The episode opens with contestants applauding Mangal for her courage in standing up for herself. In contrast, Niketan’s mother disparages Mangal, calling her actions overly dramatic, to which Mangal retorts before leaving. This prompts the contestants to express their discontent to Jigar, sharing their sense of insecurity and refusal to continue with the show. The organizers are apprehensive, realizing Mangal’s newfound status as a hero might threaten the show’s viability.
At home, Kusum supports Mangal’s decision to leave, but she frets over their financial situation. Upon Mangal’s return, Soumya mocks her, while Adit sincerely apologizes for his previous conduct. Adit acknowledges his mistake, saying, “Family means the world to Mangal, and I shouldn’t have clashed with her without considering the consequences. The show exploited our struggles for ratings.” Mangal silently retreats to her room, followed by Kusum, who offers comfort as Mangal breaks down from the emotional turmoil. Afterward, Mangal wipes her tears and heads to the kitchen to prepare a meal.
While cooking, Mangal hears the doorbell and finds the judge and an organizer standing at her doorstep. The judge implores her to return to the show, showering her with compliments about her talent. Mangal firmly states, “My family’s reputation has been damaged. Your apologies and flowers won’t mend that, so I cannot return.” Sanjana then arrives, insisting Mangal must return and promises a significant monetary compensation, asserting, “Even if you don’t win, your next generation will be financially secure. It’s a win-win.” Soumya tells Adit that Mangal will likely accept the offer out of greed. However, when Mangal touches the cash, she shuts the suitcase and declares to Sanjana, “My self-respect is not for sale.” When asked if she needs a larger sum, she responds, “Take your money and leave. I won’t join a show that disrespects housewives.” The organizer mentions that Jigar has been removed, hoping this will sway her, but Mangal remains resolute, surprising Sanjana.
Adit tells Soumya that Mangal’s refusal highlights her self-respect and growth, noting, “The old Mangal wouldn’t have had the courage to confront powerful people.” However, Soumya maintains that Mangal’s rejection of the offer was a mistake.
Meanwhile, Jia creates a scene to prevent Karthik from reading a newspaper article about their predicament. Karthik, concerned about Jia, cancels his recording plans. Jia clings to him, begging not to be left alone. Lakshmi persuades Karthik to attend his recording, promising to watch over Jia. Once Karthik departs, Lakshmi confronts Jia, warning her that she will be out of the house once Karthik regains his memory. In secret, Jia calls her mother for support.
Prema meets Karthik and questions whether he truly cares for Jia, pointing out his failure to recognize her insecurities. She pressures him, stating, “If you care for Jia, marrying her is the next step.” Jia, believing her manipulation is working, attempts to apply Lakshmi’s sindoor to her forehead, but Lakshmi stops her. This escalates into an altercation where Jia falsely accuses Lakshmi of taking her marital identity, leading Lakshmi to slap her. Gayatri arrives as tensions rise, and Lakshmi reveals Jia’s attempts to erase Karthik’s memories. Jia denies the accusations, and a heated argument erupts until Gayatri intervenes. In frustration, Jia threatens to leave the house, and despite Karthik’s pleas for her to stay, she walks out.
Reflecting on Prema’s words, Karthik gathers the family to announce his decision to marry Jia. Gayatri and Sudesh are perplexed by his sudden choice, but Karthik insists, “We’ve been together long enough; it’s time to make it official.” Lakshmi feels faint upon hearing this. Umesh and other family members oppose the marriage, arguing that Jia isn’t right for Karthik. However, Karthik remains steadfast, asking Lakshmi for her support, but she stays silent. Assuming her silence signifies acquiescence to his parents, he implores them to accept his decision for his happiness before leaving. Lakshmi, overwhelmed, collapses in tears.
**Key Summary Points:**
– Contestants react to Mangal’s assertiveness while others criticize her.
– Mangal returns home where familial tensions surface.
– Mangal firmly rejects monetary offers to return to the show, prioritizing her self-respect.
– Tensions escalate between Jia and Lakshmi, leading to Jia’s threat to leave.
– Karthik announces his decision to marry Jia, facing opposition from family members, leading to an emotional collapse of Lakshmi.