He works as an architect and dates Maxine, a white American woman from a wealthy background, who is clueless about their cultural differences.

Gogol introduces her to his parents, who struggle to understand his modern, American perspectives on dating, marriage and love.

Before he goes to Ohio for a teaching apprenticeship, Ashoke tells Gogol the story of a nearly fatal train accident that he had suffered years ago back in India and how he came up with his name.

Searching for comfort, and accepting his new life alone, Gogol finally reads the stories written by his namesake on the train home.

Ashima's decision to move on with her life, selling the suburban family home and returning to Kolkata for part of each year, unifies and ends the story.

The film has cameo appearances by actor Samrat Chakrabarti, academic Partha Chatterjee and visual artist Naeem Mohaiemen.

Initially Rani Mukerji was considered for the principal lead, but due to scheduling conflicts with Karan Johar's Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, the role then went to Tabu.

The Indian classical pieces (performed on screen by Tabu) were sung by Mitali Banerjee Bhawmik, a New Jersey–based musician.

The website's consensus reads, "An ambitious exploration of the immigrant experience with a talented cast that serves the material well".