The film begins with a train crash in India in 1974. Three years later, Ashoke Ganguli (Irfan Khan), who survives from the terrific train accident, agrees to a traditionally arranged marriage with famous singer, Ashima (Tabu) in Calcutta. They emigrate from India to New York to begin the journey of their new life. When they first arrive in New York, staying in a cold, dreary apartment, they are strangers to each other and Ashima suffers from homesickness. As they start living together, love blossoms between them. Soon, they are excited with the birth of their son, but they are asked to name him before leaving the hospital for the birth certificate. The newborn is eventually named Gogol (Kal Penn) after the name of Ashoke's favourite Russian author. Ashima also gives birth to a daughter Sonia (Sahira Nair); however, the movie revolves more around Gogol.

The film showcases Gogol's cross-cultural experiences and his exploration of Indian culture. He lives a life estranged from the two cultures. The shaggy-haired, joint-smoking American teenager hates his name and is called Nick in school. He finds his name Nick to be more pleasing, even by his girlfriend (Jacinda Barrett), whom he often meets at her family's snazzy beach house. The young boy, who aspires to become an architect, tries to keep away from his family culture.

Gogol's parents, Ashoke and Ashima, struggle to understand his modern, American perspective in dating, marriage and love. They are uncertain as to how they can make him adapt to Indian culture and ethos. The film takes a turn when Gogal meets Moushumi (Zuleikha Robinson), the daughter of Ganguli's good friends. Like Gogol, Moushumi also finds herself torn between the traditional culture of her country and is pursuing her own desires. Will Gogol ever change his habits and live a life according to his parents' wishes? What is the secret behind his name? Watch the movie to find out.

The movie has beautifully described the struggle of immigrants to foreign countries and the cultural barriers they have to face. Irfan Khan has brilliantly performed his role of a practical, Bengali Ashoke. Tabu has given an exemplary performance, conveying every subtle emotion effortlessly. The onscreen chemistry between the two is perfect. Penn has done a different role as compared to his comic role in Harold and Kumar Go To Whitecastle.

The major highlights of the movie are the storylinem, Frederick Elmes' excellent cinematography, Stephanie Carroll's production design, and the varied Western and Eastern influences of composer/ DJ Nitin Sawhney's original score