OK so there seems to be some mixed reviews about todays episode.
I just wanted to say that I thought it was such a lovely episode and not because of the scenes or I love you although that does play a vital part.
But perhaps being one of the older members in this forum let me give my take as to why i felt today's episode was so crucial and lovely.
Over the past year and months we have seem Khushi/Arnav's relationship flourish, flounder and break down to it again flourishing and amongst this we have seen character growths within them both.
Khushi is becoming more adult and mature in terms of her handling certain situations, Arnav is learning how to appreciate, respect and love Khushi.
Together they are realising what they mean to one another and how important they are to each other, whilst having to deal with everything else that is going on around them.
This episode was lovely because it showcased Arnav's feelings and desires, in that he has fully accepted Khushi as his wife and his love and because according to ASR rules they ARE married therefore he doesn't feel any shame in fulfilling all the duties of a husband and wife.
Khushi however realises that she does love Arnav (although up until now was unsure of his love) but at the same time can't let got of the fact that their marriage wasn't ideal nor done in the right circumstances. And she is desperately trying to convey that message to Arnav. Her happiness at the end of finally hearing him admit his feelings to her showed the relief she also felt yet also the unsureity of what to do next, conveyed beautifully by Sanaya.
This episode showed the differences that they still both need to address and it showcased that yes Arnav is becoming a better person whilst being with Khushi, but there are still moments of arrogance and petulance that make him do rash things such as the 'phere's on the terrace'
To some it might look like forcing the issue or disregarding her feelings, but he was doing what he does best in these kinds of situations. To him a man like ASR no one else matters no other way of doing anything matters. IF he wants something done he will do it, that is essentially his character and again with this he only heard Khushi's protest about 'phere's' not about what they meant etc hence why the rash decision. And upon being questioned by Khushi we got to know the emotional turmoil he feels, he doesn't care about anything else all he cares about is that HE LOVES HER but doesn't know how best to show or convey it. An example of the way he gifted her the clothes, with him saying 'that's the way i am'
Khushi has come to know now that he loves her, and with that she also can let herself fall in love with him without the fear of rejection again. And with that teach him how to love properly without making it seem like an order or command.
Obviously she's in a predicament with Dadi finding out but again Arnav will help by standing by her and hopefully explain the situation and her vulnerability as to why she had to marry him.
Yes we all want to see redemption and forgiveness for Khushi but this redemption is happening as we go along. You have to understand that a complex character like Arnav who has so many flaws isn't going to change overnight his redemption will be slow, in that when he realises he has done something he will try to rectify it, usually this happens in his own way but again with Khushi's guidance he learns the correct manner. Another example of when he wished her happy birthday in the end so beautifully.
The redemption will happen for both of them together, it's how they function and Arnav has realised his responsibility towards Khushi and is showcasing that in front of Dadi.
Don't forget that their love was already somewhat flourishing before the whole 'Shyam terrace scene' and now we are seeing a different more mature kind of love because they have gone through bigger experiences together, family issues, Anjali issues, Shyam revelation and the kidnapping. Each point has made their love stronger and their appreciation stronger which we see in scenes when either one is sad and needs comfort.
I can understand everyone wanting to see out and out shows of regret, redemption and forgiveness but bear in mind that these characters are complex and it's not a fairytale retelling whereby everything is OK with just one speech or situation.
So let's enjoy the upcoming scenes and storyline because there is still a long way to go and there is still a lot for Arnav and Khushi to deal with both with each other and also with regards to family past. And I know that each step will show their love becoming stronger and them becoming better individuals.
I apologise for the long post, but I wanted to write something where we focused more on the characters and the script writing of these two and why certain scenes and episodes are such a pleasure to watch rather than get caught up in the moment of just one episode.
If anything I urge you guys all to watch the series from the beginning as I have done and it gives you as a viewer a much complete picture of the characters, their journey and the storyline.
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