Anupamaa: Anupama's efforts to brighten Diwali face unexpected backlash

In tonight's Anupamaa episode, the atmosphere is full of excitement as Pari, Ansh, Mahi, Ishani, Rahi, and Prem arrive at the party venue. Mahi shares that she's only ever seen modest parties with paper plates, while Prem calls the venue "lit." Ishani, who's attended several parties herself, admits she's never seen anything quite like this one. Seeing Rahi's nervousness, Mahi holds her hand as a gesture of support. As they make their way in, Prem lends a hand to Ansh, Mahi, Ishani, and Rahi. Rahi, however, teases Prem for showing off. At the Shah residence, Leela urges Pakhi, Kinjal, Dolly, and Toshu to engage with each other rather than remain glued to their phones. 

Anupama arrives, serving hot coffee to the Shah family. Dolly, meanwhile, waits eagerly for a call from Meenu. Leela, as usual, finds a reason to scold Anupama, accusing her of letting the kids leave. Anupama counters, explaining that the children would have been upset if she'd held them back. Observing Pakhi, Dolly, Toshu, and Kinjal still absorbed in their mobiles, Anupama decides to unplug the Wi-Fi. As they crib over the network issue, Anupama reaches out to Ansh, Mahi, Ishani, and Pari. Upon receiving her call, Prem manages to manipulate Anupama slightly, and she reminds him to be cautious.

Prem and Rahi's face off:

Back at the Shah household, Anupama gathers Leela, Kinjal, Toshu, Dolly, and Pakhi to announce she has prepared an entire Diwali feast. As the Shah family celebrate Diwali there, at the party, the host announces a Fhul Jhadi competition. Rahi reflects on how last Diwali, the children in the orphanage received only a single sparkle light. In a light-hearted competition, Prem and Rahi face off in the game. Prem, however, cheats to secure a win against Rahi. 

Meanwhile, Ishani's excitement is evident when she spots "Meet, the Cool Boy" while Ansh becomes concerned for her. Prem brushes off Ansh's concern, pointing out that there's a difference between being her brother and a bodyguard. Ansh retorts that Prem wouldn't understand since he doesn't have a family.

Anupama surprises everyone:

Anupama expresses her excitement about preparing everyone's favourite dishes, hoping they can finally enjoy a meal together after so long. Anupama then faces resentment from Pakhi and Toshu over Rahi. Anupama responds warmly, saying that there's always extra concern for those who are far away, just like Dolly worries for Meenu and Leela for Vanraj. She then encourages everyone to let go of past grievances and fully enjoy the present moment, inviting them to immerse themselves in the festivities ahead. Pari seems hesitant to approach Meet, but Rahi encourages her to embrace herself fully. Prem is visibly enchanted as Rahi and he stumble, ending up sharing an intense eye-lock moment.

The family feels joyful seeing their children happy and united, with everyone expressing pride in their own kids. As the praises go around, Anupama joins in, speaking highly of Rahi. Her enthusiasm, however, is met with puzzled looks from the family. Curious, she questions why she can't speak fondly of her child, too. Toshu and Pakhi respond by pointing out that she has often only criticised them instead of appreciating them.

Rahi gets emotional:

Leela diverts the conversation, mentioning how children today tend to celebrate Diwali by playing cards or attending lavish parties, but their children choose to attend a spiritual gathering instead. Anupama acknowledges this, agreeing that their children are indeed sensible, including Prem. Leela, however, cautions that if Prem, who took responsibility for their children, makes any mistake, she will hold him accountable. Anupama is caught off guard by Leela's stern stance.

Meanwhile, Rahi, observing Ishani, Ansh, Mahi, and Pari cheerfully taking photos and enjoying themselves, becomes emotional. She kisses her locket with Anuj's photo, cherishing his memory. She then takes a selfie holding Anuj's picture, immersed in nostalgia. Noticing this, Prem approaches and takes two photos with her. He encourages her, calling the pictures adorable, and hands her one while keeping the other for himself before walking away, leaving Rahi smiling softly.

Anupama defends herself:

Back at the Shah house, Anupama presents everyone with gifts. The family is pleasantly surprised to find they are handmade by Anupama herself. Toshu, however, makes a snide remark, pointing out how she spent a large sum on Rahi, yet only gave handmade items to her own children. The others join in, humorously commenting on her gifts. Pakhi, Toshu, Dolly, and Leela openly express their belief that Anupama went out of her way this Diwali solely because Rahi has returned, not out of love for them. They begin voicing their frustrations about Anupama, accusing her of always prioritising Rahi above all else and blaming her for every issue that arises in the family. Meanwhile, Rahi playfully challenges Prem to liven up the party atmosphere, hinting that it needs a shift from dull to exciting.

Hurt by their reaction, Anupama defends herself, stating that despite her constant efforts, they have never truly accepted her. She adds that just as they think of their own children's happiness, she too has the right to care for Rahi. 

Precap for the next episode

In the precap, Ishani and Pari arrive home intoxicated. Anupama confronts Ishani, Pari, Mahi, and Ansh, while Ishani and Pari try to shift the blame onto Rahi and Prem. Furious, Anupama orders Prem out of the house and chastises Rahi as well, leaving both stunned.