Basmati Blues 2018

In the bustling concrete jungle of New York City, scientist Linda played by Brie Larson teams up with her father Eric, portrayed by Scott Bakula, at Mogil, a pioneering company set to change the rice industry with their groundbreaking genetically modified crop, known as 9. This innovative product, celebrated for its impressive nutritional profile, drought-resistance, and pest-repellent capabilities, catches the eye of the CEO Gurgon, played by Donald Sutherland, following a high-profile press conference led by executive Evelyn, depicted by Tyne Daly. Gurgon swiftly appoints Linda as the new sales representative, tasking her with the critical mission of persuading the farmers in Bilari, India, to adopt 9 and ultimately secure Mogil’s dominance in the market.

Initially, Linda harbors doubts about Indian culture, but her apprehension is quickly overshadowed by Gurgon’s threats to sever lab funding should she fail her mission. Upon her arrival in Bilari, she crosses paths with the charming local Rajit, played by Utkarsh Ambudkar, who has connections within the agricultural community. Also in the mix is William, portrayed by Saahil Sehgal, an Agricultural Office representative whose motivations go beyond securing the Mogil deal; he is eager to prove himself to his father and carve out a life in New York.

Rajit’s motivations, however, are more relatable; he dreams of financing his college education through the sales of a pest-deterred stink weed. As Linda becomes more familiar with the vibrant Indian culture, a setback leaves her stranded after her car breaks down and her phone dies. However, destiny intervenes when Linda encounters Rajit again, marking the beginning of a growing friendship.

Their bond strengthens when William invites Linda to dine with his family, an evening filled with warmth that contrasts sharply with the tension between Mogil and the local farmers that Linda is trying to convince of 9’s benefits. Despite Linda’s persuasive efforts, Rajit is skeptical, fearing that a corporate giant like Mogil would have little regard for the farmers’ welfare. In an act of resistance, he covertly arranges a contest among the farmers to put 9 to the test against his own stink weed, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation on Rice Exchange Day.

As William delves into the contract details, unease grows regarding the implications of long-term agreements with Mogil. The shocking realization that 9’s grain is sterile—requiring annual seed purchases—intensifies his concerns. When he meets with Gurgon and Evelyn, their attempts to alleviate his worries fall flat, and they offer him a trip to New York as a gesture of goodwill. That night, as William and Linda embrace the local nightlife, Rajit and his sister Sita, played by Lakshmi Manchu, try to join the fun but are sent packing by a bribe from William. This encounter leads Linda to stumble upon Rajit’s farm, where she learns the truth about the contest. Initially feeling anger towards Rajit, her stance shifts when her rice outperforms his weed. Yet, her naivete regarding the sustainability of Mogil’s practices triggers a fierce backlash from Rajit.

Tension heightens until Linda makes a decisive move to expose the truth during The Rice Exchange Day, igniting a revolt against Mogil. As the farmers rally behind her, local authorities find themselves in a predicament, leading to Rajit’s release following accusations of vandalism spurred by William’s unethical gambits. Meanwhile, William’s conscience stirs, prompting him to delay the departing train. In a dramatic climax, Linda takes bold action to uncouple the train while Eric and William unite to destroy the contracts that bind the farmers. With Rajit blocking the train on the tracks, Mogil’s ambitious business strategy crumbles. Ultimately, the farmers reclaim control over their rice, and amidst the turmoil, Linda and Rajit discover a shared understanding, allowing their relationship to flourish against the backdrop of chaos.