Anupamaa: Anupama chooses to hide her past as Malti Devi's name resurfaces after years

In tonight's Anupamaa episode, tension brews as Sarita, sensing the pressure of competition, remarks that their team will end up in tears just like the opposing group. Rita quickly chides her, urging her to think positively. During the evaluation, one of the judges delivers a harsh critique, stating that Anupama's team lacked strength and energy. She makes a regressive comment, saying that these women would be better suited to kitchen duties than dance performances. The judge accuses Anupama of using women's empowerment as a façade and criticises her for not treating the competition seriously, ultimately declaring the Dance Ranis unfit to continue.

This shocks and disheartens Anupama's team, but the tide turns when the remaining two judges choose to qualify them for the next round. Motivated by this lifeline, Preet and Sarita encourage everyone to step up their efforts. Anupama also assures the group that they will learn from their missteps and come back stronger.

Another judge points out the lack of enthusiasm in their performance. Anupama acknowledges the criticism and promises a renewed energy moving forward, reminding them that these women have left behind their comfort zones to chase a dream. When asked about her past association with Malti Devi, Anupama becomes visibly uncomfortable. She remains silent, though the judge praises her skill nonetheless. This silence triggers Preet's curiosity, and she begins to feel uncertain about Anupama.

Meanwhile, Prarthana is anxious about her unborn child's well-being. Leela tries to calm her, and Prarthana requests her to stay by her side. Leela, however, emphasises the importance of a woman's duty towards her husband and family, implying that Prarthana is in a difficult position. Hasmuk intervenes, questioning whether Leela's behaviour stems from the fact that Prarthana belongs to the Kothari family. He reminds her to think about both Ansh and Prarthana before making judgments. Leela, however, avoids continuing the conversation.

Back at the chawl, Anupama is given a warm welcome as everyone celebrates their progress in the competition. During the celebration, Preet brings up Anupama's past again, pressing her for answers. Anupama declines to revisit her history, and Bharti steps in to defend her, asking Preet to respect her privacy. Anupama states that she has made peace with her past and moved ahead in life. Preet warns her that unresolved pasts tend to resurface. Unfazed, Anupama says that if it does, she'll face it head-on, but today calls for a celebration, not regrets.

Preet then questions why Anupama kept her dance skills hidden and chose to involve Manohar instead. Anupama admits that earlier she lacked the confidence to take on the responsibility of teaching dance. Later, Prem calls Anupama, and she shares the good news about making it through the first round. She requests his blessings, and Prem reassures her that victory is on her side.

As the celebration continues, Sarita suddenly feels discomfort. Anupama quickly steps up to make a traditional herbal paste to ease her pain. Rita mentions how her mother-in-law used similar remedies back in the day. Amidst this, Sarita's husband arrives with surprising news: the media has entered the chawl.

Reporters begin interviewing the Dance Ranis. When Anupama's mentor is brought up again by Preet, she refrains from appearing on camera. A reporter questions her motive behind encouraging housewives to dance. Anupama answers confidently, saying that no dream is too big or age-bound. Impressed, Preet praises Anupama for her role in inspiring them and expresses her joy in gaining recognition through the journey.

Precap for the next episode:

In the precap, Rahi approaches Manohar to learn classical dance. Manohar subtly suggests she should take part in the competition and challenge Anupama. Meanwhile, Anupama and Rahi narrowly miss running into each other when Manohar sends Anupama to return a purse.