Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: Armaan requests a promise from Abhira, but she declines

In tonight's episode, Kaveri shares her perspective with Abhira, suggesting that Armaan's overly cautious behaviour around their child, Pookie, stems from his desire to become a responsible father. However, Abhira takes this to heart and misinterprets it as Kaveri subtly criticising her abilities as a mother. She directly confronts Kaveri, asking whether this is the reason she was previously against surrogacy and encouraged Abhira to continue working during her pregnancy. Abhira then pointedly questions whether Kaveri thinks she is incapable of being a good mother.

Kaveri responds by pointing out that Abhira is questioning someone whose own son no longer talks to her, whose younger son holds several complaints against her, and whose daughter-in-law lives in fear of her. She adds that it's not their place to judge whether Abhira is a good or bad mother. Turning to Armaan, Kaveri says that after losing BSP, he has stopped trusting himself. Still seeking clarity, Abhira pushes for an answer. Eventually, Kaveri acknowledges that Abhira's child will carry traits similar to hers—unconventional, mischievous, outspoken, and courageous. She expresses that while handling such a firecracker of a daughter-in-law might be daunting, every child deserves a mother like Abhira. Kaveri then reflects on how stepping into the roles of parents will bring immense changes in their lives, emphasising that the journey of motherhood and fatherhood is far more challenging than it appears. Touched by her words, Abhira expresses her gratitude. She then encourages Abhira to resolve the conflict with Armaan.

Later, Abhira finds herself overwhelmed with emotion when she watches Armaan's recorded thoughts about their baby. She realises how deeply worried and insecure he feels about becoming a father and regrets not recognising his emotional turmoil earlier. Determined to support him, she resolves to face all future challenges with renewed strength and to build a united front with Armaan for the sake of their child.

Meanwhile, Armaan reflects on the growing tension between him and both Abhira and Krish. Abhira makes an effort to lift his spirits, but he remains distant. In another setting, Manish attempts to comfort Kiara, while Swarna and Surekha ask her to give them sweets before they begin their fast. Kiara declines to visit the Poddar house, citing Charu's presence, but still shares the sweets with her family. However, Swarna and Surekha refuse to accept sweets from Abhir, creating further emotional distance. Though Kiara stands up for Abhir, he expresses that he doesn't want anyone to fight his battles.

As the rituals begin, the Poddar family carries out their traditions. Armaan and Abhira share sweets and speak about observing the fast. Meanwhile, Abhir encourages Charu to act boldly, pushing her to make a decisive move. Charu hesitates, saying his expectations are too high, but Abhir insists on urgency.

The next day, Armaan starts trying on clothes for the newborn, picking outfits he believes will match Pookie's style, even planning to buy matching shoes and accessories. He hopes Pookie will look like him, and both Abhira and Ruhi notice what he's doing. As soon as Armaan spots them, he quickly stops. Ruhi asks him what he's up to, and Abhira laughs, admitting she does the same thing. Ruhi, smiling, says they're clearly made for each other and encourages them to enjoy these moments of their journey, calling them lucky to be together. She adds that when you're together, there are bound to be fights, recalling how she and Rohit used to argue a lot, especially over Daksh. Ruhi reflects on how becoming parents is a life-changing experience, and it takes time to adapt to the changes. Armaan shares his concern, expressing his fear that they might change so much that they no longer recognise each other. Picking up on the underlying tension, Ruhi steps in and takes them aside.

Meanwhile, a surprising twist unfolds as the Goenka family is taken aback by Charu's sudden visit. Abhir warmly welcomes her, but Kiara confronts her presence head-on. When Charu tries to explain her reasons, Kiara shuts her down. Manish sternly declares that Charu stepping into their home crosses a boundary that shouldn't be ignored.

Back with Armaan and Abhira, Ruhi playfully challenges them with a little task, asking them to pamper Daksh together as a test to see if they can work in harmony when it comes to Pookie. After watching them bathe, dress, feed, and put Daksh to sleep, Ruhi praises them, saying they're already proving to be great parents. She teasingly adds that she always knew they'd be good at it, but secretly wished they would do all the work while she relaxed. With a smile, Ruhi leaves, leaving Armaan and Abhira alone. They share a laugh and discuss how they're in this together and can be great parents. Abhira then questions why they keep fighting. Armaan admits he doesn't want to argue either and says that whenever they talk about family or Abhir, they end up fighting.

Armaan then makes a heartfelt request, asking Abhira to commit to focusing solely on their baby and leave family issues aside. Noticing her silence, he presses further, asking if she can't make this small promise for Pookie, insisting she give her word. Abhira, however, declines to make such a promise, showing she isn't ready to ignore the family dynamics that have affected their lives.

Precap for the next episode:

In the precap, Armaan refuses to hand over the baby to Abhira. She reminds him of her rights as the mother, but Armaan turns away and walks off with the child.