Ep 42. Indian Summers: Episode 2

Indian Summers: Episode 2 is the second episode of the second season of the British drama series Indian Summers. The show is set in the dying days of the British Empire in India during the 1930s. The episode starts off with a tense atmosphere, as the British Club is faced with an unexpected and unwanted visitor. Ralph Whelan, played by Henry Lloyd-Hughes, is still reeling from the events of the last episode. In the previous episode, Ralph had been responsible for the death of Jaya and now he has to face the consequences of his actions. In this episode, Ralph's guilt and paranoia continue to consume him, driving him to make poor decisions and pushing those closest to him further away.

Meanwhile, amidst the political and social turmoil, Aafrin Dalal, played by Nikesh Patel, is trying to reconcile his position as a junior administrative officer of the British Raj, serving the Empire he's grown up with, while also fighting for the freedom of his fellow countrymen. With the Indian independence movement gaining momentum, Aafrin is torn between his loyalty to his employer and his countrymen, especially after he is asked to spy on his own people. His anguish is palpable as he struggles with his conscience and the impossible task of trying to please everyone.

On the other hand, Alice Whelan, played by Jemima West, Ralph's sister, is trying to build a new life for herself after her divorce. She is now engaged to Aafrin, but their relationship is complicated by race, politics and social status. Alice finds herself in a precarious position, caught between the expectations of her new Indian family and her former British peers, who can't quite come to terms with her new life.

In addition, the episode also explores the lives of other characters, including Ian McLeod, a former police officer who's now running a tea plantation, and Sarah Raworth, who's trying to win over her aristocratic parents' approval by marrying a wealthy Indian prince.

Indian Summers: Episode 2 is an emotionally-charged and gripping episode that paints a vivid picture of the dying days of the British Empire in India. The show explores the complex relationships between colonizers and colonized, race, politics, class, and gender.

Overall, the episode is a compelling and thought-provoking addition to the Masterpiece series. The exquisite cinematography and absorbing plot are sure to leave audiences mesmerized and eager for more.