Bawarchi

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.