Maayon (2022) Movie Script
Praise be to Lord Krishna!
(Priest utters Sanskrit hymn)
O Sacred Eagle!
Get going.
The temple is about to close, Murthy.
Let's go home.
You go on, uncle.
I'll stay the night
to watch what happens.
Don't blabber, you idiot!
Get going.
Why are you scared? I'll record
what happens here and put it on YouTube.
See how it goes viral!
Quit sounding like a lunatic!
Do what I say.
Do not play around with God.
Got it?
Murthy?
My boy...
Has everyone left?
-Yes, sire.
Murthy is missing, sire!
He must have gone home.
No! He was blabbering about
wanting to spend the night here.
What are you saying?
Murthy!
Murthy!
Dear boy!
Murthy!
Murthy!
Murthy!
We've looked everywhere,
but couldn't find Murthy, sire!
"When ones doom approaches,
their minds fail them."
"Deaths continue
in the archaeology sector."
"Will the mystery be solved?"
"The Crime Report!"
"Over the past few years, there's been a
string of deaths among archaeologists."
"All the victims had been studying
ancient statues."
"That their deaths happened under
similar circumstances..."
"...and that the autopsies
revealed no apparent cause of death..."
"...has everyone shocked."
"Rumors are spreading among the public
that these deaths were caused..."
"...by mystical powers
emanating out of ancient divine idols."
"Archaeologists bring to light
the dark chapters of history."
"Who will bring to light
the mystery of their deaths?"
"When will the mystery clear up?"
C6 to E5.
H3 to G4.
F6 to G4.
F3 to E5.
H5 to H2.
Checkmate.
Wow!
How do you do it, sir?
Without even looking at the board...
Chess is a game
you play in the opponent's mind.
Not just a board game.
Chess was invented in India
as a means to teach war strategies.
Warfare is based on deception.
Deceit and betrayal.
These form the basis of war.
Even before meeting the enemy on the
battlefield, we must win over their mind.
We must appear near when actually far,
and afar when actually near.
Depending on circumstances,
we must be ready to adapt.
Attack, when unprepared.
Attack the enemy
when they least expect it.
Many lives have been lost
in order to protect war plans.
An archaeologist's job is to dig out
such well protected ancient secrets.
Knowing merely what metal
a weapon is made of...
...can tell us the period and dynasty
it belongs to.
This dagger is from the Pallava era.
It was found in Kanchipuram.
It was wielded by Nandivarman II.
An archaeological site
is like a crime scene.
Every piece of evidence
is vital.
Having chosen this field,
you must be very passionate about history.
Only after getting down into the trenches,
knowing the land, researching...
...studying inscriptions
and discussing with experts...
...we can learn the true history.
So, your work is not just about
digging up sand and rocks.
It involves even digging up
our past culture.
But sadly, the antiques we work hard
to dig up are sold abroad illegally.
So, you have a huge responsibility
in society.
Bring him in.
Okay, sir.
Wow!
Beautiful statue!
Where did you dig this up?
That's not your concern.
I'm sorry.
- I want its market price and other details.
Sure, sir.
I can do it.
My job not only involves
digging up that which is buried.
But also burying anyone
who tries digging up on me.
This emergency meeting has been set up...
...because a task that involves
multiple departments has come our way.
Idol smuggling mafias
with international ties...
...have long been operating out of India.
Recently, a lot of idol smuggling
is going on via Sri Lanka and Dubai.
Some in our department are involved
smuggling out our antiques.
The statues smuggled so far
are worth several billions.
There is a leader
for these idol smuggling mafias.
His name is Sans Ferraro.
He conducts this business
as if he were a wizard.
He finishes small dealings
through men in his network.
Per intelligence reports,
he only shows up in person...
...for the most prized artifacts.
Every undercover agent we have sent so far,
have somehow had their covers blown.
Sans Ferraro's network may be responsible
for the suspicious deaths of these agents.
Many such accidental deaths have occurred
in the countries where he operates.
We must put an end
to these thefts and deaths.
If we trap him,
we can apprehend his entire network.
And we can recover every antique
we have lost.
So, who'll take the lead?
Sir
I will take the responsibility.
After a long time, it feels like
a taste of my mother's cooking.
I need to give her something...
We don't need anything...
-It's okay!
No, sir.
-This is a gift for aunty...
Sorry...
it's a gift for my mother!
Thank you very much, sir.
All this is because of you.
Don't worry, sire.
Everything is for God, right?
Even the statue in there
has gotten old.
I can make it a new one.
Devaraj?
-Product will be ready in a week.
Okay.
But I'll need much more older versions.
There's plenty of demand for it.
We'll make it happen.
Good.
We'll do that.
Partner!
Arjun!
The antiques we work hard to dig up
are sold abroad illegally.
Even before meeting the enemy on the
battlefield, we must win over their mind.
Take notes!
A five metal idol.
Nineteen inches tall.
Must weigh around fifteen kilograms.
Going by the carving style,
it must be around 600 years old.
Based on its antique value...
It'll go for millions
in the grey market.
I want a duplicate of this.
-Sure!
Excellent, Arjun!
Pulled it off without a hitch!
The original goes abroad.
The duplicate goes to our temple here.
Be it a small or a big job,
the risk involved is the same, right?
Why don't we try something bigger?
I wanted to discuss that with you.
One of my contacts is Sans Ferraro.
He's an international agent.
He's the premier buyer of statues.
He's made a strong offer.
What's the offer?
He's asked for a very ancient statue.
If I get it,
can you duplicate it?
You fix the price, partner.
I'll get the statue.
"Hello guys. We know by heart since school
that the value of Pi..."
"...is 22 divided by 7, or 3.14."
"But many of us do not understand
what exactly 3.14 is."
"That's what we'll cover today."
"I have a pizza."
"I'm going to measure
its diameter with a thread."
"I place a thread length 3.14 times
the diameter around the pizza."
"I get a complete circle."
"To state it simply..."
"The circumference of a circle
divided by its diameter, is Pi."
"That is 3.14."
"Whether it's big or small,
a round wheel or the spherical moon..."
"...or a cylindrical water can..."
"...they all have the same value: 3.14."
Partner in crime!
Listen carefully to what I have to say.
(Maayon Hill)
I'm at the Maayon Hill excavation site.
30 kilometres from Pudukkottai.
Situated a kilometre from the site, is the
ancient temple of Pallikonda Krishna.
The town itself is two kilometres
from the temple.
Close to the site is another temple
the ASI took over, despite public protests.
Only now has it come completely
under our control.
In the temple, I opened a door
that had stayed shut for long...
...and found palm leaf manuscripts
and copper plates.
When experts decoded those manuscripts...
...I learned about a huge secret room
at the Pallikonda Krishna temple.
This is the big project we've been
waiting for so long, Arjun!
Get ready to come to the site.
Who is in charge of the site?
Vasudevan.
Oh no!
That man is trouble.
We can't move a single piece
under his watch.
You move the pieces.
I'll handle the rest.
But how can I gain entry there?
In two days, you'll get good news
through an official order.
The higher officials are staying
in the village.
You can stay at the excavation site
with the team.
The villagers won't disturb you there.
Hello!
Got no sense?
Watch where you're going!
It's just a pot.
Someone tossed it after a drink.
What?
"A pot"?
As if walking in uninvited
wasn't enough...
Who let you in here?
Can't you put up a board outside, DK?
He's the new senior expert,
Anjana.
You talk without respect, huh?
Collect the details captured there.
-Yes, sir.
Be patient.
-I don't care who he is.
He doesn't even know to walk carefully
at a site. Don't vouch for him.
Top of that, those damn sunglasses!
Stay calm.
-Anjana!
What's the problem there?
Sir!
Why this needless argument?
-Quiet!
Hello, sir.
I'm Arjun.
Arjun Manimaran.
So you're him!
The head office informed me about you.
Come!
Come on in, Arjun.
He's Mr. Devaraj, the Senior Director.
-Hello.
He's Mr. Madan, the painting expert
from Thanjavur University.
Hi.
-Hi.
She is Anjana.
The epigraphist.
We already know each other, sir.
For how long?
We just met outside.
Saw her outside, huh?
Did you see him there too?
-No.
Don't pay attention to men, eh?
Where is that coin, Devaraj?
Here it is.
Send this coin to the lab, DK.
I want the report.
How long will it take?
If sent today, three days.
-Then send it right away.
Copper.
About three grams.
Image of a standing man on one side.
A bird on the other.
A hairbun on the head.
So... a female bird?
It hails from the medieval Chola period.
I think... the reign of Rajendra Chola.
So, this coin
is from early 11th century.
Applaud, everyone!
Arumugam!
-Sir?
I told you to ready a tent for one
Mr. Arjun, yes? Take him to it.
Yes, sir.
Hello, son. How was the trip?
-Hello.
A very powerful temple, son.
Can we go there now?
-We can't go there after sunset.
If we do,
we will go mad.
Even our lives may get in danger.
It's not good, son.
You stay here.
I'll get your luggage.
Quite the hype!
What would have been the purpose
of this thing, sir?
A spittoon.
I'll hold it away.
Even dogs are mating
in this cold month of Margazhi.
Shall I go break them up?
You'll never get married.
Cool?
As if I ever will
if I hang out with you!
The smell of jasmine!
The sound of anklets!
Who is this belle?
My dream angel!
Who are you?
Who cares? Quiet!
-A man gets your dinner every day, yes?
Yes. Arumugam.
-I'm his daughter.
So you're the ones
who find statues?
All these years,
we went searching and found statues.
Tonight, a statue has found us!
Damn... he's proving to be
an 80s kid!
You'll never get her!
Here you go.
Not washed your hands?
We only just started!
How could I already?
You're quite the talker!
I like people like that!
What's your name, dear?
Vaani!
Here to steal my heart, honey?
Chat with you any longer,
and I'll laugh myself to death!
We'll laugh to death.
But we can't laugh
after our deaths.
I can't bear this nonsense!
But I will laugh!
I'll return as a ghost
and laugh!
As a ghost?
Why?
Are you scared of ghosts?
"Am I scared of ghosts?"
If ghosts are as beautiful as you,
I will happily marry one even!
See you!
You're making a huge mistake!
No. I'm scoring big.
Come, Arjun!
What's up, partner?
-Vasudevan returns in two days.
This is the right time
to make plans.
Look what's written here!
"900 years ago,
in Vijayanandapuram..."
"During the reign of King Achutha Rayar,
there was a severe drought!"
"People starved, unable to get
even a square meal a day!"
"The King fell ill
and was confined to his bed."
"His son, Arjuna Rayar,
ascended the throne as king..."
"...performed a sacrificial ritual
at the temple..."
"...travelled 300 miles
with his army..."
"...and waged a war
against the people of Kodugu Hills."
"He split his army into three groups..."
"...and attacked them
from several directions!"
"In the six days of war,
Arjuna Rayar defeated the local king..."
"...and returned home with 1,400 elephants,
20,000 horses and many gold ornaments!"
"After the glorious victory,
he began to serve his people."
"This ancient temple of Lord Krishna,
that was instrumental to his victory..."
"...he renovated extensively
and held a magnificent consecration event!"
When Arjuna Rayar was renovating
the Krishna temple...
...he built a secret room
to stash away all the remaining wealth.
Besides gold ornaments...
...coins hailing from Rome and Greece,
as well as that of Lord Ashoka...
...are all in there, Arjun!
Partner!
You nailed it!
You're in a league of your own!
You need to find out where the secret room
is and how to open it.
We'll get in!
I'm here, aren't I?
Come on in!
They'll be working with us
on this project.
Wasn't it just us both, all this time?
Don't you trust me anymore?
Nothing like that.
They were the ones who decoded the details
of the secret room.
Each of them have contributed
to this project from the start.
You'll certainly need their help.
This is a once in a lifetime deal!
If we get it,
we're all settled for life!
A world just for us,
where we reign supreme!
We can get whatever we want!
Okay.
Now on, Arjun is your boss!
What do we do, boss?
(Deaths continue
at the Department of Archaeology)
Vasudevan has sent over a list of suspects.
Why can't we just arrest the suspect?
In this matter,
we can't just clip off the branches.
We need to uproot it entirely!
For that, we need solid evidence.
Tap those on the list.
Hack them too, if you have to.
Okay, sir. I'll do the needful.
-Thank you.
Hi.
-Hey.
This is the blueprint we found
in the temple.
What's that?
-A Lidar scanner.
Open Lidar's app.
Okay.
Okay...
This temple's architecture
isn't as simple as we thought.
It's very unique.
Look at this.
Here's the west side of the temple.
The device identifies a tunnel here.
That secret room must be under the
sanctum sanctorum of the main deity.
Holy cow.
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'Wherever you go,
flowers bloom into a garden'
'The fragrance in the wind,
will sing a welcome ode'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'Like the truth hidden
in the inner recess of the heart...'
'...is there a price to the treasure
buried deep under the Earth?'
'Like the truth hidden
in the inner recess of the heart...'
'...is there a price to the treasure
buried deep under the Earth?'
'Like the truth hidden
in the inner recess of the heart...'
'...is there a price to the treasure
buried deep under the Earth?'
'Not all that is buried,
is treasure'
'Not all that is treasure,
is something new'
'Shall I tell you what lies in the heart?'
'Shall I unite my heart with yours?'
'That which was alone,
softly merges with its better self'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'Wherever you go,
flowers bloom into a garden'
'The fragrance in the wind,
will sing a welcome ode'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
Give me that.
Nothing in the palm leaves
or inscriptions...
...gives enough details
about the temple's secrets.
There are no more places
left to search.
Where then is
the clue to the treasure?
The evidence for the secret room
must be in the temple's inner sanctum.
To enter it, we need permission
from the temple's patron.
Who is he?
-Krishnappa Nayakkar.
His family has been safeguarding the temple
and its secrets for generations.
It's not easy to get his permission.
In fact, he runs his own government
in this town.
We need to deal with this
through Mr. Vasudevan.
Alright. Let's have Mr. Vasudevan
talk to him.
But, this permission is just a formality.
What the hell is this?
-Herbal extract!
Don't serve tea or coffee, eh?
Sir...
Hello, sir.
It's a pleasure to meet you.
Are you well? Have a seat.
-Yes, sir.
How goes your research, sir?
Very well, thanks to your support.
What's up, Vasudevan?
We have studied the inscriptions
on the outside of the temple.
The inner sanctum is all that's left.
If you permit us, we'll study
the inscriptions in there as well.
No one is allowed
inside the inner sanctum.
This is a government project, sir.
How can you say no?
We can't change the temple tradition
to suit your needs.
What era are you in, sir?
In an age where satellites are sent
to Mars, you won't let us into a room?
Divine energy must be felt.
It must not be studied.
-All true, but...
Modern science explains all. From the
universe's origin to the smallest atom.
"The one who slices up the tiniest atom..."
"The one who seeks the soul
of the finest particle..."
"To them will be revealed,
the Ultimate."
1,000 years ago, Sage Thirumoolar
proclaimed atoms keep the universe alive.
Your modern science just discovered that
after spending billions.
Even at CERN, which you claim to be
the world's finest research centre...
...they keep a statue of Lord Nataraja.
Do not underestimate the intellect
of our ancestors.
We're just here as a mere formality,
but you give us a sermon?
The sacred offering is ready.
Have some before you go.
Everyone hypes up this temple, sir.
Why wouldn't they?
It has a history that dates back
5,000 years.
Why do they claim people go insane
if they stay back after 6 PM?
That's because there are too many loons
let loose.
Quit kidding around, sir.
That's why I brought this out.
Just standing idle, right?
Hold this.
"Thousands of corpses
lie battered and bloodied."
"Vultures swoop down from the skies
to pick at the rotting flesh."
"In the inferno, the heaped corpses
stiffen, their bravery unquenched."
"Jackals, dizzy from the scent of blood,
split the air with their terrifying howls."
"It is a sight of gore,
at the battlefield of Kurukshetra!"
"Gandhari, who lost her
one hundred children there..."
"...curses Krishna that just as she suffers
her loss..."
"...his entire clan would be annihilated
before his very eyes."
"Heartbroken with Gandhari's curse,
Krishna comes to the Maayon Hills."
"In sorrow, he sits under a tree
and plays the flute."
"The Gandharvas, who were passing across
the sky at the moment, hear it..."
"...and create music of their own
to comfort Krishna."
"The music of the Gandharvas
fills Krishna with ecstasy."
It is believed that every night
since then, at the temple...
...the Gandharvas play music
that captivates Lord Krishna.
The town also believes that
the same music makes humans go insane.
Arjun
What do you think about our team?
They are talented.
They do as their told.
They give me whatever I ask them.
The mission will be a success.
After that, it will be up to you
to monetize it.
That's my expertise.
Within an hour of mission completion,
the money will come in.
Who's the buyer?
Ferrari or Lamborghini or something, right?
I have many types of buyers.
Sans Ferraro usually buys only statues.
Let him be whoever.
I don't care.
We'll deliver the goods
to those who are good to us.
Welcome everyone,
who came to watch!
Allirani's tale will send shivers
down your spine!
As Princess Allirani
was tormented by the demon...
...she summoned Lord Krishna
to come save her.
"I am in trouble, O Krishna...
Save me!"
As she prayed so,
Lord Krishna appeared out of thin air!
He handed her the Somavalli flowers
to give to the demon.
The demon felt dizzy and fainted...
-Welcome, dear boy!
When did you come?
-Just now.
Have a seat.
-What's the occasion?
The temple festival happens next week.
This entire week
is filled with festivities.
He is my relative.
Works with the minister.
Hello.
Care for something to eat?
-No, I'm good.
Have 'panakam'.
It's delicious.
Bring over some 'panakam'!
-Bring it!
Here you go, sir.
-Thanks.
Yes, sir.
So... you went to meet the temple patron,
right? How did it go?
Don't ask! Why won't he give us
permission to go in?
How would he?
It's no ordinary temple, son.
Seen the hill behind the temple?
It had broke off
from the great Mount Sanjivani!
Lots of herbs grow there.
As Sage Agathiyar meditated there,
it is also known as Agathiyar Hills.
Thanks to the temple and the hill,
no one in town ever falls ill.
Then, why do such occurrences
happen at night?
Leads to insanity, son!
Why tell ghost stories, sir?
Like it would happen inside a temple!
From then to now,
such scepticism is what had caused...
...those who went into the temple
after dusk, to come out insane at dawn.
This is just some fiction!
Have you actually seen it happen?
A few years ago, without telling anyone,
a man went in, wanting to do research.
The next morning, he was found at the pond,
in a stupor.
He had this paper with him.
How did you get this?
He was my father.
He had drawn the last thing he had seen.
The mystic events in this temple
are beyond imagination, son.
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Wise One'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Guardian of Truth...
O Eternal Flame...'
'O Guardian of Truth...
O Eternal Flame...'
'Can those devoid of honour
stroll with their heads held high?'
'Can those devoid of honour
stroll with their heads held high?'
'Can those who worship thee
bow low and cower down?'
'Can those who worship thee
bow low and cower down?'
'Then, now, and forever...
Hasn't this always happened?
'Does this seem right?
Is this the fate ordained by thee?'
'Not a tiny speck
moves without thy assent'
'Do as thine heart says'
'Who will bring to thee
our tale of woes?'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'Lying on the majestic serpent
under the celestial ocean of milk...'
'Thou bring ashore those who grapple
in the ocean of worldly ties'
'Lying on the majestic serpent
under the celestial ocean of milk...'
'Thou bring ashore those who grapple
in the ocean of worldy ties'
'Despite being in a state
of divine slumber...'
'Despite being in a state
of divine slumber, thou are omniscient'
'Thou embrace and protect us
from all worldly sorrows'
'Sinners thrive...
yet, thou are at rest'
'As they try to loot thy temple...'
'...is it right for thou to slumber so?'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Wise One'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Narayana'
'Krishnaya Govinda Narayana'
'O Narayana'
Looks like he might bury us tonight,
brother!
Don't be scared!
I'm here for you!
He's broken our leader too!
You don't even measure up to my hip.
and you want to bury me?
Beat it!
What brings you to town all of a sudden,
sire?
There is no task
without reason.
For every task, there is an outcome.
To change the outcome...
...conduct a Sudharshana ritual
on the night of the Rohini star.
Yes, sire.
'O Handsome Lover...
O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Handsome Lover... O Dusky Lord Krishna'
-They are here to see you, sire.
Have a seat.
'O Handsome Lover'
-What's the occasion?
I'll tell you, son.
Since the era of Arjuna Rayar,
this festival takes place every year...
...on the night
of Lord Krishna's birth star.
'O Handsome Lover...
O Divine Flutist'
Every year, four pots are hung up...
...and a boy in Lord Krishna's costume
is asked to smash the right one.
Only one of the four pots
contain butter.
Not once has the wrong pot
been smashed.
Only the one containing butter
is always broken.
O Krishna!
We believe Lord Krishna himself
descends upon the boy and breaks the pot.
O Krishna!
'O Handsome Lover...
O Divine Beauty'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna...
O Handsome Lover...'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna...
O Handsome Lover...'
Having not played the flute
since leaving Mathura to go to Dwaraka...
...Lord Krishna arrived at the Maayon Hill
and played it for the last time.
It is our town's belief
that he left his flute here.
Based on what we could draw
from these palm manuscripts...
...we learnt something.
Look at this.
The snake on this door
is the serpent Kalingan.
It lived on the shores of river Yamuna
during Krishna's time.
The myth says that Krishna tamed it
by dancing upon its head.
The townsfolk believe the serpent
still goes around the temple...
...and protects the place at night.
This secret door is sealed
by the Snake Lock.
The palm script says it will open
upon chanting the Garudan hymn.
Those hymns are known only to
Krishnappa Nayakkar's family...
...and a few mystics.
Then let's just ask him!
Does one ask the owner the key
to rob his house?
Then let's break the door!
No?
His damn mouth
must be broken!
Is there no other way?
There is.
Look at this.
The Strategic Wheel!
It is the key!
Look at that hollow.
That is the Snake Lock.
Place the Strategic Wheel upon it,
the door will open.
This Strategic Wheel
is somewhere inside the temple.
We need to look for the clue.
I'd rather get a bank loan
and settle abroad!
When are we executing the plan?
There will be a solar eclipse
in seven days.
The temple will be shut all day.
We'll enter that morning.
We need to finalize the details.
We meet here tomorrow
at the same time. Okay?
What is it, Arjun?
Nothing.
Remember what I said?
It's coming along smoothly.
I've confirmed that a 5,000 year old flute
is hidden in the Krishna temple.
My team believes
there's only some buried treasure.
Make arrangements to sell the flute
separately.
If anyone gets in the way,
I'll handle it.
Understood.
-Yeah.
Let Arjun recover the flute first.
Let it come to our hands.
After that...
...we'll finish him.
What's up, Devaraj?
Have you reached Colombo?
I am already here!
Cross the sea
and come out to Pudukkottai.
You can see
the sea of wonders!
It's just an overnight journey
for me.
When do you want me there?
Very soon.
-Ciao!
A snake!
It's just a rope.
Always freaking out over snakes...
Just a rope, huh?
-You'll die from snakebite some day!
Sans Ferraro's sources found out
Krishna's Flute is hidden in the temple.
He's coming for it personally.
You believe these fables too?
I don't believe in fables.
I believe in him.
We're going into the temple, anyway.
If it's in there, I'll retrieve it.
Not 'if it's in there'.
You will retrieve it.
'Hide and seek...
Find out where we are'
"This is RJ Bhushitha."
"You're listening to
'When do we realize this is God's play?'"
"But let's not go into
the spiritualism vs. science debate."
"But this song has a huge connect
with this day."
"Today is March 14."
"The birthday of scientist extraordinaire
Albert Einstein."
"It's also when Lord Krishna was born
under the reigning Rohini star."
"A day laced with scientific
and spiritual undertones."
"If one believes, it's spiritual.
If not, it's science. It's that simple."
Height is 6.5 inches. Noted it?
-Yes, sir.
Vasudevan!
Welcome, Mr. Minister. Greetings!
-Greetings!
Please sit.
-How are you? You please sit.
Please step outside boys.
I'll call you back.
Step out.
What brings you here so sudden...
Should I not come?
-Of course, you can!
How goes the work?
It's going well, sir.
You've hooked a big one, huh?
"Hooked a big one?"
Seems you've found a secret room
in the temple.
"Secret room?"
What is this?
"Secret room?"
There's no such thing.
Who is this gentleman?
-Mr. Devaraj.
My second-in-command.
Please wait outside.
Oh no!
He's a senior officer.
So he cannot step out?
By all means.
-Please step out. I'll call you back.
I don't get what you're saying, sir.
Mr. Vasudevan...
Appears you found a secret room
in the temple.
We've received a complaint that you intend
to steal all the jewellery in there.
So, the revenue department is coming
to inspect the temple tomorrow.
You need to cooperate with us.
We are civil servants, sir.
We must be loyal to the government!
Whatever is in there,
we'll give 10% of it to the government.
Give me the remaining 90%.
You'll definitely get the share
that's your due!
Don't get caught
flying solo, Vasudevan!
You may need our support
in the future.
I believe you understand.
Shall I take your leave?
See you.
-Be well!
Hello?
Where are you, man?
My job here is done.
-Uncle!
Yeah, they are shaken.
-Uncle!
I've handled it, uncle.
Everything will fall in place.
I'll speak to the minister
and get you an award.
Are you happy?
I don't need an award, my boy.
I'm content with our town's temple
being safe.
That's no problem at all.
Don't worry. I'll handle it.
The minister's leaving.
See you.
All our hard work will be in vain!
After the revenue department seizes it all,
we can't do squat!
We have only one option.
We need to execute the plan tonight!
No devotee dares to go into the temple
after 6 PM.
And you want to risk going in?
Do you believe those tales?
-100%!
Thousands of crores, DK!
Does it matter how much?
One needs to be alive to enjoy it!
You go. I'm not coming!
-Damn it, DK!
What do you think?
Are you scared, Arjun?
If we don't risk it all tonight,
we'll just be digging up sand for life!
I'm not ready for that!
I will make sure we go in
and safely retrieve the item.
How will we trade it?
They're all antiques.
Should there be any trouble selling it,
we'll all end up in jail!
That's no big deal.
I'll have Sans come in tomorrow.
Once you retrieve the item,
get it to him.
He'll handle the rest.
For the next two months,
it'll be business as usual.
Then, we settle down for good.
We have no clue
about the Strategic Wheel!
We need to head in and get it!
Are you kidding?
There'll be no one at the temple
after 6 PM.
It'll reopen at 6 AM tomorrow.
We have twelve solid hours.
Can't we crack it by then?
Do you know how risky this is?
You got a better idea?
Exactly!
I'm in.
I'm already in.
-Perfect.
Once you finish the job,
head to the storehouse.
I must not be suspected.
So, I'll stay with Vasudevan and delay
the special team for as long as possible.
Once the job is done,
I'll come there directly. Okay?
My team is going in tonight, Sans.
Your package will be ready
by tomorrow morning.
I'll be there on time.
The sound chip you requested
is in this device, Arjun.
Sans Ferraro will reach the spot
at 6 AM on the dot.
When Vasudevan and I go to the temple
at dawn, the treasure won't be there.
By then, you will have finished the job.
After that...
...it's my job to finish you.
Excuse me?
I meant finishing our deal.
Okay.
Don't worry, partner.
I'll leave only after wrapping it up clean.
He's trying to fool everyone.
Until the goods reach the spot...
...you need to watch him.
For his betrayal...
...I will end him myself.
The temple map.
As always, the temple will close
at 6 PM.
The public and temple staff
will leave by the east exit.
To avoid people, we need to go
by the western hills.
Along the wall there,
are stones that function as steps.
It'll be easy for us
to climb up and down.
That wall is 17 feet tall.
The rope is vital, DK.
Okay.
The temple stands on 62 acres of land.
This is the sanctum sanctorum.
The lidar scanner revealed
a basement structure underneath.
So, the treasure must be in there.
We need to look for the Strategic Wheel
in the other halls.
High decibel frequency will start coming in
from the west side, at midnight.
With noise cancelling devices,
we can block it out.
How?
Exactly at midnight,
this will turn on.
It'll emit negative sound signals to
cancel any other sound signal.
If no signal is detected, the device
will automatically turn off in a minute.
An important thing.
No one bring their cell phones.
The radiation emitted by the phone
will produce adverse effects.
The map is your responsibility, Madan.
-Sure.
Photos of the manuscripts
and inscriptions stay with me.
At 6 AM, the revenue department
will enter the temple.
No matter what happens,
we need to exit the temple before 5:30 AM.
Pack your necessary gear.
-Okay.
(A Sanskrit hymn is chanted)
Don't forget to drink this herbal water.
Because the Nayakkar family always drink it
before they enter the temple.
What's up, Mr. Devaraj?
Are all the documents ready?
Not yet, sir.
I'll get to it.
"You'll get to it"?
I told you to give it priority!
We don't know where that secret room is.
As if I know where it is.
But Krishnappa Nayakkar
knows, right?
But how will he tell us, sir?
With a government order in hand,
he has no choice but to tell us!
There's a festival tomorrow, sir.
-I know.
The entire town will be there.
-Let them be.
Pressing this now
will lead to trouble, sir.
Aren't you an officer
with this department?
Sir?
-You are taking his side!
Random people come up and tell me
about secret rooms.
What were you all doing for three months?
Without finding all this?
The minister comes
making bloody deals with me!
Look at this face.
Does it say 'thief' on it?
No, right?
So, we're meeting Krishnappa Nayakkar
today!
Mr. Nayakkar is quite an influential person
in this town.
We're a lot more influential
than him!
Who are we?
We're the government!
The revenue department is coming tomorrow,
with police protection.
They'll handle any problem.
You needn't worry.
What if that information is fake, sir?
Is there a link between you
and that minister?
Nothing like that...
-Then do your job!
What's the plan?
The photos Arjun captured
of inscriptions in the inner sanctum.
It means that like one needs to get past
the 'Nandi' (bull) to see Lord Shiva...
...we need to get past the 'Garuda' (eagle)
to see Lord Krishna.
So, we start at the Garuda shrine.
Shall we begin?
"Swirls all around a plash,
wherein golden fish splash..."
"...to end, tired in play.
Thither, they sway..."
"...from the cardinal four
on moonlit nights, from yore."
"A dip in the pool
to savour the cool..."
"...and then, lute strings
from the pillared hall rings..."
"...standing under the rise
of a mythical eagle's war cries."
"At the flower-strewn Maayon's feet, the
Gandharvas sing, bring cheer and retreat."
This is Telugu, right?
Do you speak it?
It means
the Gandharvas come to the pond.
They go to the Garuda shrine.
They play music in the hall.
Right?
This sounds like a temple myth.
Doesn't seem like a clue.
Is anything else written there?
Give me the torch.
It says the clue is in the Garuda shrine.
Here's my doubt: What if this is just
one part of the clue?
True!
-Alright.
We'll each search one direction.
You take the east, Anjana.
Madan, take north.
-Okay.
DK, go south.
-Okay.
Dear son...
Brother Arumugam! How are you?
-I'm fine.
How come you're here all alone?
DK is not here?
That's why I asked.
They've gone out for some research.
Be back in the morning.
"They've gone out?"
The soul of this town
is this temple!
You must use your power to protect it!
If you don't...
...I may be forced to use the power
that was bestowed upon my family!
Mr. Nayakkar?
Like a lizard that sacrifices its tail
to save its head...
...deciding what's important
and what's not important...
...based on circumstances,
is true intelligence.
That is real wisdom too!
Who are you?
These are my questions!
What are you doing here?
You must not be here.
It's time for them to arrive!
Who?
Leave!
I thought it was the snake!
"Snake"?
-Yeah!
There's a dwarf in there!
"A dwarf"?
-Yes!
The snake!
Run!
Where are you going?
A snake!
A snake, man!
What snake?
There's a banshee!
A snake, man!
Come on, DK!
The dwarf!
We've dealt with a damn snake!
Like he's any challenge!
Don't do it, DK!
What kind of game is this?
That dwarf is doing it!
It's not funny anymore.
I didn't hit you!
-Then who did?
Don't believe me, right?
Hold on!
Oh no...
-Hey!
Why do I alone get hit,
despite you throwing?
He's gone!
Look... the snake!
DK!
Hold on!
Stay in place!
There is beauty in your fear.
Don't be afraid.
Come near me!
Come...
Come closer!
What happened, DK?
My torchlight is missing.
Have you seen it?
"Torchlight"?
Dunce!
-Arjun!
What is it?
Arjun?
Arjun!
Arjun!
What happened, Anjana?
Strange things
are happening here!
I can't stay here for another minute!
Let's leave!
If everyone leaves,
who'll get the treasure?
With all that's going on,
you still talk treasure?
I'm leaving!
I'm leaving too!
There's nothing like that in here!
Trust me!
You said there was nothing here!
How do you explain this noise?
Quit yelling!
The sonic device
cancelled the noise.
Many things happening here
are beyond science!
We're leaving!
Anjana!
Please listen to me, guys!
There's someone running there!
Recognize him?
Nayakkar's son!
He's coming back!
You've had it!
Now do you get it? It was all a show
put on by Nayakkar to protect the treasure!
I have doubts
about the temple myth.
Why?
-Here's the thing.
I've heard Gandhari cursed Krishna
after the battle of Mahabharatha.
I mean, I've read it.
But Krishna is beyond
joy and sorrow.
Why would someone like him
come here in sorrow?
Why must the Gandharvas cheer him up
with music?
Wait! So you're saying
this is just a fairy tale?
The kings could've fabricated
the story of this temple, right?
"He split his army into three groups,
and attacked from several directions!"
We must appear near when actually far...
...and afar when actually near.
We're looking for clues in the temple.
But the temple itself is a clue!
-I don't get it.
Repeat the verse, Anjana.
"Swirls all around a plash,
wherein golden fish splash..."
"...to end, tired in play.
Thither, they sway..."
"...from the cardinal four
on moonlit nights, from yore."
"A dip in the pool
to savour the cool..."
"...and then, lute strings
from the pillared hall rings..."
"...standing under the rise
of a mythical eagle's war cries."
"At the flower-strewn Maayon's feet, the
Gandharvas sing, bring cheer and retreat!"
Notice a pattern in the story?
This is the clue to the Strategic Wheel!
They didn't hide it in one place.
It's been split and hidden all over!
How'd you figure that?
How does the story go?
The Gandharvas come to the pond.
They go to the Garuda shrine
and pay their respects.
Then, they play music
in the hall.
Take out the Gandharvas' activities
and just think of the places they've been.
The pond.
The Garuda shrine.
The music hall.
So the keys
must be in these three places.
So... shall we begin?
Super!
Are you not coming, man?
Don't be scared.
I'm here for you!
These don't fit!
Give me that.
There must be a center piece
to connect all three.
Get the map!
We got clues
for the Strategic Wheel...
...at the Garuda shrine, the pond
and the music hall.
It's a perfect triangle.
So the center piece must be in the centre!
"Cardinal four..."
-What is it, Arjun?
"From the cardinal four..."
That's direction.
Are they talking directions?
East, North, South, West.
The Moon Hall!
Yes!
The center piece
must be in there!
Got a matchbox, DK?
Are you going to smoke?
-I'm going to set you on fire, idiot!
Hurry up!
The camphor's about to go out!
All gone!
Everything is lost!
Everyone will be here soon.
All our efforts
have been in vain!
All is lost!
We dreamed so much!
A villa in Switzerland!
What did you wish for?
My mother abandoned me
as soon as I was born.
It was Devaraj who educated me
and brought me into this field.
Even if it was for his own benefit,
he was the only one who helped me.
This job is all he asked of me.
I am doing it
because he asked.
Besides that,
I have no desires.
Kasi!
-Yes, sir?
Get our guys
and go to the storehouse.
Sans Ferraro will come.
Stay with him.
-Yes, sir.
Arjun must not be spared.
Got it?
-Yes, sir!
The Gandharvas
are in the Moon Hall.
What's the connect between the Gandharvas
and the moon?
Strategic Wheel...
Wheel...
"Be it a round wheel or a spherical moon,
they all have the same value: 3.14."
The moon!
Maybe this light is the answer?
Maayon.
Maayon means Krishna.
Feet.
The flower.
The flower is the center piece, guys!
Try pressing it and pulling it.
Yes!
The conch. The fish.
The snake.
Here is the Strategic Wheel!
Since the era of Arjuna Rayar,
this festival has taken place.
Only one pot contains butter.
No can do!
-Don't talk too much, sir!
Will you open the door
and let us in?
Or must we break it open?
Who do you think you are?
Think you'll leave here alive
after defying our leader?
Leave, everyone!
-Hack him up!
Listen to me.
You can't move a brick in there
as long as I'm here!
Then there's just one way, sir.
You open the door yourself
and co-operate with us...
...and safeguard the sanctity.
There is no other option.
Like a lizard that sacrifices its tail
to save its head...
...deciding what's important
and what's not important...
...based on circumstances,
is true intelligence.
Alright.
If I open that door...
...I don't know
what the consequences will be.
You need to bear responsibility.
No matter what happens,
we'll handle it.
Four locks here!
You mentioned only one!
I drew it per her instructions.
That's what the palm script said.
We have no time for that.
Just insert it into any of them.
It's risky to do that.
If inserted in the wrong hollow,
poisonous gas will be released.
Knowing merely what metal
a weapon is made of...
...can tell us the period and dynasty
it belongs to.
Four metals.
Gold.
Silver.
Bronze.
Iron.
What do these four metals
signify?
The four directions
or the four Vedas?
Or four eras?
What does the temple
have to do with eras of time?
This is a temple of Lord Krishna.
Krishna was born in the Dwapara era.
That's the third.
So it must be the bronze.
Give me the Strategic Wheel.
Greetings!
Greetings!
O Krishna...
Hurry up!
It's time!
What gives, Devaraj?
Didn't your team take these?
Missed it, eh?
What's happening?
What is this?
This is a neem stick.
For brushing teeth!
Where's the flute?
-Take it!
Sans Ferraro!
If we trap him,
we can apprehend his entire network.
We need an expert
in this field.
I will take the responsibility.
I'm going to assign this task
to the best student I have ever trained.
Mr. Arjun Manimaran!
Warfare is based on deception.
Deceit and betrayal.
These form the basis of war.
Sans Ferraro has asked
for a very ancient statue.
He buys only ancient statues
or anything related to it.
Depending on circumstances,
we must be ready to adapt.
I've confirmed that a 5,000 year old flute
is hidden in the Krishna temple.
Make arrangements to sell the flute
separately.
If anyone gets in the way,
I'll handle it.
Understood.
The play has begun!
Good.
Let's get prepared.
Devaraj!
What you were trying to sell,
are not temple idols.
It is the identity of our nation!
Selling out your motherland's identity
is the same as selling off your mother!
Will you sell her?
Take him away
and give him quite the treatment!
Attack, when unprepared.
Get our guys and go to the storehouse.
-Okay, sir!
Attack the enemy
when they least expect it.
"Hundreds of idols smuggled from India
have been recovered."
"The government has engaged to retrieve
thousands more smuggled idols."
"Sans Ferraro, an Italian, who smuggled
antiques and statues on a global scale..."
"...has been arrested
by the Tamil Nadu Police."
"Breaking News!"
"Minister Selvadurai has suddenly
tendered his resignation."
"It is believed his decision
is due to health reasons."
Good job, Arjun.
Your actions have made
not just this department...
...but this entire nation proud!
-Thank you!
"The task force that was launched
four years ago..."
"...to look into the mysterious deaths
in the department of archaeology..."
"...has brought to light,
the truth."
This was given to me
as a show of respect.
I'm hungry!
-I'll give it to you when we leave.
What happened last night?
Did they all go insane?
Not insanity, sir.
It's a kind of hallucination.
"Hallucination"?
A mental state that makes one
see things that are not there.
It was a group hallucination.
A person's word
is believed as truth by all.
To snap them out of fear,
the solution I created is...
...Nayakkar's son.
I made them believe the mysterious events
were staged by the Nayakkar family.
After that,
they believed whatever I said.
Wood appeared as gold to them
and vice versa.
Drop that stuff!
Why take that?
Are all the mystical claims
of this temple real?
Does that music make people hallucinate?
I used a special device
to cancel that sound.
Not just that.
When running a scentography test...
...I learnt the hallucinations were caused
by a flower called 'Somavalli'.
These flowers only bloom at night
and the scent fills the temple.
Those who smell it,
begin to hallucinate.
How come the smell didn't affect you?
All thanks to the antidote herb.
-"A herb"?
I saw the herb
at Krishanappa Nayakkar's house.
One night, I followed Nayakkar's son
to find out where it grows.
Some herbs fell from a bag
he was carrying.
I had it sent to the lab
for tests.
I found out that consuming it
can prevent one from hallucinating.
So all of this
was to safeguard that treasure, right?
That's what I thought, too.
There is the symbol of infinity,
on the room's wall.
I think that points to another mystery.
This is where we must compliment
the intellect of the ancient Tamils!
What happened
to Anjana and the rest of them?
Devaraj and Madan
will be in prison for life.
DK and Anjana
have turned approvers.
The jewellery and antiques
found in the temple, are being evaluated.
What will they do with the treasure?
It is traditional wealth, dear boy.
It belongs to God!
This tradition...
God...
Isn't it all for the sake of people?
Must it not reach them?
You're right.
It must reach the people. And it will.
The temple's sanctity is lost!
Neither is the sanctity lost
nor have your responsibilities changed.
The secrets of the temple, my family
has safeguarded for generations...
...and the music of the Gandharvas,
are merely tales?
Without Lord Krishna's blessing,
nothing can be moved from this temple.
What was the reigning star last night?
-The Rohini.
When moon reigns in this star,
the Gandharvas don't play music.
Exactly at midnight, this will turn on.
If no sound signal is detected, the device
will automatically turn off in a minute.
So you're saying we need not change
the temple's customs?
This is not the end.
It is the beginning.
At the right time,
this will show you the way.
Nara Narayana!
Thank you, Arjun.
Shall we go?
-Just a minute.
At least from now,
can you be fully truthful with me?
Ask me what you want to know.
Is Krishna's flute really in that temple?
It was all a sham
to lure Sans Ferraro out here.
Good God!
You could've told me that!
Who else would I tell,
if not to my life partner?
I have plenty of stories
to tell you.
Quite a tall tale!
(Priest utters Sanskrit hymn)
O Sacred Eagle!
Get going.
The temple is about to close, Murthy.
Let's go home.
You go on, uncle.
I'll stay the night
to watch what happens.
Don't blabber, you idiot!
Get going.
Why are you scared? I'll record
what happens here and put it on YouTube.
See how it goes viral!
Quit sounding like a lunatic!
Do what I say.
Do not play around with God.
Got it?
Murthy?
My boy...
Has everyone left?
-Yes, sire.
Murthy is missing, sire!
He must have gone home.
No! He was blabbering about
wanting to spend the night here.
What are you saying?
Murthy!
Murthy!
Dear boy!
Murthy!
Murthy!
Murthy!
We've looked everywhere,
but couldn't find Murthy, sire!
"When ones doom approaches,
their minds fail them."
"Deaths continue
in the archaeology sector."
"Will the mystery be solved?"
"The Crime Report!"
"Over the past few years, there's been a
string of deaths among archaeologists."
"All the victims had been studying
ancient statues."
"That their deaths happened under
similar circumstances..."
"...and that the autopsies
revealed no apparent cause of death..."
"...has everyone shocked."
"Rumors are spreading among the public
that these deaths were caused..."
"...by mystical powers
emanating out of ancient divine idols."
"Archaeologists bring to light
the dark chapters of history."
"Who will bring to light
the mystery of their deaths?"
"When will the mystery clear up?"
C6 to E5.
H3 to G4.
F6 to G4.
F3 to E5.
H5 to H2.
Checkmate.
Wow!
How do you do it, sir?
Without even looking at the board...
Chess is a game
you play in the opponent's mind.
Not just a board game.
Chess was invented in India
as a means to teach war strategies.
Warfare is based on deception.
Deceit and betrayal.
These form the basis of war.
Even before meeting the enemy on the
battlefield, we must win over their mind.
We must appear near when actually far,
and afar when actually near.
Depending on circumstances,
we must be ready to adapt.
Attack, when unprepared.
Attack the enemy
when they least expect it.
Many lives have been lost
in order to protect war plans.
An archaeologist's job is to dig out
such well protected ancient secrets.
Knowing merely what metal
a weapon is made of...
...can tell us the period and dynasty
it belongs to.
This dagger is from the Pallava era.
It was found in Kanchipuram.
It was wielded by Nandivarman II.
An archaeological site
is like a crime scene.
Every piece of evidence
is vital.
Having chosen this field,
you must be very passionate about history.
Only after getting down into the trenches,
knowing the land, researching...
...studying inscriptions
and discussing with experts...
...we can learn the true history.
So, your work is not just about
digging up sand and rocks.
It involves even digging up
our past culture.
But sadly, the antiques we work hard
to dig up are sold abroad illegally.
So, you have a huge responsibility
in society.
Bring him in.
Okay, sir.
Wow!
Beautiful statue!
Where did you dig this up?
That's not your concern.
I'm sorry.
- I want its market price and other details.
Sure, sir.
I can do it.
My job not only involves
digging up that which is buried.
But also burying anyone
who tries digging up on me.
This emergency meeting has been set up...
...because a task that involves
multiple departments has come our way.
Idol smuggling mafias
with international ties...
...have long been operating out of India.
Recently, a lot of idol smuggling
is going on via Sri Lanka and Dubai.
Some in our department are involved
smuggling out our antiques.
The statues smuggled so far
are worth several billions.
There is a leader
for these idol smuggling mafias.
His name is Sans Ferraro.
He conducts this business
as if he were a wizard.
He finishes small dealings
through men in his network.
Per intelligence reports,
he only shows up in person...
...for the most prized artifacts.
Every undercover agent we have sent so far,
have somehow had their covers blown.
Sans Ferraro's network may be responsible
for the suspicious deaths of these agents.
Many such accidental deaths have occurred
in the countries where he operates.
We must put an end
to these thefts and deaths.
If we trap him,
we can apprehend his entire network.
And we can recover every antique
we have lost.
So, who'll take the lead?
Sir
I will take the responsibility.
After a long time, it feels like
a taste of my mother's cooking.
I need to give her something...
We don't need anything...
-It's okay!
No, sir.
-This is a gift for aunty...
Sorry...
it's a gift for my mother!
Thank you very much, sir.
All this is because of you.
Don't worry, sire.
Everything is for God, right?
Even the statue in there
has gotten old.
I can make it a new one.
Devaraj?
-Product will be ready in a week.
Okay.
But I'll need much more older versions.
There's plenty of demand for it.
We'll make it happen.
Good.
We'll do that.
Partner!
Arjun!
The antiques we work hard to dig up
are sold abroad illegally.
Even before meeting the enemy on the
battlefield, we must win over their mind.
Take notes!
A five metal idol.
Nineteen inches tall.
Must weigh around fifteen kilograms.
Going by the carving style,
it must be around 600 years old.
Based on its antique value...
It'll go for millions
in the grey market.
I want a duplicate of this.
-Sure!
Excellent, Arjun!
Pulled it off without a hitch!
The original goes abroad.
The duplicate goes to our temple here.
Be it a small or a big job,
the risk involved is the same, right?
Why don't we try something bigger?
I wanted to discuss that with you.
One of my contacts is Sans Ferraro.
He's an international agent.
He's the premier buyer of statues.
He's made a strong offer.
What's the offer?
He's asked for a very ancient statue.
If I get it,
can you duplicate it?
You fix the price, partner.
I'll get the statue.
"Hello guys. We know by heart since school
that the value of Pi..."
"...is 22 divided by 7, or 3.14."
"But many of us do not understand
what exactly 3.14 is."
"That's what we'll cover today."
"I have a pizza."
"I'm going to measure
its diameter with a thread."
"I place a thread length 3.14 times
the diameter around the pizza."
"I get a complete circle."
"To state it simply..."
"The circumference of a circle
divided by its diameter, is Pi."
"That is 3.14."
"Whether it's big or small,
a round wheel or the spherical moon..."
"...or a cylindrical water can..."
"...they all have the same value: 3.14."
Partner in crime!
Listen carefully to what I have to say.
(Maayon Hill)
I'm at the Maayon Hill excavation site.
30 kilometres from Pudukkottai.
Situated a kilometre from the site, is the
ancient temple of Pallikonda Krishna.
The town itself is two kilometres
from the temple.
Close to the site is another temple
the ASI took over, despite public protests.
Only now has it come completely
under our control.
In the temple, I opened a door
that had stayed shut for long...
...and found palm leaf manuscripts
and copper plates.
When experts decoded those manuscripts...
...I learned about a huge secret room
at the Pallikonda Krishna temple.
This is the big project we've been
waiting for so long, Arjun!
Get ready to come to the site.
Who is in charge of the site?
Vasudevan.
Oh no!
That man is trouble.
We can't move a single piece
under his watch.
You move the pieces.
I'll handle the rest.
But how can I gain entry there?
In two days, you'll get good news
through an official order.
The higher officials are staying
in the village.
You can stay at the excavation site
with the team.
The villagers won't disturb you there.
Hello!
Got no sense?
Watch where you're going!
It's just a pot.
Someone tossed it after a drink.
What?
"A pot"?
As if walking in uninvited
wasn't enough...
Who let you in here?
Can't you put up a board outside, DK?
He's the new senior expert,
Anjana.
You talk without respect, huh?
Collect the details captured there.
-Yes, sir.
Be patient.
-I don't care who he is.
He doesn't even know to walk carefully
at a site. Don't vouch for him.
Top of that, those damn sunglasses!
Stay calm.
-Anjana!
What's the problem there?
Sir!
Why this needless argument?
-Quiet!
Hello, sir.
I'm Arjun.
Arjun Manimaran.
So you're him!
The head office informed me about you.
Come!
Come on in, Arjun.
He's Mr. Devaraj, the Senior Director.
-Hello.
He's Mr. Madan, the painting expert
from Thanjavur University.
Hi.
-Hi.
She is Anjana.
The epigraphist.
We already know each other, sir.
For how long?
We just met outside.
Saw her outside, huh?
Did you see him there too?
-No.
Don't pay attention to men, eh?
Where is that coin, Devaraj?
Here it is.
Send this coin to the lab, DK.
I want the report.
How long will it take?
If sent today, three days.
-Then send it right away.
Copper.
About three grams.
Image of a standing man on one side.
A bird on the other.
A hairbun on the head.
So... a female bird?
It hails from the medieval Chola period.
I think... the reign of Rajendra Chola.
So, this coin
is from early 11th century.
Applaud, everyone!
Arumugam!
-Sir?
I told you to ready a tent for one
Mr. Arjun, yes? Take him to it.
Yes, sir.
Hello, son. How was the trip?
-Hello.
A very powerful temple, son.
Can we go there now?
-We can't go there after sunset.
If we do,
we will go mad.
Even our lives may get in danger.
It's not good, son.
You stay here.
I'll get your luggage.
Quite the hype!
What would have been the purpose
of this thing, sir?
A spittoon.
I'll hold it away.
Even dogs are mating
in this cold month of Margazhi.
Shall I go break them up?
You'll never get married.
Cool?
As if I ever will
if I hang out with you!
The smell of jasmine!
The sound of anklets!
Who is this belle?
My dream angel!
Who are you?
Who cares? Quiet!
-A man gets your dinner every day, yes?
Yes. Arumugam.
-I'm his daughter.
So you're the ones
who find statues?
All these years,
we went searching and found statues.
Tonight, a statue has found us!
Damn... he's proving to be
an 80s kid!
You'll never get her!
Here you go.
Not washed your hands?
We only just started!
How could I already?
You're quite the talker!
I like people like that!
What's your name, dear?
Vaani!
Here to steal my heart, honey?
Chat with you any longer,
and I'll laugh myself to death!
We'll laugh to death.
But we can't laugh
after our deaths.
I can't bear this nonsense!
But I will laugh!
I'll return as a ghost
and laugh!
As a ghost?
Why?
Are you scared of ghosts?
"Am I scared of ghosts?"
If ghosts are as beautiful as you,
I will happily marry one even!
See you!
You're making a huge mistake!
No. I'm scoring big.
Come, Arjun!
What's up, partner?
-Vasudevan returns in two days.
This is the right time
to make plans.
Look what's written here!
"900 years ago,
in Vijayanandapuram..."
"During the reign of King Achutha Rayar,
there was a severe drought!"
"People starved, unable to get
even a square meal a day!"
"The King fell ill
and was confined to his bed."
"His son, Arjuna Rayar,
ascended the throne as king..."
"...performed a sacrificial ritual
at the temple..."
"...travelled 300 miles
with his army..."
"...and waged a war
against the people of Kodugu Hills."
"He split his army into three groups..."
"...and attacked them
from several directions!"
"In the six days of war,
Arjuna Rayar defeated the local king..."
"...and returned home with 1,400 elephants,
20,000 horses and many gold ornaments!"
"After the glorious victory,
he began to serve his people."
"This ancient temple of Lord Krishna,
that was instrumental to his victory..."
"...he renovated extensively
and held a magnificent consecration event!"
When Arjuna Rayar was renovating
the Krishna temple...
...he built a secret room
to stash away all the remaining wealth.
Besides gold ornaments...
...coins hailing from Rome and Greece,
as well as that of Lord Ashoka...
...are all in there, Arjun!
Partner!
You nailed it!
You're in a league of your own!
You need to find out where the secret room
is and how to open it.
We'll get in!
I'm here, aren't I?
Come on in!
They'll be working with us
on this project.
Wasn't it just us both, all this time?
Don't you trust me anymore?
Nothing like that.
They were the ones who decoded the details
of the secret room.
Each of them have contributed
to this project from the start.
You'll certainly need their help.
This is a once in a lifetime deal!
If we get it,
we're all settled for life!
A world just for us,
where we reign supreme!
We can get whatever we want!
Okay.
Now on, Arjun is your boss!
What do we do, boss?
(Deaths continue
at the Department of Archaeology)
Vasudevan has sent over a list of suspects.
Why can't we just arrest the suspect?
In this matter,
we can't just clip off the branches.
We need to uproot it entirely!
For that, we need solid evidence.
Tap those on the list.
Hack them too, if you have to.
Okay, sir. I'll do the needful.
-Thank you.
Hi.
-Hey.
This is the blueprint we found
in the temple.
What's that?
-A Lidar scanner.
Open Lidar's app.
Okay.
Okay...
This temple's architecture
isn't as simple as we thought.
It's very unique.
Look at this.
Here's the west side of the temple.
The device identifies a tunnel here.
That secret room must be under the
sanctum sanctorum of the main deity.
Holy cow.
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'Wherever you go,
flowers bloom into a garden'
'The fragrance in the wind,
will sing a welcome ode'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'Like the truth hidden
in the inner recess of the heart...'
'...is there a price to the treasure
buried deep under the Earth?'
'Like the truth hidden
in the inner recess of the heart...'
'...is there a price to the treasure
buried deep under the Earth?'
'Like the truth hidden
in the inner recess of the heart...'
'...is there a price to the treasure
buried deep under the Earth?'
'Not all that is buried,
is treasure'
'Not all that is treasure,
is something new'
'Shall I tell you what lies in the heart?'
'Shall I unite my heart with yours?'
'That which was alone,
softly merges with its better self'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
'Wherever you go,
flowers bloom into a garden'
'The fragrance in the wind,
will sing a welcome ode'
'If we keep searching,
the truth will come to light'
'The past that has gone by
will come alive before our eyes'
Give me that.
Nothing in the palm leaves
or inscriptions...
...gives enough details
about the temple's secrets.
There are no more places
left to search.
Where then is
the clue to the treasure?
The evidence for the secret room
must be in the temple's inner sanctum.
To enter it, we need permission
from the temple's patron.
Who is he?
-Krishnappa Nayakkar.
His family has been safeguarding the temple
and its secrets for generations.
It's not easy to get his permission.
In fact, he runs his own government
in this town.
We need to deal with this
through Mr. Vasudevan.
Alright. Let's have Mr. Vasudevan
talk to him.
But, this permission is just a formality.
What the hell is this?
-Herbal extract!
Don't serve tea or coffee, eh?
Sir...
Hello, sir.
It's a pleasure to meet you.
Are you well? Have a seat.
-Yes, sir.
How goes your research, sir?
Very well, thanks to your support.
What's up, Vasudevan?
We have studied the inscriptions
on the outside of the temple.
The inner sanctum is all that's left.
If you permit us, we'll study
the inscriptions in there as well.
No one is allowed
inside the inner sanctum.
This is a government project, sir.
How can you say no?
We can't change the temple tradition
to suit your needs.
What era are you in, sir?
In an age where satellites are sent
to Mars, you won't let us into a room?
Divine energy must be felt.
It must not be studied.
-All true, but...
Modern science explains all. From the
universe's origin to the smallest atom.
"The one who slices up the tiniest atom..."
"The one who seeks the soul
of the finest particle..."
"To them will be revealed,
the Ultimate."
1,000 years ago, Sage Thirumoolar
proclaimed atoms keep the universe alive.
Your modern science just discovered that
after spending billions.
Even at CERN, which you claim to be
the world's finest research centre...
...they keep a statue of Lord Nataraja.
Do not underestimate the intellect
of our ancestors.
We're just here as a mere formality,
but you give us a sermon?
The sacred offering is ready.
Have some before you go.
Everyone hypes up this temple, sir.
Why wouldn't they?
It has a history that dates back
5,000 years.
Why do they claim people go insane
if they stay back after 6 PM?
That's because there are too many loons
let loose.
Quit kidding around, sir.
That's why I brought this out.
Just standing idle, right?
Hold this.
"Thousands of corpses
lie battered and bloodied."
"Vultures swoop down from the skies
to pick at the rotting flesh."
"In the inferno, the heaped corpses
stiffen, their bravery unquenched."
"Jackals, dizzy from the scent of blood,
split the air with their terrifying howls."
"It is a sight of gore,
at the battlefield of Kurukshetra!"
"Gandhari, who lost her
one hundred children there..."
"...curses Krishna that just as she suffers
her loss..."
"...his entire clan would be annihilated
before his very eyes."
"Heartbroken with Gandhari's curse,
Krishna comes to the Maayon Hills."
"In sorrow, he sits under a tree
and plays the flute."
"The Gandharvas, who were passing across
the sky at the moment, hear it..."
"...and create music of their own
to comfort Krishna."
"The music of the Gandharvas
fills Krishna with ecstasy."
It is believed that every night
since then, at the temple...
...the Gandharvas play music
that captivates Lord Krishna.
The town also believes that
the same music makes humans go insane.
Arjun
What do you think about our team?
They are talented.
They do as their told.
They give me whatever I ask them.
The mission will be a success.
After that, it will be up to you
to monetize it.
That's my expertise.
Within an hour of mission completion,
the money will come in.
Who's the buyer?
Ferrari or Lamborghini or something, right?
I have many types of buyers.
Sans Ferraro usually buys only statues.
Let him be whoever.
I don't care.
We'll deliver the goods
to those who are good to us.
Welcome everyone,
who came to watch!
Allirani's tale will send shivers
down your spine!
As Princess Allirani
was tormented by the demon...
...she summoned Lord Krishna
to come save her.
"I am in trouble, O Krishna...
Save me!"
As she prayed so,
Lord Krishna appeared out of thin air!
He handed her the Somavalli flowers
to give to the demon.
The demon felt dizzy and fainted...
-Welcome, dear boy!
When did you come?
-Just now.
Have a seat.
-What's the occasion?
The temple festival happens next week.
This entire week
is filled with festivities.
He is my relative.
Works with the minister.
Hello.
Care for something to eat?
-No, I'm good.
Have 'panakam'.
It's delicious.
Bring over some 'panakam'!
-Bring it!
Here you go, sir.
-Thanks.
Yes, sir.
So... you went to meet the temple patron,
right? How did it go?
Don't ask! Why won't he give us
permission to go in?
How would he?
It's no ordinary temple, son.
Seen the hill behind the temple?
It had broke off
from the great Mount Sanjivani!
Lots of herbs grow there.
As Sage Agathiyar meditated there,
it is also known as Agathiyar Hills.
Thanks to the temple and the hill,
no one in town ever falls ill.
Then, why do such occurrences
happen at night?
Leads to insanity, son!
Why tell ghost stories, sir?
Like it would happen inside a temple!
From then to now,
such scepticism is what had caused...
...those who went into the temple
after dusk, to come out insane at dawn.
This is just some fiction!
Have you actually seen it happen?
A few years ago, without telling anyone,
a man went in, wanting to do research.
The next morning, he was found at the pond,
in a stupor.
He had this paper with him.
How did you get this?
He was my father.
He had drawn the last thing he had seen.
The mystic events in this temple
are beyond imagination, son.
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Wise One'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Guardian of Truth...
O Eternal Flame...'
'O Guardian of Truth...
O Eternal Flame...'
'Can those devoid of honour
stroll with their heads held high?'
'Can those devoid of honour
stroll with their heads held high?'
'Can those who worship thee
bow low and cower down?'
'Can those who worship thee
bow low and cower down?'
'Then, now, and forever...
Hasn't this always happened?
'Does this seem right?
Is this the fate ordained by thee?'
'Not a tiny speck
moves without thy assent'
'Do as thine heart says'
'Who will bring to thee
our tale of woes?'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'Lying on the majestic serpent
under the celestial ocean of milk...'
'Thou bring ashore those who grapple
in the ocean of worldly ties'
'Lying on the majestic serpent
under the celestial ocean of milk...'
'Thou bring ashore those who grapple
in the ocean of worldy ties'
'Despite being in a state
of divine slumber...'
'Despite being in a state
of divine slumber, thou are omniscient'
'Thou embrace and protect us
from all worldly sorrows'
'Sinners thrive...
yet, thou are at rest'
'As they try to loot thy temple...'
'...is it right for thou to slumber so?'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Wise One'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Seeking refuge,
we surrender at thy feet'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'Besides thee,
there is no other sanctuary'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Precious One'
'O Narayana'
'Krishnaya Govinda Narayana'
'O Narayana'
Looks like he might bury us tonight,
brother!
Don't be scared!
I'm here for you!
He's broken our leader too!
You don't even measure up to my hip.
and you want to bury me?
Beat it!
What brings you to town all of a sudden,
sire?
There is no task
without reason.
For every task, there is an outcome.
To change the outcome...
...conduct a Sudharshana ritual
on the night of the Rohini star.
Yes, sire.
'O Handsome Lover...
O Dusky Lord Krishna'
'O Handsome Lover... O Dusky Lord Krishna'
-They are here to see you, sire.
Have a seat.
'O Handsome Lover'
-What's the occasion?
I'll tell you, son.
Since the era of Arjuna Rayar,
this festival takes place every year...
...on the night
of Lord Krishna's birth star.
'O Handsome Lover...
O Divine Flutist'
Every year, four pots are hung up...
...and a boy in Lord Krishna's costume
is asked to smash the right one.
Only one of the four pots
contain butter.
Not once has the wrong pot
been smashed.
Only the one containing butter
is always broken.
O Krishna!
We believe Lord Krishna himself
descends upon the boy and breaks the pot.
O Krishna!
'O Handsome Lover...
O Divine Beauty'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna...
O Handsome Lover...'
'O Dusky Lord Krishna...
O Handsome Lover...'
Having not played the flute
since leaving Mathura to go to Dwaraka...
...Lord Krishna arrived at the Maayon Hill
and played it for the last time.
It is our town's belief
that he left his flute here.
Based on what we could draw
from these palm manuscripts...
...we learnt something.
Look at this.
The snake on this door
is the serpent Kalingan.
It lived on the shores of river Yamuna
during Krishna's time.
The myth says that Krishna tamed it
by dancing upon its head.
The townsfolk believe the serpent
still goes around the temple...
...and protects the place at night.
This secret door is sealed
by the Snake Lock.
The palm script says it will open
upon chanting the Garudan hymn.
Those hymns are known only to
Krishnappa Nayakkar's family...
...and a few mystics.
Then let's just ask him!
Does one ask the owner the key
to rob his house?
Then let's break the door!
No?
His damn mouth
must be broken!
Is there no other way?
There is.
Look at this.
The Strategic Wheel!
It is the key!
Look at that hollow.
That is the Snake Lock.
Place the Strategic Wheel upon it,
the door will open.
This Strategic Wheel
is somewhere inside the temple.
We need to look for the clue.
I'd rather get a bank loan
and settle abroad!
When are we executing the plan?
There will be a solar eclipse
in seven days.
The temple will be shut all day.
We'll enter that morning.
We need to finalize the details.
We meet here tomorrow
at the same time. Okay?
What is it, Arjun?
Nothing.
Remember what I said?
It's coming along smoothly.
I've confirmed that a 5,000 year old flute
is hidden in the Krishna temple.
My team believes
there's only some buried treasure.
Make arrangements to sell the flute
separately.
If anyone gets in the way,
I'll handle it.
Understood.
-Yeah.
Let Arjun recover the flute first.
Let it come to our hands.
After that...
...we'll finish him.
What's up, Devaraj?
Have you reached Colombo?
I am already here!
Cross the sea
and come out to Pudukkottai.
You can see
the sea of wonders!
It's just an overnight journey
for me.
When do you want me there?
Very soon.
-Ciao!
A snake!
It's just a rope.
Always freaking out over snakes...
Just a rope, huh?
-You'll die from snakebite some day!
Sans Ferraro's sources found out
Krishna's Flute is hidden in the temple.
He's coming for it personally.
You believe these fables too?
I don't believe in fables.
I believe in him.
We're going into the temple, anyway.
If it's in there, I'll retrieve it.
Not 'if it's in there'.
You will retrieve it.
'Hide and seek...
Find out where we are'
"This is RJ Bhushitha."
"You're listening to
'When do we realize this is God's play?'"
"But let's not go into
the spiritualism vs. science debate."
"But this song has a huge connect
with this day."
"Today is March 14."
"The birthday of scientist extraordinaire
Albert Einstein."
"It's also when Lord Krishna was born
under the reigning Rohini star."
"A day laced with scientific
and spiritual undertones."
"If one believes, it's spiritual.
If not, it's science. It's that simple."
Height is 6.5 inches. Noted it?
-Yes, sir.
Vasudevan!
Welcome, Mr. Minister. Greetings!
-Greetings!
Please sit.
-How are you? You please sit.
Please step outside boys.
I'll call you back.
Step out.
What brings you here so sudden...
Should I not come?
-Of course, you can!
How goes the work?
It's going well, sir.
You've hooked a big one, huh?
"Hooked a big one?"
Seems you've found a secret room
in the temple.
"Secret room?"
What is this?
"Secret room?"
There's no such thing.
Who is this gentleman?
-Mr. Devaraj.
My second-in-command.
Please wait outside.
Oh no!
He's a senior officer.
So he cannot step out?
By all means.
-Please step out. I'll call you back.
I don't get what you're saying, sir.
Mr. Vasudevan...
Appears you found a secret room
in the temple.
We've received a complaint that you intend
to steal all the jewellery in there.
So, the revenue department is coming
to inspect the temple tomorrow.
You need to cooperate with us.
We are civil servants, sir.
We must be loyal to the government!
Whatever is in there,
we'll give 10% of it to the government.
Give me the remaining 90%.
You'll definitely get the share
that's your due!
Don't get caught
flying solo, Vasudevan!
You may need our support
in the future.
I believe you understand.
Shall I take your leave?
See you.
-Be well!
Hello?
Where are you, man?
My job here is done.
-Uncle!
Yeah, they are shaken.
-Uncle!
I've handled it, uncle.
Everything will fall in place.
I'll speak to the minister
and get you an award.
Are you happy?
I don't need an award, my boy.
I'm content with our town's temple
being safe.
That's no problem at all.
Don't worry. I'll handle it.
The minister's leaving.
See you.
All our hard work will be in vain!
After the revenue department seizes it all,
we can't do squat!
We have only one option.
We need to execute the plan tonight!
No devotee dares to go into the temple
after 6 PM.
And you want to risk going in?
Do you believe those tales?
-100%!
Thousands of crores, DK!
Does it matter how much?
One needs to be alive to enjoy it!
You go. I'm not coming!
-Damn it, DK!
What do you think?
Are you scared, Arjun?
If we don't risk it all tonight,
we'll just be digging up sand for life!
I'm not ready for that!
I will make sure we go in
and safely retrieve the item.
How will we trade it?
They're all antiques.
Should there be any trouble selling it,
we'll all end up in jail!
That's no big deal.
I'll have Sans come in tomorrow.
Once you retrieve the item,
get it to him.
He'll handle the rest.
For the next two months,
it'll be business as usual.
Then, we settle down for good.
We have no clue
about the Strategic Wheel!
We need to head in and get it!
Are you kidding?
There'll be no one at the temple
after 6 PM.
It'll reopen at 6 AM tomorrow.
We have twelve solid hours.
Can't we crack it by then?
Do you know how risky this is?
You got a better idea?
Exactly!
I'm in.
I'm already in.
-Perfect.
Once you finish the job,
head to the storehouse.
I must not be suspected.
So, I'll stay with Vasudevan and delay
the special team for as long as possible.
Once the job is done,
I'll come there directly. Okay?
My team is going in tonight, Sans.
Your package will be ready
by tomorrow morning.
I'll be there on time.
The sound chip you requested
is in this device, Arjun.
Sans Ferraro will reach the spot
at 6 AM on the dot.
When Vasudevan and I go to the temple
at dawn, the treasure won't be there.
By then, you will have finished the job.
After that...
...it's my job to finish you.
Excuse me?
I meant finishing our deal.
Okay.
Don't worry, partner.
I'll leave only after wrapping it up clean.
He's trying to fool everyone.
Until the goods reach the spot...
...you need to watch him.
For his betrayal...
...I will end him myself.
The temple map.
As always, the temple will close
at 6 PM.
The public and temple staff
will leave by the east exit.
To avoid people, we need to go
by the western hills.
Along the wall there,
are stones that function as steps.
It'll be easy for us
to climb up and down.
That wall is 17 feet tall.
The rope is vital, DK.
Okay.
The temple stands on 62 acres of land.
This is the sanctum sanctorum.
The lidar scanner revealed
a basement structure underneath.
So, the treasure must be in there.
We need to look for the Strategic Wheel
in the other halls.
High decibel frequency will start coming in
from the west side, at midnight.
With noise cancelling devices,
we can block it out.
How?
Exactly at midnight,
this will turn on.
It'll emit negative sound signals to
cancel any other sound signal.
If no signal is detected, the device
will automatically turn off in a minute.
An important thing.
No one bring their cell phones.
The radiation emitted by the phone
will produce adverse effects.
The map is your responsibility, Madan.
-Sure.
Photos of the manuscripts
and inscriptions stay with me.
At 6 AM, the revenue department
will enter the temple.
No matter what happens,
we need to exit the temple before 5:30 AM.
Pack your necessary gear.
-Okay.
(A Sanskrit hymn is chanted)
Don't forget to drink this herbal water.
Because the Nayakkar family always drink it
before they enter the temple.
What's up, Mr. Devaraj?
Are all the documents ready?
Not yet, sir.
I'll get to it.
"You'll get to it"?
I told you to give it priority!
We don't know where that secret room is.
As if I know where it is.
But Krishnappa Nayakkar
knows, right?
But how will he tell us, sir?
With a government order in hand,
he has no choice but to tell us!
There's a festival tomorrow, sir.
-I know.
The entire town will be there.
-Let them be.
Pressing this now
will lead to trouble, sir.
Aren't you an officer
with this department?
Sir?
-You are taking his side!
Random people come up and tell me
about secret rooms.
What were you all doing for three months?
Without finding all this?
The minister comes
making bloody deals with me!
Look at this face.
Does it say 'thief' on it?
No, right?
So, we're meeting Krishnappa Nayakkar
today!
Mr. Nayakkar is quite an influential person
in this town.
We're a lot more influential
than him!
Who are we?
We're the government!
The revenue department is coming tomorrow,
with police protection.
They'll handle any problem.
You needn't worry.
What if that information is fake, sir?
Is there a link between you
and that minister?
Nothing like that...
-Then do your job!
What's the plan?
The photos Arjun captured
of inscriptions in the inner sanctum.
It means that like one needs to get past
the 'Nandi' (bull) to see Lord Shiva...
...we need to get past the 'Garuda' (eagle)
to see Lord Krishna.
So, we start at the Garuda shrine.
Shall we begin?
"Swirls all around a plash,
wherein golden fish splash..."
"...to end, tired in play.
Thither, they sway..."
"...from the cardinal four
on moonlit nights, from yore."
"A dip in the pool
to savour the cool..."
"...and then, lute strings
from the pillared hall rings..."
"...standing under the rise
of a mythical eagle's war cries."
"At the flower-strewn Maayon's feet, the
Gandharvas sing, bring cheer and retreat."
This is Telugu, right?
Do you speak it?
It means
the Gandharvas come to the pond.
They go to the Garuda shrine.
They play music in the hall.
Right?
This sounds like a temple myth.
Doesn't seem like a clue.
Is anything else written there?
Give me the torch.
It says the clue is in the Garuda shrine.
Here's my doubt: What if this is just
one part of the clue?
True!
-Alright.
We'll each search one direction.
You take the east, Anjana.
Madan, take north.
-Okay.
DK, go south.
-Okay.
Dear son...
Brother Arumugam! How are you?
-I'm fine.
How come you're here all alone?
DK is not here?
That's why I asked.
They've gone out for some research.
Be back in the morning.
"They've gone out?"
The soul of this town
is this temple!
You must use your power to protect it!
If you don't...
...I may be forced to use the power
that was bestowed upon my family!
Mr. Nayakkar?
Like a lizard that sacrifices its tail
to save its head...
...deciding what's important
and what's not important...
...based on circumstances,
is true intelligence.
That is real wisdom too!
Who are you?
These are my questions!
What are you doing here?
You must not be here.
It's time for them to arrive!
Who?
Leave!
I thought it was the snake!
"Snake"?
-Yeah!
There's a dwarf in there!
"A dwarf"?
-Yes!
The snake!
Run!
Where are you going?
A snake!
A snake, man!
What snake?
There's a banshee!
A snake, man!
Come on, DK!
The dwarf!
We've dealt with a damn snake!
Like he's any challenge!
Don't do it, DK!
What kind of game is this?
That dwarf is doing it!
It's not funny anymore.
I didn't hit you!
-Then who did?
Don't believe me, right?
Hold on!
Oh no...
-Hey!
Why do I alone get hit,
despite you throwing?
He's gone!
Look... the snake!
DK!
Hold on!
Stay in place!
There is beauty in your fear.
Don't be afraid.
Come near me!
Come...
Come closer!
What happened, DK?
My torchlight is missing.
Have you seen it?
"Torchlight"?
Dunce!
-Arjun!
What is it?
Arjun?
Arjun!
Arjun!
What happened, Anjana?
Strange things
are happening here!
I can't stay here for another minute!
Let's leave!
If everyone leaves,
who'll get the treasure?
With all that's going on,
you still talk treasure?
I'm leaving!
I'm leaving too!
There's nothing like that in here!
Trust me!
You said there was nothing here!
How do you explain this noise?
Quit yelling!
The sonic device
cancelled the noise.
Many things happening here
are beyond science!
We're leaving!
Anjana!
Please listen to me, guys!
There's someone running there!
Recognize him?
Nayakkar's son!
He's coming back!
You've had it!
Now do you get it? It was all a show
put on by Nayakkar to protect the treasure!
I have doubts
about the temple myth.
Why?
-Here's the thing.
I've heard Gandhari cursed Krishna
after the battle of Mahabharatha.
I mean, I've read it.
But Krishna is beyond
joy and sorrow.
Why would someone like him
come here in sorrow?
Why must the Gandharvas cheer him up
with music?
Wait! So you're saying
this is just a fairy tale?
The kings could've fabricated
the story of this temple, right?
"He split his army into three groups,
and attacked from several directions!"
We must appear near when actually far...
...and afar when actually near.
We're looking for clues in the temple.
But the temple itself is a clue!
-I don't get it.
Repeat the verse, Anjana.
"Swirls all around a plash,
wherein golden fish splash..."
"...to end, tired in play.
Thither, they sway..."
"...from the cardinal four
on moonlit nights, from yore."
"A dip in the pool
to savour the cool..."
"...and then, lute strings
from the pillared hall rings..."
"...standing under the rise
of a mythical eagle's war cries."
"At the flower-strewn Maayon's feet, the
Gandharvas sing, bring cheer and retreat!"
Notice a pattern in the story?
This is the clue to the Strategic Wheel!
They didn't hide it in one place.
It's been split and hidden all over!
How'd you figure that?
How does the story go?
The Gandharvas come to the pond.
They go to the Garuda shrine
and pay their respects.
Then, they play music
in the hall.
Take out the Gandharvas' activities
and just think of the places they've been.
The pond.
The Garuda shrine.
The music hall.
So the keys
must be in these three places.
So... shall we begin?
Super!
Are you not coming, man?
Don't be scared.
I'm here for you!
These don't fit!
Give me that.
There must be a center piece
to connect all three.
Get the map!
We got clues
for the Strategic Wheel...
...at the Garuda shrine, the pond
and the music hall.
It's a perfect triangle.
So the center piece must be in the centre!
"Cardinal four..."
-What is it, Arjun?
"From the cardinal four..."
That's direction.
Are they talking directions?
East, North, South, West.
The Moon Hall!
Yes!
The center piece
must be in there!
Got a matchbox, DK?
Are you going to smoke?
-I'm going to set you on fire, idiot!
Hurry up!
The camphor's about to go out!
All gone!
Everything is lost!
Everyone will be here soon.
All our efforts
have been in vain!
All is lost!
We dreamed so much!
A villa in Switzerland!
What did you wish for?
My mother abandoned me
as soon as I was born.
It was Devaraj who educated me
and brought me into this field.
Even if it was for his own benefit,
he was the only one who helped me.
This job is all he asked of me.
I am doing it
because he asked.
Besides that,
I have no desires.
Kasi!
-Yes, sir?
Get our guys
and go to the storehouse.
Sans Ferraro will come.
Stay with him.
-Yes, sir.
Arjun must not be spared.
Got it?
-Yes, sir!
The Gandharvas
are in the Moon Hall.
What's the connect between the Gandharvas
and the moon?
Strategic Wheel...
Wheel...
"Be it a round wheel or a spherical moon,
they all have the same value: 3.14."
The moon!
Maybe this light is the answer?
Maayon.
Maayon means Krishna.
Feet.
The flower.
The flower is the center piece, guys!
Try pressing it and pulling it.
Yes!
The conch. The fish.
The snake.
Here is the Strategic Wheel!
Since the era of Arjuna Rayar,
this festival has taken place.
Only one pot contains butter.
No can do!
-Don't talk too much, sir!
Will you open the door
and let us in?
Or must we break it open?
Who do you think you are?
Think you'll leave here alive
after defying our leader?
Leave, everyone!
-Hack him up!
Listen to me.
You can't move a brick in there
as long as I'm here!
Then there's just one way, sir.
You open the door yourself
and co-operate with us...
...and safeguard the sanctity.
There is no other option.
Like a lizard that sacrifices its tail
to save its head...
...deciding what's important
and what's not important...
...based on circumstances,
is true intelligence.
Alright.
If I open that door...
...I don't know
what the consequences will be.
You need to bear responsibility.
No matter what happens,
we'll handle it.
Four locks here!
You mentioned only one!
I drew it per her instructions.
That's what the palm script said.
We have no time for that.
Just insert it into any of them.
It's risky to do that.
If inserted in the wrong hollow,
poisonous gas will be released.
Knowing merely what metal
a weapon is made of...
...can tell us the period and dynasty
it belongs to.
Four metals.
Gold.
Silver.
Bronze.
Iron.
What do these four metals
signify?
The four directions
or the four Vedas?
Or four eras?
What does the temple
have to do with eras of time?
This is a temple of Lord Krishna.
Krishna was born in the Dwapara era.
That's the third.
So it must be the bronze.
Give me the Strategic Wheel.
Greetings!
Greetings!
O Krishna...
Hurry up!
It's time!
What gives, Devaraj?
Didn't your team take these?
Missed it, eh?
What's happening?
What is this?
This is a neem stick.
For brushing teeth!
Where's the flute?
-Take it!
Sans Ferraro!
If we trap him,
we can apprehend his entire network.
We need an expert
in this field.
I will take the responsibility.
I'm going to assign this task
to the best student I have ever trained.
Mr. Arjun Manimaran!
Warfare is based on deception.
Deceit and betrayal.
These form the basis of war.
Sans Ferraro has asked
for a very ancient statue.
He buys only ancient statues
or anything related to it.
Depending on circumstances,
we must be ready to adapt.
I've confirmed that a 5,000 year old flute
is hidden in the Krishna temple.
Make arrangements to sell the flute
separately.
If anyone gets in the way,
I'll handle it.
Understood.
The play has begun!
Good.
Let's get prepared.
Devaraj!
What you were trying to sell,
are not temple idols.
It is the identity of our nation!
Selling out your motherland's identity
is the same as selling off your mother!
Will you sell her?
Take him away
and give him quite the treatment!
Attack, when unprepared.
Get our guys and go to the storehouse.
-Okay, sir!
Attack the enemy
when they least expect it.
"Hundreds of idols smuggled from India
have been recovered."
"The government has engaged to retrieve
thousands more smuggled idols."
"Sans Ferraro, an Italian, who smuggled
antiques and statues on a global scale..."
"...has been arrested
by the Tamil Nadu Police."
"Breaking News!"
"Minister Selvadurai has suddenly
tendered his resignation."
"It is believed his decision
is due to health reasons."
Good job, Arjun.
Your actions have made
not just this department...
...but this entire nation proud!
-Thank you!
"The task force that was launched
four years ago..."
"...to look into the mysterious deaths
in the department of archaeology..."
"...has brought to light,
the truth."
This was given to me
as a show of respect.
I'm hungry!
-I'll give it to you when we leave.
What happened last night?
Did they all go insane?
Not insanity, sir.
It's a kind of hallucination.
"Hallucination"?
A mental state that makes one
see things that are not there.
It was a group hallucination.
A person's word
is believed as truth by all.
To snap them out of fear,
the solution I created is...
...Nayakkar's son.
I made them believe the mysterious events
were staged by the Nayakkar family.
After that,
they believed whatever I said.
Wood appeared as gold to them
and vice versa.
Drop that stuff!
Why take that?
Are all the mystical claims
of this temple real?
Does that music make people hallucinate?
I used a special device
to cancel that sound.
Not just that.
When running a scentography test...
...I learnt the hallucinations were caused
by a flower called 'Somavalli'.
These flowers only bloom at night
and the scent fills the temple.
Those who smell it,
begin to hallucinate.
How come the smell didn't affect you?
All thanks to the antidote herb.
-"A herb"?
I saw the herb
at Krishanappa Nayakkar's house.
One night, I followed Nayakkar's son
to find out where it grows.
Some herbs fell from a bag
he was carrying.
I had it sent to the lab
for tests.
I found out that consuming it
can prevent one from hallucinating.
So all of this
was to safeguard that treasure, right?
That's what I thought, too.
There is the symbol of infinity,
on the room's wall.
I think that points to another mystery.
This is where we must compliment
the intellect of the ancient Tamils!
What happened
to Anjana and the rest of them?
Devaraj and Madan
will be in prison for life.
DK and Anjana
have turned approvers.
The jewellery and antiques
found in the temple, are being evaluated.
What will they do with the treasure?
It is traditional wealth, dear boy.
It belongs to God!
This tradition...
God...
Isn't it all for the sake of people?
Must it not reach them?
You're right.
It must reach the people. And it will.
The temple's sanctity is lost!
Neither is the sanctity lost
nor have your responsibilities changed.
The secrets of the temple, my family
has safeguarded for generations...
...and the music of the Gandharvas,
are merely tales?
Without Lord Krishna's blessing,
nothing can be moved from this temple.
What was the reigning star last night?
-The Rohini.
When moon reigns in this star,
the Gandharvas don't play music.
Exactly at midnight, this will turn on.
If no sound signal is detected, the device
will automatically turn off in a minute.
So you're saying we need not change
the temple's customs?
This is not the end.
It is the beginning.
At the right time,
this will show you the way.
Nara Narayana!
Thank you, Arjun.
Shall we go?
-Just a minute.
At least from now,
can you be fully truthful with me?
Ask me what you want to know.
Is Krishna's flute really in that temple?
It was all a sham
to lure Sans Ferraro out here.
Good God!
You could've told me that!
Who else would I tell,
if not to my life partner?
I have plenty of stories
to tell you.
Quite a tall tale!