Dhobi Ghat

Arun, a reclusive artist, plans to relocate to an old Mumbai apartment with views of the city. He specifically chooses the flat for its aesthetic appeal, despite its small kitchen and basic amenities. This move marks a new chapter in his life, leaving behind his previous rented place.

After participating in an art exhibition, Arun meets Shai, an American investment banker interested in photography. Their encounter leads to a one-night stand, which she leaves angrily the next morning after Arun dismisses the idea of continuing their relationship. Shai had been wearing Arun's shirt as her top when she left.

Munna, a young washerman with hopes of breaking into Bollywood, arrives to deliver Arun’s laundry. He lives in poverty with his family in a small Chawl and has a routine of bathing at railway tracks. Arun mentions his upcoming move to Munna, asking him to continue laundry services at his new apartment.

Arriving at his new flat, Arun uncovers a small container left by the previous tenant with a silver chain, a ring, and three video tapes. These tapes are diaries of Yasmin Noor, in which she shares her life and communicates with her brother, revealing her happiness and her home that coincides with Arun's new place.

Arun’s manager informs him that art dealers want to open a gallery in Sydney featuring his works. Arun is pleased as this opportunity allows him to visit his ex-wife and child in Australia, marking a significant milestone in his artistic career.

Munna and Shai meet when he delivers laundry to her home. She treats him warmly and they bond over mutual interests. Munna agrees to guide Shai around Mumbai to photograph the lives of the city's poor, and in return, Shai offers to help him get into the film industry.

Using her access via the construction site across Arun’s building, Shai begins secretly taking photos of Arun without his knowledge. This indicates her keen interest in him and her intention to understand more about his life from afar.

While watching Yasmin’s tapes, Arun learns that she has recently married a man who appears distant and annoyed. She records the tapes for her brother Imran, conveying her happiness but also her feelings of frustration and her desire for him to experience her life in Mumbai.

Munna continues working hard, washing clothes by day and killing rats at night to survive. He disapproves of his brother Salim’s criminal activities but remains close to him. Munna’s family moves to a new flat after his brother’s death, and Munna seeks a break into the film industry with his portfolio.

Arun watches Yasmin’s last tape, which reveals her mood has changed and she seems to contemplate suicide after learning her husband's infidelity. This deeply shocks Arun, prompting him to leave his apartment and move to a new location, grief-stricken and disturbed.

Munna’s brother is killed, leading him and his family to relocate once again. Munna visits a contact in the film industry, determined to pursue his dreams despite ongoing hardships. This marks a pivotal moment of loss and renewed hope for Munna.

Arun finishes a new painting that prominently features Yasmin, incorporating elements of her story and life. This symbolizes his connection to her and his emotional processing of her tragic story, culminating his artistic journey related to her tapes and life.

Shai finds Munna and tries to reconnect, despite him feeling betrayed earlier. She asks about Arun and offers friendship, leading Munna to lie about Arun’s whereabouts. Shai leaves abruptly, but soon Munna changes his mind and runs after her car to give her Arun’s new address, seeking closure.