
♪ O little flower ♪
♪ We gotta go all the way Up the hill together ♪
♪ O little friend ♪
♪ I am there with you, to guide you ♪
♪ In the narrow paths ♪
♪ On the hill of dreams ♪
♪ As you progress forward tirelessly ♪
♪ I am with you, To uphold and protect you ♪
♪ O little flower ♪
♪ We gotta go all the way Up the hill together ♪
♪ O little friend ♪
♪ I am with you as your shade ♪
Basil, move away. That's the graveyard.
Don't scare me.
Basil, it's scary. Come and stand here. It's gonna rain too!
Come Kallu, let's go.
I want to see Ayyappan.
Why not? You can go to the Ayyappa temple in Appuppan Kavu.
No, I want to see the Ayyappan in Sabarimala.
Awesome!
Unni, she is crazy. Come, let's go.
Come.
Kallu, come.
I want to see Ayyappan.
Kallu...
shall I take you to Sabarimala?
-No, here. -Are they staying next door?
-No, here itself. -Okay.
Did you check in your relatives' houses?
Sir, I checked all the places she used to go.
She hasn't gone anywhere there.
What will we do now?
Did you get any information, sir?
Keep quiet.
She's just a little girl. Shut up, man!
Tell me, sir.
You don't get stressed out.
The information has been passed to all stations.
Will find the child as soon as possible.
Didn't you hear what he said?
Don't get anxious and cry.
Oh-no! What mess has this girl created all alone?!
She's not alone.
Ticket...
Ticket... ticket...
-Two tickets to Sabarimala. -Ticket...
What? To Sabarimala?! This is a bus to Pamba.
Are you kids travelling alone?
They are not alone, sir.
They are my kids.
You should've told me earlier.
Three tickets to Pamba.
Ticket... Ticket...
Ticket? One pax, right?
Hey...
That money is for the offertory.
Keep it in your pocket.
What's your name, baby girl?
Kalyani.
-Baby Kalyani... -See, Kallu...
I feel like throwing up. Let's take that seat. Come.
Hey. Write down here.
Dear,
will you eat something?
-I-- -NO!
You don't need to starve yourself.
Uncle will get biscuits for you.
Kallu...
Shall we go back?
What happened, Unni etta?
You do what I say. Come, let's go.
How many times did I tell you?
I want to see Ayyappan.
Darn!
Brother, do you have beedi?
Yes.
A biscuit packet as well.
Here you go.
Tell me, Mahi.
Chettiyaar...
-Didn't you say you wanted a girl? -Yeah.
Will a ten-year-old girl do?
That's superb!
Where?
On the way to the Sabarimala.
Why? Are you in Sabarimala for the season?
After all, I could get hold of many little girls there.
Will be easy to kidnap as well.
Alright, what's the rate for this item?
What's the hurry, Chettiyaar?
Let's talk about all that in person.
The girl is under our control now.
We won't lose her.
Alright, bring her and come here at the earliest.
My dear Kallu, please come.
Let's go home, bring my Dad and come back with him.
Here's your biscuit.
I said we don't want it.
Tell me when you are hungry.
I'll be here.
Kallu, please come.
Alright.
You may go, Unni etta.
I'll manage this alone.
How can I leave you alone and go?
Don't worry, Unni etta.
Ayyappan will take care of everything.
Ayyappa!
Stop the bus!
I gotta board!
Swami, you missed your sacred twin bundle!
O, my dear Swami, make it fast. We're already late.
Don't go yet!
What's this Swami. The bus is already running late.
Please get inside, Swami.
Hail, Lord Ayyappa!
Where are you off to?
O, my dear Swami!
Isn't it evident from our black attire that we are off to Sabarimala?
Alright.
What are your names?
I'm Piyoosh Swami. She's Kallu Swami.
Any more information needed?
Kallu is not Swami, but Malikapuram.
Are you kids travelling alone?
How can one send the kids alone, Swami?
They are with me.
They are my sister's kids.
-We're off to Sabarimala. -Be seated, Swami.
Oh! I didn't know that!
Swami Saranam.
Swami, ticket?
One ticket to Pamba.
Swami... I am Maaman.
Are you their Maaman (Uncle) too?
Nah, not the kids' Maaman. But my name is Uday Maaman.
Is this your first time in Sabarimala?
No, I've been there before.
But it's my first time.
-Is that so? -Yeah.
But Swami, are there really tigers in Sabarimala?
You didn't observe the fast, did you?
It's evident from your looks.
What's your name, Swami?
I'm Ayyappan.
I mean...
once we adorn the holy bead chain, we all are Ayyappas, right?
Ain't I right, Malikapuram?
Right, Swami?
-So, I'm Ayyappan too?! -Right, uncle?
Huh?
Yeah, yeah!
Seems like a pickle!
Nobody around?
Swami, are you not starting the bus?
No, the engine is making a squealing sound.
The driver has gone to the garage.
Can I be of any help?
No, we'll manage. You may sit inside.
Alright.
Where are you going, Mr. Uncle?
Swami Saranam.
What happened, Swami?
The bus has some issue But they are handling it.
Hey, this bus broke down.
You all may get into that bus. Just show the ticket to them.
Swami... Swami...
Hail to Thee, the Son of Hari and Hara, Shri Ayyappa Swami!
-Swami, we're not... -I take refuge in Thee.
Come, Kallu.
Malikapuram, that bus over there. Go.
What happened?
Will you take me to Sabarimala with you?
Your Uncle is taking you there, isn't he?
He's not any Uncle to us!
Are you both travelling alone?
Not alone!
-In fact, yes! We're alone. -Swami!
Why did you have to come all alone?
I want to see Ayyappan.
If you lie and go to Sabarimala,
you won't be able to see Ayyappan!
You can ask your family to take you, can't you?
My father had promised to take me to Sabarimala.
See! And yet you came here alone like this?
Her father is no more.
So, Malikapuram wants to go to Sabarimala
and see Ayyapan, right?
Let's figure out a way.
Really?
Swami Saranam!
Piyoosh Swami...
Coming, Swami.
So, you both relax here.
I'll rush and get you something to eat.
What do you want to have?
Do you want anything special?
-Nothing. -Sure? -Nothing.
Uncle, sit there for the time being.
I'll take the kids to Sabarimala.
Oh!
Swami Saranam!
"T8 Mobile A Control. Have they reached the spot?"
Swami...
-Yes? -Ticket?
Two tickets to Pamba for them.
What about you, Swami?
No, I don't need a ticket to go to Sabarimala.
Why so?
I have already taken the ticket from the other bus.
Here.
Swami!
Now? Hold it for a while.
No! No! Can't control! Can't control!
Brother...
Stop the bus for a moment.
-Brother... -What's the matter, Swami?
-The child... -Okay, will stop.
Make way, Swami.
In that case, I also wanna go.
This is not a bus stop. Make it fast.
Okay.
Dada...
Where are we going?
I know what you are thinking now. Shall I tell you?
Tell me.
You miss your Dad, right?
If you come out like this without telling your Mom
won't it upset her?
She will be upset.
But, since Unni ettan is with me, she won't be scared.
Isn't he done yet, Swami?
Make it quick.
Who are all there in your family, Swami?
In my family...
nobody!
I'm a loner.
Where's your home then?
No home too.
Eh? Don't you have a home?
This is all...
This is all a home to me.
Huh?!
How do you feel? At peace now?
I'm relieved now!
Is Piyoosh Swami always like this?
-What happened, sir? -How many are there?
Around thirty, sir.
We need to do the checking.
Okay.
Around 40 on this bus too.
Alright, sir.
Pamba is quite crowded today.
The bus will wait here for some time.
Then everyone may eat your food now.
Shall we eat...
Shall we eat then?
I'm not hungry.
Hungry...
Swami, once you adorn the holy chain you are not supposed to lie.
I'm hungry.
So?
Then I'm hungry too.
So all are hungry here.
-Shall we go? -Yeah.
-Chickpeas curry or Sambar for you? -Sambar.
What about you?
What chicken curry do you have?
Eh?!
I shouldn't eat it!
I'm wearing the holy chain, after all!
-Swami Saranam. -Ditto!
How many times have you been to Sabarimala?
Three or Four...
-Huh?! -It's my first time. - Eh?!
You chose the perfect partner to go to Sabarimala!
Unni ettan told me that he has gone there several times.
Swami, didn't I tell you?
I heard you. Once I wear the holy chain I'm not supposed to lie.
I said this lie before wearing the chain.
In that case, it's alright.
Two dosas for you, right?
Piyoosh Swami...
Have your food.
What's wrong, Swami?
Are you safeguarding her?
After all, she's Malikapuram.
I can't help but guard her.
You may try being her guard.
But...
she won't get to see Ayyappan.
I'll abduct her before that.
Malikapuram will meet Ayyappan.
I don't know who you are, Swami.
Neither you know me, Swami!
We both have adorned the holy chain on us.
We shouldn't have any disputes.
Darn!
Leave those kids alone.
Let me take your leave, Swami.
Swami Saranam.
You pack a punch, don't you, Swami?!
-Don't tell this to anyone! -Let me see.
There's nothing to see!
Kallu?!
Kallu...
Swami, where's Kallu?
Kallu...
Mother...
That girl who was sitting with me, did you see her anywhere?
No, I didn't see.
I didn't notice.
Swami...
Piyoosh Swami...
KALLU!
KALLU...!
Hail to Thee, Oh, Lord Ayyappa!
What are you doing here?!
Where all I looked for you! Do you have any clue?!
If I go home without you, won't I be dead meat?
She and her Sabarimala! Darn!
Swami, you have turned into a true bodyguard!
Why did you come here alone?
-Kallus... -Yeah.
On our way to Sabarimala
let's go to Erumeli and perform the Petta dance.
Petta dance?!
Haven't you heard of the Petta dance?
Didn't grandma tell you?
That is...
Everybody celebrated Ayyappa's triumph over Mahishi.
That celebration is known as the Petta dance.
It is said that all maiden swamis who ascend the Sabarimala
must perform the Petta dance.
So, should I also perform the Petta dance?
Of course.
Not just you,
both of us will perform the Petta dance.
Ayyappa... We're coming to you!
Yes, we are!
So, your Dada wanted you to only see the Petta dance?!
[DEVOTIONAL SONG IN THE BACKGROUND]
I take refuge in You...
O, my Lord Ayyappa!
♪ Fortify us, O Lord Ganapati We shall bow before You ♪
♪ We shall commence the ritualistic 'Petta' dance to the beats of 'Thavil' ♪
♪ Fortify us, O Lord Ganapati We shall bow before You ♪
♪ We shall commence the ritualistic 'Petta' dance to the beats of 'Thavil' ♪
♪ The One perched atop the mighty tigress ♪
♪ The One who protects the downtrodden ♪
♪ O, the Supreme Commander, Shri Manikanda! ♪
♪ O, the darling Son of Mohini ♪
♪ Offspring of Lord Shiva ♪
♪ We take refuge in You, The Son of Hari and Haran ♪
♪ We colour the world with devotion ♪
♪ Please bestow on us Your blessing ♪
♪ Fortify us, O Lord Ganapati We shall bow before You ♪
♪ We shall commence the ritualistic 'Petta' dance to the beats of 'Thavil' ♪
♪ O holy Lad, Who was born to kill Mahishi ♪
♪ O holy Lord, Who elicited to shield the world ♪
♪ O, Lord Sabarinath ♪
♪ You went to the battle With bow and arrows ♪
♪ You culminated arrogance with Your bows ♪
♪ You marked Your valiant story In history ♪
♪ O, Son of Lord Shiva, You returned ♪
♪ Leading the streak of tigers, O, valorous ♪
♪ O, the royal hunter ♪
♪ We get ready for 'Petta' to salute Your victory, O Swamy ♪
♪ The swamis who perform 'Petta' ♪
♪ Bless them with salvation, O Lord Ayyan ♪
♪ We colour the world with devotion ♪
Please bestow on us Your blessing ♪
♪ Fortify us, O Lord Ganapati We shall bow before You ♪
♪ We shall commence the ritualistic 'Petta' dance to the beats of 'Thavil' ♪
♪ Fortify us, O Lord Ganapati We shall bow before You ♪
♪ We shall commence the ritualistic 'Petta' dance to the beats of 'Thavil' ♪
♪ The One perched atop the mighty tigress ♪
♪ The One who protects the downtrodden ♪
♪ O, the Supreme Commander, Shri Manikanda! ♪
♪ O, the darling Son of Mohini ♪
♪ Offspring of Lord Shiva ♪
♪ We take refuge in You, The Son of Hari and Haran ♪
♪ We colour the world with devotion ♪
♪ Please bestow on us Your blessing ♪
[Devotees chanting praises of Lord Ayyappa]
Pamba!
'I take refuge in my Lord'
'I take refuge in my Ayyappan'
Sabarimala is almost here.
I can't wait to see Ayyappan!
Shall we go?
Malikapuram,
I don't think we can see Ayyappan today.
It's quite crowded up there.
When the crowd goes out of hand, they usually do this.
I want to see Ayyappan.
Ditto!
So...
you want to see Ayyappan today!
Let's find a way.
Come, Swami Saranam.
Brother, they are taking another route.
I'll show you what I'm capable of!
I'll show you!
Bro, Mahi bro...
He's taking another route.
I won't let go of you, no matter where you go!
I want him.
I want to show him what I'm capable of.
I want to abduct that girl
right in front of his eyes.
He's worthless.
Is this even a concern?
-Why are you taking stress-- -HEY!
You don't know anything about him.
There's some strange power in his eyes.
Hey,
How many people do we have?
All our men are here.
Bring all of them.
I will.
Everyone will come.
-Let's go? -Yeah!
Oh-no!
Is there still a long way to go?
Climbing Karimala is the toughest of all!
This is not Karimala.
Swami, how do you know all these routes?
This is my own place, after all!
I've been down this road many times before.
Once you adorn the holy chain you are not supposed to brag!
Carry on!
Yuck! Unni etta!
Swami, are there any elephants in this forest?
Who told you all this?
My grandma told me.
Such a nice grandma!
Oh! She and her Grandma are real braggers!
As if an elephant will come here climbing this hill! Long odds!
[Elephant trumpets]
Oh-no! Swami! An elephant!
Elephant! Elephant!
Don't worry. That must be our Ganeshan.
He didn't seem to like what you said.
Want to know about the tiger and bear here?
No, I only want to see Ayyappan.
That's all, right?
Then come.
Come.
Let me walk in front. I'm scared.
Walk faster, Swami.
I don't want an elephant or tiger to catch me!
-My Thulasi P.P. will be all alone, then! -Huh? -There, there...
It's been quite a long route now!
We must bring Chandrappan Pillai, the principal too next time.
What for?
Let there be peace in that school at least when he's not around!
Unni etta!
He is a poor soul.
Yeah, such a stroller!
Hey! Come!
Dear, are you scared of the jungle?
You don't need to be scared of the jungle.
But there are some vile people who invade the jungle.
Beware of them.
Ayyappa!
Oh, my Lord!
I take refuge in You, Oh Lord Ayyappa!
No!
When Swamis make their maiden pilgrimage to Sabarimala,
it is the responsibility of Guruswamy, their companion,
to escort them to the sacred sanctum safely.
Don't feel bad.
Forgive me.
Swami Saranam.
Shall we go?
Watch your steps.
Ugh! What a power-packed fight scene!
As if Bruce Lee's ghost has possessed Rocky Bhai's body!
Ayyappa!
Oh-no!
What happened?
Uh-oh!
Argh!
Don't you want to see Ayyappan?
It's alright.
Swami...
I have a doubt.
What is it, Swami?
Why is Ayyappan
living in such a high and far-off place?
That is...
People always prefer what is far away to what is close.
Not just that, Ayyappan reigns the 18 hills as their king.
That's the reason we climb the hills and go to see Ayyappan.
This must be another grandma story, right?
Yes, she told me this.
Swami,
are all these for real?
Go.
We should've at least told Chandrappan Pillai before coming here.
[DEVOTIONAL RITUAL SONG- HARIVARASANAM, THE LULLABY TO LORD AYYAPPA]
It's time for Ayyappan to sleep, Malikapuram.
That means I won't be able to see Ayyappan today?
No, you won't be able to see Ayyappan today.
It's Ayyappan's sleeping time.
Why are you upset?
It's only a matter of a short time.
Let's go tomorrow.
What say, Piyoosh Swami?
You read my mind, right Swami?
Cool, let's take a good nap and go.
Come.
[HARIVARASANAM CONTINUES]
I will fall asleep right away if I hear the Harivarasanam song.
This guy also slept in no time.
It's okay, Malikapuram. I'll save my sleep for you today.
I know what you are thinking now. Shall I tell you?
No.
Why not?
You always get to know what I think in my mind, Swami.
Oh! I see!
You seem to have
something to tell me!
What is it?
Tell me, Malikapuram.
Eh?
I...
C'mon, Malikapuram. Tell me.
What is it?
I have seen you before.
Me? Really?!
Stop bluffing!
No, really!
-Here you go. -Show me.
Have a look.
It's quite a lot!
You are awesome, Malikapuram.
So, this is why you've been peeking at me since I got on the bus.
Tell me the truth,
aren't you the real Ayyappan?
[Elephant trumpets]
Oh, no! Swami!
Swami, an elephant!
Nothing, Swami. It's our Ganeshan. Sleep.
Malikapuram,
What do you want to tell Ayyappan?
That...
My grandma said that
my Dada went to Ayyappan.
I will ask Ayyappan
to take good care of my father.
Malikapuram,
You must say this when you meet Ayyappan tomorrow.
Ayyappan will definitely listen to you.
[Devotees chanting praises of Lord Ayyappa]
♪ When your tender feet... ♪
♪ Gently touch... ♪
♪ The foremost step ♪
♪ My heart fills with joy ♪
Kallus...
Hmm...
When we climb the 18 divine steps,
Umm...
you must hold Dada's hand tightly, okay?
What if I lose your hand?
Uh-oh!
That's alright.
Ayyappan is right there, isn't he?
-He'll take care of you. -My Dada is with me!
Mwah!
♪ The skies showered flowers ♪
♪ Lord Ayyappan smiled ♪
♪ Ayyappa... ♪
My Lord...
I take refuge in you, Ayyappa!
My Lord...
I take refuge in you, Ayyappa!
O Lord,
Make this year's season hassle-free like every year.
Don't mind.
I say this because,
I don't want to trouble Lord Vighneswaran by coming every now and then, complaining.
O Lord, I take refuge in you, Ayyappa!
O, my Father
I'll be busy as a beaver for the next 41 days.
No matter what you want, fix a date only after the Makaravilakku.
Father, be on the line. Will be right back.
Let me break this coconut for Ganesha.
O, Vighneshwara, my Lord!
Bro, you ain't got Poppodum?
Eh?!
No, sir, I'll give him a handful once we reach home.
You need a whack!
I'm still wearing the holy chain! See, see, the holy chain!
I should remove that from your neck first!
Gulp it!
Kallu, my child...
You must be pretty daring to venture out to Sabarimala with this idiot!
In fact, I didn't take her,
but she took me here!
Sir, is there no network coverage here?
Alright, I'll call him.
Swami Saranam.
-Swami Saranam, sir. -Swami Saranam.
Why do you call me at 2 O'clock in the middle of the night?
Got a call from the forest guard, saying an elephant is on the loose.
Do I look a mahout to you?
What else can we do at that odd time?
Man, it must be that Ganeshan.
He may trumpet a couple of times and go back happily.
Never have an elephant ever stabbed someone in Pamba.
That's true, still...
Come on, man!
Did any mahout come for those kids?
I mean, did their family come for them?
Yes, they are inside.
You broke the fasting early in the morning, didn't you?
Swami Saranam.
Darn! Swami Saranam.
Yes, sir.
Hi, Malikapuram...
You scared everyone.
-Did you see Ayyappan? -Yeah.
-Did you pray well? -Yes, I dd.
Never go anywhere without telling your family, okay?
It would terribly upset your Mom.
She's already very distressed at home.
If there are no other legal protocols, can I take them home?
No other formalities, didn't you sign?
-Yes. -Then what! Take them.
Then...
Swami Saranam.
Hello?
There's no network coverage here.
Got both of them.
We're on our way back. No need to call again.
You have never been to Sabarimala.
How did you manage to go to the sanctum and return safely?
A man took us there.
Wait.
Who's that man?
Don't know the name. But we can identify him.
How does he look?
-Black dhoti, -Okay.
and black shirt!
Okay.
Then, the sacred chain...
also, he has got a beard!
Kallu...
That man who accompanied us, is he really the Lord Ayyappan?
Yeah.
He's my Ayyappan.
-Hello, sir? -Hey... Where are you?
It's been two days since I asked you to report for duty!
Sir, since I am rejoining after the three months long leave,
I thought I'll visit our Big Boss,
salute him once and then join for the duty!
Alright.
Then...
Two kids are missing.
As per the information, they are en route to Sabarimala.
I've sent their photos to the cops on Sabarimalsa duty.
You have a look.
Sure.
-[Bus honks loudly] -Darn!
Haneef Swami...
The kids are safe. Pass the information to their family.
Then, one more thing...
The kids want to see Ayyappan.
I'm going to grant their wish.
Let their family take care of such things.
Why take up unnecessary risks?
Is there any risk we, the Kerala Police, do not take up?
See you in Pamba.
Pamba is almost filled.
Don't send any more vehicles from Nilackal.
[Message from the radio]
Over. Over.
Hello, Swami.
I've brought the kids safely here.
Swami Saranam.
What's up, Haneef Swami?
Are you not reporting for today's duty?
I have to.
Swami Saranam.
You naughty Swami Ayyappan!
You're back after long three months vacation with a long beard, huh?!
Leave that.
So you turned a hero in front of those kids yesterday, didn't you?
That was their dream. I just made it come true.
What about those goons?
We nabbed them last night itself.
They are on the crime list of Tamilnadu police.
Really?!
You beat the pulp out of them, didn't you?
The doctor who took the medical verification said so.
Swami Saranam.
Anyway, you took a big risk.
You brought them through the Irrigation Department route!
Is this even a risk, Swami?
We tried to ascend several undeserving ones to Sabarimala, though out of our will.
Was there any result?
It's Ayyappan's discretion to decide whom he wants to see up there.
He wanted those two children to ascend the Sabarimala.
Just that I was destined to carry out his will on his behalf.
I will bear whatever loss I may suffer for this,
whether it be suspension or dismissal!
Cut the nonsense, man!
Anyway, you took those children to Sabarimala.
But why did you hide the fact that you are a cop?
I know the pain of not being able to ascend Sabarimala
holding one's father's hand.
Never mind. It's time to go on duty. Swami Saranam.
See,
those kids think that I am Ayyappan.
Swami Saranam.
Hey...
Have you ever seen the God, Swami?
For those kids, you're their God.
That's how God is.
That's how God has always been!
God comes before us in human form when needed.
That's what God is all about!
Whoa, Swami Haneef!
Philosophy, huh?!
Tathvamasi! (You are what you seek.)
Swami Saranam.
Enough. We'll do the rest tomorrow.
Okay.
You brat, go to bed.
Malikappuram!
'One who is seated on a supreme Simhasana'
'One who enchants the universe'
'One whose holy feet'
'Is worshipped by Surya'
'One who kills enemies'
'One who always dances the cosmic dance'
'Oh, Son of Hari and Hara'
'I take refuge in you'
‘Oh, Lord Ayyapa I take refuge in you'
'One whose mind gladdens'
'On hearing the Sharana Gosham'
'One who is the great cosmic ruler'
'One who loves to dance'
'One who shines like the rising sun'
'One who is the Master of all Bhootas'
'Oh, Son of Hari and Hara'
'I take refuge in you'
‘Oh, Lord Ayyapa I take refuge in you'
'One who is the darling'
'Of his dear most soul Sathyaka, the son of Sastha'
'One who grants all the wishes of the devotees'
'One who shines with a divine glow'
'One who is the very temple of “OM" '
'One who loves hyms'
'Oh, Son of Hari and Hara'
'I take refuge in you'
‘Oh, Lord Ayyapa I take refuge in you'
'One who rides a horse'
'Who has a beautiful face'
'One who has the divine mace as his weapon'
'One who is described by the Vedas'
'One who bestows the grace like a teacher'
'One who loves songs'
'Oh, Son of Hari and Hara'
'I take refuge in you'
‘Oh, Lord Ayyapa I take refuge in you'