Aay

Karthik, a software engineer from Hyderabad, harbours deep resentment toward his father Burayya due to a strained relationship and ongoing financial struggles. He blames Burayya for obstructing his college admission in the past. This pressure drives him to leave his hometown and drift away from his childhood friends.

Over the years, Karthik becomes estranged from Subbu and Hari, though they care about him deeply. The distance grows as Karthik builds his life away from their village origins. The friendships remain affectionate but distant.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Karthik returns to his village to work remotely. He begins reconnecting with Subbu and Hari while his relationship with Burayya remains distant. The reunion lays the groundwork for new romantic and familial tensions.

In the village, Karthik meets Pallavi, the daughter of Durga, a local politician. He soon falls for her, and Pallavi starts a relationship with him after rejecting Subbu's long-time affection. Their budding romance introduces the caste dynamics at play.

Subbu, who had cherished Pallavi from afar, finally accepts Pallavi's relationship with Karthik. He supports their bond despite his own long-standing feelings. Hari also backs the couple's decision.

Caste differences complicate Pallavi's life as she agrees to an arranged marriage proposal. She asks Karthik to stay friends and to respect her decision, even as she invites him to help with wedding preparations. The plan to wed someone else creates emotional turmoil for them.

Subbu and Hari decide to kill Durga to remove the caste obstacle, but their attempts fail comically. Pallavi learns about their plan, which strains her trust in both men and intensifies the pressure around the wedding.

Karthik confronts Pallavi and learns she has been depressed by their situation, fearing their love cannot overcome caste differences. She tries to maintain a cheerful façade to avoid suspicion and to spend more time with him. The disclosure deepens the emotional stakes between them.

Pallavi's uncle Bose interrupts a private moment between them and warns about the consequences. He lets Karthik go, but makes it clear that their visibility must be avoided publicly. The incident leaves them more cautious about their relationship.

On the day of Pallavi's arranged wedding, Burayya asks Durga for his approval of Karthik and Pallavi's union. Durga's response signals a turning point, challenging the expectant wedding plan and opening space for a different fate.

Durga fully supports the couple and cancels Pallavi's arranged wedding, promising they will marry later. Pallavi worries this might be part of a scheme, but Durga reassures her of sincere approval. The cancellation redefines the couple's path.

An elderly man reveals that Durga and Burayya were once close friends who supported each other across caste lines. Burayya had secretly helped him during a financial crisis, refusing repayment to preserve the friendship. This revelation reframes Burayya's past actions.

Burayya's refusal to use the money to secure Karthik's college seat is explained, illuminating his selfless stance. Karthik gains a newfound respect for his father and for Subbu and Hari who stood by him. The family bonds begin to heal.

The film closes with the celebration of Karthik and Pallavi's marriage among their families and loved ones. The couple defies caste expectations through mutual understanding and support. The narrative ends on an uplifting note.