Bawarchi

Bawarchi

Year: 1972

Runtime: 130 mins

Language: Hindi

Director: Hrishikesh Mukherjee

FamilyComedyDrama

Facing a shortage of a reliable cook, the irritable Sharma family finally feels relief when the resourceful Raghu, a man of many talents, joins their household as the new chef. Just as harmony seems to return, precious family jewels go missing and Raghu vanishes, sparking confusion and suspicion.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Bawarchi (1972)

Trace every key event in Bawarchi (1972) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Opening credits and narration

The film opens with Amitabh Bachchan narrating the credits against cooking-themed visuals. The unusual opening sets the tone for a family drama centered on Shanti Niwas and its quarrelsome members. The narration introduces the key characters and the tensions that will drive the story.

Opening credits
2

The Sharma family in Shanti Niwas

We are introduced to the fractious Sharma family living in the ironically named Shanti Niwas. Their constant squabbles prevent them from keeping servants, fueling more discord in the household. The aging patriarch Daduji governs with grumpy humor, yet he shows concern for Krishna, the orphaned daughter of his late son.

Shanti Niwas
3

Krishna's role and Daduji's care

Daduji is the sole family member who looks out for Krishna, the orphaned daughter of his late son. Krishna is cheerful and obliging, waiting on others and bringing a smile to the house. Despite the constant fuss, she remains a stabilizing figure in Shanti Niwas.

Shanti Niwas
4

Raghu arrives as new cook

Raghunandan, called Raghu, arrives at the doorstep offering to be their new cook for a modest salary. He immediately impresses with superb cooking and a cheerful, knowledgeable manner, lifting the spirits of the household. Soon the family relies on him for more than meals.

Shanti Niwas
5

Raghu's talents beyond cooking

Beyond the kitchen, Raghu reveals talents as a singer, dance instructor, and wide-ranging knowledge that wins the family over. He takes on demeaning tasks without complaint, earning sincere appreciation from everyone. His presence begins to transform the house from constant bickering to a more harmonious space.

Shanti Niwas
6

The suspicious box

Raghu becomes oddly focused on a large box chained beneath Daduji's bed, which contains the family jewelry. The box goes missing amid reports of a thief, casting Raghu in a suspicious light. The mystery fuels fear and suspicion within the Sharma household.

Shanti Niwas
7

Raghu as mediator

Despite the doubts, Raghu tutors Krishna and helps clear misunderstandings that threaten to fracture the family. His steady guidance and cheerful wisdom begin to win over the others. Daduji even starts to regard him as a possible savior sent by the deity.

Shanti Niwas
8

Krishna and Arun's love

Krishna secretly loves Arun, but the Sharma family opposes their union due to tradition and protective concerns. Arun loves Krishna but is unable to change the family's stance. The romance adds emotional stakes to Raghu's already delicate balancing act.

Shanti Niwas
9

Raghu disappears; jewelry box missing

Raghu suddenly vanishes from the house, and the jewelry box is missing with him. The Sharmas are appalled and quickly suspect Raghu as the thief. The disappearance escalates the crisis as trust within the household shatters.

Shanti Niwas
10

Arun's confrontation and truth

Arun returns with the jewelry box and recounts his confrontation with Raghu at the wrestling ground. He explains that Raghu tried to run away when questioned about the box, but Raghu had asked Arun to carry the box and claim it had been stolen. The revelation reframes Raghu's actions as a calculated plan to test loyalty and save the family.

Arun's wrestling ground
11

Raghu's true identity and mission

Raghu reveals his true identity as Professor Prabhakar, admitting the Raghu persona was a deliberate ruse. He explains that his real mission is to save homes on the brink of collapse, including Shanti Niwas. Krishna learns the truth, and the family begins to understand the sacrifice behind his deception.

Shanti Niwas
12

Acceptance of Raghu's sacrifice

The Sharma family accepts Raghu's extraordinary acts as a sacrifice that saved their home and perhaps others. Krishna is moved, though Meeta remains wary of the deception. Arun's place within the family is clarified as their love story continues under new terms.

Shanti Niwas
13

Raghu departs to help others

Raghu tells Krishna that his life’s mission will continue elsewhere, and he must move on to aid more homes. Krishna and the others bid him a heartfelt farewell, acknowledging the transformative impact he has had. Raghu departs to help another troubled home.

Shanti Niwas to path unknown
14

Final narration and farewell

The film ends with Amitabh Bachchan stating that Raghu is going to a new home and hoping it isn’t theirs. The narrator underscores the ongoing, selfless mission behind Raghu’s character. The audience is left with the sense that his work continues beyond Shanti Niwas.

Ending

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 14:08

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Bawarchi Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Bawarchi

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Bawarchi Spoiler-Free Summary

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