The episode opens with Jhanak feeling a deep sense of regret and guilt over not being able to provide food for her dear friends, Sakhi and Dhamu, who traveled all the way to Kolkata to support her. Dhamu, trying to lighten the mood, assures her that he has grown accustomed to going hungry and that he’s managing just fine. Sakhi, ever the optimist, encourages Jhanak not to dwell on the situation, reminding her that the sacrifices they are making are trivial compared to Jhanak’s dream of becoming a doctor. Dhamu shares his excitement at the thought of seeing Jhanak donning a doctor’s coat one day, which fuels Jhanak’s determination. She confidently asserts that she will achieve her dream without a doubt.
Sakhi then suggests that once Jhanak becomes successful, she should buy a bungalow and a car to prove to Rishi’s family that she is not inferior to them. Jhanak, however, expresses a different sentiment regarding Rishi’s family. She reveals her belief that one day, Aniruddh will come to her, seeking to accept her as his daughter. Yet, she firmly states that she will reject him and insists that he should continue living with Aditi. Dhamu interjects, reminding Jhanak that Aniruddh didn’t accept her for Aditi’s sake, which sparks a discussion about the complexities of their family dynamics.
Sakhi reflects on Nutan’s unfortunate love for Aniruddh, lamenting how he never stands up for Jhanak. This resonates with Jhanak, who vows to take revenge for both her own insults and those directed at Nutan. She is determined that the truth will eventually come to light, fueling her resolve to fight against the injustices she has faced.
Meanwhile, Aniruddh is engaged in a conversation with Arshi, expressing his concerns about whether the principal will carry out their plans effectively. Arshi reassures him of the principal’s capabilities but warns that if the principal fails, she knows what steps she will take next. Aniruddh feels a sense of relief at her confidence but is quickly confronted by Arshi’s probing questions about the morality of their actions. She challenges him, asking if he feels any remorse for ruining Jhanak’s life. Aniruddh coldly responds that Jhanak is not his daughter, a statement that surprises Arshi.
Arshi brings up Nutan’s integrity, pointing out that he once claimed she never lies. She questions why he now refuses to trust her. Aniruddh, feeling cornered, retorts that he does not regret trusting Nutan in the past, but insists he has no proof that Jhanak is his daughter. Arshi presses him further, suggesting that if Jhanak turns out to be his daughter, she would have rights to his property, leaving Aditi with nothing. Aniruddh dismisses her claims, adamantly stating that Aditi’s rights are secure and that he does not wish to discuss Jhanak any further, as she is causing him significant trouble.
In another part of the story, Dadabhai receives a mysterious phone call, but when he answers, there is silence on the other end before the call disconnects. Indumati, noticing his concern, inquires about the caller. Dadabhai shows her the caller ID, revealing it to be Ridhiman’s name, which stirs strong emotions in Indumati. She urges Dadabhai to call the number again, but when he does, there is no response. Putul arrives and asks what is happening. Indumati explains the situation, and Putul tries to comfort them, assuring them that Ridhiman will return one day.
Dadabhai expresses his only desire to know if Ridhiman is safe, while Indumati, feeling hopeless, admits that she has lost faith since Ridhiman stopped contacting them after moving to the U.S. Putul counters this negativity, asserting that they cannot know Ridhiman’s circumstances and maintains her belief that he will come back. The conversation then shifts to Arvind, with Indumati wanting to discuss him, but Putul refuses, expressing her anger and disappointment over his actions. She firmly states that he does not deserve forgiveness and that she will not go back to him. Indumati expresses her sadness over Putul’s distress, while Dadabhai reflects on his hopes that Arvind would return for Putul, only to realize he was mistaken. Putul explains that she is not ready to file for divorce yet, as they need money for that process, but she intends to do so once she secures a job.
At college, the committee members are engaged in a heated discussion about whether to grant Jhanak a hostel room. The head of the committee argues against it, stating that since Jhanak has a local guardian in Kolkata, she can stay with them instead. However, other committee members advocate for Jhanak, believing she deserves the accommodation. Despite their arguments, the head remains firm in his decision, unwilling to change his mind.
Just then, Rishi enters the scene, bringing food for the committee members. Jhanak, surprised, questions his motives for doing so. Rishi explains that they are his guests, which prompts Jhanak to firmly decline any further assistance from him. She expresses her desire to avoid repeating Nutan’s mistakes and declares that she will not stay in the flat any longer, as she does not want anyone to question her character. Rishi, taken aback, urges her not to misunderstand his intentions. Jhanak clarifies that she does not view him as wrong or bad, but she is aware that Aditi is unaware of Rishi’s presence. She points out that one cannot stand in two boats, and Rishi has already chosen his path.
The episode concludes with a sense of mounting tension and unresolved conflicts, setting the stage for future developments.
**Precap:** In a pivotal moment, Jhanak and her fellow students participate in a protest, drawing the attention of a minister who watches the events unfold on television. The minister, intrigued by Jhanak’s determination, decides to arrange a meeting with her, hinting at potential changes to come.
