Midnight's Children

Saleem Sinai is born at midnight on August 15, 1947, coinciding with India’s declaration of independence. This moment marks the beginning of a narrative filled with intertwining destinies as Saleem's life becomes a representation of the nation’s tumultuous journey.

In 1917, Dr. Aadam Aziz tends to Nasim at the Ghani mansion in Kashmir. Their fates are forever intertwined when they marry, setting the stage for political and personal upheaval in their lives.

The assassination of Mian Abdullah deeply affects Dr. Aziz and his family, altering their lives and the political landscape around them. This loss catalyzes a series of events that resonate through multiple generations.

By 1942 in Agra, Dr. Aziz grapples with the ‘disease of optimism’ as he influences his daughters amid the turbulent Indian political climate. Their lives are complicated when Nadir Khan secretly marries one of his daughters, Mumtaz.

After her divorce, Mumtaz escapes into a lavish life with wealthy entrepreneur Ahmed Sinai in Bombay. She adopts a new identity as Amina Sinai, engaging in a life filled with opulence and unexpected encounters.

On the eve of India’s independence, both Amina Sinai and another woman give birth to sons. A fateful mix-up by nurse Mary results in swapped identity tags that destinedly alter the trajectory of their lives.

As he grows, Saleem begins to hear the voices of other Midnight's Children, who share an unbreakable bond with him through their unique abilities. His journey of self-discovery reveals deep connections between his life and those around him.

In an effort to unite with other Midnight's Children, Saleem organizes a conference but soon faces a shocking personal revelation about his identity. This discovery leads to a crisis of identity, forcing him into exile.

During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, Saleem's life drastically changes when a bombing destroys his family home. His new environment challenges him as he navigates chaos and tries to make sense of his powers.

In East Pakistan, Saleem reconnects with Shiva and Parvati-the-witch, who lead him into a magical, politically charged environment. Their shared struggles deepens Saleem's understanding of himself and his powers.

As the Emergency is declared in India, Saleem faces the ruthless realities of political oppression. Aadam steps into a troubled lineage, and Saleem learns about the dire consequences of their extraordinary lineage.

During his imprisonment, Saleem grapples with the pain of betrayal and loss as Shiva becomes ruthless in his quest to subdue the Midnight's Children. The struggle becomes a symbol of internal and external conflict.

Post-Emergency, Saleem reunites with his long-lost son living with Picture Singh amidst grief over Parvati's death. This poignant moment highlights the fragility of life and the enduring bonds of family.

Reminiscing about his childhood, Saleem seeks out Mary and reconnects through the familiar tastes of her chutney. This journey into his past symbolizes healing and the potential for new beginnings.

The film concludes as Saleem’s son, Aadam, speaks his first words, symbolizing hope and the continuity of their intertwined destinies. This moment encapsulates the cyclical nature of life and the promise of future generations.