Dhobi Ghat (Mumbai Diaries)

Arun, a reclusive artist, decides to move into a run-down flat in old Mumbai. He is particularly drawn to the apartment's views of the historical city, despite its small kitchen.

After an exhibition of his artwork, Arun encounters Shai, an American investment banker in Mumbai for a sabbatical. Shai explains her purpose for being in India, amidst discussing her research grant, which piques Arun's interest.

After a mishap at the exhibition, Arun takes Shai back to his flat, leading to an unexpected one-night stand. The morning after, Arun reveals his discomfort with relationships, prompting Shai to leave in anger.

Shortly after his encounter with Shai, Arun meets Munna, a Dhobi struggling to make it big in Bollywood. Munna delivers Arun's laundry and shares a glimpse of his tough life, living in a small chawl with his family.

The next day, Arun moves into his new apartment in old Mumbai. As he unpacks, he discovers a small container left behind by the previous tenant, filled with personal items including video tapes that belonged to a woman named Yasmin.

Arun watches Yasmin's video diaries and learns about her life in Mumbai, her happiness, and her complicated marriage. The tapes offer a glimpse into Yasmin's world, which echoes through Arun's life now.

Arun's manager Vatsala informs him that an art gallery in Sydney wants to showcase his work. This news excites Arun as it also provides him with a chance to reunite with his ex-wife and child who reside in Australia.

While delivering laundry, Munna encounters Shai and they form a friendship. Shai appreciates Munna's perspective on life and quickly develops a bond, which involves him showing her the realities of Mumbai.

Munna faces challenges in balancing his work as a Dhobi with his dream of entering Bollywood. Despite the hardships, he finds time to help Shai photograph the lives of the less fortunate, while also harboring feelings for her.

As Arun continues to watch Yasmin's diaries, he notices a shift in her demeanor. Her last video conveys distress, revealing that her marriage is falling apart and hinting at darker thoughts about her future.

Unbeknownst to Arun, Shai discovers his new address through Munna and starts photographing him from a nearby construction site. This begins a cycle of interactions that blur the lines between their lives.

Munna faces a devastating blow when he learns of his brother's death, forcing his family to relocate. This tragedy propels Munna to further seek opportunities in the film industry while battling his grief.

Arun apologizes to Shai for their earlier encounter, prompting mixed emotions in Munna, who feels betrayed. Despite his jealousy, Munna reluctantly continues to help Shai with her project.

Arun watches the last video from Yasmin, where she hints at suicide after encountering infidelity in her marriage. Distraught by the emotional weight of her message, Arun decides to flee to escape the haunted memories.

After a series of tumultuous events, Munna tries to reach out to Shai after initially pushing her away. He runs through traffic to provide her with Arun's new address, marking a moment of hope for their friendship.