The presence of a young American irrevocably alters the lives of Radha; her husband, Shyam; and uncle Koman. Tape recorder in hand, Chris Stewart is ensconced in the resort compound operated by Radha's husband, intent on interviewing Koman about his once illustrious career as a kathakali dancer, yet it is Radha who fatefully captures his interest. Their attraction is immediate and immense, starkly contrasting the thinly disguised revulsion Radha feels for Shyam. As the lovers flaunt convention and Radha risks ostracism, Koman ruefully reveals the complex details of his heritage and the sacrifices he chose to make for the sake of his craft.