Mother Teresa & Me (2022) Movie Script
1
You took everything from me.
Your love.
Your love was only an illusion.
I don't believe in you.
You don't exist.
Soul.
Paradise, God.
These words
don't mean anything anymore.
I have lost my faith.
Ciao.
Hey.
What the hell
are you doing here, Sister?
I'm not a Sister.
I'm a Mother.
-I know her. She's from Entally.
We're taking you
back home, sister.
I have 300 girls
who are starving.
I won't return without food.
Alright. Come with us,
we'll give you some rice,
Sister.
My name is Teresa,
Mother Teresa.
Your place?
- We always go to my place.
Well...
It's nicer than mine.
-Mm.
Certainly cleaner.
We're good together, aren't we?
Hmm. Yes. We are.
Let's get a cab, it's freezing!
Kavita!
Kavita! What the...
Ka...Kavita!
Kavita?
Help! Help!
Help!
Help!
Mother Teresa.
We are worried
about your health.
I will send you
to Darjeeling for a retreat.
I thank you for your concern,
Mother, but I'm happy
to stay here and work.
Don't argue.
We need you in good shape.
You will leave next month.
I will do as you say, Mother.
Mother.
It's from your real Mother.
I thought I'd give it
to you myself.
At least the post
is still working.
Thank you.
Mother.
My dear Gonxhe,
I am so happy to have received
more news from you.
Your life seems very full.
Especially as you work plenty.
As usual.
You have always been strong,
and dedicated.
But you shouldn't forget
why you went to India.
To help the poor.
Oh, there is a monkey!
Did you see it? Ha!
Ha!
You went
to India to help the poor.
What is wrong with
you, Mother Teresa?
Have you been out
in the sun too long?
Jesus actually spoke to you?
I mean, you heard his voice?
Yes, Father.
It's a new call within my call.
Well...
That is most...
peculiar...
to say the least.
How did this happen,
exactly?
Jesus said, "Come.
"Come. Carry me
to the homes of the poor.
"Come be my light."
Kavita...
Kavita?
Kavita...
Don't worry,
you're in a hospital.
You were hit by a car.
Do you understand
what I'm saying?
What's your name?
-Um...
Kavita...
Uh, Kavita Mukherjee.
-Do you remember what happened?
Can you tell me
the date today?
My violin.
Where's my violin?
I...
I forgot it.
Okay.
-I can't play anymore.
-Just try and relax for me.
Sh, sh, sh.
Mother Teresa,
it is fortunate that you and I
know each other so well.
I am not sure how another priest
would've reacted
to what you have just told me.
I have been writing
this confession on paper.
I'm asking you
if you can send it to the Pope,
to ask him to allow me to work
outside the convent
for the poorest of the poor.
Before I can send this
to the Pope,
I need the Archbishop's
authorisation.
Will you recommend me?
Of course,
but it will take a while.
Let's not waste any time, then.
Mukherjee.
You're Indian, right?
Where from?
Uh, from Kolkata.
But I've lived here
since I was a child.
I was in Kolkata
working with an NGO.
Quite an experience.
I don't remember much.
I was really young.
Hmm. Me too.
I'm a violinist.
Then congratulations,
you're on holiday.
On holiday?
You've been very lucky.
There's nothing broken,
just a sprain.
You'll have to keep the bandage
on for a while, though.
And don't worry about the baby,
it wasn't hurt at all.
The what?
The foetus is in perfect shape.
Foetus?
You're kidding, right?
Didn't you know?
You're pregnant, young lady.
About six weeks.
What should I do?
Go home and rest for a bit.
You still have time
to think about it.
I can also refer you to
an abortion clinic if you wish.
Millions
of men, women and children
had to leave their homes.
They came all the way down
to Kolkata on foot.
And here... They have nothing.
They're hungry,
they don't have shelter,
no family, no home.
It's a very difficult time.
And you have to be
very, very careful
in stepping out
of the Loreto convent.
Any question?
What will happen to all these
pregnant women who were raped?
My parents say it would have
been better for them
if they had been killed instead.
They will never be respected.
But they should get rid
of their child instead.
- Yes, they should.
- No, no, no.
A mother should
never kill her child.
It's a crime
against a human being.
But it's already a crime
to force these women.
That's a reason
not to add another crime
by killing an innocent child.
But if they keep the children,
they'll be rejected by everyone.
They'll be on streets,
they'll be prostitutes...
They can be killed.
-A mother killing her own child
is the beginning
of all violence.
But it's not their fault.
Why do women
always have to pay the price
for violence of men?
He is testing our love that way.
God must be a man
to be so unjust.
What's the deal?
I'm pregnant, Paul.
Pregnant?
But that's-- how?
Who? Who is the father?
It's you, of course.
Who else would it be?
Pregnant? That's crazy.
I mean...
What are you going do about it?
Kavita?
I don't know.
I don't know!
You have to have an abortion.
-I know, uh...
-You can't keep it.
-I don't know what to do.
Kavita!
There you are.
-Shit.
Don't tell her.
-I'll call you tomorrow.
-What?
Stay with me, I need you now.
I don't want to meet your mother
Kavita, what has happened
to you?
I'm fine.
I just fainted, that's all.
You're not-- are you a doctor?
Um...
He's just a colleague from work.
He brought me here.
Can I take my daughter home?
Where's the doctor?
-Calm down.
I saw the doctor, we can go.
My baby, my little Kavita.
When I got the call
from the hospital I was...
I don't know what I'd have done
if anything happened to you.
I'll leave now.
Kavita, take it easy.
Father? Father!
I have to do everything myself.
There's a shortage
of new vocations these days.
Why is the Archbishop taking
so long to give me an answer?
I've heard he's taking advice
on the matter.
He's worried about
the validity of your plan.
This is God's plan. There can
be no question about it.
There are already so many
different orders of nuns.
He cannot agree
to establish another one
without taking the utmost care.
He's also worried about you.
The idea of living
outside the safety of Loreto
scares me too.
But Jesus talks to me.
He tells me to trust him,
to love him and to go
to these poor children
on the street.
I suggest you write
to him, then.
To Jesus?
To the Archbishop.
With my permission, of course.
Do it without fear,
but with sincerity and faith.
And remember, don't tell
anyone else about all this.
Thank you, Father.
Oh, God.
Why do you always do this?
Hi, Dad.
It's not too serious,
is it?
My lovely daughter, Kavita.
So sorry for being late.
Our little girl
had a little accident.
Oh my God, what happened?
Oh, she got hit by a car.
It was because of the snow
last night, we were so worried.
She had to spend the night
in the hospital,
just to be safe.
Nothing broken it seems.
A doctor's keen eye.
Some more tea?
-No, thanks.
Isn't that Mother Teresa?
How did you meet her?
Oh, we first met her
at a charity concert in Kolkata.
How fantastic!
What was she like?
A holy soul...
But still... human.
- She blessed us at our wedding.
- -March 11...
...1987.
Love at first sight.
You had a love marriage?
Yes.
Mom, Dad, it's no secret
your parents
arranged for you two
to be together.
So, why pretend like
it was a love marriage?
Kavita, enough.
-I read Mother Teresa stopped
women who had been raped
from having abortions.
And she didn't administer
painkillers to dying patients,
so they'd suffer,
like Jesus on the cross.
-That's enough, son.
Sorry...
Our Kavita,
she could have been a lawyer,
but she has a mind of her own.
So...
that is why she pursued
a career as a music professor,
so that she can
give back to the society
by teaching others
to capture the beauty of music.
That's very admirable.
It's a job. Nothing more.
Rajiv is still working
at the hospital, but...
We plan to open
his private practice soon.
But not before he gets married,
of course.
Okay, um...
It was lovely to meet you
and have a great lunch
and a good Sunday.
Come back here.
- Kavita?
- What?
Why can't you be nice
to your father, for once?
Mom, it's my life, not his.
It's a family affair.
Don't be so selfish.
I'm not marrying
your community.
You did that...
-Kavita.
...not me.
Kavita!
What is the Vatican waiting for?
It will soon be six months
since I sent that letter.
I can't wait so long.
I will try...
I will be patient.
I must be patient.
Jesus, help me.
Yes, but when?
Remember Mary Ward,
it wasn't until after her death
that the church recognised
the Loreto order.
Your order!
They will never accept a woman
to be granted direct access
to God.
Paul?
It's me! Are you there?
Mother Teresa,
could you stay for a moment?
I have some news for you.
May I pray first?
Again?
They have agreed.
It took us two years,
but we won.
And they are giving you
exclaustration for a year,
which means you can remain
a nun outside the convent.
This is a miracle,
it has never happened before!
Just wait a minute...
Eh...
Psst...
Father.
Father!
Please. Bless my new habit.
But, this is a sari.
Yes. A simple sari
for the service of the poor.
Please.
I want to start immediately.
What, just now?
At this minute?
God cannot wait.
Mother,
I think you need
a little preparation
before you go working
on the streets.
I will send you to Patna
for some medical training.
Then, you will be ready.
I will do what you order,
Father.
But first, the blessing.
Hi. I have an appointment.
Kavita.
If you just want to sign here,
and the doctor will be
with you in one moment.
Hello, this
is Paul, you know what to do.
Mita?
Mita?
I am Mother Teresa.
Father Van Exem
from Loreto told me about you.
Yes.
I'm starting a school here,
and I need your help.
My help?
Father Van Exem gave me
a list of children from here,
so we need to find them.
Kavita! Oh my God!
Kavita! What are you doing here?
-Deepali...
-Oh!
What a pleasant surprise!
You didn't call.
Come in. Come in.
Look at you.
You're a real woman now.
Has your mom found you
a husband yet?
Over my dead body.
Oh!
I've missed you so much.
-Oh!
And you're still my little one.
Come.
Give me that.
-Thank you.
I thought I'd come to see you.
And see my old Kolkata...
I'm going to stay
for a few weeks
so, if you know
any hotels nearby...
You are forbidden
to stay anywhere else.
There's enough room
for both of us here.
I won't stay long.
What's wrong?
It's a long story.
You still do this?
You're not even Christian.
Christians, Hindus, Muslims...
We all want the same thing.
What's that?
Love.
You knew her quite well,
didn't you?
Mother? Yes.
From the very first day
she stared
the Missionaries of Charity.
I remember very well.
I was only a little girl then...
To see her dressed
like a poor woman...
wearing a simple white sari,
just like a widow,
It was an extraordinary sight.
I'd never seen anything
like it before.
Hello, this
is Paul, you know what to do.
Baba, wake up!
Wake up, Baba!
Baba, wake up! Baba...
Deepali...
Your father is gone.
Where?
He joined your mother
and brother
in a beautiful place.
He's happy now.
I want to be with them.
You need medicine.
My father died too,
when I was the same age as you.
He left me as well,
and I missed his love so much.
But I had to accept
that God wanted him back.
I don't like God. I don't want
him to take my father.
God gave you a gift.
He gave you your life.
What you do with your life
will be your gift to him.
Mrs Deepali, where is the list
of the adoptive parents
from last year?
I can't find it.
-Just look in the last drawer.
Oh.
Thank you very much.
-She's been here for one month.
-Mm.
Every three years,
they're assigned to a new place.
You're the living memory
of this place.
Come.
Come.
Hello.
Where is your doll, today?
What's that? A caterpillar.
All these kids
without parents...
Why can't women
just get abortions?
It's against Christian rules.
Silly rules.
In the past, even Hindus
considered abortion a sin,
a crime worse than killing
their own parents.
That's so wrong.
A woman knows what's best
for her. It's her body.
See that nurse?
She was raped.
And she had to keep the baby.
It was a beautiful little boy.
But he died within a few months.
Oh, no...
-And every single
morning after that day,
her first thought would be
with that lost, unwanted child.
A life of misery.
Children...
Impossible not to love them.
Yes?
My name
is Mother Teresa, Father.
I'm helping
the poor people in the streets,
and collecting donations
for them to eat and drink.
Can you help us, please?
Are you asking me for money?
Food is very acceptable
as well, Father.
I don't believe it.
A nun begging from me
in my own parish.
Father, Jesus sent me
to help the poor.
I will talk to your superior.
My work has been authorised
by the Vatican.
You should be ashamed
of yourself.
And this costume!
It's ridiculous.
Can you
give me something?
It's for my friends
who are very hungry.
Everybody is hungry
in this city.
I can't feed them all!
I need money to pay for all
these vegetables as well.
Please. Any leftovers.
No! Nothing is for free.
Come back
when you have some money.
Yesterday,
I learned a lesson
about the poverty
the poor are facing every day.
I walked and walked,
until my legs and arms hurt
in search of food for them,
and found nothing...
I thought they too
must feel the same pain.
That same night...
like a temptation,
the vision
of the Loreto Convent...
came into my dream.
Its comfort
and all the beautiful things
I have left behind...
haunted me.
I was missing all those
I truly loved all these years.
And the tempter kept saying...
"Just say a word,
"and everything
will be returned to you."
I could not hear you,
not feel you...
Talk to me!
I was alone.
And they were calling me...
They need me
as much as I need them.
To find you...
You can trust Kavita.
She's a responsible girl,
you don't need to worry
about that.
Yes.
Aparna, I don't know,
you really need to ask her.
Okay, I have something
on the stove so, I'll run, yeah?
Okay.
Your mother,
she's worried about you,
She didn't know you were here.
-Typical.
You know your mom loves
to control everything
and everyone.
But things never really...
turn out the way she wants.
I owe you one, Deepali.
Can I help you with anything?
Come with me to Nirmal Hriday.
Nirmal Hriday?
House of the dying.
I don't know about that.
-I thought you want to help?
-Yeah, I meant, like, with rent.
Oh, no.
Nirmal Hriday is not a place
to be scared of.
It is visited by angels.
I'm not sure
I can handle angels.
Happy Birthday,
Mother.
Father?
Subhashini!
We have come
to bring you presents, Mother!
But it's not my birthday.
Every day is your birthday.
And it's their birthday too.
Oh!
This is wonderful.
Wonderful!
Mother, look!
How did you do it?
I would not be surprised
if your friend up there
was involved.
And you are his angel.
I think you have to thank
your new Sister too, Mother.
My new Sister?
I don't have a Sister.
Subhashini!
What are you doing here?
You should be in Loreto.
I want to pronounce my vows.
I've questioned
my soul, Mother.
And it tells me
that my place is with you.
And if you agree,
I want to be named Sister Agnes,
after your baptismal name.
You have my blessing,
Sister Agnes.
But...
Let's not lose sight
of life's principal matters,
and let's all have a good meal.
I invite you
and your class today.
Thank you Father,
but we have not yet
finished our lesson.
In fact, we just started.
This is not
the time for teaching.
Why not?
-It's the time to celebrate!
-I agree.
Well, then, let's celebrate.
Let's celebrate!
Hey Paul. Um...
I'm in Kolkata.
Uh...
Look, it's, um...
It's not easy for me
to make this decision alone.
I take it you don't want
the child, but...
Please call me back.
I thought you cared... about me.
Um, bye.
We have
never been here.
It's a shortcut.
Look.
Oh my God.
She's still alive.
Wait, wait.
Sister Agnes, find us a rickshaw
Yes, Mother.
Mother,
they won't stop.
Take care of her.
This woman
needs help, it's an emergency.
Are you going to pay
for her treatment?
I'm sorry,
we don't have any money.
We can't accept patients
who are unable to pay
for their treatment.
We can't just let her die alone.
God is our witness.
You must send her back
to the streets. I'm sorry.
Let me see the doctor.
None of the doctors
are available
at this moment, Sister.
I'll wait.
We will take care
of this woman, Sisters.
Thank you, doctor.
I'm sorry, but she passed away.
It was much too late.
Even if you had brought her
here a few days ago,
it would've been too late.
Thank you, doctor.
Things can't go on like this.
Ah.
There's no point trying to save
one life here, one life there...
I think
we need to try and solve
the problem at the root.
We need to...
try and change
this cultural habit itself
where people stop disposing
of their elderly on the streets.
Dr Ahmed,
while you figure out a good way
to solve the problem at the root
I need to take dying people
off the streets
to bring them to a proper place
where they can have a bed,
and die with some dignity.
-Mm.
You have to give me
a place for them.
Now!
I was advised
not to have an argument
with you, Mother Teresa.
You haven't been
in the streets for long but,
certainly you have earned
yourself quite a reputation.
I'm not here for my reputation.
I know.
Well...
I might have an idea, but,
that's probably a bad one.
Why?
Here we are.
The ninth wonder of the world,
Nirmal Hriday,
"House of the Dying."
I'm not sure about this.
Don't worry,
It's not going to kill you.
Come.
The city was renting
this place to a merchant
but he had to close
his business.
Do you think
this might fit your needs?
It certainly needs
some painting.
It's huge.
Yes, it's perfect
for our Nirmal Hriday.
The House of the Dying.
We can start
the work right away.
That is if you agree, Dr Ahmed?
Ah...
I'm happy that you like
the place, Mother Teresa,
but let me show you
what might be a small problem.
This Kali temple
right behind the building...
some Hindus
might not accept you.
They might suspect
you want to convert them.
Good morning, Deepali.
Come.
Come.
Her name
is Sati.
Here.
Take this cool water
and wipe her forehead,
that'll ease the pain.
Excuse me?
Go on, don't be shy.
You can do it.
Here, we have
to bring her fever down.
Are you a doctor?
I'm a volunteer,
like all the other foreigners
you see here.
His father was here,
you know, 30 years ago.
when he was studying medicine.
So is Rupert now.
You may say
it's a family tradition.
But he hates it here.
-I'm counting down the days.
Is she dead?
Uh...
Uh, sleeping.
Rupert,
will you show Kavita around?
I will see both of you later on.
It'll be a pleasure.
So, you're not a doctor?
I'm still a medical student,
but I will be a doctor.
You know, my family
have been doctors
for the last four generations.
I'm the next in line.
Quite a traditional lad.
And you, what do you do?
If you don't mind me asking.
I'm a musician.
A violinist.
Wow, an artist.
Interesting.
And are you here
to save humanity
or just yourself?
I'm taking a break.
-A break from what?
From my life.
-When people come here
they're usually filthy
because they've been living
on the streets.
You can tell how long
they've been out there
from how they smell.
Mother, they're attacking us!
-Stay away from the windows.
Just do your work.
My passport.
Your brothers
and sisters...
Your brothers and sisters
are dying inside.
They need to rest.
If you want
to destroy this place,
take me and kill me instead.
But don't make so much noise.
Hey!
Don't let them
disturb you.
Go on.
Carry on.
My child...
They're leaving!
They're leaving!
You see Deepali,
he always protects us.
As long as he's here,
there is nothing to fear.
Ever.
You are so lucky
that Jesus loves you so much.
He loves you too, my child.
Are you sure?
Yes.
He loves all of us.
I'm sure of that.
So, my mom picks me up
from the hospital
and she says that
we have lunch with my Dad.
And then I was like okay,
I wasn't really in the mood,
obviously I'd just had an X-ray.
I get home, my dad's there,
this random Indian guy,
who I've never met before,
and his parents.
- You know, I understand
that people would still marry
within their caste in India,
but, in England?
I mean, that's...
That's weird. Why would
your parents still do that?
They don't want to be excluded
from their community.
That's all
that really matters to them.
So, you wouldn't be able
to marry me, for instance.
I'm not my parents.
I wouldn't marry someone
I didn't love.
-What's your type?
Dark skin, brown eyes?
I've always found blue eyes...
repulsive.
So, I don't stand
a chance, then?
What about children?
Are you interested
in reproduction?
I'm too young to die.
Yes, and we only live once.
Not if you're a Hindu.
I saw the two of you.
There is something cooking?
What do you mean?
He's quite cute, isn't he?
I must admit,
he's not the ugliest.
What's wrong?
I need to sit down.
-How many months?
Two. But I'm not keeping it.
Why not?
Because I don't want
to be a mother.
I-- I have other things
to do with my life.
What about the father?
Doesn't he want to marry you?
Why does everyone
want to see me married?
Why can't I just be
a single woman
who doesn't want children?
He doesn't want me...
Ever since I told him
I was pregnant
he won't even speak to me.
I don't know what to do.
- Don't you worry, my dear.
Everything will fall into place
in its own time.
I'm scared.
See...
this is for you.
I want you to have it.
It'll do you good.
Trust me. Here.
Take it.
Mama...
I miss you...
The pain won't stop.
What's wrong with her?
It's inside the head.
Could be a tumor
or a haemorrhage
She needs to go to hospital.
They won't take her.
She has no money,
no relatives, nothing.
It's terrible.
Can I pay for her treatment?
I'll tell you what you can do.
Try massaging her head,
her neck, and that should help
with the blood flow.
Are you sure?
Don't be afraid
to touch her.
That's it. Apply your hands
generously, don't hold back.
You see?
They like to be touched.
Old people don't get touched
so much.
Shouldn't the women's ward
be off limit to men?
I'm a doctor, remember.
You like this, don't you Sati?
Mm.
- I envy you.
- Why?
You have your music,
your vocation...
It's beautiful to know
from the start
what you want
to do in life. Like...
Mother Teresa.
You know, I was reading about
her life and what's so amazing
is even when she lost her faith,
she went on helping people.
Most people, when in total doubt
just... give up on their dreams.
But she didn't.
I guess I'm not that type.
There are definitely some things
I can't agree with, though.
.Like abortion, for instance.
She was uncompromising about it.
It just doesn't make sense
with what we know today.
I sort of understand her,
you know.
I'm from a traditional family
of doctors, and we...
believe in trying
to preserve life at all costs.
But it can ruin a woman's life!
Say you're pregnant and you
can't take care of the child.
Or it could even endanger
your own life just to keep it!
Why should you have to have
a child against your own will?
Well, it's about saving a life,
a human being.
It's hardly a human being.
It's just a collection of cells,
with no consciousness...
How can you say
you're murdering a human being?
Well, from a biological
point of view,
the moment you're conceived
is the start of your life.
Wouldn't you call yourself
a human then?
What about the women
who are raped?
And the stigma
they face in India?
These women's lives are lost
because they can't
have abortions.
Yes, the stigma is important,
but...
I believe that
when a man and a woman
are fond of each other,
and want to create
a home for themselves,
a child completes the picture.
You're avoiding the question.
I'm distracted.
And I think we've had
enough politics for today.
It's not fair.
You shouldn't be allowed
to have blue eyes like that.
I bribed the midwife.
I shouldn't be doing this...
-It's a wonderful day
for the Congregation, Mother.
Now, you have
a real headquarters.
I wanted to thank the Archbishop
personally, but he hasn't come.
He told me to tell you that
he is with you in his thoughts.
I am lost, Father.
He hasn't talked to me
since I started working
in the slums.
Oh, he... he is always
a very busy man.
I'm not talking
about the Archbishop.
I'm talking about him!
Oh...
Him... Hmm.
Faith might be obscured
by the clouds of doubt,
but it will come back.
Be patient, Mother.
What if faith is leaving me?
Have faith in him.
I will try, Father...
I want God
with all the powers
of my soul
and yet there is,
between us,
this terrible separation.
But I must keep
this absence secret.
It should never be revealed
to anyone.
These letters will have
to be destroyed after my death,
so nobody will ever know
that I have lost my faith.
Gonxhe...
It's wonderful to have you
back here, Mother.
We wouldn't miss
our weekly appointment
for anything, Mr Sen.
How are the troops today?
-Morale is high,
despite the circumstances.
This heavy rain
is taking its toll.
Climate is one free gift
from God that affects everyone,
the rich and the poor alike.
Mita?
I beg your pardon?
Do you know this woman, Mita?
Mita?
I'm afraid not.
She must have
come here recently.
This is her place.
Mita.
We were so worried about you.
You just disappeared
when we heard you were sick.
Why did you not come to us?
How could you help me, Mother?
I don't want this life
as a leper.
God takes care of our life.
He promised us
a better afterlife.
We mustn't disappoint him
in this one.
I can't see
my children anymore.
They don't want
to see me either.
I will help you, Mita.
You're my friend.
I've booked the flights
to Kerala.
Rupert, there's something
I need to tell you.
You feel blessed. Sure. I know.
I'm pregnant.
Are you serious?
Do you mind
dating a pregnant woman?
Let's put it this way,
I think it would be easier
if you weren't.
Do you know whose baby it is?
Of course I know
who the father is.
It's a man I've loved,
he's not just anybody!
What are you doing
running away from him?
-I'm not running away!
-What are you doing in India?
I don't know
if I'm keeping it yet.
Either way, I don't know
if I want to be part of it.
I never knew a foetus
could be so repulsive.
Mita?
Mita?
Mita!
Mita?
Where has she gone?
I haven't the faintest idea.
Mita!
Mother! Hurry!
We have
to get her down!
Kavita?
Coming!
Mom? What are you doing here?
Why did you run off like that?
Without telling anyone.
I was mad with worry!
I know, I'm sorry.
You're sorry?
What is wrong with you?
-Wait. Why don't you both sit?
The food is getting cold.
Who's the father?
Paul.
You met him at the hospital.
That white boy?
That guitar teacher?
We're doomed!
You have to have an abortion.
-I wanted to.
Yeah, but what stopped you then?
This might be your last chance
to get a good Brahmin boy
like Rajiv.
Just... get rid of the baby,
no one will know.
Mom, I wouldn't hide the fact
I was pregnant from my partner.
You're being ridiculous.
-You have to secure your future.
I don't want a secure future!
I don't need you and Dad
to make decisions for me,
I'm not a child anymore.
I don't want to live your life.
I want to live my own life,
on my own terms.
I want...
an adventure. I want...
the spark!
I don't want my life
planned out for me
the way your parents
did for you.
I want... to actually love.
I want to be loved!
I want to be loved.
You have to tell her.
She needs to know.
What do I need to know?
What do I need to know?
For Christ's sake just tell me!
You were adopted.
What?
You were adopted when
you were just a baby, sweetie.
You came from the orphanage,
at the Missionaries of Charity,
just like the other kids.
Adopted?
Your father and I,
when we married, we...
He couldn't have children.
-You were my favourite
at the orphanage,
from the very first day
that we found you,
the day you were abandoned.
Abandoned?
You're a Dalit.
An untouchable.
The Brahmin community
rejected your parents,
that's why they left India.
Is Kavita even my real name?
It was the name given to you
at the orphanage.
And my real mother,
is she alive?
She died when you were born.
So, I'm a Dalit.
An untouchable.
That's why you wanted me
to marry a Brahmin so badly?
We just wanted
to protect you.
Why is everything
so dirty in here?
Sorry, Mother. We haven't got
the time to wipe the floor yet.
I told you
a hundred times,
the dirt on the floor
is the dirt inside your head!
Sister Rosa will do it, Mother.
Mother, please.
You need some rest.
I don't need to rest!
I know I never deserved
your love.
Why did you give it to me
in the first place?
Why did you not leave me alone?
You took everything from me.
Your love...
Your love was only an illusion.
I don't believe in you.
You don't exist.
Soul,
Paradise, God.
These words
don't mean anything anymore.
I have lost my faith.
I'm alone.
There is no God
and we're all alone
and that's the truth!
What have you done?
Nothing.
You must have done something.
I... did exactly
what he told me to do. Exactly!
I've been good...
I've been good.
It's all
I can see.
Darkness.
When I send my prayers up...
they return like knives.
Why does Jesus
not love me anymore?
What can I do, Father?
You need to accept
the darkness within your soul
as a true spiritual side
of your work,
however painful that might be.
Father...
I don't know how long
I will have the strength...
to live without faith,
without love.
If your intuition tells you
that this is the only path
for you...
you might find some relief
in this acceptance.
If my pain can comfort
just one single soul,
then I shall pretend to everyone
that I am a flower of God.
I'm sorry you feel so much pain.
I wish I could help you.
Thank you.
Who the hell is that?
In case you don't know,
some of us work nights!
It's me!
Open the door, Paul!
-It's open!
Kavita.
How...
I thought you were in India.
You thought I would get lost
and disappear like you did?
You thought you could get me
pregnant and get away with it?
Is it so hard to tell me
that you don't want to see me,
that you don't want this baby?
Is that so difficult?
Oh my God...
I sound just like my mother.
Kavita...
I...
I'm sorry...
I've been...
Things haven't been going
very well for me.
Well, there's no excuse really.
I thought I loved you.
You've been
such a disappointment.
Such a small man.
And?
what about the baby?
Now you're interested.
-I'm sorry.
-Don't.
It doesn't change anything now.
I was so wrong.
With so many things.
I'm playing
at The Factory tonight.
-Really?
-Mm-hm.
Great!
-Who are you playing with?
-This time it's just me.
Just you?
- Mm-hm.
- Wow.
That's...
great.
Yeah, it's a nice thing
to do for my birthday.
Your birthday?
When is that?
You don't even remember.
You've changed.
I've never seen you
like this before.
You're beautiful.
I think we're beyond that now.
No,
it's true,
there is something about you.
Some...
new vibe.
I'm going.
And the baby?
Are you keeping it?
She's losing a lot
of blood.
How long have you been in pain?
I will take care
of her.
Gonxhe...
My little Gonxhe...
She's dead.
All this time,
I've felt so lonely.
It's crazy to think that I may
never have been who I am today.
That...
I may never have
even existed at all.
There's something you must
know, Kavita.
Adopting you was the best thing
your mother and I ever did.
I love you.
Thank you so much
for being my Dad.
And the baby?
Are you sure of yourself?
I'll be fine.
Hi. Do you need some help?
- I have a key.
- Oh, thank you.
- That's all right.
- Thanks.
Here you go.
-Thank you.
-I've got it. I'll take it.
After you.
Is this my Christmas present?
What's your name?
Helmut.
I'm Kavita.
-What?
-Kavita?
That is not a name.
What sort of name is that?
I think you need
some help around here, Helmut.
Have you been
living alone for long?
My wife...
she died 15 years ago.
My heart died with her.
-Well it's time to rise
from the dead, Helmut.
I'll come and check on you.
You better be prepared for that.
Are you an angel?
If we work
faithfully through the pages
of scriptures,
the dominant understanding
of Mary, this young woman,
who played the noble role...
...of giving birth to Jesus.
She is most often represented
as poised,
quiet, and responsive.
She does her duty
alongside Joseph...
and then fades
to the background.
The traditional narrative
of her story...
We need to give her
a name.
So we can write
a poem about her.
Kavita?
Kavita? That's a beautiful name.
Kavita.
You took everything from me.
Your love.
Your love was only an illusion.
I don't believe in you.
You don't exist.
Soul.
Paradise, God.
These words
don't mean anything anymore.
I have lost my faith.
Ciao.
Hey.
What the hell
are you doing here, Sister?
I'm not a Sister.
I'm a Mother.
-I know her. She's from Entally.
We're taking you
back home, sister.
I have 300 girls
who are starving.
I won't return without food.
Alright. Come with us,
we'll give you some rice,
Sister.
My name is Teresa,
Mother Teresa.
Your place?
- We always go to my place.
Well...
It's nicer than mine.
-Mm.
Certainly cleaner.
We're good together, aren't we?
Hmm. Yes. We are.
Let's get a cab, it's freezing!
Kavita!
Kavita! What the...
Ka...Kavita!
Kavita?
Help! Help!
Help!
Help!
Mother Teresa.
We are worried
about your health.
I will send you
to Darjeeling for a retreat.
I thank you for your concern,
Mother, but I'm happy
to stay here and work.
Don't argue.
We need you in good shape.
You will leave next month.
I will do as you say, Mother.
Mother.
It's from your real Mother.
I thought I'd give it
to you myself.
At least the post
is still working.
Thank you.
Mother.
My dear Gonxhe,
I am so happy to have received
more news from you.
Your life seems very full.
Especially as you work plenty.
As usual.
You have always been strong,
and dedicated.
But you shouldn't forget
why you went to India.
To help the poor.
Oh, there is a monkey!
Did you see it? Ha!
Ha!
You went
to India to help the poor.
What is wrong with
you, Mother Teresa?
Have you been out
in the sun too long?
Jesus actually spoke to you?
I mean, you heard his voice?
Yes, Father.
It's a new call within my call.
Well...
That is most...
peculiar...
to say the least.
How did this happen,
exactly?
Jesus said, "Come.
"Come. Carry me
to the homes of the poor.
"Come be my light."
Kavita...
Kavita?
Kavita...
Don't worry,
you're in a hospital.
You were hit by a car.
Do you understand
what I'm saying?
What's your name?
-Um...
Kavita...
Uh, Kavita Mukherjee.
-Do you remember what happened?
Can you tell me
the date today?
My violin.
Where's my violin?
I...
I forgot it.
Okay.
-I can't play anymore.
-Just try and relax for me.
Sh, sh, sh.
Mother Teresa,
it is fortunate that you and I
know each other so well.
I am not sure how another priest
would've reacted
to what you have just told me.
I have been writing
this confession on paper.
I'm asking you
if you can send it to the Pope,
to ask him to allow me to work
outside the convent
for the poorest of the poor.
Before I can send this
to the Pope,
I need the Archbishop's
authorisation.
Will you recommend me?
Of course,
but it will take a while.
Let's not waste any time, then.
Mukherjee.
You're Indian, right?
Where from?
Uh, from Kolkata.
But I've lived here
since I was a child.
I was in Kolkata
working with an NGO.
Quite an experience.
I don't remember much.
I was really young.
Hmm. Me too.
I'm a violinist.
Then congratulations,
you're on holiday.
On holiday?
You've been very lucky.
There's nothing broken,
just a sprain.
You'll have to keep the bandage
on for a while, though.
And don't worry about the baby,
it wasn't hurt at all.
The what?
The foetus is in perfect shape.
Foetus?
You're kidding, right?
Didn't you know?
You're pregnant, young lady.
About six weeks.
What should I do?
Go home and rest for a bit.
You still have time
to think about it.
I can also refer you to
an abortion clinic if you wish.
Millions
of men, women and children
had to leave their homes.
They came all the way down
to Kolkata on foot.
And here... They have nothing.
They're hungry,
they don't have shelter,
no family, no home.
It's a very difficult time.
And you have to be
very, very careful
in stepping out
of the Loreto convent.
Any question?
What will happen to all these
pregnant women who were raped?
My parents say it would have
been better for them
if they had been killed instead.
They will never be respected.
But they should get rid
of their child instead.
- Yes, they should.
- No, no, no.
A mother should
never kill her child.
It's a crime
against a human being.
But it's already a crime
to force these women.
That's a reason
not to add another crime
by killing an innocent child.
But if they keep the children,
they'll be rejected by everyone.
They'll be on streets,
they'll be prostitutes...
They can be killed.
-A mother killing her own child
is the beginning
of all violence.
But it's not their fault.
Why do women
always have to pay the price
for violence of men?
He is testing our love that way.
God must be a man
to be so unjust.
What's the deal?
I'm pregnant, Paul.
Pregnant?
But that's-- how?
Who? Who is the father?
It's you, of course.
Who else would it be?
Pregnant? That's crazy.
I mean...
What are you going do about it?
Kavita?
I don't know.
I don't know!
You have to have an abortion.
-I know, uh...
-You can't keep it.
-I don't know what to do.
Kavita!
There you are.
-Shit.
Don't tell her.
-I'll call you tomorrow.
-What?
Stay with me, I need you now.
I don't want to meet your mother
Kavita, what has happened
to you?
I'm fine.
I just fainted, that's all.
You're not-- are you a doctor?
Um...
He's just a colleague from work.
He brought me here.
Can I take my daughter home?
Where's the doctor?
-Calm down.
I saw the doctor, we can go.
My baby, my little Kavita.
When I got the call
from the hospital I was...
I don't know what I'd have done
if anything happened to you.
I'll leave now.
Kavita, take it easy.
Father? Father!
I have to do everything myself.
There's a shortage
of new vocations these days.
Why is the Archbishop taking
so long to give me an answer?
I've heard he's taking advice
on the matter.
He's worried about
the validity of your plan.
This is God's plan. There can
be no question about it.
There are already so many
different orders of nuns.
He cannot agree
to establish another one
without taking the utmost care.
He's also worried about you.
The idea of living
outside the safety of Loreto
scares me too.
But Jesus talks to me.
He tells me to trust him,
to love him and to go
to these poor children
on the street.
I suggest you write
to him, then.
To Jesus?
To the Archbishop.
With my permission, of course.
Do it without fear,
but with sincerity and faith.
And remember, don't tell
anyone else about all this.
Thank you, Father.
Oh, God.
Why do you always do this?
Hi, Dad.
It's not too serious,
is it?
My lovely daughter, Kavita.
So sorry for being late.
Our little girl
had a little accident.
Oh my God, what happened?
Oh, she got hit by a car.
It was because of the snow
last night, we were so worried.
She had to spend the night
in the hospital,
just to be safe.
Nothing broken it seems.
A doctor's keen eye.
Some more tea?
-No, thanks.
Isn't that Mother Teresa?
How did you meet her?
Oh, we first met her
at a charity concert in Kolkata.
How fantastic!
What was she like?
A holy soul...
But still... human.
- She blessed us at our wedding.
- -March 11...
...1987.
Love at first sight.
You had a love marriage?
Yes.
Mom, Dad, it's no secret
your parents
arranged for you two
to be together.
So, why pretend like
it was a love marriage?
Kavita, enough.
-I read Mother Teresa stopped
women who had been raped
from having abortions.
And she didn't administer
painkillers to dying patients,
so they'd suffer,
like Jesus on the cross.
-That's enough, son.
Sorry...
Our Kavita,
she could have been a lawyer,
but she has a mind of her own.
So...
that is why she pursued
a career as a music professor,
so that she can
give back to the society
by teaching others
to capture the beauty of music.
That's very admirable.
It's a job. Nothing more.
Rajiv is still working
at the hospital, but...
We plan to open
his private practice soon.
But not before he gets married,
of course.
Okay, um...
It was lovely to meet you
and have a great lunch
and a good Sunday.
Come back here.
- Kavita?
- What?
Why can't you be nice
to your father, for once?
Mom, it's my life, not his.
It's a family affair.
Don't be so selfish.
I'm not marrying
your community.
You did that...
-Kavita.
...not me.
Kavita!
What is the Vatican waiting for?
It will soon be six months
since I sent that letter.
I can't wait so long.
I will try...
I will be patient.
I must be patient.
Jesus, help me.
Yes, but when?
Remember Mary Ward,
it wasn't until after her death
that the church recognised
the Loreto order.
Your order!
They will never accept a woman
to be granted direct access
to God.
Paul?
It's me! Are you there?
Mother Teresa,
could you stay for a moment?
I have some news for you.
May I pray first?
Again?
They have agreed.
It took us two years,
but we won.
And they are giving you
exclaustration for a year,
which means you can remain
a nun outside the convent.
This is a miracle,
it has never happened before!
Just wait a minute...
Eh...
Psst...
Father.
Father!
Please. Bless my new habit.
But, this is a sari.
Yes. A simple sari
for the service of the poor.
Please.
I want to start immediately.
What, just now?
At this minute?
God cannot wait.
Mother,
I think you need
a little preparation
before you go working
on the streets.
I will send you to Patna
for some medical training.
Then, you will be ready.
I will do what you order,
Father.
But first, the blessing.
Hi. I have an appointment.
Kavita.
If you just want to sign here,
and the doctor will be
with you in one moment.
Hello, this
is Paul, you know what to do.
Mita?
Mita?
I am Mother Teresa.
Father Van Exem
from Loreto told me about you.
Yes.
I'm starting a school here,
and I need your help.
My help?
Father Van Exem gave me
a list of children from here,
so we need to find them.
Kavita! Oh my God!
Kavita! What are you doing here?
-Deepali...
-Oh!
What a pleasant surprise!
You didn't call.
Come in. Come in.
Look at you.
You're a real woman now.
Has your mom found you
a husband yet?
Over my dead body.
Oh!
I've missed you so much.
-Oh!
And you're still my little one.
Come.
Give me that.
-Thank you.
I thought I'd come to see you.
And see my old Kolkata...
I'm going to stay
for a few weeks
so, if you know
any hotels nearby...
You are forbidden
to stay anywhere else.
There's enough room
for both of us here.
I won't stay long.
What's wrong?
It's a long story.
You still do this?
You're not even Christian.
Christians, Hindus, Muslims...
We all want the same thing.
What's that?
Love.
You knew her quite well,
didn't you?
Mother? Yes.
From the very first day
she stared
the Missionaries of Charity.
I remember very well.
I was only a little girl then...
To see her dressed
like a poor woman...
wearing a simple white sari,
just like a widow,
It was an extraordinary sight.
I'd never seen anything
like it before.
Hello, this
is Paul, you know what to do.
Baba, wake up!
Wake up, Baba!
Baba, wake up! Baba...
Deepali...
Your father is gone.
Where?
He joined your mother
and brother
in a beautiful place.
He's happy now.
I want to be with them.
You need medicine.
My father died too,
when I was the same age as you.
He left me as well,
and I missed his love so much.
But I had to accept
that God wanted him back.
I don't like God. I don't want
him to take my father.
God gave you a gift.
He gave you your life.
What you do with your life
will be your gift to him.
Mrs Deepali, where is the list
of the adoptive parents
from last year?
I can't find it.
-Just look in the last drawer.
Oh.
Thank you very much.
-She's been here for one month.
-Mm.
Every three years,
they're assigned to a new place.
You're the living memory
of this place.
Come.
Come.
Hello.
Where is your doll, today?
What's that? A caterpillar.
All these kids
without parents...
Why can't women
just get abortions?
It's against Christian rules.
Silly rules.
In the past, even Hindus
considered abortion a sin,
a crime worse than killing
their own parents.
That's so wrong.
A woman knows what's best
for her. It's her body.
See that nurse?
She was raped.
And she had to keep the baby.
It was a beautiful little boy.
But he died within a few months.
Oh, no...
-And every single
morning after that day,
her first thought would be
with that lost, unwanted child.
A life of misery.
Children...
Impossible not to love them.
Yes?
My name
is Mother Teresa, Father.
I'm helping
the poor people in the streets,
and collecting donations
for them to eat and drink.
Can you help us, please?
Are you asking me for money?
Food is very acceptable
as well, Father.
I don't believe it.
A nun begging from me
in my own parish.
Father, Jesus sent me
to help the poor.
I will talk to your superior.
My work has been authorised
by the Vatican.
You should be ashamed
of yourself.
And this costume!
It's ridiculous.
Can you
give me something?
It's for my friends
who are very hungry.
Everybody is hungry
in this city.
I can't feed them all!
I need money to pay for all
these vegetables as well.
Please. Any leftovers.
No! Nothing is for free.
Come back
when you have some money.
Yesterday,
I learned a lesson
about the poverty
the poor are facing every day.
I walked and walked,
until my legs and arms hurt
in search of food for them,
and found nothing...
I thought they too
must feel the same pain.
That same night...
like a temptation,
the vision
of the Loreto Convent...
came into my dream.
Its comfort
and all the beautiful things
I have left behind...
haunted me.
I was missing all those
I truly loved all these years.
And the tempter kept saying...
"Just say a word,
"and everything
will be returned to you."
I could not hear you,
not feel you...
Talk to me!
I was alone.
And they were calling me...
They need me
as much as I need them.
To find you...
You can trust Kavita.
She's a responsible girl,
you don't need to worry
about that.
Yes.
Aparna, I don't know,
you really need to ask her.
Okay, I have something
on the stove so, I'll run, yeah?
Okay.
Your mother,
she's worried about you,
She didn't know you were here.
-Typical.
You know your mom loves
to control everything
and everyone.
But things never really...
turn out the way she wants.
I owe you one, Deepali.
Can I help you with anything?
Come with me to Nirmal Hriday.
Nirmal Hriday?
House of the dying.
I don't know about that.
-I thought you want to help?
-Yeah, I meant, like, with rent.
Oh, no.
Nirmal Hriday is not a place
to be scared of.
It is visited by angels.
I'm not sure
I can handle angels.
Happy Birthday,
Mother.
Father?
Subhashini!
We have come
to bring you presents, Mother!
But it's not my birthday.
Every day is your birthday.
And it's their birthday too.
Oh!
This is wonderful.
Wonderful!
Mother, look!
How did you do it?
I would not be surprised
if your friend up there
was involved.
And you are his angel.
I think you have to thank
your new Sister too, Mother.
My new Sister?
I don't have a Sister.
Subhashini!
What are you doing here?
You should be in Loreto.
I want to pronounce my vows.
I've questioned
my soul, Mother.
And it tells me
that my place is with you.
And if you agree,
I want to be named Sister Agnes,
after your baptismal name.
You have my blessing,
Sister Agnes.
But...
Let's not lose sight
of life's principal matters,
and let's all have a good meal.
I invite you
and your class today.
Thank you Father,
but we have not yet
finished our lesson.
In fact, we just started.
This is not
the time for teaching.
Why not?
-It's the time to celebrate!
-I agree.
Well, then, let's celebrate.
Let's celebrate!
Hey Paul. Um...
I'm in Kolkata.
Uh...
Look, it's, um...
It's not easy for me
to make this decision alone.
I take it you don't want
the child, but...
Please call me back.
I thought you cared... about me.
Um, bye.
We have
never been here.
It's a shortcut.
Look.
Oh my God.
She's still alive.
Wait, wait.
Sister Agnes, find us a rickshaw
Yes, Mother.
Mother,
they won't stop.
Take care of her.
This woman
needs help, it's an emergency.
Are you going to pay
for her treatment?
I'm sorry,
we don't have any money.
We can't accept patients
who are unable to pay
for their treatment.
We can't just let her die alone.
God is our witness.
You must send her back
to the streets. I'm sorry.
Let me see the doctor.
None of the doctors
are available
at this moment, Sister.
I'll wait.
We will take care
of this woman, Sisters.
Thank you, doctor.
I'm sorry, but she passed away.
It was much too late.
Even if you had brought her
here a few days ago,
it would've been too late.
Thank you, doctor.
Things can't go on like this.
Ah.
There's no point trying to save
one life here, one life there...
I think
we need to try and solve
the problem at the root.
We need to...
try and change
this cultural habit itself
where people stop disposing
of their elderly on the streets.
Dr Ahmed,
while you figure out a good way
to solve the problem at the root
I need to take dying people
off the streets
to bring them to a proper place
where they can have a bed,
and die with some dignity.
-Mm.
You have to give me
a place for them.
Now!
I was advised
not to have an argument
with you, Mother Teresa.
You haven't been
in the streets for long but,
certainly you have earned
yourself quite a reputation.
I'm not here for my reputation.
I know.
Well...
I might have an idea, but,
that's probably a bad one.
Why?
Here we are.
The ninth wonder of the world,
Nirmal Hriday,
"House of the Dying."
I'm not sure about this.
Don't worry,
It's not going to kill you.
Come.
The city was renting
this place to a merchant
but he had to close
his business.
Do you think
this might fit your needs?
It certainly needs
some painting.
It's huge.
Yes, it's perfect
for our Nirmal Hriday.
The House of the Dying.
We can start
the work right away.
That is if you agree, Dr Ahmed?
Ah...
I'm happy that you like
the place, Mother Teresa,
but let me show you
what might be a small problem.
This Kali temple
right behind the building...
some Hindus
might not accept you.
They might suspect
you want to convert them.
Good morning, Deepali.
Come.
Come.
Her name
is Sati.
Here.
Take this cool water
and wipe her forehead,
that'll ease the pain.
Excuse me?
Go on, don't be shy.
You can do it.
Here, we have
to bring her fever down.
Are you a doctor?
I'm a volunteer,
like all the other foreigners
you see here.
His father was here,
you know, 30 years ago.
when he was studying medicine.
So is Rupert now.
You may say
it's a family tradition.
But he hates it here.
-I'm counting down the days.
Is she dead?
Uh...
Uh, sleeping.
Rupert,
will you show Kavita around?
I will see both of you later on.
It'll be a pleasure.
So, you're not a doctor?
I'm still a medical student,
but I will be a doctor.
You know, my family
have been doctors
for the last four generations.
I'm the next in line.
Quite a traditional lad.
And you, what do you do?
If you don't mind me asking.
I'm a musician.
A violinist.
Wow, an artist.
Interesting.
And are you here
to save humanity
or just yourself?
I'm taking a break.
-A break from what?
From my life.
-When people come here
they're usually filthy
because they've been living
on the streets.
You can tell how long
they've been out there
from how they smell.
Mother, they're attacking us!
-Stay away from the windows.
Just do your work.
My passport.
Your brothers
and sisters...
Your brothers and sisters
are dying inside.
They need to rest.
If you want
to destroy this place,
take me and kill me instead.
But don't make so much noise.
Hey!
Don't let them
disturb you.
Go on.
Carry on.
My child...
They're leaving!
They're leaving!
You see Deepali,
he always protects us.
As long as he's here,
there is nothing to fear.
Ever.
You are so lucky
that Jesus loves you so much.
He loves you too, my child.
Are you sure?
Yes.
He loves all of us.
I'm sure of that.
So, my mom picks me up
from the hospital
and she says that
we have lunch with my Dad.
And then I was like okay,
I wasn't really in the mood,
obviously I'd just had an X-ray.
I get home, my dad's there,
this random Indian guy,
who I've never met before,
and his parents.
- You know, I understand
that people would still marry
within their caste in India,
but, in England?
I mean, that's...
That's weird. Why would
your parents still do that?
They don't want to be excluded
from their community.
That's all
that really matters to them.
So, you wouldn't be able
to marry me, for instance.
I'm not my parents.
I wouldn't marry someone
I didn't love.
-What's your type?
Dark skin, brown eyes?
I've always found blue eyes...
repulsive.
So, I don't stand
a chance, then?
What about children?
Are you interested
in reproduction?
I'm too young to die.
Yes, and we only live once.
Not if you're a Hindu.
I saw the two of you.
There is something cooking?
What do you mean?
He's quite cute, isn't he?
I must admit,
he's not the ugliest.
What's wrong?
I need to sit down.
-How many months?
Two. But I'm not keeping it.
Why not?
Because I don't want
to be a mother.
I-- I have other things
to do with my life.
What about the father?
Doesn't he want to marry you?
Why does everyone
want to see me married?
Why can't I just be
a single woman
who doesn't want children?
He doesn't want me...
Ever since I told him
I was pregnant
he won't even speak to me.
I don't know what to do.
- Don't you worry, my dear.
Everything will fall into place
in its own time.
I'm scared.
See...
this is for you.
I want you to have it.
It'll do you good.
Trust me. Here.
Take it.
Mama...
I miss you...
The pain won't stop.
What's wrong with her?
It's inside the head.
Could be a tumor
or a haemorrhage
She needs to go to hospital.
They won't take her.
She has no money,
no relatives, nothing.
It's terrible.
Can I pay for her treatment?
I'll tell you what you can do.
Try massaging her head,
her neck, and that should help
with the blood flow.
Are you sure?
Don't be afraid
to touch her.
That's it. Apply your hands
generously, don't hold back.
You see?
They like to be touched.
Old people don't get touched
so much.
Shouldn't the women's ward
be off limit to men?
I'm a doctor, remember.
You like this, don't you Sati?
Mm.
- I envy you.
- Why?
You have your music,
your vocation...
It's beautiful to know
from the start
what you want
to do in life. Like...
Mother Teresa.
You know, I was reading about
her life and what's so amazing
is even when she lost her faith,
she went on helping people.
Most people, when in total doubt
just... give up on their dreams.
But she didn't.
I guess I'm not that type.
There are definitely some things
I can't agree with, though.
.Like abortion, for instance.
She was uncompromising about it.
It just doesn't make sense
with what we know today.
I sort of understand her,
you know.
I'm from a traditional family
of doctors, and we...
believe in trying
to preserve life at all costs.
But it can ruin a woman's life!
Say you're pregnant and you
can't take care of the child.
Or it could even endanger
your own life just to keep it!
Why should you have to have
a child against your own will?
Well, it's about saving a life,
a human being.
It's hardly a human being.
It's just a collection of cells,
with no consciousness...
How can you say
you're murdering a human being?
Well, from a biological
point of view,
the moment you're conceived
is the start of your life.
Wouldn't you call yourself
a human then?
What about the women
who are raped?
And the stigma
they face in India?
These women's lives are lost
because they can't
have abortions.
Yes, the stigma is important,
but...
I believe that
when a man and a woman
are fond of each other,
and want to create
a home for themselves,
a child completes the picture.
You're avoiding the question.
I'm distracted.
And I think we've had
enough politics for today.
It's not fair.
You shouldn't be allowed
to have blue eyes like that.
I bribed the midwife.
I shouldn't be doing this...
-It's a wonderful day
for the Congregation, Mother.
Now, you have
a real headquarters.
I wanted to thank the Archbishop
personally, but he hasn't come.
He told me to tell you that
he is with you in his thoughts.
I am lost, Father.
He hasn't talked to me
since I started working
in the slums.
Oh, he... he is always
a very busy man.
I'm not talking
about the Archbishop.
I'm talking about him!
Oh...
Him... Hmm.
Faith might be obscured
by the clouds of doubt,
but it will come back.
Be patient, Mother.
What if faith is leaving me?
Have faith in him.
I will try, Father...
I want God
with all the powers
of my soul
and yet there is,
between us,
this terrible separation.
But I must keep
this absence secret.
It should never be revealed
to anyone.
These letters will have
to be destroyed after my death,
so nobody will ever know
that I have lost my faith.
Gonxhe...
It's wonderful to have you
back here, Mother.
We wouldn't miss
our weekly appointment
for anything, Mr Sen.
How are the troops today?
-Morale is high,
despite the circumstances.
This heavy rain
is taking its toll.
Climate is one free gift
from God that affects everyone,
the rich and the poor alike.
Mita?
I beg your pardon?
Do you know this woman, Mita?
Mita?
I'm afraid not.
She must have
come here recently.
This is her place.
Mita.
We were so worried about you.
You just disappeared
when we heard you were sick.
Why did you not come to us?
How could you help me, Mother?
I don't want this life
as a leper.
God takes care of our life.
He promised us
a better afterlife.
We mustn't disappoint him
in this one.
I can't see
my children anymore.
They don't want
to see me either.
I will help you, Mita.
You're my friend.
I've booked the flights
to Kerala.
Rupert, there's something
I need to tell you.
You feel blessed. Sure. I know.
I'm pregnant.
Are you serious?
Do you mind
dating a pregnant woman?
Let's put it this way,
I think it would be easier
if you weren't.
Do you know whose baby it is?
Of course I know
who the father is.
It's a man I've loved,
he's not just anybody!
What are you doing
running away from him?
-I'm not running away!
-What are you doing in India?
I don't know
if I'm keeping it yet.
Either way, I don't know
if I want to be part of it.
I never knew a foetus
could be so repulsive.
Mita?
Mita?
Mita!
Mita?
Where has she gone?
I haven't the faintest idea.
Mita!
Mother! Hurry!
We have
to get her down!
Kavita?
Coming!
Mom? What are you doing here?
Why did you run off like that?
Without telling anyone.
I was mad with worry!
I know, I'm sorry.
You're sorry?
What is wrong with you?
-Wait. Why don't you both sit?
The food is getting cold.
Who's the father?
Paul.
You met him at the hospital.
That white boy?
That guitar teacher?
We're doomed!
You have to have an abortion.
-I wanted to.
Yeah, but what stopped you then?
This might be your last chance
to get a good Brahmin boy
like Rajiv.
Just... get rid of the baby,
no one will know.
Mom, I wouldn't hide the fact
I was pregnant from my partner.
You're being ridiculous.
-You have to secure your future.
I don't want a secure future!
I don't need you and Dad
to make decisions for me,
I'm not a child anymore.
I don't want to live your life.
I want to live my own life,
on my own terms.
I want...
an adventure. I want...
the spark!
I don't want my life
planned out for me
the way your parents
did for you.
I want... to actually love.
I want to be loved!
I want to be loved.
You have to tell her.
She needs to know.
What do I need to know?
What do I need to know?
For Christ's sake just tell me!
You were adopted.
What?
You were adopted when
you were just a baby, sweetie.
You came from the orphanage,
at the Missionaries of Charity,
just like the other kids.
Adopted?
Your father and I,
when we married, we...
He couldn't have children.
-You were my favourite
at the orphanage,
from the very first day
that we found you,
the day you were abandoned.
Abandoned?
You're a Dalit.
An untouchable.
The Brahmin community
rejected your parents,
that's why they left India.
Is Kavita even my real name?
It was the name given to you
at the orphanage.
And my real mother,
is she alive?
She died when you were born.
So, I'm a Dalit.
An untouchable.
That's why you wanted me
to marry a Brahmin so badly?
We just wanted
to protect you.
Why is everything
so dirty in here?
Sorry, Mother. We haven't got
the time to wipe the floor yet.
I told you
a hundred times,
the dirt on the floor
is the dirt inside your head!
Sister Rosa will do it, Mother.
Mother, please.
You need some rest.
I don't need to rest!
I know I never deserved
your love.
Why did you give it to me
in the first place?
Why did you not leave me alone?
You took everything from me.
Your love...
Your love was only an illusion.
I don't believe in you.
You don't exist.
Soul,
Paradise, God.
These words
don't mean anything anymore.
I have lost my faith.
I'm alone.
There is no God
and we're all alone
and that's the truth!
What have you done?
Nothing.
You must have done something.
I... did exactly
what he told me to do. Exactly!
I've been good...
I've been good.
It's all
I can see.
Darkness.
When I send my prayers up...
they return like knives.
Why does Jesus
not love me anymore?
What can I do, Father?
You need to accept
the darkness within your soul
as a true spiritual side
of your work,
however painful that might be.
Father...
I don't know how long
I will have the strength...
to live without faith,
without love.
If your intuition tells you
that this is the only path
for you...
you might find some relief
in this acceptance.
If my pain can comfort
just one single soul,
then I shall pretend to everyone
that I am a flower of God.
I'm sorry you feel so much pain.
I wish I could help you.
Thank you.
Who the hell is that?
In case you don't know,
some of us work nights!
It's me!
Open the door, Paul!
-It's open!
Kavita.
How...
I thought you were in India.
You thought I would get lost
and disappear like you did?
You thought you could get me
pregnant and get away with it?
Is it so hard to tell me
that you don't want to see me,
that you don't want this baby?
Is that so difficult?
Oh my God...
I sound just like my mother.
Kavita...
I...
I'm sorry...
I've been...
Things haven't been going
very well for me.
Well, there's no excuse really.
I thought I loved you.
You've been
such a disappointment.
Such a small man.
And?
what about the baby?
Now you're interested.
-I'm sorry.
-Don't.
It doesn't change anything now.
I was so wrong.
With so many things.
I'm playing
at The Factory tonight.
-Really?
-Mm-hm.
Great!
-Who are you playing with?
-This time it's just me.
Just you?
- Mm-hm.
- Wow.
That's...
great.
Yeah, it's a nice thing
to do for my birthday.
Your birthday?
When is that?
You don't even remember.
You've changed.
I've never seen you
like this before.
You're beautiful.
I think we're beyond that now.
No,
it's true,
there is something about you.
Some...
new vibe.
I'm going.
And the baby?
Are you keeping it?
She's losing a lot
of blood.
How long have you been in pain?
I will take care
of her.
Gonxhe...
My little Gonxhe...
She's dead.
All this time,
I've felt so lonely.
It's crazy to think that I may
never have been who I am today.
That...
I may never have
even existed at all.
There's something you must
know, Kavita.
Adopting you was the best thing
your mother and I ever did.
I love you.
Thank you so much
for being my Dad.
And the baby?
Are you sure of yourself?
I'll be fine.
Hi. Do you need some help?
- I have a key.
- Oh, thank you.
- That's all right.
- Thanks.
Here you go.
-Thank you.
-I've got it. I'll take it.
After you.
Is this my Christmas present?
What's your name?
Helmut.
I'm Kavita.
-What?
-Kavita?
That is not a name.
What sort of name is that?
I think you need
some help around here, Helmut.
Have you been
living alone for long?
My wife...
she died 15 years ago.
My heart died with her.
-Well it's time to rise
from the dead, Helmut.
I'll come and check on you.
You better be prepared for that.
Are you an angel?
If we work
faithfully through the pages
of scriptures,
the dominant understanding
of Mary, this young woman,
who played the noble role...
...of giving birth to Jesus.
She is most often represented
as poised,
quiet, and responsive.
She does her duty
alongside Joseph...
and then fades
to the background.
The traditional narrative
of her story...
We need to give her
a name.
So we can write
a poem about her.
Kavita?
Kavita? That's a beautiful name.
Kavita.