SCENE 4 – EX / IN PHALKE’S PHOTO STUDIO / GODHRA / 1895
SCENE 4 – EX / IN PHALKE’S PHOTO STUDIO / GODHRA / 1895
Kamala stands at the door, almost in tears. Phalke is loading his cart, preparing for a
business trip.
KAMALA
I’m scared when you’re away.
PHALKE
Then why did you bring me here to die? We were all right in Baroda. I was teaching. My
brother was there. “No, I want to be alone. Just you and me.” No? That’s what you
wanted.
KAMALA
This is nothing but a jungle – was there nowhere else to go?
PHALKE
You know very well that for my business to grow I need trains, tigers, ruins, and princely
states. And all these things are here. Do you understand?
Phalke is almost ready to leave.
Suddenly, he See some body coming towards his house. It is the Muslim priest.
MUSLIM PRIEST
Who are you?
PHALKE
Phalke. From Nashik, Tryambakeshwar
MUSLIM PRIEST
What do you do?
PHALKE
You can see I am a photographer
MUSLIM PRIEST
What is photography?
PHALKE
Why don't you see for yourself? What kind of back ground do you prefer? Paradise, city,
or forest?
PRIEST
I myself dabble in the world of spirits. But I protect my people from their harm. Leave
this business. Or go some place else, where it is done. This glass eye sucks the soul of the
man and makes him the living dead. I have noticed that you are away quite often... we
don’t wish you any harm
PHALKE
But –
The Muslim priest finishes his threat and disappears at a distance.
Phalke is tense
KAMALA
What was he saying?
PHALKE
Nothing.
Phalke climbs onto the cart. Kamala, standing at the door, sees him going.
Then she closes the door from within.
The screen goes dark.
