In a heated confrontation, Mangal accuses Saumiya of lying about the food she served. Mangal is suspicious when Saumiya hesitates to identify the ingredients in the meal she claimed to have cooked. Kusum steps in, demanding to know which type of lentil Saumiya used for the khichdi. Saumiya, caught off guard, names the wrong type, exposing her deception. Kusum, visibly upset, questions how Saumiya dared to order food instead of cooking. Mangal asks Saumiya why she chose to lie, and Saumiya confesses, “I am sorry, I can’t cook. I can’t even manage to cook for one person, let alone for seven people.”
Saumiya explains that she tried to cook but failed miserably, so she ordered food instead. Kusum, feeling betrayed, scolds her, saying, “You lied to me all this time.” Mangal points out that Saumiya should have informed them, as Papa cannot eat oily food and Ishana has allergies. The family feels hurt, thinking Saumiya doesn’t care about them. Overwhelmed with guilt, Saumiya breaks down and apologizes, admitting she only wanted to help.
Kusum’s old-school values shine through as she criticizes modern girls like Saumiya, saying they think managing a household is easy, but it actually takes years to master. She tells Mangal to handle her kitchen, reminding Saumiya that not everyone is cut out for the job. In a moment of frustration, Saumiya vows to show Mangal her place.
Karthik returns home to a warm welcome from Lakshmi, who immediately offers to get him food. Gayatri interrupts, asking Lakshmi to focus on the preparations for the upcoming pooja, emphasizing that media and several guests will be attending the event. Gayatri stresses the importance of the decor and overall ambiance, highlighting the significance of this gathering.
The scene shifts back to Saumiya, who admits her mistakes once again. She expresses that she doesn’t deserve the family’s love and respect, feeling overshadowed by Mangal’s flawless persona. “I am not as lucky as you, Mangal. Everyone loves you, but I feel unloved, even by my parents and boyfriend,” she laments. Saumiya, overcome with guilt, asks for forgiveness, stating that she doesn’t want to upset those who have been kind to her.
Mangal suggests that Saumiya should leave, but Kusum, showing a softer side, stops her. Kusum tells Saumiya that running away won’t solve her problems; instead, she needs to learn to face her mistakes and change herself. Saumiya promises never to lie again, and Kusum embraces her, signaling forgiveness.
The next morning, Mangal and Adit start the pooja, followed by Ishana and Akshar, who also perform the aarti. Saumiya, now determined to redeem herself, participates in the pooja but stops midway, feeling overwhelmed by the emotions and the weight of her mistakes. As the pooja concludes, children prepare to leave for school, and the scene is filled with mixed emotions of hope, regret, and a renewed sense of belonging.
Meanwhile, Lakshmi plays the perfect host, welcoming guests with grace. The media is present, capturing moments of Karthik and Lakshmi together. When asked about the secret to a successful marriage, Karthik wisely shares, “We should be friends first and support each other.” Lakshmi adds, “We should be open, trust each other, and communicate freely.” The couple poses for photos, showcasing their strong bond.
Adit’s Concerns and Saumiya’s Tricks
Adit later calls Mangal, encouraging her to visit Gayatri. He offers to handle the kids, suggesting that he could pick them up from school. Mangal, however, is hesitant, wanting to ensure everything is in place before leaving. Saumiya, trying to manipulate the situation, calls Lakshmi pretending to be Adit from an app. Unaware of Saumiya’s trickery, Mangal heads out, believing Adit has the children covered.
Akshar’s Worry and Mangal’s Dilemma
At the school, Akshar waits patiently for Mangal. His teacher notices his concern and asks why his mother hasn’t arrived yet. Akshar, known for his punctuality, replies that his mom is usually on time. Growing increasingly anxious, Akshar hopes everything is fine. Meanwhile, Mangal is caught up at Lakshmi’s house, engaging in light-hearted conversation about family dynamics. Lakshmi reassures her that all is well, and Karthik’s humor lightens the mood.
However, Mangal’s happiness is short-lived when she realizes she’s supposed to be at school to pick up Akshar. She rushes out, guilt-ridden, knowing she has let her son down. The school contacts Adit, informing him that Mangal hasn’t arrived, and Akshar is alone. Adit immediately sets off for the school, fearing for Akshar’s safety.
As Adit races to the school, panic sets in when Akshar is nowhere to be found. The teacher, equally concerned, looks around the premises but can’t locate the child. Adit’s heart sinks, imagining the worst. He searches the nearby streets, asking people if they’ve seen his son. As he desperately tries to trace Akshar’s steps, a woman appears, shadowing Adit. Unaware of the looming danger, Adit continues his frantic search.
Mangal is on her way back, grappling with the realization of how she has put Akshar in harm’s way. Meanwhile, Akshar, feeling abandoned, walks along the busy roads alone, vulnerable and scared. The mysterious woman who had been following Adit now sets her sights on Akshar, adding a layer of suspense and fear to an already tense situation.
Conclusion
This story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of honesty, empathy, and support. Saumiya’s journey from deceit to self-realization underscores the value of owning up to one’s mistakes and striving for personal growth. In contrast, Mangal’s unwavering commitment to her family highlights the dedication required to maintain balance and harmony within the home. Ultimately, the tale is a testament to the enduring power of forgiveness and the bonds that hold families together, even in times of trial and misunderstanding.