The episode begins with the Pandit arriving at the Saxena house. Kusum welcomes him and requests a Shanti Pooja for her grandson’s birthday celebration.
Ishana becomes excited seeing Mangal preparing a gift for her. Mangal wishes her and blesses her to become a great dancer. Akshat also wishes her. Mangal asks Ishana to invite her friends for the evening birthday party.
As they enter the hall, Kusum reveals that the hawan has actually been arranged for Neel, not Ishana. Ishana is shocked. Neel taunts her, claiming he is the real family member. Mangal notices Ishana’s pain.
Kusum gifts Neel Adit’s gold chain. As Ishana prepares to leave in tears, Mangal stops her and gives her a bracelet she once admired. Ishana thanks her warmly.
When the Pandit asks everyone to sit for the ritual, Kusum says only Neel will sit. Mangal intervenes and makes Ishana sit beside him, leading to Kusum’s displeasure.
Later, Mangal bakes two cakes—one for Ishana and one for Neel. Someone secretly changes the oven settings, burning Ishana’s cake.
Ishana misunderstands and accuses Mangal of favoritism. Neel supports the accusation. Heartbroken, Ishana leaves, and Mangal stands helpless, caught between both children.