The episode opens with Kusum inquiring about Mangal’s feelings, sensing the weight of the past 24 hours on her. Mangal reflects on the turmoil she has faced and the difficult decisions ahead. Kusum expresses her understanding of Mangal’s situation, emphasizing the lengths family members go to when one of their own is in trouble. She mentions Sudesh, who has been asking about Mangal since she left home, highlighting the emotional strain on their family. Kusum urges Mangal to embrace her responsibilities and departs, leaving Mangal alone to pray for the strength to reveal the truth to Kusum.
In another part of the house, Pratima suggests to Shanti that they select a saree for Mangal. Shanti comments on Mangal’s tendency to prioritize the happiness of others over her own preferences, advising not to overthink the selection process.
Mangal approaches Kusum, intending to discuss something important. However, Kusum, sensing Mangal’s hesitation, questions whether she is acting against her will. She insists that Mangal swear to speak the truth, expressing relief that Sudesh did not see her without her traditional symbols of marriage—the mangalsutra and sindoor. Mangal explains that she simply forgot to wear them after bathing. Kusum probes further, asking if Mangal has reconsidered her role and if she is struggling to maintain the facade in front of Sudesh. Mangal reassures her that it is not the case and promises to wear the symbols, but insists on sharing something crucial. Just then, a burning smell interrupts their conversation, revealing that a saree has caught fire due to an overheated iron box. Kusum notes the damage and decides to prioritize repairing the iron box before continuing their discussion.
Later, Pratima informs Shanti that she plans to call a pandit for a pooja in the evening, coinciding with the arrangement of Kapil and Mangal’s engagement date. Shanti agrees, and Pratima reflects on Mangal’s internal struggle between her past and present, believing it would be best for Mangal to focus on her current circumstances. Shanti offers to fetch Mangal for the pooja, and Pratima considers it a good idea.
Mangal, now wearing the mangalsutra and sindoor, prepares for the evening’s events. Pratima contacts Kapil, instructing him to cancel his meetings and come home for the pooja. Kapil complies, and Adit, who is present, overhears the conversation about the engagement. After hanging up, Kapil turns to Adit, who hands him some files. Adit contemplates the implications of Kapil’s engagement, feeling relieved that Mangal will soon be free from her burdens, as he knows she is often preoccupied with family responsibilities.
Shanti calls Mangal, urging her to return home quickly, emphasizing the urgency of her presence. Mangal confirms she is en route and reassures Kusum that she has prepared the food and given medicine to Papa Ji. Mangal mentions her mother’s poor health, indicating her intention to care for her, while Kusum expresses concern about managing Sudesh alone. Mangal promises to return soon and urges Kusum not to worry.
As preparations for the pooja continue, Pratima observes Shanti’s somber demeanor. She encourages Shanti not to feel guilty about deceiving Mangal to bring her home, stating that Mangal will ultimately be happy.
Adit arrives home in high spirits, prompting Sowmya to inquire about his cheerful mood. Adit explains that life should be embraced as it comes. When Sowmya asks for details, Adit reveals that Kapil is getting engaged, clarifying that Mangal will never marry anyone. Sowmya is taken aback, confused about who Kapil is marrying, but Adit dismisses the need for further information.
Mangal arrives at Kapil’s house and is taken aback by the elaborate pooja arrangements. Concerned, she asks Pratima about the situation and Shanti’s well-being. Pratima reassures her that Shanti is fine and helps Mangal adorn a necklace and bangles, draping a red dupatta over her head. Mangal, relieved to see Shanti unharmed, questions why Shanti misled her. Shanti explains that Mangal would not have come if she had known the real purpose of the gathering—fixing her engagement with Kapil. Mangal expresses her desire for more time to inform Kusum, but Shanti insists that Kusum need not be involved. She presses Mangal to participate in the pooja, threatening to withhold her medicine if she does not comply. Mangal is left contemplating her predicament and the pressure mounting upon her.
The episode concludes with Mangal caught between her responsibilities and the expectations placed upon her, setting the stage for further developments in her complex situation.