Kunbi Jakki Part II

The plot continues from the first part and is set in 1961 in Goa. Over a span of 27 years, Arius has retained Roque as his subordinate and agent. Despite assuming different identities such as Iris Brandaum and later as a lawyer named Sirvodkar, Arius continues to engage in malevolent actions. Jakki's son, Caetano is a well-educated young man, and has become a lawyer. Fluent in Portuguese, he is recognized for his legal acumen and frequently engages with his family in the language. Caetano's standing in the legal field has led to a diverse range of individuals approaching him for legal advice and representation in their respective cases.

The elder members of the Kunbi community have a propensity for alcohol consumption. Costaum, Jakki's father-in-law, exhibits heightened vivacity and animation after partaking in a few measures of traditional country liquor. Costaum's sense of humor and biting sarcasm persist, even leading to verbal disputes with his wife Bostean, due to his drunkenness. A significant confrontation ensues as a result of a disagreement between Jakki and Arius. Recognizing Jakki's interest in a particular rice field parcel, Arius endeavors to secure a lease for it by employing his representative, Roque, to act as a proxy.

Through a formal agreement, the rice field plot is subsequently subleased by Roque to Jakki at an elevated price, stipulating that Jakki must settle the payment seven days prior to the anticipated crop harvest. However, the crop is ultimately decimated by pests. Following the incident, Roque's request for payment from Jakki, Jakki declines and receives a legal summons in return. This sets the stage for a reversal of fortunes, with Jakki's son Caetano displaying his astuteness in handling the unfolding events.

Before the court hearing, Roque passes away, casting doubt on Arius's claim as his name is not listed in the sublease agreement. Caetano successfully argues in defense of Jakki by pointing out that since the conditions of the agreement were not met due to the lack of a harvest, Jakki was relieved of the obligation to make any payment. In a dramatic turn of events, Arius vanishes quietly through a trapdoor amid fireworks, prompting speculation among the court and spectators about his enigmatic character, hinting at possible demonic attributes.

According to literary scholar André Rafael Fernandes, a professor at Goa University, Kunbi Jakki Part II fails to capture the same level of significance and influence as its predecessor. In his critique, Fernandes examines a specific courtroom scene involving the characters Caetano, Jakki, and Arius. Fernandes observes that while the legal arguments and oratory within the scene are well-crafted, the outcome of the scene is quite straightforward, leading to a reduction in the overall impact of the dramatic effect. In contrast, he considers the first part to be more compelling from a dramatic standpoint, as it incorporates unexpected narrative elements.^[2]

Additionally, Fernandes notes that the innovative representation of the Kunbi community, an indigenous group in Goa, in a full-fledged theatrical performance played a pivotal role in capturing the attention of the local audience by offering a fresh perspective on cultural narratives. He also praises the inclusion of authentic Kunbi language and rhythmic musical elements, which he argues made the work particularly appealing to Goan theatergoers. Fernandes' assessment suggests that while the sequel maintains some of the strengths of the original, it does not quite achieve the same level of impact or resonance.^[2]