The episode opens with a Pandit arriving at the Saxena residence for a Shanti Pooja arranged by Kusum on her grandson’s birthday. Ishana watches Mangal prepare a thoughtful gift and receives blessings from her, while Akshat encourages her to invite her friends for the celebration.
During the hawan, Kusum announces that the ritual is dedicated especially to Neel, causing visible disappointment for Ishana. Neel taunts her, stressing that he is the real family heir. Kusum gifts him a gold chain belonging to Adit, which he accepts cheerfully.
Sensing Ishana’s hurt, Mangal gives her a bracelet she had once admired. When the Pandit begins the ceremony, Mangal insists that both children should sit for the ritual, leading to Kusum reprimanding her for drawing attention away from Neel. Mangal explains that she only wanted Ishana to feel included, but her reasoning is dismissed.
Later, Mangal prepares two cakes, considering Ishana’s allergy to maida. However, the cake made for Ishana gets burned due to someone secretly altering the oven settings. Feeling excluded and targeted, Ishana accuses Mangal of doing it intentionally. Neel further asserts that he is the real son of the family.
Distressed, Ishana runs away while Mangal confronts Neel for his behavior. Neel, in anger, destroys his own cake and storms out, leaving Mangal caught between the emotional turmoil of both children.