The episode opens with Punit presenting a formidable challenge to Mannat. Aishwarya questions Mallika about her feelings towards Vikrant, to which Mallika responds that he is enjoyable company, but they both share an interest in Mannat. Vikrant expresses concern that Mannat has talent. However, Aishwarya reprimands Mallika for discussing Mannat in front of him, insisting they should focus on themselves instead.
While all this is happening, Mannat is struggling to chop vegetables as the time limit approaches. When the time is up, Punit criticizes her inability to finish on schedule. He humiliates her, claiming she does not belong in the kitchen and suggesting that, as a woman, she should manage her own household rather than work in a restaurant setting. He further belittles her by referencing her background, provoking a strong reaction from Mannat. She challenges his assertion that she is incapable and implores him for a chance to prove herself, arguing that he is biased against women in this male-dominated field.
Punit dismisses her, implying that she only secured her place due to recommendations and asserts that she thinks success should come easily. Mannat counters with examples of successful female chefs who faced similar challenges and overcame them. She argues that women manage their homes and create delicious meals for their families, countering his antiquated views on women’s capabilities in the culinary arts. Feeling marginalized, she storms out.
Later, she receives a call from the doctor regarding her mother’s test results, which turn out to be negative. In desperation, Mannat realizes she hasn’t arranged the funds for her mother’s surgery and acknowledges her urgent need for the job, willing to beg for it.
Mannat attempts to speak with Punit again, but he furiously tells her she is not permitted in the kitchen and demands that she leave. Heartbroken, she walks away. Vikrant then confronts Punit about the selection process, while Mallika inquires if Mannat was chosen. Punit falsely claims that Mannat burned food and injured herself, using these fabrications to justify her rejection based on his belief that she expected to succeed because of her connections.
Mallika challenges Punit’s fairness, but he insists it is a harsh reality that nothing comes easily. Meanwhile, Mannat confides her heartbreak to her mother, Shruti, who offers reassurance that divine intervention will aid her.
In another scene, Vikrant reassures Mallika that he believes in Mannat’s talent after she advocates for her. He agrees to give her a chance. Mallika expresses her gratitude, while Mannat shares her fears with Harneet, who comforts her and encourages her to stay hopeful. After attending a job interview, Mannat learns from the owner that Punit’s rejection signifies a lack of talent rather than a mere oversight, leading her to conclude she shouldn’t have crossed him.
In the final moments, Punit questions Aishwarya’s decision to reject Mannat, recognizing her potential. Aishwarya remarks on Mannat’s lack of privilege, asserting that those from wealthy backgrounds often manipulate their status to succeed, revealing her disdain for individuals from less fortunate circumstances.
The episode concludes with Mannat’s struggle and the challenges she faces in a competitive and biased culinary world.