The episode begins with Harshvardhan Jindal praying before the idols of Radha and Krishna in his lavish home. He thanks them for showing him the way and asks for their help in reaching his destination. He reveals his plan to talk to Mohan about getting Udayveer and Katha married, seeking their blessings for this union. Just as he finishes his prayer, his grandson, Udayveer, comes down the stairs, talking on the phone about his business, “Mom’s Cafe.”
Udayveer confronts his grandfather, sarcastically asking what he is praying for now, since his wish for the cafe to remain shut has already been fulfilled. He questions Harshvardhan’s animosity towards him. Harshvardhan retorts that if Udayveer cared, he wouldn’t have tried to open the cafe in the first place. He announces he is leaving for an auspicious task and warns Udayveer not to interrupt, calling him “Tokuram” (an interrupter). The rest of the family, including Rukmini, Shikha, and Harsh, try to stop him, but he brushes them all aside, stating he is in a hurry and leaves.
A confused Udayveer asks his grandmother, Rukmini, about the “auspicious task,” but she feigns ignorance. Frustrated, she complains about being questioned by everyone. Udayveer then turns to his uncle, Harsh, who also claims to know nothing, mentioning that no one in the family ever questions Harshvardhan’s decisions. Udayveer’s friends try to console him, but he vents his frustration, suspecting his grandfather will try to marry him off to a boring, orthodox girl. He declares he will only marry a girl of his late mother’s choice and throws a cushion in anger.
The scene shifts to Katha’s house. Her uncle, Mohan, is leaving for his factory. His daughter, Naina, notices his broken shirt button and offers to fix it. His wife, Vandana, gives him his lunch. Katha, wearing glasses, warns her uncle not to get into any fights at work. She performs a ritual with chili to ward off the evil eye, but when the chili burns without releasing a pungent smell, she takes it as a very bad omen.
Meanwhile, Udayveer secretly follows Harshvardhan, who first stops at a sweet shop to eat jalebis and then proceeds to his office, “Om Jindal Pharma.” Mohan arrives at the office, and Harshvardhan greets him warmly. He tells Mohan he has come to discuss a crucial matter and makes him swear on the deity, Shrinathji, that he will only share their conversation with his wife. After Mohan agrees, Harshvardhan praises his niece, Katha, for her intelligence, courage, and values. He reveals that it was a divine sign from Shrinathji that led him to this decision. He formally asks for Katha’s hand in marriage for his grandson, Udayveer.
Mohan is completely taken aback. He explains his humble background and reveals that Katha distrusts all men, considering them deceitful. He recalls how Harshvardhan has helped his family through tough times, and feels a deep sense of obligation. He is torn between his gratitude and his concern for Katha’s feelings. Harshvardhan, however, insists that he is asking for Katha’s hand because of her virtues and not as a way to seek repayment for his help. He is convinced that she is the right choice for Udayveer and his family.
Review
This episode masterfully sets the stage for a major conflict. The clash between the traditional, unyielding patriarch Harshvardhan and the modern, independent Udayveer is palpable. Harshvardhan’s character is intriguing; one moment he’s a devout man seeking divine guidance, and the next, a stern, almost manipulative, head of the family. Udayveer’s frustration and his emotional connection to his late mother’s memory add a layer of depth to his rebellious nature. The parallel storyline of Katha’s family provides a stark contrast. Katha’s introduction as a simple, intelligent girl who is deeply cynical about men because of past experiences adds a compelling dimension to the plot. The episode does a great job of building suspense around Harshvardhan’s “auspicious task,” culminating in a powerful and unexpected proposal that leaves viewers anticipating the fallout.
Recap Points
- Harshvardhan decides to get Udayveer married to Katha, believing it to be a divine sign.
- Udayveer and Harshvardhan have a heated argument over Udayveer’s cafe and their differing values.
- Harshvardhan secretly meets Katha’s uncle, Mohan, and formally proposes marriage between Udayveer and Katha.
- Mohan is shocked and conflicted, knowing Katha’s deep-seated distrust of men.
Plot Twists
- Harshvardhan’s mysterious “auspicious task” is revealed to be a marriage proposal for Udayveer.
- The chosen bride is not from a wealthy family, but Katha, the niece of his employee, Mohan.
- Katha has a strong aversion to men and marriage, setting up a major obstacle.
Predictions
- Katha will vehemently oppose the marriage proposal when she finds out.
- Udayveer will also refuse to marry Katha, leading to a major confrontation with Harshvardhan.
- Harshvardhan will likely use the reopening of “Mom’s Cafe” as leverage to force Udayveer into the marriage.