Peepli Live 2010

Introduction to Natha's Life

Natha Das ManikPuri, a struggling farmer from Peepli, faces immense pressure to provide for his family, which includes his elder brother Budhia, his wife Dhaniya, their three children, and their ailing mother, Amma. The family's financial woes are exacerbated by Natha and Budhia's neglect of farming in favor of alcohol consumption, leaving them teetering on the brink of poverty.

Financial Struggles and Loans

Natha and Budhia are deep in debt to the banks, which are pressing for loan repayments. The looming threat of losing their land and home adds to the growing tension within the family, as they struggle to put food on the table amidst Amma's constant scolding.

Political Intrigues Arise

The Mukhya Pradesh Government is under scrutiny for the pervasive poverty in the region, prompting the ruling Sammaan party, led by Bhai Thakur, to act. In this politically charged atmosphere, the opposing Apna Dal Party perceives a chance to capitalize on the ruling party's vulnerabilities.

The Dark Proposal

Feeling hopeless, Natha is persuaded by Budhia to consider suicide as a way to secure a significant compensation of Rs 1 Lakh for his family. This tragic idea takes form during a discussion they have at a local tea stall, where their conversation is overheard by a journalist.

Media Attention Escalates

After the journalist Rakesh reports on Natha’s dark contemplation, the story gains national attention. With media outlets flocking to cover Natha’s situation, he quickly becomes a symbol of the region's struggles, pulling the spotlight onto the ongoing political drama.

Race for Coverage

Nandita Malik, a charismatic daytime presenter, is determined to interview Natha and his family, while rival reporter Deepak from Bharat Live prepares to do the same. This competitive rush for media coverage amplifies the chaos in Peepli, as multiple news teams descend on the village.

Political Manipulations

Amidst the media frenzy, the Sammaan Party tries to maintain control by offering incentives to deter Natha from his suicidal intentions. Meanwhile, the opposition seeks to utilize Natha’s situation to rally support and challenge the ruling party ahead of elections.

Refusal to Yield

Despite the mounting pressure, Natha steadfastly refuses to go through with his suicidal plans. This decision places him at the center of a political tug-of-war, with both parties vying to win his loyalty as they attempt to control the narrative surrounding his life.

Threat and Intimidation

Bhai Thakur’s patience wears thin as he feels the heat from the Chief Minister and resorts to threatening Natha with death. This dangerous escalation emphasizes the lengths to which political figures will go to manipulate the narrative and maintain their power.

Tragedy Strikes

In a shocking turn of events, Rakesh dies in a fire accident triggered by the chaotic media rush surrounding Natha's story. The government mistakenly believes that Natha has also perished, which leads to a mix-up regarding compensation for the family.

Family's Despair

In the wake of Rakesh’s death, the government retracts any promises of compensation to Natha’s family, leaving them in a dire situation. The devastating loss of their ancestral land to the banks further deepens the family's struggles to survive.