Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlara Hai: Abhimanyu is flooded with the memories of past, Muskaan apologizes to Akshara

Muskaan's emotional struggles: 

The episode  of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai tonight begins with a touching scene as Akshu embraces Muskaan, offering her comfort and support. Muskaan, overcome with emotion, expresses her reluctance to attend Raksha Bandhan celebrations the next day, fearing that her tears would overshadow everyone's happiness. She pleads not to be forced. As she glances at Kairav and Manish, Muskaan departs. Manish shares his thoughts with Kairav, acknowledging the complexity of Muskaan's feelings. He notes that while most people learn to cope with loss over time, Muskaan must navigate this challenging journey on her own.

Rakhi celebrations begin: 

Meanwhile, Abhir apologizes to Ruhi for something, and she forgives him. Abhir reminds her to be punctual and mentions that he has brought a rakhi for her. Ruhi reciprocates with a rakhi she has prepared for him, expressing their bond of protection. Aarohi suggests that Abhir should tie Ruhi's rakhi and that they will shop for a gift in the morning. Manjiri also reveals that they have handmade rakhis and inquires about her gift. Mahima adds that she too has a gift but won't wrap it herself, leaving Shefali to handle the task. Abhi mentions that Nishta has sent Rakhis for them, setting the stage for a "brotherly" Raksha Bandhan this year.

With preparations underway, everyone in the house is busy. Akshu, in particular, is seen creating a Swastik symbol on some papers. Abhir, curious, asks if it's part of an art project, but Akshu explains that they place these symbols on the main door and every other door in the house to bring peace, happiness, and prosperity. They share a light-hearted moment.

Muskaan gets a new perspective: 

Concerned about Muskaan, Akshu approaches Kairav to inquire about her whereabouts. Kairav reveals that Muskaan went to the office. Akshu advises that it's okay, as work will help keep Muskaan distracted. However, Kairav informs her that Muskaan's office is closed, leaving him unsure about what to do. He expresses his feelings of failure as a husband, but Akshu reassures him that supporting Muskaan is the key to helping her through this tough time.

Muskaan, on the other hand, is seen talking to Neela on the phone, expressing her guilt for causing Kairav's unhappiness and struggling to forget Abhinav. Neela offers her perspective, reminding Muskaan that the family she now has is a gift from Abhinav, and she should cherish and share her joys and sorrows with them. Muskaan agrees to try her best, while Neela regrets Abhinav's departure.

Akshara's heroic act & Muskaan's apology: 

In a dramatic turn of events, a group of goons enters the scene and attempts to kidnap Muskaan, believing her to be lawyer Akshara Sharma. Muskaan bravely confronts them, and they threaten her to shout for help. She calls out to Kairav, who is startled but reassures her. Akshu enters and takes charge, fiercely defending Muskaan with a baseball bat. Her family rushes to the scene, and they collectively drive the goons away. Muskaan, relieved and grateful, hugs Akshu and apologizes for forgetting that she had someone to protect her. Akshu reciprocates, promising to help Muskaan overcome her grief.

With the danger averted, Muskaan expresses her desire to tie a rakhi to Akshu, symbolizing their bond of protection. Everyone witnesses this heartwarming moment, smiling at the newfound connection between the two.

ALSO READ: Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: Muskaan’s outrage & Abhimanyu’s arrival gives rise to a turbulent twist

A new secretary in Kairav's life: 

The episode continues with traditional Raksha Bandhan celebrations as Akshu and Aarohi perform Kairav's aarti and tilak, followed by tying rakhis to him. Gifts are exchanged, and Abhir and Ruhi also exchange rakhis. The family shares moments of joy, emphasizing the importance of being together.

Later, Muskaan notices Kairav talking to Pallavi on the phone about their favorite sweets, gulab jamuns. This raises questions about who Pallavi is, as she is referred to as the manager, replacing Kumar, who has retired.

Abhimanyu: The new MD: 

The following morning, the Birla family continues their Raksha Bandhan celebrations through video calls, with Akshu feeding Abhir and Manjiri feeding Abhi. Ruhi playfully teases Abhi, and the family remains connected despite the physical distance. Mahima shares a significant announcement, revealing that Abhir will become the new Managing Director of Birla Hospital, a role he previously held. Excitement and congratulations follow, marking a special moment for Abhir and the entire family.

Precap: In a sneak peek of the upcoming episode, the atmosphere is charged with emotion. Akshu's melodious voice fills the air as she sings "Dil se bandhi." However, for Abhi, this song triggers a flood of memories. He abruptly excuses himself, stepping outside, lost in thought. In that moment, he confronts the painful reality that the past is a place he has no right to revisit.

ALSO READ: Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: Abhir thanks Akshara & Abhimanyu as he receives an award, misses Abhinav