Journey to the Next Level

By Kunal Narayan Uniyal

Omi's young and carefree life changes when his uncle lands in a coma. Confused

and confined, he heads for an ancient temple, where he meets an old monk, Guruji.

Guided by this old soul, through a hidden cave, Omi begins a spiritual odyssey

into the realms of mystery, magic, divinity and immortal existence. In an attempt

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ukiyoto Publishing
• Release date: Mar 5, 2024
• ISBN: 9789361726644

Book preview

Journey to the Next Level- The Forbidden World

Screenplay Version

Kunal Narayan Uniyal

Ukiyoto Publishing

All global publishing rights are held by

Ukiyoto Publishing

Published in 2024

Content Copyright © Kunal Narayan Uniyal

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, or stored in a retrieval system, in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.

The moral rights of the author have been asserted.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise circulated, without the publisher’s prior consent, in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published.

www.ukiyoto.com

Blessings from The Mother and

Sri Aurobindo

From where it came, there shall it go.

Testimonials

I genuinely believe that the book would make a fantastic kids movie similar to Peter Pan and Harry Potter. It is a structured and well-written book, keeps your interest at all time never a dull moment

- Andreas Michaelides, Writer, Greece

This novel is a vibrantly rich tapestry of suspense, adventure, mythology, fantasy and romance. Beautiful woven throughout the pages are golden threads of spiritual truths. A book to accompany you through life.

-Caroline Murphy-Bennis, Writer, Ireland

Journey to the next level is for all age groups as it is not only filled with adventures of the soul, mystic beings, secret paths and thrills which will take the readers on the edge of their seats but will also explain the secrets of spirituality in the simplest fashion.

-Dr Jaskiran Chopra, Senior Journalist, The Pioneer

A refreshing take on human existence, which not only contemplates but also shatters the hoax around it. The abundance of knowledge and imagination is sure to keep one thoroughly engaged.

- Vinod Bhanu, Editor in Chief, Delhi Post

I found the novel very interesting, maybe because I am searching spiritual answers beyond any religion. It is a truly enlightening read for those who wish to follow the path to the truth (as I said, beyond any religion).

-Roberto Felletti, Writer, Italy

Contents

THE BEGINNING

THE HIDDEN PATH

LAND OF THE PAST

LAND OF MYSTICS

LAND OF MYSTICS II

LAND OF THE LIVING DEAD

OCEAN OF FEAR

OCEAN OF FEAR II

LAND OF THE AWAKENED MIND

LAND OF THE FUTURE

THE WAR

THE REVERSAL

SCENE ONE

THE BEGINNING

INT. OMI'S BEDROOM - NIGHT

Omi, a weary sailor, is fast asleep in his bed, exhausted from a long sail. The room is dimly lit, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore can be heard faintly in the distance. Suddenly, Omi's phone rings, jolting him awake. He groggily reaches for his phone and answers the call.

OMI

(sleepy)

Hello, who's there?

ANKIT (V.O.)

(anxious)

It's me, Ankit. I know it's late, but I need you here right now, Omi. You're my only friend in Dehradun.

Concerned by Ankit's trembling voice, Omi's senses sharpen.

OMI

(worried)

Ankit, what's wrong? You don't sound good. Is everything okay?

ANKIT (V.O.)

(sad)

No, Omi. I'm at Max Hospital. My father fainted an hour ago, and we brought him here. The doctors say he's slipped into a coma, and his chances of survival are...

Ankit's voice cracks, and Omi's heart sinks as he listens intently.

OMI

(astonished)

I can't believe it, Ankit. Your father was always so full of life. I'll be there right away.

INT. OMI'S BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Omi quickly freshens up, splashing cold water on his face, trying to shake off the sleep. He realizes the gravity of the situation and the urgency to be there for his friend. He throws on a jacket, grabs his leather gloves, and rushes out, mounting his dust-stricken motorbike.

EXT. CITY STREETS - MORNING

The city sleeps under the blanket of a cold December morning as Omi navigates the empty streets on his motorbike. The wind bites at his face, but determination fuels his ride. The hospital, located eight miles away, looms closer as he speeds through the silent roads.

EXT. MAX HOSPITAL - DAY

Omi arrives at Max Hospital, parking his motorbike nearby. He enters the hospital and spots Ankit and Ankit's mother anxiously waiting at the reception. Ankit's mother's eyes are filled with tears as she sees Omi, seeking solace in his presence. Omi embraces her, offering words of comfort.

OMI

(hugging Ankit's mother)

Aunty, everything will be alright. Stay strong.

They take the elevator to the first floor, heading towards the Intensive Care Unit (I.C.U). Ankit asks Omi to go inside while he and his mother wait outside.

INT. I.C.U - DAY

Omi steps into the I.C.U, greeted by the sight of Mathur Uncle lying motionless across the room. Another patient occupies a nearby bed, while a lone NURSE sits at the nursing station, engrossed in a magazine. Omi's heart sinks as he sees the lifeless form of Mathur Uncle, hooked up to a ventilator that keeps him barely alive.

OMI

(whispering)

Uncle...

Omi reflects on the times he spent with Mathur Uncle, the laughter and camaraderie they shared. It's heartbreaking to see him reduced to this frail state.

INT. DOCTOR'S CABIN - DAY

Omi steps out of the I.C.U, crossing paths with the NURSE. She smiles at him before returning to her magazine. Omi makes his way to the doctor's cabin, determined to find answers and support Ankit and his family in this difficult time.

As Omi ventures deeper into the hospital, he braces himself for the challenges that lie ahead, ready to embark on this unexpected and life-altering journey.

INT. OMI'S FAVORITE SPOT - DAY

Omi parks his bike at his favorite spot, a serene and peaceful location where he often finds solace. He takes a seat, looking out at the tranquil surroundings, lost in thought about the inexplicable incident at the hospital.

OMI'S FLASHBACK - CHESS GAME

The memory of playing chess with Mathur Uncle resurfaces in Omi's mind. He remembers the moment when he thought he was defeated, but Mathur Uncle's words and his unexpected move turned the game in Omi's favor. The memory lingers, leaving Omi pondering the significance of his uncle's words.

OMI

(whispering)

It is never an end till it actually ends; it is all in your mind.

PRESENT DAY - OMI'S THOUGHTS

Lost in his thoughts, Omi is startled as someone grabs his hand. He looks down in astonishment to see Mathur Uncle holding his hand tightly, defying the confines of his coma-stricken state. Omi's eyes widen in disbelief and he calls out to the nearby nurse, who rushes to the scene.

OMI

(excitedly)

He grabbed my hand! I saw it, he moved!

The nurse and Omi's expressions exchange disbelief and confusion. Omi points at his hand, but to their surprise, Mathur Uncle's hand remains motionless.

NURSE

(confused)

But...but he's in a deep coma. It's impossible.

OMI

(insistent)

I know what I saw. Please call the doctor. There might be a chance to revive him.

Dr. Victor arrives, trying to make sense of the commotion.

DR. VICTOR

(questioningly)

What's happening here?

NURSE

(with a grin)

This gentleman claims that the patient, who's in a coma, grabbed his hand.

DR. VICTOR

(dismissive)

You must be mistaken. He can't even breathe on his own, let alone move.

Despite the doctor's skepticism, Omi remains convinced of what he experienced.

OMI

(determined)

I know what I felt. He was calling out to me for help. I can't ignore it.

As the doctor and nurse leave, Omi is left alone with his thoughts, struggling to comprehend the inexplicable encounter. Uncertain of what his uncle was trying to convey, he exits the ICU.

EXT. HOSPITAL RECEPTION - DAY

Ankit awaits Omi's return, concerned for his friend and his father's condition.

ANKIT

(worried)

Is everything okay in there?

OMI

(faking composure)

Yeah, everything's fine. Let's head home.

Omi chooses not to share the details with Ankit, fearing disbelief or unnecessary worry. They leave the hospital and head back home.

INT. OMI'S HOME - DAY

Omi reaches home around 5:00 PM, still plagued by thoughts of his encounter with Mathur Uncle. He tries to sleep but finds his mind consumed by unanswered questions. After a late awakening, he has breakfast and sits in his easy chair, sipping coffee, deep in contemplation.

OMI

(murmuring to himself)

What did he want to tell me? What kind of help was he seeking?

Unable to find answers, Omi's mind is restless. He decides to return to his bike and venture to his peaceful spot, hoping to find clarity and guidance.

EXT. OMI'S FAVORITE SPOT - DAY

Omi arrives at his favorite spot, finding himself surrounded by tranquility. He takes a seat, gazing out at the serene surroundings, hoping to find the answers he seeks.

FADE OUT.

SCENE TWO

THE HIDDEN PATH

INT. BAWADI TEMPLE - DAY

Omi sits beneath the ancient banyan tree, seeking solace and answers at the secluded Bawadi Temple. The serene surroundings and mystical history of the place bring a sense of tranquility. Suddenly, a voice breaks the silence.

VOICE

(whispering)

One who questions shall be answered.

Startled, Omi opens his eyes and finds himself face-to-face with a tall monk, a hermit who stands before him. The hermit exudes an aura of wisdom, with a long white beard and hair that dances in the gentle breeze. Clad in saffron robes, he emanates calmness despite the chill of December.

OMI

(perplexed)

Sorry, do I know you? What brings you here?

HERMIT

(smiling)

Well, I should be asking you the same question, as you are sitting in my premises. I am the priest and caretaker of this temple.

OMI

(apologetic)

Oh, I didn't realize. I visited this place years ago, and you weren't here. Please accept my greetings, Guruji.

HERMIT

(nodding)

You haven't been here for the past three years, Omi. People and places change with time.

OMI

(surprised)

How do you know my name? And how do you know I haven't been here?

HERMIT

(dismissively)

Such questions are irrelevant, my friend. You wander too much in the no-man's land of questions and answers. It is in finding your path and your destiny that you will discover what truly matters.

OMI

(curious)

And regarding the reason I came here, you mentioned that he needs my help. Who are you referring to?

HERMIT

(sincerely)

Yes, he seeks your assistance. But to find the answers you seek, you must delve deeper within yourself. Embrace the silence, listen to your heart, and trust in the journey that lies ahead.

Omi is left intrigued by the hermit's words, his mind swirling with questions and a newfound sense of purpose.

OMI

(determined)

I will find the answers, Guruji. Thank you.

HERMIT

(blessing)

May your path be illuminated, Omi.

The hermit turns and begins to walk away, disappearing into the mystical ambiance of the Bawadi Temple, leaving Omi deep in thought.

EXT. BAWADI TEMPLE - DAY

Omi remains seated beneath the banyan tree, contemplating the encounter with the hermit and the significance of his words. A newfound determination fills him as he realizes that his journey has only just begun.

INT. BAWADI TEMPLE - DAY

Omi stands before the hermit, contemplating the weight of the decision before him. The hermit's words resonate deeply within him, and he realizes that he is being called upon for a spiritual journey beyond the realms of the known.

OMI

(pensive)

For a moment, I was speechless. You, a stranger, standing before me, providing an answer to the very question that has plagued my thoughts. I am unsure whether to trust in your words or not.

HERMIT

(sincere)

He held your hand because you are his only hope. In your spiritual practices and belief in the realms beyond, he sees a chance for his salvation. You possess the ability to bridge the gap between the physical and the unknown, a path known to few and embarked upon by even fewer.

The hermit's eyes light up as he explains the significance of Omi's role in this journey.

HERMIT

(calm)

It is now up to you, Omi, to decide if you wish to embark on this arduous path, to venture into an entirely new world. It may appear familiar, but its existence and treatment are unlike anything you've known. This adventure will test your spirituality, your faith, and your strength, and it is only meant for those who are willing to undertake it.

OMI

(doubtful)

But what do I need to do? Where do I go? How do I begin this journey? I am clueless.

HERMIT

(laughing)

Ha ha! You know everything. You have undertaken this journey countless times at a subconscious level. Your conscious mind may not recall, but when you close the doors of your senses, you will be guided perfectly. Your soul will lead the way, leaving your physical body behind. As you progress, you will uncover what your immortal being already knows.

The hermit provides a warning to Omi about the consequences of delay or losing oneself in the unknown world.

HERMIT

(warning)

However, be aware that time is of the essence. If you delay, Mathur may perish, as only a fragile thread connects him to his soul. You must act swiftly. Furthermore, getting lost in that world means being trapped between life and death, an eternal struggle. You will forever seek a savior to free you from that entangled existence.

Omi realizes the gravity of the situation, understanding that the hermit is neither joking nor exaggerating.

OMI

(resolute)

The ball is in my court now. I must make a decision.

A voice inside Omi recites a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, clearing his doubts and igniting his determination.

OMI

(confident)

If you die fighting this battle, you will achieve heaven, while if you live, you will rule the world.

This is the moment Omi has been preparing for, the opportunity he has been anticipating. He turns to the hermit, who is feeding squirrels nearby, and speaks with conviction.

OMI

(determined)

Give me the path, and I shall walk it. Even if I stumble or falter, I shall walk.

INT. BAWADI TEMPLE - BASEMENT - DAY

The Guru looks at Omi with a smile, knowing that Omi is destined to embark on this extraordinary journey.

GURU

(serene)

Yes, you are meant to walk this path. Now, I will impart a few important pieces of information to remember as you venture to the next level. Firstly, listen, see, and feel from your heart, for your senses will not be the same in that realm. Base your judgments on your instincts. After a brief pause, he continues:

GURU

(resolute)

Secondly, be vigilant about what you hear and what you say. Follow the instructions of your guides meticulously. Your survival in that world depends on the guidance you receive. Thirdly, helpers and distractors will present themselves along your journey. Choose them cautiously. And lastly, never lose hope, for it is the Divine who has chosen you and will guide you. So, if you are ready, shall we proceed to your embarkation point?

Listening to the Guru's words, Omi's heart races with a mix of excitement and fear of the unknown. He understands that he must complete this journey since he has already embarked upon it. Omi anticipates being led to a flight of stairs where a divine vehicle would await him, ready to carry him on his quest. However, to his surprise, the Guru leads him down the stairs into the basement of the temple.