Keli 1991

Narayanan's struggle and Lazar's masked generosity

Narayanan Kutty is a handicapped man living in a small village and struggles to earn a living. Lazar, a wealthy man, pretends to be kind and helpful, using his influence to appear benevolent in front of the villagers. With Lazar's support, Narayanan starts a modest grocery shop, hoping for stability.

Sridevi arrives and Narayanan falls in love

A school teacher named Sridevi arrives in the village, catching Narayanan's eye. He falls in love with her, and their growing affection becomes a potential marriage. The groundwork for a union is laid as their bond deepens.

Marriage arranged

Narayanan and Sridevi's engagement leads to an arranged marriage. The village sees the couple as a hopeful match, giving Narayanan a sense of belonging he had long sought. The wedding preparations begin as happiness seems within reach.

Hema's murder discovered and police investigation begins

The body of another teacher, Hema, is found in the river, triggering a police investigation. The sight of the tragedy unsettles the village and casts a pall over the newly formed couple. A police dog starts focusing on Narayanan, turning villagers against him.

Public doubt and strain on Narayanan's marriage

News of the murder spreads, and Narayanan becomes the prime suspect in the eyes of the community. The marriage with Sridevi comes under strain as trust erodes, and Lazar stops lending overt help, citing reputational concerns.

Narayanan is arrested

The police arrest Narayanan as the investigation deepens and the dog continues to point to him. He is questioned, and the weight of suspicion presses on him as villagers whisper about his guilt. This moment marks a turning point in his fight to prove his innocence.

Aputi's sack accusation and new lead

In custody, Narayanan reveals that Aputi had taken a sack from his shop the night of the murder, suggesting Aputi might be framed by someone who bears a grudge. The new lead unsettles Narayanan, making him fear for his safety if Aputi comes to confront him.

Aputi speaks the truth about Lazar

Aputi steps forward and reveals the truth: Lazar killed Hema to protect his own reputation after she became pregnant with his child. This shocking confession reorients the investigation away from Narayanan and toward Lazar. Aputi's honesty changes everyone's assumptions.

Public confrontation and Lazar's confession

Narayanan and Aputi confront Lazar in front of the villagers, forcing him to admit to the crime. The public exposure shatters Lazar's facade and confirms the truth that Narayanan was innocent. The crowd witnesses a confession that overturns weeks of suspicion.

Narayanan exonerated

With Lazar's confession, Narayanan is exonerated and his name is cleared in the eyes of the villagers. The earlier suspicions dissolve as the truth comes to light. He is welcomed back with Sridevi as the couple reunites after the ordeal.

Reunion with Sridevi

Narayanan and Sridevi join back together, choosing to forget the turmoil and start afresh. Their marriage is reaffirmed, and the couple finds happiness in a rebuilt life. The village embraces them again as a symbol of resilience.