Sanichari is a rudaali, the name given to a professional mourner, a custom which prevails in the Northern states of India. Sanichari's husband is a wastrel and she sees little hope for a better life for herself and her son. After her husband's death she joins the growing tribe of bonded labourers. In spite of being buffeted about by a male-dominated society and having witnessed abject misery and tragedy all her life, Sanichari has never cried. It is at this time a seasoned rudaali, Bhinkni, enters her life and suggests that Sanichari learns the tricks of the trade from her. In a tough world even tears can be sold. Sanichari is hesitant because even now her eyes are as dry as the desert around her...