In newly independent India, passionate literature student Lata Mehra defies tradition and her meddling mother’s wish to choose her a husband.

When news of Lata’s secret romance reaches her mother, Rupa takes action to keep the young lovers apart.

Rupa enlists a friend to find her headstrong daughter a husband. In exile, Maan starts to enjoy village life.

As India’s first national democratic election approaches, Lata finds herself courted by three very different suitors.

Lata makes a surprising decision about her future, as pressure on Maan’s family mounts after his disgrace.