Anupamaa: Prem's past haunts him as he struggles with painful memories of his father's abuse

In tonight's Anupamaa episode, emotions run high as the Shah family grapples with lingering tensions and the pressure of a fierce competition. Anupama reflects on the Rahi's accusations that have left a mark on her.

Meanwhile, Kinjal complains that Pakhi used to borrow dresses from her, and now Ishani is wearing outfits designed by Pari. Toshu points out to Kinjal how disrespectfully Pakhi treats Anupama, questioning how Pakhi could be expected to respect others if she can't even treat her own mother well. He adds that there's no use in dwelling on Pakhi's behaviour, as it seems futile. They both conclude that the only way to silence Pakhi is through Pari's victory. United in their decision, Toshu and Kinjal choose to stand by Pari's side in the competition.

Ansh's inner turmoil:

Ansh, however, is torn, feeling overwhelmed at the thought of fighting a war against his own cousins. Despite his frustration at not being heard, Toshu and Kinjal motivate Pari to focus on winning. Feeling the mounting pressure, Pari asks her parents to ease up, explaining that she's even responsible for making everyone's costumes, a task her parents advise her not to take on.

In a practical tone, Toshu encourages Pari to view her cousins not as family but as rivals in this competition. Kinjal sweetens the deal by promising Pari that if she wins, she'll never pressure her to pursue a career as a CA. Toshu further supports this, assuring Pari that she'll have the freedom to choose any career she wants, urging her to give her best in the competition.

Pakhi encourages Ishani:

Elsewhere, Anupama, still troubled by the accusations against her, is lost in thought and ends up grinding masala with such intensity that it catches Jhanki's attention. Meanwhile, Pakhi strikes a deal with Ishani, promising that if Ishani wins the competition, she'll never pressure her to do anything and won't restrict her choices. She motivates Ishani to bring out her inner fire and warns her not to lose her passion or let her energy cool down. Pakhi boosts Ishani's confidence, encouraging her to believe in her own victory and reminding her that winning could be transformative for their lives. Ansh, too, sees an opportunity in the competition; he believes that winning the prize money could be a way to improve his and Anupama's lives.

Meanwhile, Prem learns from Mahi about Rahi's reason for joining the competition, and Mahi confides that her goal is to go to the U.S. Prem shares the same dream, and, in separate scenes, the Shah children each promise their respective parents that they will do everything they can to emerge as the winners of the competition.

Anupama's emotional breakdown:

Anupama finds comfort in confiding in Jhanki, who consoles her. Anupama expresses her inner turmoil, saying that if Rahi wins, she feels as though a mother will lose, and if Rahi loses, she would still be blamed for withholding blessings. Breaking down, Anupama confesses that it's painful to feel so misunderstood. Jhanki advises her to prioritise her own well-being and reminds her that the Shahs seem unaffected by her sacrifices.

Anupama decides to stay true to her caring nature, accepting that she cannot stop being a mother, even when it causes her pain. She acknowledges that, while she could stand up for herself, she doesn't have it in her heart to fight with those she loves deeply. Although she's unwilling to confront her own children, she feels that fate has put her in a difficult position. Anupama admits that while she can speak up confidently in front of others, she struggles to find the courage to do so with her own children. Even though Rahi harbours resentment toward her, she knows she cannot reciprocate that hatred.

Prem's past is revealed:

In a bid to support Pari, Toshu and Kinjal approach Pakhi, asking her to share contacts for designers. Pakhi, however, declines, refusing to aid Pari. Dolly and Leela worry that the family might drift apart because of the competition's intensity. Leela declares that no matter what, only a Shah family member should emerge victorious.

Meanwhile, Prem and Rahi walk along separate streets, both struggling with unresolved inner conflicts tied to their past. Rahi feels hurt, believing Anupama shows love to everyone but her, leaving her feeling neglected. At the same time, Prem is disturbed by a flood of messages from his father, criticising him harshly. His father taunts that Prem left him, just like his mother did, and accuses him of being a "loser's son." In a fit of anger, Prem smashes his phone, unable to bear the insults.

As she walks, Rahi notices a little girl asking her mother to carry her due to tired legs, and the mother agrees without hesitation. This small act touches Rahi, as she sees how a mother can sense and relieve her child’s pain instantly. This scene makes her reflect on how Anupama often blessed others but left her feeling isolated.

Nearby, Prem witnesses a husband throwing his wife out of the house. This painful sight triggers memories of Prem's own father attempting to force his mother out of the house, leaving her with nowhere to go and young children to care for. His father eventually decided to leave, but when Prem's mother pleaded with him, he struck her. The moment left a deep scar on Prem, as he recalls the fear he felt when his father raised his hand to hurt her. Overcome by these memories, Prem runs off in anger.

In parallel, Rahi also begins running, struggling to contain her emotions. Elsewhere, Anupama reflects on Rahi’s accusations against her, feeling an overwhelming wave of emotion. The trio, each lost in their sorrow, eventually find themselves at different temples, each searching for solace.

Prem, Rahi, and Anupama are all haunted by memories of past conflicts, each burdened by their own pain. Prem resolves to seek revenge on his father, while Rahi remains adamant about not forgiving Anupama. Despite Rahi's coldness, Anupama finds herself happy for her and silently wishes for the children's success.

Leela and Dolly reveal Rahi's shocking behaviour:

As Ansh, Rahi, Mahi, Ishani, and Pari immerse themselves in preparations for the upcoming event. The next day, Anupama prays for peace as the competition day arrives. As the Shah family gathers, Anupama realizes that the competition has caused tension and conflicts among the children. Meanwhile, Rahi and Prem, as they prepare to leave, cross paths and engage in a playful banter before heading out. Anupama steps in to mediate the disagreement between the children, offering them prasad.

However, Rahi rejects Anupama's gesture and refuses to accept the prasad from her hand. At the same time, Dolly and Leela inform Anupama that the neighbours have spread the word about Rahi's dramatic behaviour the previous night.

Precap for the next episode

In the precap, Anupama is set to deliver a special performance at the event, while Mahi and Rahi face off in the competition, each determined to claim victory.