Gram Chikitsalay (2025) s01e04 Episode Script
Bharosa
[party supporters chanting slogans]
Bhikari, you go big!
We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with…
[Bhikari in Hindi] Whenever a politician
visits this village,
-he only says one thing.
-[sloganeering continues]
We will get you this.
We will get you that.
We will get washrooms built.
-We are with you!
-I speak no word of the future.
I don't say
that I will make
the healthcare system better.
I have brought along a doctor!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
[upbeat, playful music plays]
Hello, good morning.
I am the MO at the clinic.
The clinic is open now.
Is anyone sick at home?
If anyone has health issues,
come to the clinic. I'll be there.
-Tell the others too.
-Okay.
[bell tolling]
Run away!
No?
Go away. Leave.
[upbeat, playful music ends]
[bangles clinking softly]
[indistinct chatter]
Hey, what is it, kid?
[woman 1 coughs]
[in English] Hello.
Sorry. Actually…
[soft gushing of water]
[in Hindi] Hello.
Does anyone in the house have
a cold, cough, stomach ache
body pain, loose motions,
or any wounds? Any problem?
Please speak kindly, doctor.
No bad omens so early in the day.
-No, sorry.
-Go.
[metal clangs]
What is it? I taught you this yesterday.
Don't you understand it?
Sudhir?
Can you come out… for a minute?
[somber music plays]
Sudhir.
Listen. I won't tell anyone anything.
Why did you lie if you took the vaccine?
Did anything happen?
Why should I take the vaccine?
[Bhikari] Prabhat ji!
Hey, doctor.
-Come here.
-[somber music fades]
-[cycle bell rings]
-Come.
-Let me introduce you.
-[birds chirping]
He's Munnirka bhai.
He is the seasonal
sick man of the village.
He doesn't miss out on any season.
Rashes in the summer,
boils in the monsoon, chills,
cough and fever in winter.
He doesn't miss out on any
darn seasonal ailment!
Even if only he visits the PHC,
he can consume all
the medicines in the clinic.
[Bhikari and Munnirka laugh]
-Am I wrong?
-No, no.
-You tell me, is there any ailment
-No, no.
-that you have missed?
-No, no.
He is right.
Get the treatment. Doctor supports
our party completely, okay?
-[Gobind] Talk to him.
-[Phutani] I will. Why won't I?
Sir. What is this I hear?
Did you go to Bhikari's rally?
I did. Why?
[train horn honks in the distance]
Sir, since you hold a
government post, you aren't
allowed to take part
in a political rally.
Yes. And sir…
You should be a bit vigilant
after the vaccine mishap, sir.
Yes.
Do you know what the CMO said to me?
I have zero patients
showing up here. Zero.
He might send a memo at any moment.
Whether it will be a transfer
or a suspension, I don't know.
Let me examine at least a couple
of patients before I depart!
I wasn't there to campaign for the party,
I was campaigning for the PHC.
Sir, but that might send
the wrong message, you know.
What kind of message?
And to whom?
Forget about it, sir.
Let me explain
what they're talking about.
You did the right thing.
[gentle tune plays]
Hey, did you tell sir to
participate in Bhikari's rally?
Why would I tell him?
-It was Dhelu's idea.
-Really?
Are you making
the PHC's environment political?
Mr. Phutani, why are you
overreacting so much?
What's the big deal?
Sir, the thing is,
they support another politician.
They don't object
to you going to the rally.
They are objecting as to why you
didn't go to their candidate's rally.
Shut up. Don't talk nonsense.
Wait a moment. Listen, I have no
political leanings, anyway.
I just had to campaign for the PHC.
And I would've attended
any rally if that's what it took.
Okay.
Come along, then.
Kishori bhai is campaigning with
his rally today. Come along for that.
Aren't you politicizing
the environment now?
Hey, I told you.
To give evidence that he is impartial,
you must be seen with both parties.
Go and sweep up. Get lost.
Kishori bhai is losing this time.
Losing?
Is it? Kishori bhai?
If Bhikari doesn't lose his deposit,
you can start calling me "Bhikari"!
-[Phutani scoffs]
-As if! He says Kishori bhai will lose.
All of Bhatkandi is voting for him.
This time Kishori bhai's
corrupt reign will be over.
Hey, Dhelu.
He laid the foundation stone of the PHC
where you work. Do you know that?
Sir, he's an uneducated man.
He had no reason to make you roam
around in a rally of 40 to 50 people.
Come with us
to Kishori bhai's rally, sir.
There will be at least 200 people, sir.
[rap music playing]
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
Most of the ailments can be treated with
dietary restrictions, not medicines.
-[rap music ends]
-Such as getting used to staying clean
eating healthy and exercising.
You can get more information
about all this at the PHC.
Please do visit the PHC
for your own and the family's health.
[crow cawing]
[bangles clinking softly]
-Do any of you have any questions?
-[child coughs]
-Would you like some tea and fritters?
-[upbeat, playful music plays]
-Brother Kishori, you're the real deal…
-[upbeat, playful music ends]
Others are fake, with no appeal!
You are well tried and tested.
-Kishori bhai, you are family.
-Hello, hello, hello.
Seeing your love and enthusiasm
has made my eyes well up with tears.
My father and I have done
so much for the village.
Will these folks be able to
do anything at all?
There are so many leaders
in this village that people
have stopped having
faith in politicians!
I say, there's nothing wrong with that.
Don't believe the politicians.
But you must at least believe the words
of a well-educated
and civilized doctor, right?
[in unison] Yes.
-Say yes, everybody.
-[man 1] Yes, we will believe.
Yes. So, now, see what
that educated doctor
-has to say about me.
-[man 2] What?
-Listen, let the doctor speak to them.
-[Gobind] Sir.
Please say something.
-No, please no.
-Say something, please.
-Tell him to speak.
-He's saying no.
What is it? Go on.
Let him speak to them.
-What kind of man is he?
-Sir, speak.
-No, I don't know what to say…
-Just a few words.
-Just a few words.
-Go ahead, speak.
-Wait a moment, sir.
-He's educated.
-Sir, we beg you. Just a few words.
-Just say something.
-Just a few words.
-Please say something.
-Go on, speak.
-Yes, he'll talk.
-Quit, he's speaking.
-Yes, yes.
-[Mic squeals]
-[man 3 coughs]
[in English] Hello.
[in Hindi] Mr. Kishori…
is very hard working.
His father is no more,
but still, he is working hard.
[upbeat music plays]
[upbeat music fades]
That is quite amazing.
-Who is the amazing leader?
-Kishori bhai, Kishori bhai!
-Who is the amazing leader?
-Kishori bhai, Kishori bhai!
-Play the music.
-[rap music plays]
Sir.
KISHORI LAL CHOWDHARY
It has no base.
It rolls one way and then another.
[party supporters cheering
in the background]
You know a rolling stone gathers
no moss, right?
[rap music ends]
PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER
[birds chirping]
I met so many people.
I went to everyone's home.
But not one person has turned up!
[Prabhat]
Is there any other angle or what?
[Prabhat]
Is there a rumor related to the PHC?
Any superstition that anyone who
comes to the PHC, doesn't survive?
If that were true,
we would not come daily, sir.
I have roamed around with both camps
but still, nobody showed up.
Sir, I believe being seen with both camps
-has worked against you.
-Hmm.
It's about trust, sir.
Everyone's trust is shattered.
Did anyone mention anything?
A few of them even
used abusive language.
-Hey.
-Yes, they did.
Must you tell him
everything that happens?
No, no, please tell me.
What abusive words?
-Sir, they didn't say anything.
-They call you two-faced.
[gentle, playful music plays]
What is that?
Haven't you heard the term before?
No, I have heard about it, but…
I never tried to know the exact meaning.
That's okay, sir.
If you don't know what
an abusive word means,
it won't hurt you.
-I have abused this one so much.
-Dhelu.
You tell me.
What is the meaning of two-faced?
Sir, the man who has two faces.
The kind of man whose mother and father
come from different species.
Sir, a person who has two fathers
is called two-faced.
Oh, yes, it means that as well.
You guys need to decide
on one meaning, first.
-Is there any good way of saying it?
-[gentle, playful music ends]
[Gobind] Your first mistake was going
out and about in Bhikari's rally.
We made the second, lower rung mistake
by making you attend Kishori's rally.
Now, you can assume that after
losing the trust of the CMO,
you have lost the trust of
the people in the village too.
If one can't trust a doctor,
then how can he be a good doctor, sir?
[dramatic music starts]
-Tear down Kishori's posters!
-[heated shouting in the background]
CONTESTING FOR THE POST OF VILLAGE HEAD
KISHORI LAL
BROTHER BHIKARI
[upbeat, playful music plays]
[upbeat, playful music ends]
[high-pitched ringing]
[dramatic music plays]
[dramatic music ends]
[inhales sharply]
[Bhikari] What message did
Kishori's guy send? Let's hear it.
[man 1] Whose mother had
the audacity to birth the guy
who dared to piss
on Kishori bhai's poster?
How did you respond?
Your mother made a mistake
by giving birth to you!
-Darn it. Aren't you capable of abusing?
-[Gobind chuckles]
You're in politics!
You should abuse so strongly,
so powerfully, so capably…
[Bhikari] Get it?
[Bhikari clears throat]
Kishori's goons attacked me
and my volunteers
aiming to kill us.
[upbeat, dramatic music plays]
Now, it can only be proved
legally if you give that in writing.
[Bhikari] Do you get my drift?
[upbeat, dramatic music ends]
But I heard it was
only a fistfight.
Good Lord! How can we
build a case on a fistfight?
[Bhikari]
Can one build a case with a fistfight?
The case will be created when a
government certified doctor
like you gives it in writing that…
my volunteers were beaten up brutally.
[in English] Attempt to murder.
[Bhikari in Hindi] A lethal attack.
Sir, how can I write an "attempt
to murder" just like that?
I mean, if any weapon was used,
if a dagger or knife was used…
-If anyone had any cuts on their person…
-[in English] Cuts?
[in Hindi] These guys can
end up with cuts
anywhere on their bodies
if they are told so.
Right?
We're ready to bear cuts
on our bodies if brother tells us to.
Heard that? Go ahead, write it.
Listen, Bhikari ji, we can't
issue such fake…
Hey, doctor! Write what brother
said without any fuss.
I have been watching you for some
time now. You're blabbering a lot.
Come on, now. You're shouting
in my ear. You didn't even look!
Hello, brother.
It has cardamom in it.
Pathetic.
[goat bleating]
I could have handled this task with love.
But the elections are on.
I don't have the time for it.
I will come in the evening.
Keep it ready, in writing.
Got it?
I said something to you.
Hold this!
I'll take your leave.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May Brother Bhikari live long.
May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
This is all because of you.
Did I do it?
Did I tell you to tear down the posters?
Hey, you took Prabhat sir to
a politician like Bhikari, right?
Your politician is being a goon.
Not our leader.
So, that makes you responsible, right?
Who else could it be?
[party workers in unison]
You are well tried and tested…
Brother Kishori, you are family.
You are well tried and tested…
Brother Kishori, you are family.
You are well tried and tested…
Brother Kishori, you are the best.
Bhikari is worth nothing.
Brother Kishori, you are the best.
Bhikari is worth nothing.
Brother Kishori, you are the best.
Bhikari is worth nothing.
-He is amazing!
-Yes, he is.
You guys make me sound
like a Kishori spice mix.
[playful music plays]
I always knew that you
are a very useful man.
But I had no idea, how quickly
you would prove to be useful.
-Tell me.
-[Kishori] What do I say?
We faced an attempted murder attack.
[rhythmic beatboxing]
None of you seem
to have suffered any such encounter.
Should we take a photo
and send it over to you?
Would we lie to you?
[Kishori] What is it?
Is there any problem?
Brother Kishori, sir is right.
Who asked you anything?
Should I have the CMO call you?
Listen, I came all this way
because I consider you a friend.
Otherwise, where do I have the time to
even make a call for such trivial stuff?
You are the MO.
It's all up to you.
You will do this.
I'm heading to the territory.
[Kishori] Keep the certificate ready.
Let's go.
-[rhythmic beatboxing blends into rap]
-You are well tried and tested.
Brother Kishori, you are family.
[indistinct sloganeering]
[rap music ends]
You're back, son?
[Indu] Sudhir?
Sudhir.
Mom, I had kept a book
of sample tests here. Did you see it?
[Indu] It must be there. Look for it.
You left at dawn to give tuition
and just got back.
Will you study again now?
Eat something, freshen up,
and then you can study.
I won't be fresh when
I get to the center, Mom.
I will reach there tired
and worn out, right?
I should get used to taking the exam
while I am fatigued.
Did you take the tuition fees
for teaching Rakesh at home?
My son, I asked you something.
It's been three months.
I didn't take the money.
I am scared to give or take
anything from anyone now.
[somber music plays]
In the future, he may also
turn around and say…
"Sudhir is a liar."
Why do you hold Phutani ji
in such high regard?
He has been eyeing
you for the longest time.
Vampire of a man. Such a lousy guy!
Darling, just focus on your studies.
If you can get through
somehow this time,
the whole village will be hushed up.
[melancholic harmonizing]
[melancholic harmonizing ends]
[somber music fades]
[low mechanical hum]
Father was right.
Politicians aren't good
either as friends or enemies.
My father used to say
something very different.
What did he say?
The straightest politician will be…
as convoluted as a pretzel.
Did your father also say anything?
Yes, sir. He did.
But nothing about this topic, really.
-He had a different sphere of interest.
-When did your fathers say all this?
That's a blast from the past, sir.
Yes, which means they didn't say
it today. It was said much earlier.
Yes, I mean, you could
say about five to ten years ago.
Why are you telling me now then?
When I roamed in both
their rallies at your behest,
at that time
you never said all this.
What should I do now? Tell me.
Both of them have threatened me.
Sir. I suggest you give
certificates to both of them.
Making either camp angry
won't do us any good.
Make certificates for both.
I was roaming with them since
I pursued that same line of thought!
But now both of them are angry.
Sir, they are very dangerous folks.
[Phutani] If they lose their cool,
everyone will be living in misery.
You as well as us.
Bhikari bhai won't do
anything of the sort.
I can vouch for him.
As if. Bhikari is the biggest
goon in the panchayat.
[Gobind] What business does he do?
He operates ten
to twelve trucks filled with cargo.
Bhikari's brother, who had
that land dispute with him?
[Phutani] How did he die?
[Dhelu] By truck.
[playful music plays]
It was in a truck accident.
Does this guy get people killed or what?
Of course, he does. You can't become
a politician just like that.
-What do you think, brother Phutani?
-[playful music ends]
About what?
He has to make the certificate
and give it.
What if sir makes
the certificate against Kishori bhai?
Then, he will think that
we are also involved in it.
If their chief is gone,
they won't spare anyone in the PHC.
[Dhelu] Perhaps, he may draft it
against Bhikari bhai.
I am sure the story about the brother's
murder has made sir want to harm him.
After hearing that Bhikari killed
his own brother over
a two-bit piece of land,
won't he think
[Phutani] that if they lose their chief,
what will they do to sir?
He won't take any action against
him after hearing your story.
You'll see. He'll make that certificate
without any fuss and give it to him.
Sir, I am getting stressed.
Yes.
The doctor hasn't saved a single life…
but ruined three!
[light-hearted music plays]
[Phutani] Just do as I say.
-Don't bother thinking.
-[light-hearted music ends]
You have seen what comes
from being too smart.
Brother Phutani, you are right.
But why does it sound wrong?
Don't think. Overthinking ruins things.
-Will you speak?
-I'll handle it all. Careful.
-Alright.
-Greetings, uncle.
Remove your shoes outside.
-Okay.
-Okay, we will do that.
[birds chirping]
-Move it.
-Greetings, sir.
Greetings, Kishori bhai.
What is it?
Tell me… the doctor treats us.
But who treats the doctor?
Who treats the doctor?
Did the doctor send you
with the certificate?
[Gobind] No, Kishori ji.
The doctor didn't send us.
We came on our own.
I see.
Kishori bhai.
[clears throat]
Listen, what the doctor will or won't do,
we aren't going to have
any involvement in that.
That man does what he pleases.
[Phutani]
He has even threatened us many times
by saying that he would
complain to the CMO.
So, you guys are also upset with him?
No, no, we are not upset.
-Upset?
-Actually…
He's driving me insane.
Are you scared that he won't
give the certificate?
No, the fear extends
to something beyond that.
What?
That he may give
the certificate to Bhikari.
So…
the doctor is in Bhikari's camp?
-Don't you know it?
-No.
The whole village knows it.
Hey, Dhanraj.
Hey, Dhanraj!
Yes.
Is the doctor one of Bhikari's men?
Uncle, he's not faithful
to his own father.
Darn it. Who was going to tell me that?
The uncle or the nephew?
If he gives the certificate to Bhikari,
then we are doomed, right?
These folks from the PHC
came home to tell me that.
But here you guys are…
You are doing yogic
breathing practices… Darn it!
All you do is sit and wear out cots.
Shut up!
Bloody yoga practitioners!
How much money does
the doctor want? Tell me.
Kishori bhai, this doctor
doesn't accept money.
So, the doctor only came
to treat people?
This one has come only
to treat the people.
Oh, no.
It's my destiny to deal with
every kind of eccentric and fool.
I am sure he's got some weakness, right?
The doctor has everything he could need.
He just keeps whining about patients.
[upbeat, playful music]
[rhythmic beatboxing]
Do this.
More. Open wider.
Oh, my God.
How much tobacco do you eat?
-This much.
-[rhythmic beatboxing ends]
Oh, God. Put him in the car.
Will you put me in the car for tobacco?
-I gave up on weed.
-Move it.
Let's go, come on.
What is the problem, ma'am?
My body hurts.
Does your body hurt?
This is all nonsense.
You're all addicted to the booster shot.
Let's go, aunt. Take her away!
-Come on.
-Kishori, why are you conducting a raid?
I can put the shutter down if you want.
-I am not conducting a raid, my lord.
-What is this, then?
I am just borrowing some patients.
Borrowing them?
How many patients do we have?
There must be around
15 to 20 of them. Why?
-I will bring them back by evening.
-What?
You'll see. Sit. Sing some hymns.
See you, doctor.
By evening--
Hey, are you selling my patients?
Kishori!
DISPENSARY
[man 1] Let's go. Load them up.
[man 2] Go on. Let's go.
[man 1] Let's go. Take them away.
Come on!
DR. PRABHAT SINHA
-[playful music ends]
-[man 1] Come along. Come on.
-There is nothing of the sort here.
-[indistinct background chatter]
-[man 2] Let's go.
-I will call you back, Dad.
-[man 3] Where are you taking us?
-[man 1] Let's go. Get down.
[man 2] Come on.
Let's go.
-Let's go.
-[woman 1] Where are you taking me?
Oh, God! So many people at once?
-I think the bridge collapsed again.
-[upbeat music plays]
Let's go.
PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER
What's going on, old man?
Are you going for a race?
Get back. Let's go.
MEDICAL OFFICER'S CHAMBER
-[Kishori] Doctor.
-[upbeat music ends]
It's my fault.
I didn't do anything for you
and asked you to help me.
Listen, everyone, fall in line.
All of you will get treatment.
Anyone who has a cold,
cough, fever, piles, boils,
premature ejaculation, venereal disease…
Kishori bhai, premature ejaculation,
and venereal disease?
Doctor, I came to get
my teeth cleaned up.
Darn it.
Okay, I eat tobacco and whatnot.
I am sure I might have
something or the other.
I will get admitted.
I fulfilled your wish, doctor.
Now, if you could
quickly fulfill mine…
[Bhikari] Hey, doctor.
-[upbeat, dramatic music plays]
-[indistinct chatter continues]
[Bhikari] Get out of my way.
Don't be lured
by a liar and his false patients.
Look at them. Real, bona-fide patients.
-[upbeat, dramatic music ends]
-One word from me
and they will get admitted.
They will do it when I say so.
What is Bhikari doing here?
That too, at the
same time as Kishori bhai?
[Kishori] Since when did
he become their doctor?
-[Bhikari] Is he yours then?
-[Kishori] No point in arguing with you!
Dhelu!
What else can one expect from you?
What did you think?
Are you the only smart ones here?
So? Did you bring
your entire vote bank
here as patients?
-If my vote bank comes here,
-Yes?
they will put you
in the hospital as a patient.
-Really?
-Know your limits.
You'll lose badly.
Doctor.
I don't expect anything from you.
I have no greed.
Do you know why?
Because I believe you are with me.
With the truth.
What are you guys looking at?
Come forward one by one.
-Let's go.
-Wait, wait, wait, please.
Listen to me. Get back down there.
You get down too.
[Prabhat] Back away.
Listen to me.
None of you
needs to obey anyone forcibly.
It is my fault.
You all weren't coming here
so to reach out to you,
I used them.
And I know that's
the reason I lost your trust.
I admit it.
But that is between you and me.
I will try to regain that trust.
But you don't have to put up
with anyone's hooliganism for that.
Doctor,
if you start giving speeches too,
where do we go?
[Bhikari snaps fingers]
Quickly draft that certificate.
I won't draft any certificate for anyone.
Not for him or you.
You can do anything you want.
[Kishori]
Doctor, your bravery will cost you.
Nice.
I come here
at 07:00 a.m. every morning.
I finish my work by 05:00 p.m.
and go to the guest house.
You can do whatever you want.
But as long as I am
the MO of this place,
I will not allow you to misuse this PHC.
-Prabhat.
-[Prabhat] Kishori ji.
If anything happens to me,
then, the entire village has witnessed…
that you threatened me.
A shot was fired in front of me.
Then there is no need
for a certificate to file a case.
[rhythmic beatboxing]
Darn you. Who told you to shoot?
You idiot! Let's go. Come on.
Let's go, you darn fool.
[rhythmic beatboxing ends]
Did I tell you to?
Why did you shoot?
[Prabhat] Anyone of you…
who is really sick
and wants to be treated by me,
I am right here.
You can come on in.
[soft music plays]
[in English] Thank you.
[in Hindi] Thank you
for trusting me. Come on in.
No, sir. I got this envelope
for you from the CMO office.
-[door slams shuts]
-[distant engine hums]
[gentle music plays]
Thank you.
[gentle music ends]
[soft music plays]
[soft music ends]
Bhikari, you go big!
We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with…
[Bhikari in Hindi] Whenever a politician
visits this village,
-he only says one thing.
-[sloganeering continues]
We will get you this.
We will get you that.
We will get washrooms built.
-We are with you!
-I speak no word of the future.
I don't say
that I will make
the healthcare system better.
I have brought along a doctor!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
-Bhikari, you go big!
-We are with you!
[upbeat, playful music plays]
Hello, good morning.
I am the MO at the clinic.
The clinic is open now.
Is anyone sick at home?
If anyone has health issues,
come to the clinic. I'll be there.
-Tell the others too.
-Okay.
[bell tolling]
Run away!
No?
Go away. Leave.
[upbeat, playful music ends]
[bangles clinking softly]
[indistinct chatter]
Hey, what is it, kid?
[woman 1 coughs]
[in English] Hello.
Sorry. Actually…
[soft gushing of water]
[in Hindi] Hello.
Does anyone in the house have
a cold, cough, stomach ache
body pain, loose motions,
or any wounds? Any problem?
Please speak kindly, doctor.
No bad omens so early in the day.
-No, sorry.
-Go.
[metal clangs]
What is it? I taught you this yesterday.
Don't you understand it?
Sudhir?
Can you come out… for a minute?
[somber music plays]
Sudhir.
Listen. I won't tell anyone anything.
Why did you lie if you took the vaccine?
Did anything happen?
Why should I take the vaccine?
[Bhikari] Prabhat ji!
Hey, doctor.
-Come here.
-[somber music fades]
-[cycle bell rings]
-Come.
-Let me introduce you.
-[birds chirping]
He's Munnirka bhai.
He is the seasonal
sick man of the village.
He doesn't miss out on any season.
Rashes in the summer,
boils in the monsoon, chills,
cough and fever in winter.
He doesn't miss out on any
darn seasonal ailment!
Even if only he visits the PHC,
he can consume all
the medicines in the clinic.
[Bhikari and Munnirka laugh]
-Am I wrong?
-No, no.
-You tell me, is there any ailment
-No, no.
-that you have missed?
-No, no.
He is right.
Get the treatment. Doctor supports
our party completely, okay?
-[Gobind] Talk to him.
-[Phutani] I will. Why won't I?
Sir. What is this I hear?
Did you go to Bhikari's rally?
I did. Why?
[train horn honks in the distance]
Sir, since you hold a
government post, you aren't
allowed to take part
in a political rally.
Yes. And sir…
You should be a bit vigilant
after the vaccine mishap, sir.
Yes.
Do you know what the CMO said to me?
I have zero patients
showing up here. Zero.
He might send a memo at any moment.
Whether it will be a transfer
or a suspension, I don't know.
Let me examine at least a couple
of patients before I depart!
I wasn't there to campaign for the party,
I was campaigning for the PHC.
Sir, but that might send
the wrong message, you know.
What kind of message?
And to whom?
Forget about it, sir.
Let me explain
what they're talking about.
You did the right thing.
[gentle tune plays]
Hey, did you tell sir to
participate in Bhikari's rally?
Why would I tell him?
-It was Dhelu's idea.
-Really?
Are you making
the PHC's environment political?
Mr. Phutani, why are you
overreacting so much?
What's the big deal?
Sir, the thing is,
they support another politician.
They don't object
to you going to the rally.
They are objecting as to why you
didn't go to their candidate's rally.
Shut up. Don't talk nonsense.
Wait a moment. Listen, I have no
political leanings, anyway.
I just had to campaign for the PHC.
And I would've attended
any rally if that's what it took.
Okay.
Come along, then.
Kishori bhai is campaigning with
his rally today. Come along for that.
Aren't you politicizing
the environment now?
Hey, I told you.
To give evidence that he is impartial,
you must be seen with both parties.
Go and sweep up. Get lost.
Kishori bhai is losing this time.
Losing?
Is it? Kishori bhai?
If Bhikari doesn't lose his deposit,
you can start calling me "Bhikari"!
-[Phutani scoffs]
-As if! He says Kishori bhai will lose.
All of Bhatkandi is voting for him.
This time Kishori bhai's
corrupt reign will be over.
Hey, Dhelu.
He laid the foundation stone of the PHC
where you work. Do you know that?
Sir, he's an uneducated man.
He had no reason to make you roam
around in a rally of 40 to 50 people.
Come with us
to Kishori bhai's rally, sir.
There will be at least 200 people, sir.
[rap music playing]
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
-Kishori bhai, you're the real deal…
-Others are fake, with no appeal!
Most of the ailments can be treated with
dietary restrictions, not medicines.
-[rap music ends]
-Such as getting used to staying clean
eating healthy and exercising.
You can get more information
about all this at the PHC.
Please do visit the PHC
for your own and the family's health.
[crow cawing]
[bangles clinking softly]
-Do any of you have any questions?
-[child coughs]
-Would you like some tea and fritters?
-[upbeat, playful music plays]
-Brother Kishori, you're the real deal…
-[upbeat, playful music ends]
Others are fake, with no appeal!
You are well tried and tested.
-Kishori bhai, you are family.
-Hello, hello, hello.
Seeing your love and enthusiasm
has made my eyes well up with tears.
My father and I have done
so much for the village.
Will these folks be able to
do anything at all?
There are so many leaders
in this village that people
have stopped having
faith in politicians!
I say, there's nothing wrong with that.
Don't believe the politicians.
But you must at least believe the words
of a well-educated
and civilized doctor, right?
[in unison] Yes.
-Say yes, everybody.
-[man 1] Yes, we will believe.
Yes. So, now, see what
that educated doctor
-has to say about me.
-[man 2] What?
-Listen, let the doctor speak to them.
-[Gobind] Sir.
Please say something.
-No, please no.
-Say something, please.
-Tell him to speak.
-He's saying no.
What is it? Go on.
Let him speak to them.
-What kind of man is he?
-Sir, speak.
-No, I don't know what to say…
-Just a few words.
-Just a few words.
-Go ahead, speak.
-Wait a moment, sir.
-He's educated.
-Sir, we beg you. Just a few words.
-Just say something.
-Just a few words.
-Please say something.
-Go on, speak.
-Yes, he'll talk.
-Quit, he's speaking.
-Yes, yes.
-[Mic squeals]
-[man 3 coughs]
[in English] Hello.
[in Hindi] Mr. Kishori…
is very hard working.
His father is no more,
but still, he is working hard.
[upbeat music plays]
[upbeat music fades]
That is quite amazing.
-Who is the amazing leader?
-Kishori bhai, Kishori bhai!
-Who is the amazing leader?
-Kishori bhai, Kishori bhai!
-Play the music.
-[rap music plays]
Sir.
KISHORI LAL CHOWDHARY
It has no base.
It rolls one way and then another.
[party supporters cheering
in the background]
You know a rolling stone gathers
no moss, right?
[rap music ends]
PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER
[birds chirping]
I met so many people.
I went to everyone's home.
But not one person has turned up!
[Prabhat]
Is there any other angle or what?
[Prabhat]
Is there a rumor related to the PHC?
Any superstition that anyone who
comes to the PHC, doesn't survive?
If that were true,
we would not come daily, sir.
I have roamed around with both camps
but still, nobody showed up.
Sir, I believe being seen with both camps
-has worked against you.
-Hmm.
It's about trust, sir.
Everyone's trust is shattered.
Did anyone mention anything?
A few of them even
used abusive language.
-Hey.
-Yes, they did.
Must you tell him
everything that happens?
No, no, please tell me.
What abusive words?
-Sir, they didn't say anything.
-They call you two-faced.
[gentle, playful music plays]
What is that?
Haven't you heard the term before?
No, I have heard about it, but…
I never tried to know the exact meaning.
That's okay, sir.
If you don't know what
an abusive word means,
it won't hurt you.
-I have abused this one so much.
-Dhelu.
You tell me.
What is the meaning of two-faced?
Sir, the man who has two faces.
The kind of man whose mother and father
come from different species.
Sir, a person who has two fathers
is called two-faced.
Oh, yes, it means that as well.
You guys need to decide
on one meaning, first.
-Is there any good way of saying it?
-[gentle, playful music ends]
[Gobind] Your first mistake was going
out and about in Bhikari's rally.
We made the second, lower rung mistake
by making you attend Kishori's rally.
Now, you can assume that after
losing the trust of the CMO,
you have lost the trust of
the people in the village too.
If one can't trust a doctor,
then how can he be a good doctor, sir?
[dramatic music starts]
-Tear down Kishori's posters!
-[heated shouting in the background]
CONTESTING FOR THE POST OF VILLAGE HEAD
KISHORI LAL
BROTHER BHIKARI
[upbeat, playful music plays]
[upbeat, playful music ends]
[high-pitched ringing]
[dramatic music plays]
[dramatic music ends]
[inhales sharply]
[Bhikari] What message did
Kishori's guy send? Let's hear it.
[man 1] Whose mother had
the audacity to birth the guy
who dared to piss
on Kishori bhai's poster?
How did you respond?
Your mother made a mistake
by giving birth to you!
-Darn it. Aren't you capable of abusing?
-[Gobind chuckles]
You're in politics!
You should abuse so strongly,
so powerfully, so capably…
[Bhikari] Get it?
[Bhikari clears throat]
Kishori's goons attacked me
and my volunteers
aiming to kill us.
[upbeat, dramatic music plays]
Now, it can only be proved
legally if you give that in writing.
[Bhikari] Do you get my drift?
[upbeat, dramatic music ends]
But I heard it was
only a fistfight.
Good Lord! How can we
build a case on a fistfight?
[Bhikari]
Can one build a case with a fistfight?
The case will be created when a
government certified doctor
like you gives it in writing that…
my volunteers were beaten up brutally.
[in English] Attempt to murder.
[Bhikari in Hindi] A lethal attack.
Sir, how can I write an "attempt
to murder" just like that?
I mean, if any weapon was used,
if a dagger or knife was used…
-If anyone had any cuts on their person…
-[in English] Cuts?
[in Hindi] These guys can
end up with cuts
anywhere on their bodies
if they are told so.
Right?
We're ready to bear cuts
on our bodies if brother tells us to.
Heard that? Go ahead, write it.
Listen, Bhikari ji, we can't
issue such fake…
Hey, doctor! Write what brother
said without any fuss.
I have been watching you for some
time now. You're blabbering a lot.
Come on, now. You're shouting
in my ear. You didn't even look!
Hello, brother.
It has cardamom in it.
Pathetic.
[goat bleating]
I could have handled this task with love.
But the elections are on.
I don't have the time for it.
I will come in the evening.
Keep it ready, in writing.
Got it?
I said something to you.
Hold this!
I'll take your leave.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May Brother Bhikari live long.
May he live long.
-Brother Bhikari…
-May he live long.
This is all because of you.
Did I do it?
Did I tell you to tear down the posters?
Hey, you took Prabhat sir to
a politician like Bhikari, right?
Your politician is being a goon.
Not our leader.
So, that makes you responsible, right?
Who else could it be?
[party workers in unison]
You are well tried and tested…
Brother Kishori, you are family.
You are well tried and tested…
Brother Kishori, you are family.
You are well tried and tested…
Brother Kishori, you are the best.
Bhikari is worth nothing.
Brother Kishori, you are the best.
Bhikari is worth nothing.
Brother Kishori, you are the best.
Bhikari is worth nothing.
-He is amazing!
-Yes, he is.
You guys make me sound
like a Kishori spice mix.
[playful music plays]
I always knew that you
are a very useful man.
But I had no idea, how quickly
you would prove to be useful.
-Tell me.
-[Kishori] What do I say?
We faced an attempted murder attack.
[rhythmic beatboxing]
None of you seem
to have suffered any such encounter.
Should we take a photo
and send it over to you?
Would we lie to you?
[Kishori] What is it?
Is there any problem?
Brother Kishori, sir is right.
Who asked you anything?
Should I have the CMO call you?
Listen, I came all this way
because I consider you a friend.
Otherwise, where do I have the time to
even make a call for such trivial stuff?
You are the MO.
It's all up to you.
You will do this.
I'm heading to the territory.
[Kishori] Keep the certificate ready.
Let's go.
-[rhythmic beatboxing blends into rap]
-You are well tried and tested.
Brother Kishori, you are family.
[indistinct sloganeering]
[rap music ends]
You're back, son?
[Indu] Sudhir?
Sudhir.
Mom, I had kept a book
of sample tests here. Did you see it?
[Indu] It must be there. Look for it.
You left at dawn to give tuition
and just got back.
Will you study again now?
Eat something, freshen up,
and then you can study.
I won't be fresh when
I get to the center, Mom.
I will reach there tired
and worn out, right?
I should get used to taking the exam
while I am fatigued.
Did you take the tuition fees
for teaching Rakesh at home?
My son, I asked you something.
It's been three months.
I didn't take the money.
I am scared to give or take
anything from anyone now.
[somber music plays]
In the future, he may also
turn around and say…
"Sudhir is a liar."
Why do you hold Phutani ji
in such high regard?
He has been eyeing
you for the longest time.
Vampire of a man. Such a lousy guy!
Darling, just focus on your studies.
If you can get through
somehow this time,
the whole village will be hushed up.
[melancholic harmonizing]
[melancholic harmonizing ends]
[somber music fades]
[low mechanical hum]
Father was right.
Politicians aren't good
either as friends or enemies.
My father used to say
something very different.
What did he say?
The straightest politician will be…
as convoluted as a pretzel.
Did your father also say anything?
Yes, sir. He did.
But nothing about this topic, really.
-He had a different sphere of interest.
-When did your fathers say all this?
That's a blast from the past, sir.
Yes, which means they didn't say
it today. It was said much earlier.
Yes, I mean, you could
say about five to ten years ago.
Why are you telling me now then?
When I roamed in both
their rallies at your behest,
at that time
you never said all this.
What should I do now? Tell me.
Both of them have threatened me.
Sir. I suggest you give
certificates to both of them.
Making either camp angry
won't do us any good.
Make certificates for both.
I was roaming with them since
I pursued that same line of thought!
But now both of them are angry.
Sir, they are very dangerous folks.
[Phutani] If they lose their cool,
everyone will be living in misery.
You as well as us.
Bhikari bhai won't do
anything of the sort.
I can vouch for him.
As if. Bhikari is the biggest
goon in the panchayat.
[Gobind] What business does he do?
He operates ten
to twelve trucks filled with cargo.
Bhikari's brother, who had
that land dispute with him?
[Phutani] How did he die?
[Dhelu] By truck.
[playful music plays]
It was in a truck accident.
Does this guy get people killed or what?
Of course, he does. You can't become
a politician just like that.
-What do you think, brother Phutani?
-[playful music ends]
About what?
He has to make the certificate
and give it.
What if sir makes
the certificate against Kishori bhai?
Then, he will think that
we are also involved in it.
If their chief is gone,
they won't spare anyone in the PHC.
[Dhelu] Perhaps, he may draft it
against Bhikari bhai.
I am sure the story about the brother's
murder has made sir want to harm him.
After hearing that Bhikari killed
his own brother over
a two-bit piece of land,
won't he think
[Phutani] that if they lose their chief,
what will they do to sir?
He won't take any action against
him after hearing your story.
You'll see. He'll make that certificate
without any fuss and give it to him.
Sir, I am getting stressed.
Yes.
The doctor hasn't saved a single life…
but ruined three!
[light-hearted music plays]
[Phutani] Just do as I say.
-Don't bother thinking.
-[light-hearted music ends]
You have seen what comes
from being too smart.
Brother Phutani, you are right.
But why does it sound wrong?
Don't think. Overthinking ruins things.
-Will you speak?
-I'll handle it all. Careful.
-Alright.
-Greetings, uncle.
Remove your shoes outside.
-Okay.
-Okay, we will do that.
[birds chirping]
-Move it.
-Greetings, sir.
Greetings, Kishori bhai.
What is it?
Tell me… the doctor treats us.
But who treats the doctor?
Who treats the doctor?
Did the doctor send you
with the certificate?
[Gobind] No, Kishori ji.
The doctor didn't send us.
We came on our own.
I see.
Kishori bhai.
[clears throat]
Listen, what the doctor will or won't do,
we aren't going to have
any involvement in that.
That man does what he pleases.
[Phutani]
He has even threatened us many times
by saying that he would
complain to the CMO.
So, you guys are also upset with him?
No, no, we are not upset.
-Upset?
-Actually…
He's driving me insane.
Are you scared that he won't
give the certificate?
No, the fear extends
to something beyond that.
What?
That he may give
the certificate to Bhikari.
So…
the doctor is in Bhikari's camp?
-Don't you know it?
-No.
The whole village knows it.
Hey, Dhanraj.
Hey, Dhanraj!
Yes.
Is the doctor one of Bhikari's men?
Uncle, he's not faithful
to his own father.
Darn it. Who was going to tell me that?
The uncle or the nephew?
If he gives the certificate to Bhikari,
then we are doomed, right?
These folks from the PHC
came home to tell me that.
But here you guys are…
You are doing yogic
breathing practices… Darn it!
All you do is sit and wear out cots.
Shut up!
Bloody yoga practitioners!
How much money does
the doctor want? Tell me.
Kishori bhai, this doctor
doesn't accept money.
So, the doctor only came
to treat people?
This one has come only
to treat the people.
Oh, no.
It's my destiny to deal with
every kind of eccentric and fool.
I am sure he's got some weakness, right?
The doctor has everything he could need.
He just keeps whining about patients.
[upbeat, playful music]
[rhythmic beatboxing]
Do this.
More. Open wider.
Oh, my God.
How much tobacco do you eat?
-This much.
-[rhythmic beatboxing ends]
Oh, God. Put him in the car.
Will you put me in the car for tobacco?
-I gave up on weed.
-Move it.
Let's go, come on.
What is the problem, ma'am?
My body hurts.
Does your body hurt?
This is all nonsense.
You're all addicted to the booster shot.
Let's go, aunt. Take her away!
-Come on.
-Kishori, why are you conducting a raid?
I can put the shutter down if you want.
-I am not conducting a raid, my lord.
-What is this, then?
I am just borrowing some patients.
Borrowing them?
How many patients do we have?
There must be around
15 to 20 of them. Why?
-I will bring them back by evening.
-What?
You'll see. Sit. Sing some hymns.
See you, doctor.
By evening--
Hey, are you selling my patients?
Kishori!
DISPENSARY
[man 1] Let's go. Load them up.
[man 2] Go on. Let's go.
[man 1] Let's go. Take them away.
Come on!
DR. PRABHAT SINHA
-[playful music ends]
-[man 1] Come along. Come on.
-There is nothing of the sort here.
-[indistinct background chatter]
-[man 2] Let's go.
-I will call you back, Dad.
-[man 3] Where are you taking us?
-[man 1] Let's go. Get down.
[man 2] Come on.
Let's go.
-Let's go.
-[woman 1] Where are you taking me?
Oh, God! So many people at once?
-I think the bridge collapsed again.
-[upbeat music plays]
Let's go.
PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER
What's going on, old man?
Are you going for a race?
Get back. Let's go.
MEDICAL OFFICER'S CHAMBER
-[Kishori] Doctor.
-[upbeat music ends]
It's my fault.
I didn't do anything for you
and asked you to help me.
Listen, everyone, fall in line.
All of you will get treatment.
Anyone who has a cold,
cough, fever, piles, boils,
premature ejaculation, venereal disease…
Kishori bhai, premature ejaculation,
and venereal disease?
Doctor, I came to get
my teeth cleaned up.
Darn it.
Okay, I eat tobacco and whatnot.
I am sure I might have
something or the other.
I will get admitted.
I fulfilled your wish, doctor.
Now, if you could
quickly fulfill mine…
[Bhikari] Hey, doctor.
-[upbeat, dramatic music plays]
-[indistinct chatter continues]
[Bhikari] Get out of my way.
Don't be lured
by a liar and his false patients.
Look at them. Real, bona-fide patients.
-[upbeat, dramatic music ends]
-One word from me
and they will get admitted.
They will do it when I say so.
What is Bhikari doing here?
That too, at the
same time as Kishori bhai?
[Kishori] Since when did
he become their doctor?
-[Bhikari] Is he yours then?
-[Kishori] No point in arguing with you!
Dhelu!
What else can one expect from you?
What did you think?
Are you the only smart ones here?
So? Did you bring
your entire vote bank
here as patients?
-If my vote bank comes here,
-Yes?
they will put you
in the hospital as a patient.
-Really?
-Know your limits.
You'll lose badly.
Doctor.
I don't expect anything from you.
I have no greed.
Do you know why?
Because I believe you are with me.
With the truth.
What are you guys looking at?
Come forward one by one.
-Let's go.
-Wait, wait, wait, please.
Listen to me. Get back down there.
You get down too.
[Prabhat] Back away.
Listen to me.
None of you
needs to obey anyone forcibly.
It is my fault.
You all weren't coming here
so to reach out to you,
I used them.
And I know that's
the reason I lost your trust.
I admit it.
But that is between you and me.
I will try to regain that trust.
But you don't have to put up
with anyone's hooliganism for that.
Doctor,
if you start giving speeches too,
where do we go?
[Bhikari snaps fingers]
Quickly draft that certificate.
I won't draft any certificate for anyone.
Not for him or you.
You can do anything you want.
[Kishori]
Doctor, your bravery will cost you.
Nice.
I come here
at 07:00 a.m. every morning.
I finish my work by 05:00 p.m.
and go to the guest house.
You can do whatever you want.
But as long as I am
the MO of this place,
I will not allow you to misuse this PHC.
-Prabhat.
-[Prabhat] Kishori ji.
If anything happens to me,
then, the entire village has witnessed…
that you threatened me.
A shot was fired in front of me.
Then there is no need
for a certificate to file a case.
[rhythmic beatboxing]
Darn you. Who told you to shoot?
You idiot! Let's go. Come on.
Let's go, you darn fool.
[rhythmic beatboxing ends]
Did I tell you to?
Why did you shoot?
[Prabhat] Anyone of you…
who is really sick
and wants to be treated by me,
I am right here.
You can come on in.
[soft music plays]
[in English] Thank you.
[in Hindi] Thank you
for trusting me. Come on in.
No, sir. I got this envelope
for you from the CMO office.
-[door slams shuts]
-[distant engine hums]
[gentle music plays]
Thank you.
[gentle music ends]
[soft music plays]
[soft music ends]