Monsoon Dream : English 2006

Born into a wealthy and noble Sri Lankan Catholic family living on the outskirts of Colombo, the young Anushka finds herself torn between two very different worlds. The strict code of conduct that governs every member of her household, demarcates the deep gap separating the Westernised elitist bourgeoisie, of which Anushka is a reluctant member, and the ethnic Sinhalese traditions they disdain, taking their cue from the colonials who have ruled their country for centuries. Preserved and cherished by the low-caste Buddhist peasants from Hinnagama village, who work for her family, these traditions have an irresistible appeal for the rebellious Anushka. It is her independent spirit and the quest for living life, on her terms, which invite harsh physical punishment from her authoritarian father. The humiliation and countless hardships she suffers as a result, impel her to leave the village and move to the capital city, Colombo, where hazards lurk, for single women living alone. In a country in the grip of civil war, the result of a stand-off between the Sinhalese dominated government and separatist Tamil guerrillas bent on creating an independent state for themselves. Anushka´s dream for freedom drives her to England, but things turn awry. She ended up behind locked doors. Will the indomitable Anushka, adapt herself to every obstacle thrown her way and succeed where so many others have failed. . ...?