Set in an underdeveloped village in the vast rural hinterland, the story opens with Public Works Department workers taking measurements for construction of a road that is to pass through which is a common cow grazing ground and has a memorial dedicated to the son of the village landlord, who is respected by the populace, leading to upheaval and resistance. Venkatesh, village priest and teacher (Naseeruddin Shah), cautions restraint and counsels negotiations with Government agencies.