Photographer (2026) Movie Script
Veera.
Experience has value in our field
but the clients prefer ideas
from younger people.
Veera.
Are you ever going to
put that camera down?
Veera.
Veera.
Veera!
Dad.
Come sit.
You agreed to study Civil engineering.
After graduating, you wanted
to do a photography course.
That took away 2 years.
Then, you wanted to tour the world.
That took away another 3 years.
Do you intend to join our firm or not?
Dad, I need some time, Dad.
This is too much, Veera.
Look at this office room.
Just look around.
All I see in this room is you
I want a sense of achievement for myself,
specifically in a field that I like.
I need some time, Dad.
Don't be self-obsessed.
You don't care about my suffering,
do you?
All you care about is your passion.
I will definitely join our business, Dad.
But before that,
I want recognition
in my field of passion.
I must feel that
I have achieved something big.
On that day,
I'll join you, Dad.
All this time you said you won't join me.
Now you've assured me you'll join.
How long do you need?
Six months, maybe.
Six months?
Okay, that's it.
Please don't drag it.
Thanks, Dad.
One more thing, Veera.
You do a lot of charity work
for various trusts.
That's fine.
But those are paid
from our company funds.
If you want to serve more,
you should earn more.
Keep that in mind.
Sure.
Palani.
Haven't I told you?
Sorry, I will keep it back.
I went to switch on the motor.
Stop giving reasons.
Don't be mad at me.
I will put it back.
Do you remember the program?
- I know, Dharshu.
Can you pick me up at the hospital?
At the hospital?
- Yes.
My duty is about to end.
If I come to pick you up at the hospital,
youll say youve got more patients
and make me wait for an hour.
After I take you home,
you'll take two more hours to get ready.
I'll be forced to chat
with your parents until then.
Finally, when I take you
to the coffee shop,
you'd say, "you are meeting
your girlfriend after 3 months"
"can't you be more romantic?"
My point is...
Enough, don't say any more.
I'll come there directly.
Okay, 3 o'clock sharp.
See you there.
Hold it.
No. Get me mineral water.
This is mineral water.
- Bring me bottled water.
Take it away.
Don't get mad at me.
Sit down.
Do you remember this place?
No.
We met here for the first time
seven years ago.
Did you call me here to say this?
It's been really long since we came out.
My parents are bugging me.
They want to know when we'll get married.
They are quiet since they like you.
What's the issue with your parents?
Why do they keeping asking the same?
But they are not wrong.
How long will they be patient?
Don't you know, Veera?
You already crossed 30.
Passion has nothing to do with age.
All right.
Give my dad some reason
for the time being.
He refuses to accept
any reason I give him.
It's my dad.
Hello, Dad.
Give him the phone, dear.
He wants to speak to you.
- Hi, Son.
Veera.
- Hello.
Hello! Yes, Uncle.
I spoke to your dad.
He said you'll take over
the company soon.
I am so glad.
One more thing.
Construction is a dry field.
You better move to my field.
Manage all my restaurants.
Sorry.
If you relieve me,
I'll take my wife on a world tour.
Hello, Uncle.
- Hello!
The signal is poor. Ill call you later
- I can hear you.
What's wrong?
Why are you upset?
Veera.
Stop, Veera.
Why are you getting upset, Veera?
Son.
Son!
- What's wrong with you, Veera?
Please be careful.
What's happened, Veera?
Okay, okay, relax.
Calm down.
Take a deep breath.
The old lady?
I gave her some money and she left.
Nothing to worry.
Okay.
Relax.
Where should I drop you?
Drop me at Jenny's house.
Him? This sanitiser psycho.
Who is that?
Your friend.
Call him in.
He won't come in.
You come out.
Hey, Veera!
Come in.
Hey, Senior.
Is the work still not done?
Don't get me started.
They had four days off, so the
North Indian workers went home.
They won't return.
Did they tell you so?
Get in.
Let's head out.
Sure, but I need to
send a mail before that.
Come in and wait.
What is it, Mr. OCD?
My room is clean, come in.
Just come in.
Come in.
Is the room clean?
I racked my brain for ten days
to design this logo.
How is it?
Horrible.
What's your problem?
Why are you upset?
Buddy.
I promised my dad that
I'll join the company in 6 months.
I am blanked out.
I am not sure what to do.
Man, that's your company.
You can work at your convenience.
You can even take six months off
and travel abroad.
No one will question you.
Stop talking like everyone else.
All my life,
I've spent more time at the company
than at home.
Suppose I join now,
thirty years from now,
the company will have consumed my life.
You worked hard for six years
and clicked many photos,
but they are just collecting dust.
Why not send them to competitions?
Do I have photos worthy of participating
in International competitions?
Yes, I do.
But Im not sure theyd win.
That's not your concern.
Send me the photos you clicked,
I'll submit them.
That's not the point.
I want to capture
something breathtaking.
Something magnificent.
That click...
should tell a history.
Dad.
- Damn!
It's my son.
He broke something
and made history again.
What did you break this time?
Varun.
- Dad.
What happened?
Get up, come on.
Go to your room and stay quiet.
Buddy.
Remember that project we did
for the Finland competition?
Golden tree?
- Golden tree!
We scouted every hill station
seven years ago.
We concluded it was a myth and gave up.
We found nothing.
After you left for USA,
I visited Kodaikanal a few times.
I collected a lot of details about it.
Where did you get this?
I published my findings
on an international forum.
For about two years,
no one bothered to see it.
After that, a lady from
London replied to it.
Her grandfather's name is Hamilt...
Yes, Douglas Hamilton.
She said he was in India
before independence
and did some research in South India.
She forwarded me this photo
and a hand drawn map.
Let's leave tomorrow.
Let's leave.
Tomorrow? Are you kidding me?
My house is mess, I can't come.
All right, I'll go.
Why are you rushing it?
Buddy.
I am so glad, buddy.
I know you called me first,
even before calling Dharshini.
Is Madhi's number switched off?
Yes.
Mobile reception is rare over there.
He'll surely call you.
I called him five times
after reaching the hotel.
I called him three times before that.
His number is not reachable.
Find me another guide.
We can't swap the guide just like that.
Madhi is the right person to guide you.
Moreover, you'd scare away a new guide
with your excessive sanitising.
Go freshen up first.
Already done.
- Really? Okay.
Do something, take the Kodai route
and you'll find a hot chocolate shop.
Reach there and...
Buddy?
He'll hang up once his work is done.
Brother, go ask downstairs.
Hello, Veera sir. Good morning!
Sir, I am Madhi, your guide.
When did you arrive?
How are you?
I am Madhi, Kabilan sirs referral.
Okay now?
Nice to meet you, sir.
Why is your phone switched off, Madhi?
There's a minor issue with my phone.
What issue?
Sir, ninety percentage of tourists
who come here,
enjoy their stay and leave happy.
Some come here clean
and leave with various issues.
You have your own issues,
why bother about mine?
What issues do I have?
Kabilan sir said you have some issues.
He said I have some issues?
No, he didn't mean that actually.
He asked me to make sure
you have no issues.
All right.
All right, sir.
Go freshen up.
I'll wait for you at the reception.
Okay.
I haven't been to Solai.
My friend Kathir's brother,
is well-informed about Solai
but he settled down in Thanjavur.
I will do my best to help you.
I already told you, Madhi.
They stopped issuing permission in 2003.
Cut to the chase.
How can we get in?
Few days ago, a ranger and a
German scientist went into Solai.
The ranger warned them
not to go beyond a point
but they did, and there's
no trace on them now.
They are covering up the news.
This is not working out, Madhi.
Let's go in and get proper permission.
Do you really think it's that simple?
I told you everything
just for Madhi's sake.
If the officials find out
that you plan to go to Solai,
they'll deport you
from this mountain right away.
They are keeping such a close watch.
Madhi, forget about it.
You have enough problems already.
Forget my problems.
How can you help him?
The door is shut for good.
You cannot open it.
Leave now.
Ranga! Come here.
Let's ask in the town, sir.
You did research on Solai, didn't you?
Hes my friend.
Can you brief it to him?
Bro! I did my research
on Solai ages ago.
When you come to Kodaikanal,
enjoy the lake view,
stroll along Coaker's Walk,
eat some chocolates, and go back home.
That's a great question!
Such questions will surely take you
to Kodaikanal police station.
Why do you want to go to that forest?
Insects more venomous than
African poison frogs are in there.
They don't need to bite,
just touching them can kill you.
Many are researching the origins
of the name Mathikettan Solai.
Those who enter it lose their Mathi.
No one has ever made it out alive.
Those are fake stories spread by people.
Do something better with your time.
During wartime in the past,
the British soldiers would
escape to Kerala on horses
using a secret passage
through Mathikettan Solai.
Are you from a YouTube channel?
You'll find nothing here.
You are not the first one.
Just leave.
Usually,
trees exhale oxygen during the day
and carbon dioxide at night.
But some trees exhale
carbon dioxide during the day.
You can find such trees
in Mathikettan Solai.
Has anyone from the village
been to Solai and back?
Ten or twelve men went in
and disappeared.
Five of them are villagers.
Don't enter the forest, son.
No one has made it out of that forest.
They say madness can be cured,
but madmen can't.
Everyone is curious about the forest.
Everyone with cell phones
thinks they are explorers.
The forest knows to save itself.
No man is mighty enough
to save the forest.
Are you here to take photos
or to commit theft?
This forest is God to us.
Those who enter with a clear mind
return insane.
People are spreading rumours
that the trees and plants inside
kill humans.
Men who introduced English medicine
labelled Solai as a haunted forest.
Buddy.
The locals tell stories worthy
of a 10-episode web series.
In our city,
they say 1000 tales about
a 100-year-old building.
That forest is over a 1000 years old.
Keep digging
and you'll get a lot more content.
Go deeper and youll surely find
the lead to the tree.
Take him in.
He wont have any air to breathe.
Hell die.
Lets assume theres a golden tree,
as you say.
Which is more valuable?
Life or Gold?
Think about it.
Life once lost cannot be restored.
Can't you find a better place
to commit suicide?
Veera sir.
We are about to meet
the most trusted doctor in this mountain.
He has been the town president for years.
He is also my relative.
What is wrong with you?
Look around.
Why is your uncle talking to a tree?
The other trees
are bearing ripe jackfruits.
Why don't you?
Are you pretending to be a tree?
He talks only to trees,
he never talks to humans.
Let's talk to him.
- Okay.
Madhi, come here.
I met your father yesterday.
I am hearing unpleasant things about you.
I'll skin you alive.
Behave yourself.
Who is he?
I called you three days back, remember?
It's him, uncle.
What do you want exactly?
What's your interest in this?
Don't you have anything better to do?
Tell him.
Come here.
The forest is heaven
only to people who cherish it.
Did the villagers tell you
a lot of stories?
Yes, they did.
Have you heard about Paari?
Sir, do you mean Paari 'Vallal'?
Generous is his character.
But do you know his might?
No, sir.
He was the ruler of this mountain.
No army could scale the mountain
and defeat him.
For all the other kings
defeating Paari was a matter of pride.
Men who couldn't beat him
in a fair fight,
plotted schemes to defeat Paari
and sent many spies into his territory.
Despite everything,
besides these mountains,
a powerful entity protected him.
This mountain, trees, plants and vines,
stood as his protective shield.
The mountains of South India
still possess that power.
The identification or records about them
remain a mystery to this day.
Only the descendants of certain families
have known this truth for ages.
The golden tree that you seek,
no one knows a thing about it.
Is he serious?
Talk to him?
He's leaving.
- Hold on, sir.
Will he help us or not?
I am dragging you around for two days.
Is it?
Super, super.
You know my shop?
Okay, okay.
Yes, the shop next to the temple.
Wait there.
Let's go, sir.
- Madhi!
Uncle?
Young man.
Do you believe in God?
The forest changes its face
in the blink of an eye.
Be careful.
They said twelve people
who entered Solai disappeared.
Yes, sir.
Do you know anything more about it?
I was born and brought up
in this village.
But after hearing the village elders
talk about Solai,
I'm too scared to find out more.
We got a call, right?
- Yes.
He's that elder.
My grandpa has trouble hearing.
Come closer.
They are here, speak up.
You called for them, didn't you?
Can you hear me, grandpa?
Sir.
He blinked. He'll speak now.
They are waiting for you to speak.
During the 18th century, the British
set up their companies all over India.
They enslaved and
exploited our people for labour
but there were few good souls among them.
They abolished deaths
caused by superstitions.
One such man was Lord Douglas.
He detested the cutting of trees.
He spoke to trees.
Upon hearing tales
about Mathikettan Solai,
he greatly desired to enter it.
Since it's a treacherous journey
and coming out alive is unlikely,
no one accepted to lead him in,
except my grandfather,
who agreed to take him into Solai.
My grandfather planted a tree
every single day of his life.
He and Lord Douglas
ventured into the forest.
Once inside,
they separated and lost contact.
When they finally reunited after days,
they found a glittering tree.
Fascinated by it,
the Lord handed a device
to my grandfather
and asked him to take a picture.
The truth about this forest,
only my grandfather and the Lord
know about it.
It's him.
He is Lord Douglas.
Behind him?
The golden tree!
The person who captured this photo?
My grandpa!
Yes, buddy.
Golden tree is confirmed!
How? Are you serious?
The photo you sent,
I saw the grandson of the person
who clicked it.
It's unbelievable!
Sounds very exciting.
I ran a climate check.
I'll go in before it turns bad.
Buddy, hang on for two days,
I'll join you.
I can't wait for two days.
Not a chance.
I am heading in. Period!
Take Madhi with you.
- Hang up!
Hello...
'You are virtuous to the virtuous'
'You belong to the ones
who hold you dear'
'You are kind even to your accusers'
'You are a being from higher realms'
Let's go. Ignore the madman.
'the white fungus may deceive'
'The tiger may confront you'
Stay the night here, Madhi.
We'll start at dawn.
I have something important at home, sir.
I need to go now
to spend the next two days with you.
Why are you in a hurry?
I can't wait to enter Solai at dawn.
We can return before dark
if we start early.
I compared our map with Google maps,
referenced the coordinates,
and plotted the route.
It shows we'll reach the place in
3 hours 45 minutes.
If we leave at 6 a.m.,
we'll reach the golden tree
by 10 a.m.
Google Maps?
You won't get any signal in there.
Google Maps works offline, Madhi.
Okay, sir.
Rest well. Good night.
We start at 6 a.m.
- Yeah sure, sir
'The subscriber has not replied.'
'Please try again later'
'The subscriber can't be reached
right now.'
'The number is out of reach.'
Sorry, sir.
I am late.
- This is too bad, Madhi.
I know you'd be late,
which is why I asked you to stay.
I told you to come at 6.
The time now is 9:30.
I was caught in an issue, sir.
I was held up handling it.
Everyone says they have issues.
What is really your issue?
Say it out.
I sorted it our, sir.
We can go now.
Come.
What really is your issue?
Love, of course.
Her parents didn't accept.
They found our plan
to have a registered marriage.
So they came to my house
and created a ruckus.
Sir.
We can't use the Mathikettan Solai
main entrance you showed on the map.
Forest officers are stationed there.
The entire road is covered
by CCTV cameras.
If we keep heading west,
we'll find a path 6 kilometres away
used only by the tribals.
My friend Kathir says
there's an old check post over there.
Guards are usually not present.
Let's head there.
Sir, stop the bike.
Come back.
- What's wrong?
Come back, I'll explain.
Please come back.
What's wrong, Madhi?
I never expected the guard to be here.
What shall we do now?
He won't let you in
if he spots me with you.
But I need you with me.
You go this way.
I'll take another route.
Go this way.
Will this plan work out?
Yes! Go this way,
I'll join you on the other side.
I'll take your route too.
If we park the bike over there,
the patrolling guards will catch us.
Better take this route.
I'll join you soon.
Just go ahead, sir.
- Madhi, Madhi...
See you there.
I must lash myself for trusting you.
Young man!
Hang on a second.
Who are you?
Where are you headed?
Sir, I am a wildlife photographer.
Do you know Indian blue robin?
I came to photograph it.
How can I trust you?
This is a reserve forest.
Not allowed.
My ID, sir.
Here you go.
- Thank you.
Take photos,
but not two hours, just one.
Sir please, give me two hours.
No, no. Only one hour.
- Okay, sir.
Okay, sir.
- Done.
Happy journey.
- Thank you, sir.
One more thing.
Sir?
What's in the bag?
Just the camera and battery.
I know that a camera
comes with a battery.
Take it out.
- Sir?
Show your bag.
What is this?
- A sandwich.
That's fine.
Water bottle.
Plastic not allowed.
Reserve forest, okay?
- But I...
What else do you have?
- My camera.
Next.
A torchlight.
What's this sack?
A map.
- That's fine.
One more thing.
- Yes, sir.
What did you pocket?
The thing in your left pant pocket.
It's a sanitiser.
This is a pure forest.
Pollution-free.
Artificial products are not allowed.
Sir?
Okay?
- Thank you, sir.
One more thing.
What is it again?
You heading to the forest?
- Yes, sir.
You won't need the glasses.
I'll have it safe.
Security deposit.
Okay?
- Okay, sir.
Don't take the right.
Stick to the left and
come back the same way.
Got it?
'The number you are
trying to reach is busy.'
Maha.
Stop crying and tell me what happened.
I ran away from home
and reached the bus stand.
I can't wait here for long.
I can't go home either.
Didn't I tell you I'm at Solai
and will be back by evening?
'The number you are trying...'
Shit.
I am scared.
I'll die if you don't come here.
Stop crying.
Go wait at Iyyanar Bakery.
I'll be there.
Who are you talking to?
She is here.
Catch her.
Who is that?
Who is that?
Let her go.
Maha?
Hello.
Maha! Maha!
Madhi, how long will you make me wait?
Sir! Veera, sir!
Veera, sir!
Veera, sir!
Veera sir, don't enter the forest.
I was caught up in a big issue.
I will be back in an hour.
Come back the same way you went in.
He left already?
He forgot his glasses.
Great! It's mine now.
'They say you can't
get out once you get in'
'Don't enter the forest, son'
'No one has made it out of that forest'
'You wont have any air to breathe.
Youll die'
'Can't you find a better place
to commit suicide?'
Veera!
'Anyone there?'
'Who is that?'
'Anyone there?'
Hello!
Hello, sir!
Hello!
Hello!
Yes, I am here!
I am here, sir!
Hello!
Who's there?
I am here!
Can anyone hear me?
Madhi!
'Anyone there?'
What do you mean?
He went in yesterday
and you're telling me today?
Why didn't you get into Solai
this morning?
Come here, Kathir.
I could really use your help.
I am afraid to go in alone.
I am in Hyderabad now.
Inform Kabilan sir immediately.
No. He'll kill me if he finds out.
Better to tell the truth and
get caught than lie and get away.
I'll send you the phone numbers
of local guides.
Talk to them immediately.
Is Prashanth home?
- He's not home.
I know he's inside, please call him out.
I swear! He's not home.
I'll pay you.
They said the black mushrooms
in the forest are poisonous
and the white ones are safe to eat.
Which did they say is poisonous?
The black one or the white one?
'Veera, what's your problem?'
'Buddy, what's your problem?'
'What is your problem?'
'Answer me! What is your problem?
'Say something.'
'What is your problem?'
'Tell me, what's your problem?'
'Tell me now!'
'What is the problem? Tell me.'
'What is the problem?'
'What is the problem?'
Problem! Problem! Problem!
I am my own problem!
You happy now?
Correct!
You are your problem.
Once you accept it,
you can easily come out of it.
Man.
Do you know how many go to sleep
hungry every night?
Do you know how many die
without clothing and shelter?
You have a lavish house, a company,
an understanding girlfriend,
a dad, a good friend.
Despite everything,
you're stuck in this mess.
This is not passion.
This is madness!
You are a coward
who can't make commitments.
Whether you like it or not,
you must wake up every morning,
and go to work.
You call that commitment?
How can you keep doing
the same job for decades?
Life should have an aim, man.
Go for the stars!
Is dying in the forest your aim?
When we are about to die,
we'll regret the things we didn't do
more than the things we did.
I am not that person.
Whoa!
Most often, your wisdom
becomes your ignorance.
Fool!
Am I a fool?
Am I a fool?
Who are you calling a fool?
When you don't have the answer,
you'll attack the questioner.
Isn't that your mentality?
You won't get it.
Just give me the answer.
Get out of here.
Get out of here.
You won't get it.
Only when your next meal
becomes an uncertainty,
you will understand the pain of life.
Does having money
guarantee happiness?
Answer me?
You asked me a question.
Where are you?
Answer my question now.
I...
There's no one around
to hear me speak.
So...
Is this whole thing for mom?
Play together, kids.
Hello, uncle.
Kabila.
Why are you both not picking up my calls?
Where the hell is Veera?
He is on a trip to Kodaikanal.
- Kodaikanal?
I couldn't contact him
for the past 4 days.
There is no signal.
- What?
There's no mobile signal over there,
which is why you couldn't reach him.
Where are you?
I had some work to do at home.
I couldn't join him.
- Damn it!
Check on him and call me back soon.
Okay, uncle.
Veera.
Veera.
What happened?
Open the door, Veera.
Bring the keys.
Veera!
Veera?
Veera.
Open your eyes.
Mom is here, open your eyes.
Bring some water.
Open your eyes, Veera.
You'll be fine.
Open your eyes.
Come on, open your eyes.
Veera.
I called you several times,
why didn't you pick up?
Why is Veera's number switched off?
Sorry sir, there has been a mistake.
What happened?
Veera sir went into the forest.
You didn't go with him?
I got an urgent call from Maha,
so I couldn't join him.
Are you out of your mind?
I told you over and over
not to leave him alone.
I trusted him with you
and you betrayed me.
What shall we do now, sir?
I'll call the forest office and
they'll arrange a rescue team.
Let's file a missing complaint.
- Sir!
But they'll put me behind bars, sir.
Just give me a day, sir.
You're such a pain!
Tomorrow, I'll get into the forest
with my friend.
Hang up! I'll be there tomorrow
myself.
Sir, sir?
'Anyone there?'
Who is that?
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
Mom!
Mom!
Mom!
What is it?
Why are you making a noise?
What is this?
A certificate?
That's great.
Did you draw it?
What's with all the pampering?
Come.
See what our son has received.
What is it?
It's just a participant certificate.
You pamper him like
he won the first prize.
He's not good at studies, all right,
and he's only good for participation
in extra-curricular activities?
You be quiet.
There are 50 students in his class,
and only eight participated
in this competition.
Our son is one of that eight.
Why can't you appreciate that
instead of constantly scolding him?
Come on, I'll make you
some sweet kesari to eat.
Listen, dear.
Only if you push him
to get the first prize,
he'll try to get the first prize
the next time.
Mom.
Why is dad scolding me?
He's not scolding you, darling.
He's not scolding?
You always treat me kindly,
but he's always harsh to me.
Your dad wants his son
to live a life that dad likes.
But I want my loving son
to live a happy life that he likes.
You must live a life that you like.
Only that will bring you peace.
Got it?
Have it.
'Few days ago, a ranger and a
German scientist went into Solai'
'No one knows what happened to them'
Hello!
Brother!
Brother!
Over here!
Brother!
Brother!
Over here! Can you see me?
Look over here!
Over there, chief.
Over there.
No.
Over there.
Over here!
Save me!
Brother!
No, don't do it.
Don't do it, chief.
Don't do it, chief.
Don't shoot me.
Hold it, chief.
Don't shoot me, brother.
Don't shoot him.
- Remove your hand.
Why are you shooting him?
How long have you been here?
Five years.
You damn junkie!
I have been here for 30 years.
Nothing has ever come out of Solai.
Even our dogs that go in don't come back.
It's such a dangerous place.
The sound of gun shots
will scare anything away.
Just do as I say. Come.
Veera.
What happened?
What bit you?
It looks severe.
What happened?
He went near the beehive
and a bee stung him.
God! A bee stung him?
Hurry! Get some betel leaves
and quicklime.
I'll get it, mam.
It hurts, Mom.
You'll be all right.
I'll apply some medicine.
Bear the pain.
Here, mam.
Cut down the tree with the beehive, Mom.
Sure, I'll cut it down tomorrow.
No, don't do it.
You must have disturbed them,
that's why they stung you.
You like honey, right?
So I went to fetch some honey for you.
Kill the bee that stung me.
You clearly don't understand bees, dear.
The trees that you adore so much
exist only because of bees.
How so?
No life can exist on Earth without bees.
The pollen from one flower
is carried to other flowers
only by the bees.
That process brings the plants,
trees and forests to life.
Trees give us the air to breathe.
They gives us the rain
and life as well.
If the bee is so good,
why did it sting me?
In this world,
the majority of the beings
don't hurt other beings intentionally,
except humans.
Do you understand?
So we must realise our mistakes
and make peace with them.
Got it?
Chief.
He's no ghost or spirit.
It's all your exaggeration.
Also, you think you can
scare away a ghost with a gun?
Moron.
We must shoot anything that we spot.
In here, humans are the ghosts.
Ghosts were humans once.
If he's a human as you say,
what if he spots our crop?
This is not a coffee plantation.
It's six acres of weed.
We'll lose everything if we get caught.
Don't say such words.
It's fine if we catch him in our limits
but if we get lost in
Solai looking for him,
who will save us?
This forest has a thousand eyes.
We are safe
until those eyes don't find us.
If we catch him in our limits,
he'll die in my hands.
If not, this very forest will kill him.
Forests don't have graveyards.
Who lives
and who dies, the forest decides it.
We must be out
before he draws his last breath.
A footprint.
That's him.
He's not that type of a guy.
You men will treat bad women well.
But you take advantage
of good women, don't you?
That's not true.
I spoke to my dad.
He has informed the forest officer.
They'll send a search and rescue team
in the morning.
That's not necessary, he'll be fine.
We'll take the first flight...
- I am leaving now!
Are you coming or not?
All the 29 people who went into
Mathikettan Solai have died.
We found out from
the forest department's notice board.
YouTubers say such dire things
about Solai.
Yet, why did you let Veera go alone?
Shall we tell Veera's dad?
No, let's not.
I'll tell him once we reach there.
So
Who told you about the golden tree?
Veera, of course.
Why do you ask?
Who told Veera about it?
Why do yo like trees so much, Mom?
If God created Earth,
trees are nature's greatest blessing
to us.
Have you been to the forest?
Yes, a lot of times.
Let me tell you something
my grandfather used to tell me.
The roots of the tree
listens to the ground's voice,
take the form of the wind,
and communicate it to the sky.
And the sky responds to it
in the form of rain.
If the seeds that fall on the soil
decide not to grow into plants,
in a few years,
when the last tree on earth
falls to the ground,
all the beings here will have died.
To prevent it from happening,
at any point in time,
to give life
to all the seeds,
there is a tree on earth.
The tree that gives life to
all living beings.
A life tree?
Imanus!
Imanus?
The tree that connects everything
under earth
is called Imanus.
Imanus means
God's light.
Imanus is present in all the planets
where lives exist.
Without Imanus,
none of the lives would exist.
Is Imanus still present, Mom?
The Imanus of this world
is here in South India,
in the Western Ghats mountain range.
To the mountain kings
who cherished nature,
it stood as a protective force.
However, it won't reveal itself
to everyone
who seeks it.
The Imanus...
Is it still present today?
Your great great grandfather
has seen Imanus.
When he saw it
it was glowing.
It was glowing
like a glittering gold tree.
Is it a tree made of gold?
Or a tree that glitters like gold?
Have you seen it?
I haven't seen it.
I just told you
what my grandfather told me.
Mom.
You wish to see that golden tree,
don't you?
Veera.
Dharshu?
Veera.
Veera.
Who brought you here?
What are you doing in this forest?
- Is Kabilan with you?
Did Madhi call you?
How did you come here, Dharshu?
- Never mind it.
Let's discuss it outside.
Let's go.
What's wrong? Just come.
What is it?
Are you coming or not?
Dharshu.
Have you gone crazy?
What do you intend to do here?
Dharshu.
I...
I have come thus far.
I just need some more time.
You are dying in here
and we are dying outside
thinking about you.
Did you think about your dad?
All right.
Did you think about the person
who is living just for you?
Did you think about me for a second?
People used to say that
I am the only person in love
in our relationship.
I didn't believe them.
But now, I am starting to think
it's true.
No, Dharshu.
Okay.
What do you want?
To die in this forest, right?
I'll go in too.
- No, Dharshini!
Dharshu, please don't go in.
Let me go, Veera!
- Dharshini.
Dharshini!
Sir!
I came that way.
But...
How?
This way?
Did I come this way?
Hello!
Hello!
Hello!
Save me!
Hello!
You are flying 20,000 feet above ground.
How will you save me?
So, who is above you?
Will he save me?
Is he God?
Jesus?
Krishna?
Sivan.
No, no, it's Allah.
Who will save me?
Who should I call?
What if I call one and
the others get mad at me?
Or...
If I call everyone,
will everyone come for me?
Will God be my saviour,
or
My saviour becomes my God?
Hello, Mr. God!
Mr. God!
Mr. God!
God!
Chief.
We could have just killed him.
Where are we taking him?
We need to find out
who this mongrel works for.
We'll kill him later.
Say the truth.
Why did you come here?
How do you know this place?
Who are you?
Are you a cop or a reporter?
Answer me!
Didn't you check my bag?
Stop lying.
I am a photographer.
See this, chief.
- I got lost in the forest.
You trying to fool me?
Say it.
Out with the truth.
There's no chance you came out of Solai.
You must have come out from the farm.
Who sent you?
Who do you work for?
I don't work for anyone.
What's your business here then?
Let me go.
You won't believe me
no matter what I say.
Why are you still keeping me tied up?
Beat him to death.
- Okay, chief.
You are a dead man.
You messing with me?
How dare you?
Before I stepped into this forest,
people warned me
there were dangerous animals
and poisonous plants here.
But,
none of those harmed me.
You've shown me that
humans are the real danger.
Coming here was your biggest mistake.
If I let you live,
it would be an even bigger mistake.
Shoot him, chief.
Drop dead!
Uncle.
You know aunty's condition well.
You know well about adult progeria too.
There's nothing new I can tell you.
We consulted doctors all over the world.
Consulted many endocrinologists.
Spoke with all the specialists.
When someone is diagnosed
with adult progeria at age 40,
they'll start to resemble a
70-year-old within five years.
You know it well, uncle.
Aunty has suffered enough.
I...
Even I cannot bear to see her suffer.
Uncle.
Talk to Veera.
Veera
listens only to his mom.
Even I
would share everything only with her.
How would I tell this to Veera now?
Uncle.
You must
be strong.
Veera.
Did you eat something?
Go to college
and come back in the evening.
Mom.
Come back home.
I will come.
Our house looks lifeless without you.
I am not going to the
kitchen these days, Mom.
I just eat in my room.
Since you told her,
the cook has been preparing
kesari for me.
It is sweet
but tastes bland, Mom.
When will you
come back and cook for me?
Mom.
Do you remember?
About what?
Once, in a drawing competition,
I drew something that you adored.
You kept that drawing
safe in your cupboard.
I saw it.
I framed it, Mom.
These days, my college magazine
is filled with my photos.
Mom.
I have a gift for you.
Take a guess.
You tell me, Veera.
You must come home to see it.
Tomorrow,
when you come here,
bring it.
Not a chance.
You must come home.
Come home and see it.
You will surely see it.
Mom.
Come home.
I will.
Stay in my room.
I will take care of you.
Mom.
It's been a long time
since I heard stories from you.
Who would I ask
when I'm hungry?
You have me to speak with you.
Who do I have
to speak with me?
You are my everything, Veera.
I will always be with you.
Veera.
Mom.
Mom.
Mom!
Mom!
Mom!
Doctor!
Sir, sir.
Give her adri.
Come on quick.
- Okay, sir.
Sir, please wait.
Listen to me.
Give her defib paddles.
Give her adri injection.
Calcium bolus.
Prepare the echo.
Grandma.
Lord Kaadukaathan!
Lord Karuppu!
Who is he?
Son.
You are all right.
Look at me.
Who are you?
How did you end up here?
Don't be scared.
You will be all right, son.
Lord Kaadukaathan will protect you.
What are you looking at?
What is it?
Muthalagu, bring some water soon.
Since he has had no proper food
for four days,
he is severely dehydrated.
Physically he is fit now,
but mentally...
Sir?
- No, no.
I'll explain it.
If you walk for hours in a day
and don't see another person.
That is enough
to break your stability.
Because
man is a social animal.
Doctor, he also said
that he saw a breathing forest.
Haven't you seen it?
Google it.
Sir.
Were there any snake bites?
I saw antivenom dosage in the report.
I have sent the sample
for latrotoxin test.
Let's wait for it.
He said he saw two men in the forest,
fought with them,
and they died during the fight.
But there are no marks on his body
indicating he was in a fight.
I also needed some clarity
on this matter,
so I called the DFO over the phone.
Illegal activities are common
in mountain forests.
However the specifics that
Veera mentioned,
like the two men and the weed farm,
remain a mystery.
Because, the officer said that
except for the place where
Veera was rescued,
Solai is surrounded by
deep valleys on three sides.
And also,
he said he saw some sort of
black wind monster.
Everything I said so far is
scientifically proven.
But this answer lies in
Veera's mind only.
I am sorry, buddy.
I shouldn't have left you alone.
I should have come with you.
Thank goodness you made it back alive.
If not this competition,
there are a thousand others.
Where is my camera bag?
Where is my camera?
Quick, bring the camera.
Here.
Plug in the charger.
See the last shot.
What's wrong?
I found my golden tree!
'It won't reveal itself
to everyone who seeks it.'
'You are virtuous to the virtuous'
'You belong to the ones
who hold you dear'
'You are kind even to your accusers'
'You are a being from higher realms'
'The flora might intoxicate,
the white fungus may deceive'
'The tiger may confront you'
'But the one above will save you'
"Those consumed by greed"
'Will be eternally scarred'
'The wounds of the pure warrior'
'Will heal in time'
'The one with the pure heart'
'Will see the light of wisdom'
'In the protection of the Wind God'
'He will guard his life'
'Endless trails'
'Led him to this earth's golden tree'
'Those who saw the truth will speak'
'The others are blind to wisdom'
'Veera did not choose the forest.'
'The forest found him,
reinvented and guided him.'
'The breath of existence'
'begins with the Wind force.'
'The last breath returns life
back to Him.'
Experience has value in our field
but the clients prefer ideas
from younger people.
Veera.
Are you ever going to
put that camera down?
Veera.
Veera.
Veera!
Dad.
Come sit.
You agreed to study Civil engineering.
After graduating, you wanted
to do a photography course.
That took away 2 years.
Then, you wanted to tour the world.
That took away another 3 years.
Do you intend to join our firm or not?
Dad, I need some time, Dad.
This is too much, Veera.
Look at this office room.
Just look around.
All I see in this room is you
I want a sense of achievement for myself,
specifically in a field that I like.
I need some time, Dad.
Don't be self-obsessed.
You don't care about my suffering,
do you?
All you care about is your passion.
I will definitely join our business, Dad.
But before that,
I want recognition
in my field of passion.
I must feel that
I have achieved something big.
On that day,
I'll join you, Dad.
All this time you said you won't join me.
Now you've assured me you'll join.
How long do you need?
Six months, maybe.
Six months?
Okay, that's it.
Please don't drag it.
Thanks, Dad.
One more thing, Veera.
You do a lot of charity work
for various trusts.
That's fine.
But those are paid
from our company funds.
If you want to serve more,
you should earn more.
Keep that in mind.
Sure.
Palani.
Haven't I told you?
Sorry, I will keep it back.
I went to switch on the motor.
Stop giving reasons.
Don't be mad at me.
I will put it back.
Do you remember the program?
- I know, Dharshu.
Can you pick me up at the hospital?
At the hospital?
- Yes.
My duty is about to end.
If I come to pick you up at the hospital,
youll say youve got more patients
and make me wait for an hour.
After I take you home,
you'll take two more hours to get ready.
I'll be forced to chat
with your parents until then.
Finally, when I take you
to the coffee shop,
you'd say, "you are meeting
your girlfriend after 3 months"
"can't you be more romantic?"
My point is...
Enough, don't say any more.
I'll come there directly.
Okay, 3 o'clock sharp.
See you there.
Hold it.
No. Get me mineral water.
This is mineral water.
- Bring me bottled water.
Take it away.
Don't get mad at me.
Sit down.
Do you remember this place?
No.
We met here for the first time
seven years ago.
Did you call me here to say this?
It's been really long since we came out.
My parents are bugging me.
They want to know when we'll get married.
They are quiet since they like you.
What's the issue with your parents?
Why do they keeping asking the same?
But they are not wrong.
How long will they be patient?
Don't you know, Veera?
You already crossed 30.
Passion has nothing to do with age.
All right.
Give my dad some reason
for the time being.
He refuses to accept
any reason I give him.
It's my dad.
Hello, Dad.
Give him the phone, dear.
He wants to speak to you.
- Hi, Son.
Veera.
- Hello.
Hello! Yes, Uncle.
I spoke to your dad.
He said you'll take over
the company soon.
I am so glad.
One more thing.
Construction is a dry field.
You better move to my field.
Manage all my restaurants.
Sorry.
If you relieve me,
I'll take my wife on a world tour.
Hello, Uncle.
- Hello!
The signal is poor. Ill call you later
- I can hear you.
What's wrong?
Why are you upset?
Veera.
Stop, Veera.
Why are you getting upset, Veera?
Son.
Son!
- What's wrong with you, Veera?
Please be careful.
What's happened, Veera?
Okay, okay, relax.
Calm down.
Take a deep breath.
The old lady?
I gave her some money and she left.
Nothing to worry.
Okay.
Relax.
Where should I drop you?
Drop me at Jenny's house.
Him? This sanitiser psycho.
Who is that?
Your friend.
Call him in.
He won't come in.
You come out.
Hey, Veera!
Come in.
Hey, Senior.
Is the work still not done?
Don't get me started.
They had four days off, so the
North Indian workers went home.
They won't return.
Did they tell you so?
Get in.
Let's head out.
Sure, but I need to
send a mail before that.
Come in and wait.
What is it, Mr. OCD?
My room is clean, come in.
Just come in.
Come in.
Is the room clean?
I racked my brain for ten days
to design this logo.
How is it?
Horrible.
What's your problem?
Why are you upset?
Buddy.
I promised my dad that
I'll join the company in 6 months.
I am blanked out.
I am not sure what to do.
Man, that's your company.
You can work at your convenience.
You can even take six months off
and travel abroad.
No one will question you.
Stop talking like everyone else.
All my life,
I've spent more time at the company
than at home.
Suppose I join now,
thirty years from now,
the company will have consumed my life.
You worked hard for six years
and clicked many photos,
but they are just collecting dust.
Why not send them to competitions?
Do I have photos worthy of participating
in International competitions?
Yes, I do.
But Im not sure theyd win.
That's not your concern.
Send me the photos you clicked,
I'll submit them.
That's not the point.
I want to capture
something breathtaking.
Something magnificent.
That click...
should tell a history.
Dad.
- Damn!
It's my son.
He broke something
and made history again.
What did you break this time?
Varun.
- Dad.
What happened?
Get up, come on.
Go to your room and stay quiet.
Buddy.
Remember that project we did
for the Finland competition?
Golden tree?
- Golden tree!
We scouted every hill station
seven years ago.
We concluded it was a myth and gave up.
We found nothing.
After you left for USA,
I visited Kodaikanal a few times.
I collected a lot of details about it.
Where did you get this?
I published my findings
on an international forum.
For about two years,
no one bothered to see it.
After that, a lady from
London replied to it.
Her grandfather's name is Hamilt...
Yes, Douglas Hamilton.
She said he was in India
before independence
and did some research in South India.
She forwarded me this photo
and a hand drawn map.
Let's leave tomorrow.
Let's leave.
Tomorrow? Are you kidding me?
My house is mess, I can't come.
All right, I'll go.
Why are you rushing it?
Buddy.
I am so glad, buddy.
I know you called me first,
even before calling Dharshini.
Is Madhi's number switched off?
Yes.
Mobile reception is rare over there.
He'll surely call you.
I called him five times
after reaching the hotel.
I called him three times before that.
His number is not reachable.
Find me another guide.
We can't swap the guide just like that.
Madhi is the right person to guide you.
Moreover, you'd scare away a new guide
with your excessive sanitising.
Go freshen up first.
Already done.
- Really? Okay.
Do something, take the Kodai route
and you'll find a hot chocolate shop.
Reach there and...
Buddy?
He'll hang up once his work is done.
Brother, go ask downstairs.
Hello, Veera sir. Good morning!
Sir, I am Madhi, your guide.
When did you arrive?
How are you?
I am Madhi, Kabilan sirs referral.
Okay now?
Nice to meet you, sir.
Why is your phone switched off, Madhi?
There's a minor issue with my phone.
What issue?
Sir, ninety percentage of tourists
who come here,
enjoy their stay and leave happy.
Some come here clean
and leave with various issues.
You have your own issues,
why bother about mine?
What issues do I have?
Kabilan sir said you have some issues.
He said I have some issues?
No, he didn't mean that actually.
He asked me to make sure
you have no issues.
All right.
All right, sir.
Go freshen up.
I'll wait for you at the reception.
Okay.
I haven't been to Solai.
My friend Kathir's brother,
is well-informed about Solai
but he settled down in Thanjavur.
I will do my best to help you.
I already told you, Madhi.
They stopped issuing permission in 2003.
Cut to the chase.
How can we get in?
Few days ago, a ranger and a
German scientist went into Solai.
The ranger warned them
not to go beyond a point
but they did, and there's
no trace on them now.
They are covering up the news.
This is not working out, Madhi.
Let's go in and get proper permission.
Do you really think it's that simple?
I told you everything
just for Madhi's sake.
If the officials find out
that you plan to go to Solai,
they'll deport you
from this mountain right away.
They are keeping such a close watch.
Madhi, forget about it.
You have enough problems already.
Forget my problems.
How can you help him?
The door is shut for good.
You cannot open it.
Leave now.
Ranga! Come here.
Let's ask in the town, sir.
You did research on Solai, didn't you?
Hes my friend.
Can you brief it to him?
Bro! I did my research
on Solai ages ago.
When you come to Kodaikanal,
enjoy the lake view,
stroll along Coaker's Walk,
eat some chocolates, and go back home.
That's a great question!
Such questions will surely take you
to Kodaikanal police station.
Why do you want to go to that forest?
Insects more venomous than
African poison frogs are in there.
They don't need to bite,
just touching them can kill you.
Many are researching the origins
of the name Mathikettan Solai.
Those who enter it lose their Mathi.
No one has ever made it out alive.
Those are fake stories spread by people.
Do something better with your time.
During wartime in the past,
the British soldiers would
escape to Kerala on horses
using a secret passage
through Mathikettan Solai.
Are you from a YouTube channel?
You'll find nothing here.
You are not the first one.
Just leave.
Usually,
trees exhale oxygen during the day
and carbon dioxide at night.
But some trees exhale
carbon dioxide during the day.
You can find such trees
in Mathikettan Solai.
Has anyone from the village
been to Solai and back?
Ten or twelve men went in
and disappeared.
Five of them are villagers.
Don't enter the forest, son.
No one has made it out of that forest.
They say madness can be cured,
but madmen can't.
Everyone is curious about the forest.
Everyone with cell phones
thinks they are explorers.
The forest knows to save itself.
No man is mighty enough
to save the forest.
Are you here to take photos
or to commit theft?
This forest is God to us.
Those who enter with a clear mind
return insane.
People are spreading rumours
that the trees and plants inside
kill humans.
Men who introduced English medicine
labelled Solai as a haunted forest.
Buddy.
The locals tell stories worthy
of a 10-episode web series.
In our city,
they say 1000 tales about
a 100-year-old building.
That forest is over a 1000 years old.
Keep digging
and you'll get a lot more content.
Go deeper and youll surely find
the lead to the tree.
Take him in.
He wont have any air to breathe.
Hell die.
Lets assume theres a golden tree,
as you say.
Which is more valuable?
Life or Gold?
Think about it.
Life once lost cannot be restored.
Can't you find a better place
to commit suicide?
Veera sir.
We are about to meet
the most trusted doctor in this mountain.
He has been the town president for years.
He is also my relative.
What is wrong with you?
Look around.
Why is your uncle talking to a tree?
The other trees
are bearing ripe jackfruits.
Why don't you?
Are you pretending to be a tree?
He talks only to trees,
he never talks to humans.
Let's talk to him.
- Okay.
Madhi, come here.
I met your father yesterday.
I am hearing unpleasant things about you.
I'll skin you alive.
Behave yourself.
Who is he?
I called you three days back, remember?
It's him, uncle.
What do you want exactly?
What's your interest in this?
Don't you have anything better to do?
Tell him.
Come here.
The forest is heaven
only to people who cherish it.
Did the villagers tell you
a lot of stories?
Yes, they did.
Have you heard about Paari?
Sir, do you mean Paari 'Vallal'?
Generous is his character.
But do you know his might?
No, sir.
He was the ruler of this mountain.
No army could scale the mountain
and defeat him.
For all the other kings
defeating Paari was a matter of pride.
Men who couldn't beat him
in a fair fight,
plotted schemes to defeat Paari
and sent many spies into his territory.
Despite everything,
besides these mountains,
a powerful entity protected him.
This mountain, trees, plants and vines,
stood as his protective shield.
The mountains of South India
still possess that power.
The identification or records about them
remain a mystery to this day.
Only the descendants of certain families
have known this truth for ages.
The golden tree that you seek,
no one knows a thing about it.
Is he serious?
Talk to him?
He's leaving.
- Hold on, sir.
Will he help us or not?
I am dragging you around for two days.
Is it?
Super, super.
You know my shop?
Okay, okay.
Yes, the shop next to the temple.
Wait there.
Let's go, sir.
- Madhi!
Uncle?
Young man.
Do you believe in God?
The forest changes its face
in the blink of an eye.
Be careful.
They said twelve people
who entered Solai disappeared.
Yes, sir.
Do you know anything more about it?
I was born and brought up
in this village.
But after hearing the village elders
talk about Solai,
I'm too scared to find out more.
We got a call, right?
- Yes.
He's that elder.
My grandpa has trouble hearing.
Come closer.
They are here, speak up.
You called for them, didn't you?
Can you hear me, grandpa?
Sir.
He blinked. He'll speak now.
They are waiting for you to speak.
During the 18th century, the British
set up their companies all over India.
They enslaved and
exploited our people for labour
but there were few good souls among them.
They abolished deaths
caused by superstitions.
One such man was Lord Douglas.
He detested the cutting of trees.
He spoke to trees.
Upon hearing tales
about Mathikettan Solai,
he greatly desired to enter it.
Since it's a treacherous journey
and coming out alive is unlikely,
no one accepted to lead him in,
except my grandfather,
who agreed to take him into Solai.
My grandfather planted a tree
every single day of his life.
He and Lord Douglas
ventured into the forest.
Once inside,
they separated and lost contact.
When they finally reunited after days,
they found a glittering tree.
Fascinated by it,
the Lord handed a device
to my grandfather
and asked him to take a picture.
The truth about this forest,
only my grandfather and the Lord
know about it.
It's him.
He is Lord Douglas.
Behind him?
The golden tree!
The person who captured this photo?
My grandpa!
Yes, buddy.
Golden tree is confirmed!
How? Are you serious?
The photo you sent,
I saw the grandson of the person
who clicked it.
It's unbelievable!
Sounds very exciting.
I ran a climate check.
I'll go in before it turns bad.
Buddy, hang on for two days,
I'll join you.
I can't wait for two days.
Not a chance.
I am heading in. Period!
Take Madhi with you.
- Hang up!
Hello...
'You are virtuous to the virtuous'
'You belong to the ones
who hold you dear'
'You are kind even to your accusers'
'You are a being from higher realms'
Let's go. Ignore the madman.
'the white fungus may deceive'
'The tiger may confront you'
Stay the night here, Madhi.
We'll start at dawn.
I have something important at home, sir.
I need to go now
to spend the next two days with you.
Why are you in a hurry?
I can't wait to enter Solai at dawn.
We can return before dark
if we start early.
I compared our map with Google maps,
referenced the coordinates,
and plotted the route.
It shows we'll reach the place in
3 hours 45 minutes.
If we leave at 6 a.m.,
we'll reach the golden tree
by 10 a.m.
Google Maps?
You won't get any signal in there.
Google Maps works offline, Madhi.
Okay, sir.
Rest well. Good night.
We start at 6 a.m.
- Yeah sure, sir
'The subscriber has not replied.'
'Please try again later'
'The subscriber can't be reached
right now.'
'The number is out of reach.'
Sorry, sir.
I am late.
- This is too bad, Madhi.
I know you'd be late,
which is why I asked you to stay.
I told you to come at 6.
The time now is 9:30.
I was caught in an issue, sir.
I was held up handling it.
Everyone says they have issues.
What is really your issue?
Say it out.
I sorted it our, sir.
We can go now.
Come.
What really is your issue?
Love, of course.
Her parents didn't accept.
They found our plan
to have a registered marriage.
So they came to my house
and created a ruckus.
Sir.
We can't use the Mathikettan Solai
main entrance you showed on the map.
Forest officers are stationed there.
The entire road is covered
by CCTV cameras.
If we keep heading west,
we'll find a path 6 kilometres away
used only by the tribals.
My friend Kathir says
there's an old check post over there.
Guards are usually not present.
Let's head there.
Sir, stop the bike.
Come back.
- What's wrong?
Come back, I'll explain.
Please come back.
What's wrong, Madhi?
I never expected the guard to be here.
What shall we do now?
He won't let you in
if he spots me with you.
But I need you with me.
You go this way.
I'll take another route.
Go this way.
Will this plan work out?
Yes! Go this way,
I'll join you on the other side.
I'll take your route too.
If we park the bike over there,
the patrolling guards will catch us.
Better take this route.
I'll join you soon.
Just go ahead, sir.
- Madhi, Madhi...
See you there.
I must lash myself for trusting you.
Young man!
Hang on a second.
Who are you?
Where are you headed?
Sir, I am a wildlife photographer.
Do you know Indian blue robin?
I came to photograph it.
How can I trust you?
This is a reserve forest.
Not allowed.
My ID, sir.
Here you go.
- Thank you.
Take photos,
but not two hours, just one.
Sir please, give me two hours.
No, no. Only one hour.
- Okay, sir.
Okay, sir.
- Done.
Happy journey.
- Thank you, sir.
One more thing.
Sir?
What's in the bag?
Just the camera and battery.
I know that a camera
comes with a battery.
Take it out.
- Sir?
Show your bag.
What is this?
- A sandwich.
That's fine.
Water bottle.
Plastic not allowed.
Reserve forest, okay?
- But I...
What else do you have?
- My camera.
Next.
A torchlight.
What's this sack?
A map.
- That's fine.
One more thing.
- Yes, sir.
What did you pocket?
The thing in your left pant pocket.
It's a sanitiser.
This is a pure forest.
Pollution-free.
Artificial products are not allowed.
Sir?
Okay?
- Thank you, sir.
One more thing.
What is it again?
You heading to the forest?
- Yes, sir.
You won't need the glasses.
I'll have it safe.
Security deposit.
Okay?
- Okay, sir.
Don't take the right.
Stick to the left and
come back the same way.
Got it?
'The number you are
trying to reach is busy.'
Maha.
Stop crying and tell me what happened.
I ran away from home
and reached the bus stand.
I can't wait here for long.
I can't go home either.
Didn't I tell you I'm at Solai
and will be back by evening?
'The number you are trying...'
Shit.
I am scared.
I'll die if you don't come here.
Stop crying.
Go wait at Iyyanar Bakery.
I'll be there.
Who are you talking to?
She is here.
Catch her.
Who is that?
Who is that?
Let her go.
Maha?
Hello.
Maha! Maha!
Madhi, how long will you make me wait?
Sir! Veera, sir!
Veera, sir!
Veera, sir!
Veera sir, don't enter the forest.
I was caught up in a big issue.
I will be back in an hour.
Come back the same way you went in.
He left already?
He forgot his glasses.
Great! It's mine now.
'They say you can't
get out once you get in'
'Don't enter the forest, son'
'No one has made it out of that forest'
'You wont have any air to breathe.
Youll die'
'Can't you find a better place
to commit suicide?'
Veera!
'Anyone there?'
'Who is that?'
'Anyone there?'
Hello!
Hello, sir!
Hello!
Hello!
Yes, I am here!
I am here, sir!
Hello!
Who's there?
I am here!
Can anyone hear me?
Madhi!
'Anyone there?'
What do you mean?
He went in yesterday
and you're telling me today?
Why didn't you get into Solai
this morning?
Come here, Kathir.
I could really use your help.
I am afraid to go in alone.
I am in Hyderabad now.
Inform Kabilan sir immediately.
No. He'll kill me if he finds out.
Better to tell the truth and
get caught than lie and get away.
I'll send you the phone numbers
of local guides.
Talk to them immediately.
Is Prashanth home?
- He's not home.
I know he's inside, please call him out.
I swear! He's not home.
I'll pay you.
They said the black mushrooms
in the forest are poisonous
and the white ones are safe to eat.
Which did they say is poisonous?
The black one or the white one?
'Veera, what's your problem?'
'Buddy, what's your problem?'
'What is your problem?'
'Answer me! What is your problem?
'Say something.'
'What is your problem?'
'Tell me, what's your problem?'
'Tell me now!'
'What is the problem? Tell me.'
'What is the problem?'
'What is the problem?'
Problem! Problem! Problem!
I am my own problem!
You happy now?
Correct!
You are your problem.
Once you accept it,
you can easily come out of it.
Man.
Do you know how many go to sleep
hungry every night?
Do you know how many die
without clothing and shelter?
You have a lavish house, a company,
an understanding girlfriend,
a dad, a good friend.
Despite everything,
you're stuck in this mess.
This is not passion.
This is madness!
You are a coward
who can't make commitments.
Whether you like it or not,
you must wake up every morning,
and go to work.
You call that commitment?
How can you keep doing
the same job for decades?
Life should have an aim, man.
Go for the stars!
Is dying in the forest your aim?
When we are about to die,
we'll regret the things we didn't do
more than the things we did.
I am not that person.
Whoa!
Most often, your wisdom
becomes your ignorance.
Fool!
Am I a fool?
Am I a fool?
Who are you calling a fool?
When you don't have the answer,
you'll attack the questioner.
Isn't that your mentality?
You won't get it.
Just give me the answer.
Get out of here.
Get out of here.
You won't get it.
Only when your next meal
becomes an uncertainty,
you will understand the pain of life.
Does having money
guarantee happiness?
Answer me?
You asked me a question.
Where are you?
Answer my question now.
I...
There's no one around
to hear me speak.
So...
Is this whole thing for mom?
Play together, kids.
Hello, uncle.
Kabila.
Why are you both not picking up my calls?
Where the hell is Veera?
He is on a trip to Kodaikanal.
- Kodaikanal?
I couldn't contact him
for the past 4 days.
There is no signal.
- What?
There's no mobile signal over there,
which is why you couldn't reach him.
Where are you?
I had some work to do at home.
I couldn't join him.
- Damn it!
Check on him and call me back soon.
Okay, uncle.
Veera.
Veera.
What happened?
Open the door, Veera.
Bring the keys.
Veera!
Veera?
Veera.
Open your eyes.
Mom is here, open your eyes.
Bring some water.
Open your eyes, Veera.
You'll be fine.
Open your eyes.
Come on, open your eyes.
Veera.
I called you several times,
why didn't you pick up?
Why is Veera's number switched off?
Sorry sir, there has been a mistake.
What happened?
Veera sir went into the forest.
You didn't go with him?
I got an urgent call from Maha,
so I couldn't join him.
Are you out of your mind?
I told you over and over
not to leave him alone.
I trusted him with you
and you betrayed me.
What shall we do now, sir?
I'll call the forest office and
they'll arrange a rescue team.
Let's file a missing complaint.
- Sir!
But they'll put me behind bars, sir.
Just give me a day, sir.
You're such a pain!
Tomorrow, I'll get into the forest
with my friend.
Hang up! I'll be there tomorrow
myself.
Sir, sir?
'Anyone there?'
Who is that?
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
'Anyone there?'
Mom!
Mom!
Mom!
What is it?
Why are you making a noise?
What is this?
A certificate?
That's great.
Did you draw it?
What's with all the pampering?
Come.
See what our son has received.
What is it?
It's just a participant certificate.
You pamper him like
he won the first prize.
He's not good at studies, all right,
and he's only good for participation
in extra-curricular activities?
You be quiet.
There are 50 students in his class,
and only eight participated
in this competition.
Our son is one of that eight.
Why can't you appreciate that
instead of constantly scolding him?
Come on, I'll make you
some sweet kesari to eat.
Listen, dear.
Only if you push him
to get the first prize,
he'll try to get the first prize
the next time.
Mom.
Why is dad scolding me?
He's not scolding you, darling.
He's not scolding?
You always treat me kindly,
but he's always harsh to me.
Your dad wants his son
to live a life that dad likes.
But I want my loving son
to live a happy life that he likes.
You must live a life that you like.
Only that will bring you peace.
Got it?
Have it.
'Few days ago, a ranger and a
German scientist went into Solai'
'No one knows what happened to them'
Hello!
Brother!
Brother!
Over here!
Brother!
Brother!
Over here! Can you see me?
Look over here!
Over there, chief.
Over there.
No.
Over there.
Over here!
Save me!
Brother!
No, don't do it.
Don't do it, chief.
Don't do it, chief.
Don't shoot me.
Hold it, chief.
Don't shoot me, brother.
Don't shoot him.
- Remove your hand.
Why are you shooting him?
How long have you been here?
Five years.
You damn junkie!
I have been here for 30 years.
Nothing has ever come out of Solai.
Even our dogs that go in don't come back.
It's such a dangerous place.
The sound of gun shots
will scare anything away.
Just do as I say. Come.
Veera.
What happened?
What bit you?
It looks severe.
What happened?
He went near the beehive
and a bee stung him.
God! A bee stung him?
Hurry! Get some betel leaves
and quicklime.
I'll get it, mam.
It hurts, Mom.
You'll be all right.
I'll apply some medicine.
Bear the pain.
Here, mam.
Cut down the tree with the beehive, Mom.
Sure, I'll cut it down tomorrow.
No, don't do it.
You must have disturbed them,
that's why they stung you.
You like honey, right?
So I went to fetch some honey for you.
Kill the bee that stung me.
You clearly don't understand bees, dear.
The trees that you adore so much
exist only because of bees.
How so?
No life can exist on Earth without bees.
The pollen from one flower
is carried to other flowers
only by the bees.
That process brings the plants,
trees and forests to life.
Trees give us the air to breathe.
They gives us the rain
and life as well.
If the bee is so good,
why did it sting me?
In this world,
the majority of the beings
don't hurt other beings intentionally,
except humans.
Do you understand?
So we must realise our mistakes
and make peace with them.
Got it?
Chief.
He's no ghost or spirit.
It's all your exaggeration.
Also, you think you can
scare away a ghost with a gun?
Moron.
We must shoot anything that we spot.
In here, humans are the ghosts.
Ghosts were humans once.
If he's a human as you say,
what if he spots our crop?
This is not a coffee plantation.
It's six acres of weed.
We'll lose everything if we get caught.
Don't say such words.
It's fine if we catch him in our limits
but if we get lost in
Solai looking for him,
who will save us?
This forest has a thousand eyes.
We are safe
until those eyes don't find us.
If we catch him in our limits,
he'll die in my hands.
If not, this very forest will kill him.
Forests don't have graveyards.
Who lives
and who dies, the forest decides it.
We must be out
before he draws his last breath.
A footprint.
That's him.
He's not that type of a guy.
You men will treat bad women well.
But you take advantage
of good women, don't you?
That's not true.
I spoke to my dad.
He has informed the forest officer.
They'll send a search and rescue team
in the morning.
That's not necessary, he'll be fine.
We'll take the first flight...
- I am leaving now!
Are you coming or not?
All the 29 people who went into
Mathikettan Solai have died.
We found out from
the forest department's notice board.
YouTubers say such dire things
about Solai.
Yet, why did you let Veera go alone?
Shall we tell Veera's dad?
No, let's not.
I'll tell him once we reach there.
So
Who told you about the golden tree?
Veera, of course.
Why do you ask?
Who told Veera about it?
Why do yo like trees so much, Mom?
If God created Earth,
trees are nature's greatest blessing
to us.
Have you been to the forest?
Yes, a lot of times.
Let me tell you something
my grandfather used to tell me.
The roots of the tree
listens to the ground's voice,
take the form of the wind,
and communicate it to the sky.
And the sky responds to it
in the form of rain.
If the seeds that fall on the soil
decide not to grow into plants,
in a few years,
when the last tree on earth
falls to the ground,
all the beings here will have died.
To prevent it from happening,
at any point in time,
to give life
to all the seeds,
there is a tree on earth.
The tree that gives life to
all living beings.
A life tree?
Imanus!
Imanus?
The tree that connects everything
under earth
is called Imanus.
Imanus means
God's light.
Imanus is present in all the planets
where lives exist.
Without Imanus,
none of the lives would exist.
Is Imanus still present, Mom?
The Imanus of this world
is here in South India,
in the Western Ghats mountain range.
To the mountain kings
who cherished nature,
it stood as a protective force.
However, it won't reveal itself
to everyone
who seeks it.
The Imanus...
Is it still present today?
Your great great grandfather
has seen Imanus.
When he saw it
it was glowing.
It was glowing
like a glittering gold tree.
Is it a tree made of gold?
Or a tree that glitters like gold?
Have you seen it?
I haven't seen it.
I just told you
what my grandfather told me.
Mom.
You wish to see that golden tree,
don't you?
Veera.
Dharshu?
Veera.
Veera.
Who brought you here?
What are you doing in this forest?
- Is Kabilan with you?
Did Madhi call you?
How did you come here, Dharshu?
- Never mind it.
Let's discuss it outside.
Let's go.
What's wrong? Just come.
What is it?
Are you coming or not?
Dharshu.
Have you gone crazy?
What do you intend to do here?
Dharshu.
I...
I have come thus far.
I just need some more time.
You are dying in here
and we are dying outside
thinking about you.
Did you think about your dad?
All right.
Did you think about the person
who is living just for you?
Did you think about me for a second?
People used to say that
I am the only person in love
in our relationship.
I didn't believe them.
But now, I am starting to think
it's true.
No, Dharshu.
Okay.
What do you want?
To die in this forest, right?
I'll go in too.
- No, Dharshini!
Dharshu, please don't go in.
Let me go, Veera!
- Dharshini.
Dharshini!
Sir!
I came that way.
But...
How?
This way?
Did I come this way?
Hello!
Hello!
Hello!
Save me!
Hello!
You are flying 20,000 feet above ground.
How will you save me?
So, who is above you?
Will he save me?
Is he God?
Jesus?
Krishna?
Sivan.
No, no, it's Allah.
Who will save me?
Who should I call?
What if I call one and
the others get mad at me?
Or...
If I call everyone,
will everyone come for me?
Will God be my saviour,
or
My saviour becomes my God?
Hello, Mr. God!
Mr. God!
Mr. God!
God!
Chief.
We could have just killed him.
Where are we taking him?
We need to find out
who this mongrel works for.
We'll kill him later.
Say the truth.
Why did you come here?
How do you know this place?
Who are you?
Are you a cop or a reporter?
Answer me!
Didn't you check my bag?
Stop lying.
I am a photographer.
See this, chief.
- I got lost in the forest.
You trying to fool me?
Say it.
Out with the truth.
There's no chance you came out of Solai.
You must have come out from the farm.
Who sent you?
Who do you work for?
I don't work for anyone.
What's your business here then?
Let me go.
You won't believe me
no matter what I say.
Why are you still keeping me tied up?
Beat him to death.
- Okay, chief.
You are a dead man.
You messing with me?
How dare you?
Before I stepped into this forest,
people warned me
there were dangerous animals
and poisonous plants here.
But,
none of those harmed me.
You've shown me that
humans are the real danger.
Coming here was your biggest mistake.
If I let you live,
it would be an even bigger mistake.
Shoot him, chief.
Drop dead!
Uncle.
You know aunty's condition well.
You know well about adult progeria too.
There's nothing new I can tell you.
We consulted doctors all over the world.
Consulted many endocrinologists.
Spoke with all the specialists.
When someone is diagnosed
with adult progeria at age 40,
they'll start to resemble a
70-year-old within five years.
You know it well, uncle.
Aunty has suffered enough.
I...
Even I cannot bear to see her suffer.
Uncle.
Talk to Veera.
Veera
listens only to his mom.
Even I
would share everything only with her.
How would I tell this to Veera now?
Uncle.
You must
be strong.
Veera.
Did you eat something?
Go to college
and come back in the evening.
Mom.
Come back home.
I will come.
Our house looks lifeless without you.
I am not going to the
kitchen these days, Mom.
I just eat in my room.
Since you told her,
the cook has been preparing
kesari for me.
It is sweet
but tastes bland, Mom.
When will you
come back and cook for me?
Mom.
Do you remember?
About what?
Once, in a drawing competition,
I drew something that you adored.
You kept that drawing
safe in your cupboard.
I saw it.
I framed it, Mom.
These days, my college magazine
is filled with my photos.
Mom.
I have a gift for you.
Take a guess.
You tell me, Veera.
You must come home to see it.
Tomorrow,
when you come here,
bring it.
Not a chance.
You must come home.
Come home and see it.
You will surely see it.
Mom.
Come home.
I will.
Stay in my room.
I will take care of you.
Mom.
It's been a long time
since I heard stories from you.
Who would I ask
when I'm hungry?
You have me to speak with you.
Who do I have
to speak with me?
You are my everything, Veera.
I will always be with you.
Veera.
Mom.
Mom.
Mom!
Mom!
Mom!
Doctor!
Sir, sir.
Give her adri.
Come on quick.
- Okay, sir.
Sir, please wait.
Listen to me.
Give her defib paddles.
Give her adri injection.
Calcium bolus.
Prepare the echo.
Grandma.
Lord Kaadukaathan!
Lord Karuppu!
Who is he?
Son.
You are all right.
Look at me.
Who are you?
How did you end up here?
Don't be scared.
You will be all right, son.
Lord Kaadukaathan will protect you.
What are you looking at?
What is it?
Muthalagu, bring some water soon.
Since he has had no proper food
for four days,
he is severely dehydrated.
Physically he is fit now,
but mentally...
Sir?
- No, no.
I'll explain it.
If you walk for hours in a day
and don't see another person.
That is enough
to break your stability.
Because
man is a social animal.
Doctor, he also said
that he saw a breathing forest.
Haven't you seen it?
Google it.
Sir.
Were there any snake bites?
I saw antivenom dosage in the report.
I have sent the sample
for latrotoxin test.
Let's wait for it.
He said he saw two men in the forest,
fought with them,
and they died during the fight.
But there are no marks on his body
indicating he was in a fight.
I also needed some clarity
on this matter,
so I called the DFO over the phone.
Illegal activities are common
in mountain forests.
However the specifics that
Veera mentioned,
like the two men and the weed farm,
remain a mystery.
Because, the officer said that
except for the place where
Veera was rescued,
Solai is surrounded by
deep valleys on three sides.
And also,
he said he saw some sort of
black wind monster.
Everything I said so far is
scientifically proven.
But this answer lies in
Veera's mind only.
I am sorry, buddy.
I shouldn't have left you alone.
I should have come with you.
Thank goodness you made it back alive.
If not this competition,
there are a thousand others.
Where is my camera bag?
Where is my camera?
Quick, bring the camera.
Here.
Plug in the charger.
See the last shot.
What's wrong?
I found my golden tree!
'It won't reveal itself
to everyone who seeks it.'
'You are virtuous to the virtuous'
'You belong to the ones
who hold you dear'
'You are kind even to your accusers'
'You are a being from higher realms'
'The flora might intoxicate,
the white fungus may deceive'
'The tiger may confront you'
'But the one above will save you'
"Those consumed by greed"
'Will be eternally scarred'
'The wounds of the pure warrior'
'Will heal in time'
'The one with the pure heart'
'Will see the light of wisdom'
'In the protection of the Wind God'
'He will guard his life'
'Endless trails'
'Led him to this earth's golden tree'
'Those who saw the truth will speak'
'The others are blind to wisdom'
'Veera did not choose the forest.'
'The forest found him,
reinvented and guided him.'
'The breath of existence'
'begins with the Wind force.'
'The last breath returns life
back to Him.'