Karungaapiyam

Tired of lockdown during the COVID pandemic, Umayaal takes up her friend Priya's idea to visit her brother Anand's newly acquired library. She enjoys reading and is curious about the old, mysterious book she finds there. The visit sparks her interest in the supernatural stories contained within the library.

Umayaal comes across an ancient, old-looking book named Karungaapiyam, which contains short stories with supernatural and realistic elements. She notices the book appears to be written decades ago but the stories are set in the present day. Her curiosity deepens as she reads about the stories and their eerie details.

Unable to find the author's name in the book, Umayaal contacts Priya to check the library catalogue for more information. She continues reading, wondering about the author's ability to see the future and the secrets behind the mysterious stories.

As she reads the stories, Umayaal begins experiencing strange phenomena around her, including visions of ghosts from the stories. Despite the eerie experiences, she remains intrigued and continues reading, curious about what might happen next.

Umayaal reads the story about Karthika, a revered woman from a village during British India, believed to have mystical powers that made her predictions come true. The story explains her kindness, respect in the village, and the supernatural reputation she holds.

The story depicts a series of murders and missing children in Karthika's village, leading villagers to suspect her. Her husband's death and the villagers' accusations turn her into a social pariah, ultimately forcing her to live on the outskirts of the village.

Karthika’s greedy brother-in-law falsely blames her for the crimes to take her wealth, leading to her being stoned to death by villagers. Her death marks a tragic end rooted in betrayal and superstition.

After her death, Karthika’s spirit returns as a ghost to defend her daughter Umayaal, killing the villainous brother-in-law and his men who threaten her and her family. Her ghostly presence acts to protect her loved ones from harm.

Uramaal finishes reading and runs out of the library amidst paranormal activity. Back home, Priya reveals that the author of Karungaapiyam is Umayaal Karthika, which matches her own full name, suggesting a mystical connection between her and the story’s protagonist.

Priya suggests that Umayaal might be the reincarnation of Karthika, possessing supernatural abilities. They discuss that Karthika might have foreseen her own end through the book, hinting at a spiritual connection across time.

Priya asks Umayaal to write something as a test of her potential powers. Initially, she writes silly stories, but then imagines a scenario involving Santa Claus with an axe and a chasing bell, seeking to see if her words influence reality.

After writing the story about Santa Claus, Umayaal looks back and unexpectedly sees a Santa with an axe and a bell, confirming her supernatural connection. This shocking event suggests her abilities may be real and tied to her past life as Karthika.