31/1 - Epi 177 ... Saansein Ruk Jayengi ...

31st Jan Tues

... Says it all ... fear, stark, naked fear ... is she lost forever?

Found it interesting that the flashback Arnav had was from the original "farak padta hai" track ...

She just admitted to him when he went missing, that to her, 'farak padta hai' ... will he be able to admit the same to her?

Poignant touch ... the bangle that he was annoyed about NK and her talking about ... is the bangle he holds so tightly that he hurts himself with it ... their saga started with another bangle in the guesthouse ... and now again ...

Barun was very good in the last scene ... he got very little screen space today ... so the major dhamaka will be tomorrow? A Wednesday - the typical date for IPK high points ...

Sanaya, my Ms Sunshine, was missing for most of the episode :( ...

I liked the Akash-Anjali scene ... Anali's reaction to the news of Payal's first broken wedding was excellent ... one could see her own remembered pain in her eyes ... she had been through the same thing, that was why she was so empathetic to Khushi when her engagement broke, and that's why she will support Akash on this one ... as soon as she and Akash can find their voices in front of Mami's outburst. And it's a really good thing for Akash that Arnav knows all about Payal's broken wedding too - his support is far more meaningful than Anjali's.

*edited*
The first scene was a repeat ... liked the way (again) Khushi's eyes go to Arnav when NK offers promptly to accompany her ... "can't you come?" ... and then again as Buaji gives permission and she and NK leave ... Arnav still glowering, and Khushi's eyes seem to say "well, I didn't want to go with him, but what can I do, if you don't say anything?"
Nani and Anjali add ghee to the fire (the one in Arnav's heart, not the one in the havankund ;) ) by adding, 'let the two spend some time together.' Burn, Arnav, burn.
Liked the little detailing of Anjali asking the pandit if they could get on with the havan and add the ghee at the end when it arrived. 

Loved the Anjali Arnav scene ... Arnav trying Khushi's phone ... been barely an hour since she left, and he's already so restless :)
So Khushi labelled him 'Arnavji' on her phone. Not Laad Governor ;)
Anjali delighted, throws some more ghee into the fire, and Arnav flares up in satisfactory response. Why isn't NK answering his phone, if Khushi hasn't taken hers?
He must be driving.
"Kya zarurat thi ...?" What was the need to send her? Or to send NK with her? I could have gone, I should have gone ...
But of course, he can't say all that, so back to covering up ... "They'll delay the havan .. let me go get them ..."
Of course, Chotey," Anjali, very mendaciously ... trying to hide her glee. Tubelight flickered after so many months, now shining full beam!

Nani asks where is Chotey, Anjali answers ... he's gone to look for his Khushi ... :)

And Shyam thinks he's got another opportunity to get his plan into action, but in his eagerness, he upsets the oil over Anjali ... nixed again, for the final time, as the pandit, Nani insist she change her sari.

Arnav calls home, have they reached? They were not at Buaji's house ...
Liked the way the worry built up slowly, starting from exasperation and jealousy, to tension and worry ... and then finally to stark, naked, unadulterated fear ...
He stops at the barricade ... a girl had an accident here ten minutes ago ...
Slight worry ... girl? ...
As he rolls up the window, he sees the red broken bangle ... and immediately remembers Khushi's bangles ...

And he gets out and runs to pick up the broken piece ... worry building fast and thick ... asks a bystander ... it was a girl who got hurt, there was a guy with her, the car has been towed, the girl is being taken off in the ambulance ...
And Arnav turns and runs ... after the ambulance, just as it drives off ... trips over an object ... a girl's slipper ... hers?  "Khushi?"
Gets up and runs again after the ambulance as though his life depends on it ... and as it drives off, he comes to a stop ... holding the broken bangle ... Khushi ...

And the last bit was brilliant ... as Arnav remembers his words to Khushi ... you have no importance in my life, you don't even exist for me ... and his anguish and torment as he remembers those words ... and holds the bangle so tightly that his hand starts to bleed ...

Payal- Manodrama ... typical SP saas-bahu stuff ... as long as it remains confined to Payash, I don't care ... and Payal was surprisingly good in Mami avatar :D Besides, they need a parallel track, otherwise SaRun will collapse from overwork!
Akash finally gets around to telling Anjali about Payal's past marriage ... liked the Anjali-Akash scene ... Daljeet acted beautifully ... the remembered pain of her own broken marriage reflected in her eyes as she empathized with Payal ... she knows what it feels like ...
Just as the R family gets to know about Payal's broken marriage from the decorater ...
And again, typical saas-bahu stuff, where wicked saas speaks nonstop, while all the good guys are struck dumb ... why couldn't Buaji, who is normally so loud, override Manodrama and say, excuse me, your son knows about this. But this should have been discussed by the elders - Buaji and Garima should have made sure that Nani knew the story. Can't wholly blame Manorama for this one.

Tomorrow should be good ... am sure Arnav will explode with rage when he finds Khushi ... unhurt, unharmed ... and there will be a fight first .. before emotions take over ... :"> 8->

30/1 - Epi 176 ... Setting up

30th Jan Mon
Setting up ... not for Snakewa's plan ... that already fizzled out within one episode =)) Setting up for jealousy track ... this should be interesting ... Anjali and Nani playing Cupid full time, NK as unaware unsuspecting accomplice ... and Arnav on slow boil. Not so slow, apparently ... by the precap, his fuse was already sparking!

*edit later ... not much to add, episode was basically a set up for the jealousy track, while Sanaya got a bit of a break after the hectic ME shoot, Barun likewise ... She looked beautiful with open hair, really hope Khushi's hairstyle is here to stay. After all, Arnav has made it clear he likes her hair down, hasn't he? :)*

*edited*
How come everyone accepts Shyam's foibles like setting up the havan without thinking anything much about it?

Nani and Anjali into action straightaway ... discussing Khushi's suitability as bride for 'him' ... hit target right away ... Arnav tries to walk away immediately, but they stop him innocently ... what is your opinion, Chotey?
About what?
Khushi, of course! We need your opinion ... how can we proceed otherwise?
Proceed on what?
Shaadi, of course. Such a nice girl, how can we let her out of our hands?

And Arnav is quiet at first ... doesn't quite know how to react, but it's not as though he hates the idea ... quite the contrary ...
A very, very mild ... "nani, I don't know ... Khushi aur main ..."

What he means ... "Dammit, for once you both got the right idea, wild horses wouldn't drag it out of me, so how about you do your usual steamrolling stuff and fix up our wedding pronto? Save me the embarrassment of losing yet another challenge to her, of having to confess that yes, this is exactly what I want ... just do it! I'll show up at the wedding mandap on time, ... heck, I'll even wear a sherwani, if you want ... as long as you get her there ... "

Canny Nani ... sach mein, dhoop mein baal safed nahin kiye ... and Anjali her willing accomplice ... "Oh no, ... not you ... we were talking about NK ..."

And the reaction is exactly what they hoped for ... an incredulously furious "What?!! NK??!!! Aur Khushi??? ... Are you ..."

"Haan ..." but of course, why would we talk about anyone else? Especially you?
"I don't know ... whatever ..." and he stomps off from there, leaving Anjali and Nani ecstatic ... it worked.
So Nani says we need to find out what Khushi feels now.

GH - sweet scene with Babuji recovering hand function to bless Payal and his daughters thrilled ... but why do they always leave him behind? And would it kill the cv's to show that a neighbour comes in to sit with Shashi babu every time the women go out? Just a small touch, but makes so much difference!

Arnav-Anjali ... poor Arnav ... Anjali knows she is his major weakness and she plays on it a lot! Arnav back to his "I don't want to get married."
Why did Anjali go into "I'll die" ... she could have said she will leave the house for her married home and he will be alone ... but it showed Arnav's extreme insecurity about Anjali leaving him ... again. I like the bro-sis scenes, but I like the best when he's being sarky with Anjali ...

Considering the level of intelligence in Shyam's plans, I don't think Arnav has much to worry about yet ... however, that could change, of course.

Guptas arrive at RM - cv's really need to get their act together on this one - again NK and Arnav stand by while Khushi is holding a pile of boxes. Neither steps forward to help till the boxes almost topple ... did such sophisticated guys never learn basic etiquette and manners? I don't expect any better from the Gupta ladies, of course.

Khushi and Arnav's looks were sweet, Khushi looking slightly embarrassed after her last encounter, Arnav still annoyed at how she got away with that kiss ...
and Arnav bitwa, you really need to sharpen up ... NK was quicker than you to jump to Khushi's help when the boxes toppled ... so ab pachtaye kya hua jab chidiya chug gayi khet? No point glowering now! And really ... passing comments like 'both are equally mad and foolish' is not going to help you win the girl!
It might help with this one though ... Khushi is as fiery as he is ... she glares back at his comment ... dunno how Nani and Anjali interpreted that as her interest in Arnav, though!

One longgg Shyam-Anjali scene ... Snakewa plan into action ... I guess Sanaya and Barun needed some time off after the Arhi-filled ME, so don't grudge them that one ... Raizada family waxing eloquent about Shyam-Anjali pavitra pyaar as always :(
NK busy with camcorder ... will it play a role later?
Shyam drops something on Anjali's sari, but doesn't let her change ...

Khushi sitting with NK ... make that, NK sitting next to Khushi, asks her about her bangles, are they the ones he chose? Nope, they aren't ... she replies in her usual friendly way, but Arnav glowers nonetheless ... and Khushi is a little subdued after that encounter of the morning.

Shyam makes sure Anjali is in position for the fireworks, and makes a retreat ... Nani nixes his plan in one smooth move ... Payash should sit in front this time ...
Shyam ki tai tai phishh ... all his planning down the tubes ... another plan bites the dust =))

Guptas forgot the ghee at home ... really, they need a memory transplant ... every time they forget something or the other! So Khushi offers to go back to get it ... and before Arnav can say anything, NK (again!) jumps to accompany her ... Khushi looks at Arnav instinctively ... as though to say "can't you come?" ...but he's too late as usual.
Arnav, what did I say about speed? Offering to take her boxes or accompany her home is not going to be taken as a declaration of undying love ... so stop being so scared! He who hesitates is lost, dear boy!

And he glowers again ... but this time he decides to do something about it ... much to Anjali's delight. Best was that she has Khushi's phone, so she cottons on to the fact that he's been calling Khushi like there's no tomorrow! =))

Actually, I know why the cv's did it this way ... now NK will be dispatched back with the ghee, and Arnav and Khushi can spend some quality time together. :"> :)

28/1 - Epi 175 ...ME - Khushi ... aur Main?

28th Jan ME Sat

OMGGGG ... what a precap :))) And Arnie boy not at all averse to the idea :)))

Another Arhilicious episode ...
Sanaya looked simply stunning in the new style of suits - hope they're here to stay ... and the color ... bright yellow really suits her ... and the ponytail ... I was hoping she would switch from plait to ponytail, and she did ... loved that!

Didn't like the imposed shots of Barun at the door ... spoiled what was a really good Arhi scene!

So Khushi kissed him back ... much to her own horror ...

I was actually glad to see the snarky ASR back, and the usual spirited fights. And loved the way he casually used her dupatta to wipe his face ...
Another full circle ... at their first meeting, he tore her dori and she used her hair to cover herself ... today, her dori came undone and he used her hair to cover her from NK's gaze.

Anjali and Nani ki tubelight jal padi! And they're full steam ahead ... so something major will happen the next week!

*Edited ... finally!!! :)*

Loved the first bit - continuation of yesterday ... Arnav kisses Khushi - slowly, deliberately, purposefully ... and waits for her reaction. Khushi too flabbergasted to do anything other than twitch her dupatta out of his grasp, and run away ...
Downstairs she remains distracted completely ... Anjali notices and asks if she's fine, did Chotey do anything? Khushi says no immediately, instinctively ... thinking only of the kiss ... Anjali deflects the topic to Khushi's mehndi, and sees the A ... Khushi tries to explain it and Arnav, coming down the stairs, smirks ... Anjali's tubelight actually flickers briefly.

Back at GH ... Khushi still lost in kiss ... very sweet sisters' scene, with Khushi feeding Payal ... one bite for each family member, and putting herself last as usual ...
Next morning - Haldi ... the sisters fool around again - some of their playful scenes are really cute :) Then Khushi is sent off to RM with Akash's clothes ...
Proprietary Arnav - she meets Arnav at the door, laughs at his haldi smeared face and he coolly grabs her dupatta as though it's his right, the most natural thing for him to do, and cleans his face. So the groom's haldi goes to the bride ... one more rasam done! And he reminds her about the challenge ... the guy wants his kiss, and this is one challenge he is perfectly happy to lose! :"> =))

A nasty encounter with Shyam ... loved the way Khushi shook her dupatta out of his grasp, left him standing, refused to eat a bite of his jalebis ...

Protective, possessive Arnav - makes it a point to sit in the living room right next to where Khushi and NK are choosing bangles ... NK admires Khushi's exposed back and Arnav sees red ... yanks her hair tie off and loosens her hair to cover her back. Full circle ... at their first meeting, he ripped her dori off and she used her hair to cover herself, now he becomes her protector and does it for her. And scolds her for not understanding how other men could be looking at her ... she is far too innocent for her own good.
Nani ties Khushi's dori, and Khushi understands what Arnav was doing ... he was protecting her, caring for her ... so when he lets loose another salvo about the challenge, this time she takes it up ... yes, she can kiss him back ... impulsive as ever Khushi! And horrified after the act ... did she just do that?
As pole-axed as Arnav is ... she kissed him? In full view of his family?!
Methinks he was more than a tad disappointed at that ... no follow up action was at all possible from him ... hence his annoyance at the door ... what was that? And was it only about the challenge?
And she says, yes ... so he challenges her ... but your cheeks are red ... she shoots back, you're not sounding normal either ... 

But they won't say it yet ... so she flees.
I so wish the door scene had been done with Barun ... the effect was ruined by using the old cut paste shots.

Loved the shots of both remembering the kiss later at night ... :">

Event of the ME - Anjali and Nani's tubelights flicker into life!

Downloaded episode doesn't have the repeat kiss so links:
Entire episode
Part 1 HD

27/1 - Epi 174 ... Completely Kissable Cutiepie Khushi Kumari Gupta

27th Jan Fri

Mixture of saas bahu drama - no comments on Payal-Manodrama ...

and completely adorable super cute fulltoo Arshilicious scenes - Arnav full on flirting mode ... what exactly is he up to? Has he decided he's serious about Khushi, or is he just enjoying the game, enjoying pushing her buttons? Or a bit of both?

I'm sitting on the fence and enjoying the show - on the one hand, going awww over adorably confused Khushi - she looks super cute and completely kissable in her current confused, embarrassed, blushing tomato red state, so am not surprised Arnie baby succumbed to temptation! And on the other hand, I'm all for Arnav, giving him a big thumbs up ... you go, man! Go get her ... confuse her, torment her, tease her till she doesn't know whether she's on her head or her heels and then ... kiss her senseless and you're home dry!

Precap - so the whole family knows she has an A on her hand ... and Arnav doesn't seem at all perturbed ... if anything, he's smirking even more than ever! Boss, that's supposed to be her future husband's initial, you do realize that, don't you?

*edited*
This was actually one of the BEST episodes ... some fabulous Arhi scenes, each one so different and all completely beautiful to watch. And the acting, especially Sanaya's today, just lift this show to another level.

First Arhi scene - continued from yesterday ... another wheel turns full circle ... when she disappeared, he was frantic, and let his concern show to La ... which finally led to the end of that relationship. Now he disappeared, and she is frantic ... and she lets her concern show ... to him directly. Much to his complete delight ...
So she turns and sees him ... the slightest of smiles on his face as he's obviously over heard the last of her rant ... so you missed me, honey?
And Khushi lets loose ... where were you, why are you quiet, when did you go, why didn't you tell anyone, I've been trying to call you for how long ...
Why? 
And she stops in her tracks at that quiet why ...
Why does it make a difference to you if I went off?
It makes a difference! Farak padta hai! I was worried ...
For me? A step closer.
She still doesn't notice...
Yes! For you! 
Oh really? A step closer ... and another ... and she suddenly gets all nervous again ... steps back as he steps forward ... silently, like a predator, he's got her where he wants her, she admitted it ...
She stumbles as she backs ... and tries to backtrack ... no ... I ... Anjaliji ...
Careful, Khushi ... just as she stumbles ... or I might think you were worried about me ...
She backtracks as much as possible after that damning almost-confession ... Not me, Anjaliji ... I said ...
Anjali interrupts, and Arnav's face actually shows irritation at the appearance of his beloved Di ... As Anjali goes all goo gaa over her missing Chotey, he coolly tells her not to overreact ... and adds, for the benefit of a quickly retreating Khushi ... Actually, I'm glad I went, I got to know how much I'm missed.
And as Khushi leaves quickly, and Anjali tells him to come for tea, he nods, and looks after Khushi with a very satisfied smile on his face.

Tea time ... Payal offers to take tea for a sulking Manodrama, and Khushi realises with horror that she's got an A on her hand, and also remembers exactly how it happened. =)) Just as Arnav appears.

Arnav finally hears Khushi's frantic voice-mail asking him to come back ... as Khushi rushes to the kitchen to take off that A before anyone sees it.
No such luck, of course ... Arnav tracks her down at once.
Sanaya was BRILLIANT in this scene and Barun was the perfect foil ... her nervous, blustering, 'couldn't be more obviously lying' denial =)) - no, I didn't call you ... and his knowing smirk as he plays her voice mail much to her horror... so you were worried ... did you think I'd vanished?
And as she holds up her hand, he sees the A immediately ... this man has superhero vision for all things Khushi :"> ... and that's his next ammunition ... why have you got an A on your hand then? And he holds her hand as casually as though he's been holding it all his life ... and will continue holding it as long as he wants ...
Yet another denial ... I have an A in my name too ... Khushi Kumaaari Guptaaaa ... oh god, Sanaya was brilliant in this scene ... I cracked up at this one ... =)) =)) =))
and Arnav almost did too, one could see the effort it took him not to laugh ... this must have been a riot to shoot for both Barun and Sanaya =))
NK interrupts, otherwise am sure the kiss would have happened then and there ... :) Arnav is visibly annoyed at the interruption, he was totally enjoying Khushi's madness there ... Khushi still flustered, then she sees Arnav's annoyance with NK's appearance, and she makes full use of it ... walking off with him, laughing with him at the table ... till Arnav can't stand it any more and he actually leaves in a huff.

NK goes to get his camcorder, Nani wants to give Payal kangan, so Khushi is dispatched to fetch them from Arnav's room ... Khushi slightly nervous, because she just can't handle this new, changed Arnav, she has no clue where she is with him any more ...
Arnav pacing up and down remembering how comfortable Khushi is with NK ... he is annoyed ... I think it was less jealousy of NK as a guy, and more about NK impinging on his time with Khushi, a time he enjoys more and more ... that he wants more and more ... he wants Khushi to himself, he enjoys those verbal battles with her, especially as he's getting the upper hand, he enjoys watching her blush and squirm, and yet fight back .... she delights him, makes his heart feel lighter, makes him want to laugh, to love ...

Khushi enters his room cautiously, and brightens to see he's not there. Picks up the kangan box and makes to leave quickly ... too quickly. One kangan goes flying into the pool. And the third Arhilicious scene starts ... a simply beautiful one ...
Her mehndi-colored hand dips into the pool to reach for the kangan ... just short ... and another hand joins hers, reaching the kangan effortlessly and pulling it out ... in a scene reminiscent of the game played by newly-weds to find a ring in a bowl of milk .... the one who gets the ring first will dominate the relationship. But here, he gets it first, he drops it back, and she picks it out again. So will the balance of power in their relationship seesaw between them? Or will it be always equal?

He looks at her quietly and holds it out to her ... nervous again at his closeness, she blusters ...
What are you doing here? I told you ...
It's my room, Khushi ... remember?
She reaches to hold the kangan, but he doesn't release it.
I could have done it myself ...
You can't do everything yourself ... still holding the kangan with her.

In the sangeet, he told her she couldn't have done it without his help, she needed him ... now he's telling her she doesn't need to do it all herself ... she doesn't need to be brave all the time, shoulder the entire burden on her shoulders, because he's there ... whenever she needs him, he is there for her ... she just has to trust him ...
But she's still unsure ... I can do it ...
So he drops it in again ... and the water splashes onto her face ...
Tum theek ho? Again very quietly ... intently ... as though it matters ... she can't meet his gaze ... and she reaches quickly for the kangan again, as does he, hand over hers ... and he looks at her as though to tell her ... I told you, I am here, with you ... for you ...
And she looks at him, her eyes still nervous, scared to trust what he's saying ... she's been hurt too many times before ... is this going to be different?
Why are you scared?
She picks the kangan quickly ... no, she doesn't know, she can't be sure ... and she doesn't want to lay herself open to that hurt again ... I can do it ... and gets up quickly, away from his nearness which is confusing her so much ...
Only to be stopped short by her dupatta being held by ... him?
No, once she made that mistake and accused him ... mistakenly ... not again ... it must be a thorn again ...
But this time it is him ...
Leave it please.
Why?
She can't really think of any good reason why he should leave her duppata ... she can't really think at all at the moment, the way he's looking at her ...
Just ... leave it ...
You can't do everything I can ...
No ... I ... she cannot think at all ... she cannot even speak at all for stammering ... why won't he leave her, let her go ... she tugs at her dupatta half-heartedly ... only to see him tug at it even more, wind it around his hand and pull her closer ...
If you can do it all, free it yourself ...
Yes ... I ...
Another tug ... closer still, so close that she doesn't dare to look at him ... heart racing ... why is he so close? Why is she unable to breathe?
Another soft, low-voiced challenge from him ... what I'm going to do, will you be able to do?
She nods without thinking ... she can't think anyway, he's so close ...
And he bends and kisses her very gently, unhurriedly, purposefully on her cheek ...

Thank god the ME is tomorrow itself!

26/1 - Epi 173 ... Missing ... you

26th Jan Thurs

*edit later* out for dinner ... Shwetha, waiting ... why do you want her to be mad at him?
I saw the episode, btw ... precap ... THUD .... boy, he's pulling out all the stops now!

*edited - this one first as has the least to write about :) *
NK and Akash between them say Arnav gave them the idea of gatecrashing the mehndi, and Khushi wonders "Arnavji?" just as the mehndivali asks whose initial she wants. So Khushi gets A for Arnav on her hand, and doesn't even know it! :) And she prays to Devi maiyya that he shouldn't appear, as it increases her dhak dhak.
NK can't find him, and Khushi is happy. But Anjali starts worrying ... and worrying ... and worrying ...

Lots of saas bahu melodrama between Manorama and Payal ... and Anjali is worrying more and more ... and now Khushi starts worrying too ... :) Did she send him away? Did Devi maiya actually jump to her bidding for once? Awww ...:"> And first rant by the poolside, she didn't mean him to disappear, where is he, please come back, it's all her fault ... Goes back for Payal Manodrama, then back to poolside for another rant ... please, Devi maiyya, bring him back, let him be all right, I'll say sorry, I won't say anything to him ... please,Arnavji, just come back, I'm really sorry ...
Not realizing that all she's saying is being recorded on his voice mail ... :">

And then she turns around and sees him standing behind her ...

Precap - the kiss :) :">

25/1 - Epi 172 ... With You, Without You

25th Jan Wed

Pretty much time-pass episode, except for the Arhi scene, of course - so is this the end of the Kissa Scorpion Ka? And why did Arnav insist on Shyam Anjali taking over his room and him shifting to the guest room? Is that what Khushi will use and find him there? Hope she doesn't go into his room by mistake and find Creepwa there, that's all.

First the Arhi scene ... poor Khushi is sooo flustered, she doesn't know what to do with this new improved Arnav! How to deal with him when he's not sniping at her and taunting her. The taunt about her loss of the bet came as a relief, that she could find something to say, retort back in her usual style ... and Arnav has been observing her closely, he realized that, and that was why he said what he did ... even though his taunt was far more tempered and cool than it usually is ... and her  retort was far weaker and with much less than her usual spirit!

And loved the way he casually pulls the bags from her, holds her hand, puts the jhumka in it ... the guy has no qualms or hesitation in holding her, touching her as and when he pleases ... he does so as though he has the right ... and she lets him ... always.

So Khushi tells him that she prays to Devi Maiyya to keep him out of her sight ... is Arnav going to oblige and stay out of her sight, and let her see how much she misses him? Sure enough, she's already looking around for him during the mehndi function ... :) Can't deal with him, can't stay without him ... after she delivers that prayer, she walks off, but can't help looking around for a last glimpse of his face. That wish of not wanting to see his face didn't last long! And Arnav knows it - he watches her go with a very satisfied smile ...


Rest of the episode was pretty much time-pass ... no wonder Sanaya said in the SBS that all they've been doing is looking at mehndi books! Akash wanting to see Payal, NK volunteering, Slimeball staring at a laughing Khushi and renewing his determination to get rid off his wife ...  appears that the scorpion plan has been shelved and the new one will result in either Arnav or Khushi getting affected and the other realizing their feelings.

Slimeball ... nauseating as usual as he peers at Khushi ... and NK and Akash don't realize anything wrong?
NK dressing up as woman ... forced, cliched ... the side ones about his jodi with Buaji were cute ... the rest was all pretty cliched and time-pass. Don't care really ... am just glad the comedy is back to where it belongs and is no longer on the leads.

AND ... the cv's should get a HUGE message as to this is what works ... TRP's hit a healthy 4 + this week and IPKKND is back in the top 5! Also the promo aired last week, so must have contributed to the rise ... hope the channel and the PH, whoever calls the shots, sees that too!

ME promo aired ... Shyam up to more tricks, this time ether mixed with Anjali's favourite perfume ... who will get affected?And does he really think that by dousing Anjali in a few drops of ether, she will explode? Or even go up in flames? Must have been a very poor science student in his childhood! Or whoever is writing this track is ;)

Addendum - Khushi looking gorgeous in this new style - loved the color combination of biscuit-color and bright pink, loved her new hair style ... is Khushi finally getting a makeover of sorts? She's looking breath-takingly beautiful in the mehndi scenes. 

24/1 - Epi 171 ... Dhak dhak

24th Jan Tues

I don't know about Khushi, but my heart was going 'dhak dhak' during the Arhi scene today ... simply LOVED it! The hunt is truly on ... Arnav cool, calm, self-assured, knows exactly what he's doing, Khushi nervous, flustered, doesn't know what the hell is going on with him ... and with her ...

The scene went exactly as I had expected, and as I wanted ... he doesn't say anything directly ... just tells her to come down, and almost as an afterthought, asks her if she's going to thank him ... she does, instantly, hesitantly, still flustered and confused ... he starts to leave ... and comes back and lets down her hair ... easily, calmly, as though he has all the right in the world ... leaving her more flustered still.

And loved the Arhi looks all through the presentation ... Khushi was so gung ho about winning the competition, now that competition doesn't seem to matter at all, the fact that she has won it doesn't even seem to register ... all her attention and concentration is on the man behind her win ...the way he gestures to her ear and she realizes that she forgot an earring ... it's as though they can't stop looking at each other ...

Loved the way both are lost in each others' thoughts all through the night after the sangeet is over ... Arnav got his next keepsake, her earring ... Khushi staring at the Nataraj murti and remembering only the dance ... Payal asking her why she's not more excited about winning the competition which till yesterday meant everything to her and Khushi tries to regain her spirit ... until Payal mentions Arnav again, and Khushi quickly negates his role in her win ... and then later confesses to Nataraj ... I lied, it was because of you that I won ... thank you ...

Rest of episode about Buaji getting back at Mamiji, and about the Snakewa and his plan with the scorpion backfiring big time before it fizzles out ...

Precap ... again dreamy ... so Arnav is on the prowl, how long can Khushi hold out?

Will edit more details later when I load the episode and re-watch :)

23/1 - Epi 170 ... Teri Meri Prem Kahani Hai Mushkil

23rd Jan  Mon

My first reaction after the episode ended ... *deep satisfied sigh ... release breath I was holding unconsciously* ... oh boy!!! Was that an episode or what! :"> :"> :">

*edited* 
Episode started on a slow note, as Khushi stands alone on stage, half her mind still preoccupied with the nasty encounter with the Slimeball, and the other half worried about her missing partner. Anjali asks her gently if she would like to wait, Shyam offers a partner from the 'dushman' party and she remembers that vicious encounter again. NK upset for Khushi, wondering aloud to Arnav if Khushi will be able to dance ... a random guest comments that Guptas will lose ...

And that's enough for Arnav. He can have as many fights with her as he wants, he can say what he wants to her, taunt her about winning and losing ... to him. Only to him ... His girl is a winner all the way, and he won't let her lose to anyone else.

The light go out on stage, Anjali leaves quietly, Khushi turns to leave ... the spotlight turns back on .. on her.
And on him.
She looks at him blankly ... her mind is not wholly there, caught as it is between the earlier encounters with Slimeball and with him ... and his mind is only on the last encounter with her ... where she was left upset ...
Your last performance, Khushi. Aren't you going to complete it?
And as she stares disbelievingly at him ... what does he mean? Because that was not a taunt ...
The music starts ...
HE starts ... 'teri meri, meri teri prem kahani hai mushkil
do lafzon mein yeh bayan na ho paye ...'
What lies between them? He seems to have finally accepted it, accepted that there is something that neither of them can run from, even though they've both been trying their hardest ...
She follows his lead ... as always ...
'ek ladka, ek ladki ki yeh kahani hai nayi, do lafzon mein yeh bayan na ho paye ...'


And as they twirl and sway and move to the sensuous song, his face is calm, serene, assured, his eyes never leave her face ...for him, the rest of the world doesn't matter, doesn't even exist ...
Her eyes too, stay fixed on his face, questioning, seeking, confused yet somehow trusting that this time, here and now, he will not let her fall, he will not let her lose ... and she surrenders to him completely ...

And then the song ends, she moves away from him ... as the rest of the world, the watching eyes swing back into her consciousness ... and we get a wholly unexpected treat ...
Rabba ve ... with flashbacks of the Arnav-Khushi journey ... from their first meeting, their different encounters, bitter, harsh, sweet, tender ... each memory interspersed with the present moments of how things have changed so much between them ... where earlier he dropped her from his window, now he bends to lift her as she dips in his arms, where earlier they parted in bitterness at the temple, now they come back to each other as though pulled by a force they cannot deny ... as he remembers every moment of his harshness, his face is soft in unspoken apology, his eyes seeking hers now, as though asking for her forgiveness ... and hers still confused, still searching ... as she remembers his tenderness of Diwali, she wonders, is scared ... will this present tenderness be again followed by heartbreak?

The music ends ... they stand looking at each other, lost in their own world, only the two of them, no one else even exists ...
Until she remembers belatedly where they are ... and moves away ...
The shocked faces of their audience finally into focus ...
Nani ... is this my grandson?
Anjali ... Am I seeing things?
Mami ... Is this a buy one, get one free? Will the younger one come in with the older? (Must say, Mami seems to be the smartest)
Akash ... shock, disbelief ...
NK ... incredulous ... Nannav?
Gupta ladies ... Buaji admiring, satisfied, Garima relieved beyond measure, and tearfully happy, Payal happy that her sister's act was completed, but with Arnavji?
Shyamu Slimeball ... fuming mad!!!

And the applause starts ... a standing ovation .. and Khushi acknowledges it with the tiniest of barely there smiles, the competition which was the thing uppermost in her mind for so many days barely registering as her entire attention is on the man standing so confidently and calmly behind her ... as though he hasn't just turned her world upside-down ... again.

Such a contrast from the Khushi who ebulliently accepted the cheers after her last performance and showed a triumphant thumbs up to Arnav ... now the cheers barely register as she makes her way to her family ... maybe in their uncomplicated, familiar presence, she can try to recover her composure.
But Payal says, Arnav danced with you ... and she can't face that yet ... so she runs for solitude ...

And in an echo of Diwali night ... a reverse- rewind ... then she locked herself into her room in tears, buried her heartbreak under a storm of sobs ... and locked away her newly-awakened feelings for good, she thought ...
Now she locks herself into a room again, and feels those long-buried feelings start to surface again ... not dead, as she had thought, just buried deep ... but they won't stay buried now ... her heartbeats increasing as she prays desperately to Devi Maiyya, but in return, can only think of him ... looking into her eyes, close to her, touching her ... as though he has the right ...

And Arnav faces his family this time without flinching, without running away, without seeking a cover ... yes, I danced with her, so what? No big deal at all.
Yes, he and Khushi are linked together now in public, in full view of his family and friends ... he doesn't care.

Payal looking for Khushi, Anjali too ...
Shyam is fuming mad, and NK unknowingly pushes his buttons even more ... NK's own admiration for Khushi fuels his rage, and the last straw ... NK says Arnav and Khushi looked good together!
How can Khushi be linked with anyone but him? Shyam for the first time loses his cool and snaps at a surprised NK. He manages to recover his cool slightly for his wife, but only just. Shyam on the thin edge here ... very thin.

Payal finally finds Khushi (did Arnav overhear Garima and Payal trying to figure out where Khushi was?) ... but Khushi isn't ready yet to face anyone ... she sends Payal away.
A second knock ... as Khushi tries to pull herself together, so she opens the door, and without looking to see who entered, turns back ... rambling her confusion ... I don't know ... I didn't know he would dance with me ... like that ... like that, as though making love publicly on stage, looking into her eyes as though she meant the world to him ... with that look, that tenderness ...
Why did he do that? What does he think ... that it will matter to her? It doesn't ... humein koi farak nahin padta ...
And turns to see him standing at the door, arms folded ... looking at her with an expression which says ... yeah right, koi farak nahin padta. Give it up, sweetheart, I've been there, done that ... tried saying it all ... nothing works.

Sanaya as Khushi looked like a dream ... ethereally beautiful, delicate as fine porcelain, her eyes stunning and expressive with a myriad of emotions ... Barun as Arnav a handsome prince, straight out of fairy tales ... the stuff dreams are made of ... 

20/1 - Epi 169 ... Two confrontations

Friday 20th Jan 2012

Haven't had time to re-watch ... for once, I'm glad it's the weekend and I have a day or two to catch up! Will try to post tonight or tomorrow :)
But I loved both  Arhi scenes, and the Khushi-Shyam confrontation ... all long overdue! Am glad Khushi finally got a view of the ugly face of Shyam, and came to know his true intentions. But she hasn't been bitten by the scorpion yet, has she?

Am so glad the dance didn't happen today :) I know, am being completely selfish - kill me!!! =))

*Finally edited* ;)
Khushi gets 10 on 10, Raizadas congratulate her (all except Mami, of course) ... Garima scolds her for her nautanki, Buaji says nobody feels offended on these occasions, Payal reminds Khushi that her friend is to join her for her last performance - so at least they got the number of performances evened out! Khushi goes to change for her last performance, she has to change rooms, Shyam hunting for scorpion in the same room, scorpion in Khushi's sari ...

Arhi :">
Arnav - backhanded compliment ... you needed me to make your performance successful ... Khushi replies back that at least he acknowledged she was a success ... and he approaches her slowly as she backs, and repeats her words ... so much she knows about him? Laptop se  ... kar do sagai ... her tone faltering ...
You really want me to get engaged to my laptop?
Aanthon peher dil pe hain taale? 
He repeats that one ... aanthon peher dil pe hain taale? Do you really think that's true? Haven't you seen the real me? So many times ... you're the only person who has ... If I've locked my feelings out of sight, don't you know who has the key?
She falters again ... kya karen, yeh hansna bhi na jaane? 
But you don't smile, you don't give me a clue ...
Even closer now ... you notice a lot about me? I didn't know you watch me so closely?
Accusing her, pushing her ... tell me why you watch me so closely, why you feel the need to know me ...
She falters yet again ... no ... no, I ...
He interrupts ... if you know me so well, why didn't you playact my role? Scared?
Why would I be scared? I just don't want to be like you!
You can't be like me. Because you don't have what it takes. I told you earlier,
He taps one light finger against her temple.
Dimaag is what it's called.
She stops him as he leaves.
I can't be like you because I have something you don't.
And her turn to come up to him, tap her hand against his chest ... Dil is what it's called.
An exact echo of his words, his actions ... dil and dimaag in eternal conflict ...
I can't be you because you think with your head ... and I act according to my heart ...

He leaves, she stares after him ... is that divide always going to stay between them?

She goes into the room where Shyam is still on Scorpion Hunt, picks up her sari and leaves quickly, not even noticing Shyam there, her mind concentrated, filled with just one man ...
Shyam somehow divines that her sari has the scorpion, and runs after her ... Khushi already on short fuse, blasts him, in full view of Arnav, if only he would turn off his Bluetooth and turn around!
But this time Shyam is on equally short fuse, frustrated already as he is with suffocating wife and missing murder weapon, and I think, genuine fear for Khushi ... so for the first time ever, he shows Khushi his true ugly face ... leaving Khushi appalled, bruised ... and frightened ... 

And Arnav sees her in tears, as she makes to leave, he remembers her earlier tears, and thinks she's play-acting again ... are you scared of losing?
She interrupts him ... I'm sorry you saw me crying ... if this was an act, it wasn't for you ... please leave me alone ...
He reaches out, instantly repentant, but she flinches as he touches her bruised arm ... I told you, if this was an act, it's over. Curtains down.
And leaves. Leaving him angry again ... with himself. He misunderstood her yet again ...

In the middle, small, sweet scene between Payash ... where Payal for the first time discovers that lying to her husband is not going to be easy either ... wonder if both brothers will get to know the truth ... 

Buaji discovers Mami's foul play ... finally!!! Someone caught that woman! And NK overhears and figures out she cheated ... so will Mami finally be exposed, at least to the family?

Snake catches scorpion ... does he really think that if Anjali dies, Khushi will jump into his arms?! :( Or is he planning to force her?

And Khushi on stage ... waiting for her partner ...
Now I'm ready and waiting for Monday!!! :) Especially after that dreamy precap and SBS ... :">

19/1 - Epi 168 ... Gorgeous Khushi - Take a Bow, Sanaya!

19th Jan Thurs

I don't need to change the title of the post today - well, not much!
Sanaya STOLE the show!!! I love this girl!!!

*edited* Warning - today's update is going to be a phangirly one ... for Sanaya :) :"> She was simply AMAZING, STUNNING, GORGEOUS, FANTASTIC, FABULOUS, ADORABLE, BEAUTIFUL, AWESOME ... feel free to add more adjectives :)

So episode starts with Snakewa still hunting for his pet scorpion ... again I could only laugh at him to day (till the precap). And among the hundreds of identical sweet boxes, miracle of miracles, he finds it! Only to drop it as mamaji enters ... mamaji is messing up a lot of Shyam's plans lately. And scorpionwa goes missing.

Anjali announces the next round - dulhe ka bhai and dulhan ki behen. And Khushi is pacing up and down in her room, very nervous at the Raizadas' lead. NK comes to cheer her up ... he is really such a sweet guy! Am loving him :) NK tries to rev her up - you can do anything ...

She can ... but she doesn't.
Arnav Singh Raizada with his usual taunting smile ... but oh, so much mellowed down. Now it's not a nasty taunt, but just a challenging one ... and he winds up NK, you have to win, remember.
NK doesn't want to see Khushi lose, that's his problem, and he's pretty straightforward about it. Aww. But Arnav puts paid to that plan right away ... don't you dare try to lose, or you're a dead man.
And he's succeeding in what he came to do ... Khushi is losing her nervousness as her temper rises, and with that, her drive to win against this man ... And as they glare at each other, neither even notices NK as he says bye :))

Khushi, are you all right? softly, as though he really cares, he's really concerned and Khushi is on the back foot immediately, her defensive prickliness dissolving instantly in his apparent concern ... her eyes going soft ... (Sanaya's eyes looked absolutely beautiful here, soft, caramel colored, showing her uncertainty, her pull to this man)
Your eyes ...
Eyes? ... this girl will dissolve into a puddle the moment Arnav declares he loves her, she has absolutely no defence against the soft, concerned, loving Arnav ...
But the taunting one ... ah, that's a different matter entirely. Even though it takes her a few seconds to regroup when she realizes he's taunting her again, only in such a gentle tone that she got completely sidetracked ...
Loved the expressions in Sanaya's eyes here again, the way they changed slowly, showing the effort it took Khushi to find her voice, pull her defensive shield back into place, summon her spirit and answer him back ...
And Arnav's eyes too ... pushing her, as though extorting her, come on, Khushi, where's that spirited girl I know, you can't give up just like that, can you?! While his words speak a completely different tune ... you're scared ...
And he succeeds ... she's back ... his fierce tigress ...
I'm ready for your every challenge, Mr. Raizada.
His eyes show his satisfaction. That's my girl. A worthy opponent, his equal in every way that matters. Because this has to be a fair fight.
He doesn't need any more words. She's back in action.

They spoke with their eyes in this scene, the words totally at variance with what they were saying, holding a different conversation entirely.  =D>

Mami gloating, Buaji recovering. Mami snubs Payal again :(
Am so glad Arnav kept this totally fair, otherwise he would have been no better than mami.

NK and Desi Boys ... he was damn good ... they should have kept this yesterday, he got overshadowed by Khushi 3-in-1 act later, but he was really, really good!
Arnav satisfied, Khushi getting more and more worried.
Random man congratulates Arnav for the enjoyable party, which was actually Khushi's doing!
Shyam hunting for needle in haystack ... erm, make that one tiny scorpion in sea of legs! =))

Arnav taunts Khushi again ... am confused, this time he sounded like he really wanted to grind her down in the dust. And his taunt about money? Hello, he didn't pay NK to perform, did he? Where did this money taunt come from?
I think it was put in to emphasize how helpless he will feel later when all his money is of no use if Khushi dies.

NK after song ... DAMN cute again, so innocently, boyishly happy at being appreciated! Hayyeee, this is one sona munda! And he gets 9 points, and is perfectly happy to go on performing! Awww =)) And completely hilarious how Shyam was looking up at the ceiling ... hello, Stupid Snakewa, last I knew, arachnids don't fly!

Anjali introduces Khushi, Arnav busy in chatting, and looks up, arrested by the first sounds of "aweeweeweeweewee ..."
And SHE'S ON!!!
Full Sridevi costume, Miss Hawa Hawaii ... OMG, Sanaya was BRILLIANT, AWESOME, SUPERB!!! the winks, the smile, the sparkle in her eyes, the moves ... take your first bow, sweetheart!!!
Second attack ... Ek Do Teen ... again, BRILLIANT, SUPERB, OUTSTANDING ... the moves, the expressions, the smiles and winks ...
What MADE Sanaya's performance was her expression ... all through the songs her face was alight, her eyes sparkling ... for a dance performance, the facial expressions are as important if not more, than the movements ... and both Sridevi and Madhuri are masters of their craft in both dance and expression. And Sanaya was a match ... in the expressions department, an equal match, if not more ... simply SUPERB!!! Sanaya enjoys dancing ... and it SHOWED!!!

LOVED the way Arnav's smirk disappears, wiped off his face completely, and he stares mesmerized ... I noticed his expressions on the third watch, actually, the first two times, I was too busy staring at Sanaya! By the end of Ek DO Teen, he looked as though all he wanted to do was jump on stage, pick up Khushi and carry her off, caveman style, to his bedroom! He even forgot the name of his guest, so mesmerized was the man! :"> =))

And the best for the last ... Jiji Tere Jeithji Deewane ...
First, hats off to whoever wrote the lyrics ... spot on!!! Hilarious, teasing without being the least demeaning or insulting, telling him off gently about being all consumed with work, and the best and the sweetest ... how much he scares her with his What The ...
Liked the way all the Guptas were worried and apprehensive, so were the Raizadas, except for Nani ... she was impressed! :)
LOVED her wink at him, followed instantly by her worry at his glare ...
I think he started softening at the "kaante se khaate paranthe" ... and went totally mushy at the "what the se humein daraate" ... she has said that to him so many times on his face, that it was actually a private joke between them already ...
I know the forum is going lattoo over his laugh ... but I actually didn't find it very convincing ... he could have done a better job ...

But the last bit was THE BEST part for me ... the way she sits down at the end of the song, and ALL her attention, her focus is on him, ONLY on him ... as the songs finishes, a myraid of emotions in those amazing eyes again ... apprehension, an apology, asking for his opinion, "how was it? Are you very angry?", holding her ear in apology, yet smiling, teasing ... and loving ...
And his expression ... smiling, indulgent, a touch of pride "that's my girl," or rather, "that's MY girl," ... and at her unspoken apology, his reassuring smile ... "it's ok."
And her last look ... pure love ... "I love to see you smile" ... if he's happy, it's all right with her world ...  I melted at that last look she gave him, no wonder Arnav just had to smile back.

That last exchange of looks said it all ... BEAUTIFUL ... I rewound and watched just that last exchange a dozen times. This is why this couple rock, this is why Sanaya rocks!

And Anjali, her tubelight flickering slightly, points out that it's the second time she's made him laugh.
And if ODB goes back to 'it was all about the challenge', I will smack him where it hurts!

A picture says a thousand words

Links:
Part 1 HD
Part 2 HD

18/1 - Epi 167 ... Scorpion that Vanished and Two Heavyweights

18th Jan Wed

Shyam is fast becoming a comic villain - his never-ending hunt for the scorpion was the funniest part of the episode. As was his frustration with his over-loving, mollycoddling wife ... =))

Mami is truly the villain of the show - this is the third time she has gotten away with her nefarious activities x(

The Arhi scene was cute - where Khushi babbles away happily about how she's not scared of Arnav, til confronted by the man himself ... whereupon she runs for her life. Wish he had smiled a bit more at that one - he was definitely smiling wider and wider through the episode - in fact, I don't think I've ever seen him smile wider! By the end it was a full-fledged grin! =))

Mami was way better than Buaji in the dance for sure, but not better than Nani ... two heavyweights dancing! Today's performance was very average though - tomorrow is Khushi, that should be fun ... and maybe NK as well :) 

Khushi looked like a doll - simply adorable in the scene with NK and bua, as perplexed as him about her aunt's very random behaviour. Didn't they guess what had happened? Guess not - as alcohol was supposed to be not allowed on the premises! Loved both Khushi and NK in the scene :)

And loved the look Arnav was giving her in the precap as she danced :">
And the Snake too x(

*Quick edit as I already got all the main points above :)*
Khushi giving pep talk to Buaji, approving smiles (and not much else) from Payal and Garima). Arnav smirks.

Snakewa looking for pet scorpion ... that's about all he did throughout the episode!
Khushi chats with Akash ... gabbling away about how she's not scared of Arnav, Akash disappears, Arnav takes his place, and listens, encouraging her to gabble ... till she realizes who she's talking to ... cute scene ... cliched but cute. And of course he taunts her again .. 'who's scared? Me or you?' ... in a very mild, soft tone ... to which she has no answer. So she just turns, gives him as defiant a look as she can manage, and beats a quick retreat. And he watches her go with none of his usual anger, but a much softer look ... with the instrumental Rv in the bg, to show his softened feelings (have to add, necessary, as his expression wasn't too soft here.).

Mami gets up to her antics and spikes Buaji's drink ... interrupted by a frantic Shyam when she discovers his box ... both trying to hide their respective kartoot ... Shyam manages to get rid of Mami, scorpion still inside the box, but Mami has untied and dropped the ribbon, so he bends to pick it up .. yet another interruption, in the form of his ever-loving wife =))
One reason for Shyam to feel suffocated was shown very clearly ... and in a hilarious manner ... I actually felt sorry for the guy with such an overly-melodramatic, cloyingly loving wife! Loved the way she dragged him away and he cast longing glances at his beloved scorpion! =))

The scene with NK, Garima and Buaji was sweet, and probably the only realistic scene in the episode :) ... the family members actually talking in a normal friendly manner. Loved the way NK was happily chatting with the Gupta ladies ... then the whole shenanigan of playing with the drinks till Mami wasn't sure which went where ... another cliched scene, time pass, but NK made it cute! And Buaji gets the spiked drink meant for her.
Side note - liked Garima's sari and jewelry, she looked pretty. A pretty wallpaper ;)

Mami-Buaji - dance of the heavyweights ... Mami was definitely better, Buaji was reasonably graceful, but is so bulky! And of course she gets drunk, messes up, and Khushi is starting to get very worried indeed. And Arnav's smirk is getting wider and wider, it's almost a full-fledged grin now!

Shyam trying to get rid of cloying loving wifey!
Cute of NK to go congratulate Buaji - he's really a sweet guy! Buaji-NK ... filler, but needed ... don't know whether Arnav was practicing for his dance, but Khushi sure needed the time with two full dances coming up! And she was still very much in the NK-Buaji scene too! Loved the little by-play between NK and Khushi at Buaji's behaviour! :)

Scores announced - R- 14, G - 4 ... well, G's have taken part in one round, R's have had two, so let's see if our heroine can make up the points! And judging by the precap, she sure will!
Khushi was dancing so well in 'ek, do teen'! And judging by the smirk being wiped off Arnav's face, he thought so too! Loved that look! :"> :)

I was actually checking how much screen time Sanaya had today - two full dances plus Teri Meri coming up, she needs all the time to practice ... but she's very much on screen during the episode ... a couple of solid scenes with lots of dialogues - she's really giving her all to the show, and working flat out! No wonder the poor girl looked exhausted in the SBS! Hope she gets some rest when she's in hospital with the scorpion bite!

Links
Part 1 HD
Part 2 HD

Will the truth finally come out?

Am a little confused, I thought SJ knew about Priya's molestation case, and he was out of the country so he couldn't help. Also thought that Priya got to know that BJ is her FIL only after her wedding was safely over, so did Devyani tell her before that to keep quiet? Or did Devyani tell her that without knowing that the culprit was BJ?

Anyway, good news - 6 month extension, although this means the court case will be dragged a while longer as will the issue of Aditya recovering his brains. Like I said, one person on Indian telly with less brains than Anjali ... and even less excuse! :P

Just hope that SJ turns out to be a strong lawyer and not just a pretty face, with the villain as usual running rings around him in court. Also hope that Priya remembers that she is a law student and can withstand BJ's bullying tactics in court.

What is Roshnee Devi going to do? I think the tipping point will be the realisation that BJ tried to kill Karan, so now that they have the extension, that truth will not come out too soon either. Just hope they don't drag too much ... it's good they seem to have an end point, they can work with that in mind to carry the show forward and reveal all the truths slowly and convincingly. In fact, all shows should have an end date so that they mould their stories accordingly, and don't drag them.

17/1 - Epi 166 ... Timepass Tuesday

17th Jan Tues

watched episode, new title describes it better ;)
 Funniest part - all the guests walking purposefully from one side of the screen to the other ... do people walk so fast at a party?! =))

*edited*
Starts with Slimeball Snakewa hunting for his pet scorpion, and Anjali hunting for her pet Snakewa to host the show =))
And tonight Arnav made up for the cocktail party night - he was waiting for Khushi from the word go! :) Now that's like a good boy@ :P
As is NK ... who's far more open about it :)

Dislike scene no. 1 - Manorama ignoring Payal ... hello, she's your would-be DIL, it's the wedding festivities, why this kolaveri di? Akash stepping in - cute! Anjali stepping in - likewise! Although Anjali's smile was toooo wide!!!

Dislike scene no. 2 - Buaji dragging in a huge box ... honestly, who would go to their samdhis' house for a function like this? Ridiculous entry! Cv's idiotic brand of humour again? Fell flat for me :(  :-q
Even worse - the two ghabru jawans stand watching an old lady drag in a heavy box and do nothing to help.

The parts where NK sees Khushi and Arnav keeps missing her, were cute ... just could have been done differently. And Sanaya looked gorgeous :"> ... the unusual dress style made her look very exotic and Middle Eastern ... like a Persian princess. No wonder Arnav stared spellbound  and actually swallows - showing how much she affects him :"> Love their instrumental Arhi music :)
Didn't like - the little puff of hair under which her mang tika was fixed, or the ill-fitting top. But the color was beautiful, suited her. Have found very few colors which don't suit Sanaya.

NK gets all excite and rushes off to meet her, Arnav stays put, just smiling slightly, satisfaction and was that a touch of pride? on his face ... of course his tigress has come. Back away from a challenge? She? No way!
But then he does go to her, and offers to call HP to help ... she refuses any help. Again her pride ... he likes it ... (Barun's expressions were superb all through, have to say ... noticed them better on the repeat ... difficult to watch carefully with husband giving running commentary all along! =)) )  So everything which annoyed him about her earlier, he is now appreciating ...

Cute byplay between Arnav, NK and Khushi ... Arnav annoyed she took NK's help and not his ... he starts to leave, Khushi stops him immediately with a challenging remark, ostensibly directed at NK, but meant for Arnav ... NK gushes that of course she will win, Arnav gives him a look - whose side are you on anyway? and NK hastily changes his stand ... and all through the conversation, although Khushi's talking to NK, her focus point is always Arnav ...

Filler scenes with Mami-Buaji ... they will probably need a lot of these to stretch the episode between the dances ... but talking so loudly? The crowds were very funny, bad direction - all walking to and fro purposefully across the screen ... if Payash had to be in the background, couldn't they show them going around the crowd being introduced or something?

Ah ... now we're talking ... Arnav watches Khushi, his entire focus just on her, as she laughs and jokes with NK, and he has such a soft expression on his face - finally!!! :) :"> 8->

Will Arnav remember how strangely Shyam was acting later?

It was actually funny - the choice of song and the lyrics matched with Nani's and NK's dance, while Shyam hunted frantically for his pet bichhoo ... explained the choice of song! =))
And interspersed all through with Arhi's challenging looks at each other, her defiance, his confident smirk, alternating with the softness in unguarded moments ...
Cute, the way Khushi was happily enjoying the dance, forgetting all about the competition, till Buaji reminded her :) and then Arnav's verrry satisfied smirk as he looks at her as though to say - can you match that one? and her worried look back ... seriously, these two don't need too many words! And haven't seen Arnav smile so much ever in the entire show ... the guy is having the time of his life ... Arnav well and truly woken up from deep inside Ironman ASR.

Buaji getting cold feet - Arnav very happy ... Khushi does her best to wind up Buaji and give her some confidence ... buaji goes ... "haar gaye toh?" and Khushi shoots a worried look straight at a very confident smirking Arnav ... awww ... :) :"> =))

Am very sure Manorama's plan will backfire and the alcohol will give Buaji the courage to dance ... it will be a tie for sure, and so Arnav will step in right at the end ... with Teri Meri ... :"> can't wait ... hayyeeeee!!!!

On repeat watch, I liked the episode better - on first watch, the Mami ignoring Payal and the Buaji-Khushi entry put me off. But the Arhi eyelocks all through were worth a rewatch for sure.

Links
Part 1 HD
Part 2 HD
Promo Arhi dance Teri Meri

16/1 - Epi 165 ... The Challenge, the Snake and the Scorpion

16th Jan Monday

It seems the cv's have definitely heard the complaints about Khushi becoming juvenile ... the change is so evident, so drastic ... and oh, sooo welcome!!! Loved the Arhi conversation - for once, it was a conversation between two sane, mature and sensible adults!And sexy ones at that ... the undertones in the conversation and the unspoken exchanges through eyes and expressions was simply delicious!

Shyam is a useless planner, I must say ... ek scorpion nahin sambhal sakta! =))  But can I say ... I'm glad he got into action, this sangeet promises to be interesting!

Both Arnav and Khushi worried about winning the sangeet ... much to the surprise of their siblings ... if only they knew, but of course, no one does ... :)

Random observations - No one got the tea Khushi was supposed to be making all the while, and no one seemed surprised or concerned when Arnav Khushi emerged from the kitchen together :)
What about gifts for Arnav and Akash?

*edited* 
Episode begins with Guptas exchanging gifts ... honestly, this is the part I like the least in Indian weddings ... especially because taunts like Mamiji's actually do happen still, although probably couched in more polite language ... but the boy's side always has something uncomplimentary to say about the girl's gifts! So of course Mami has to hold forth on how her set is light, how the puja ki thaal is something the servants get at RM ...


Back to Arhi ... ok, can I repeat my halleluiahs that my Khushi is back? :) :) :) Or rather, my Sanaya, the one I love, low-voiced, firm, polite, graceful, dignified ... I know Khushi's character is different, but Sanaya is just so good at what she does in her mature, serious avatar, that is what I love best about her! And that's what Khushi was all about - klutzy and funny at home, but spirited and able to hold her own with Arnav Singh Raizada, business tycoon, in a way that challenged him on his own turf, not like a 16 year old! And by bringing her to that level, the cv's actually destroyed the essence of Arhi, and with that, of the show. Khushi MAKES the show, you cannot play with her character!!! So welcome back, Khushi Kumari Gupta - seeing you like this, made me realise what we were missing all these days!!!  


So, Arhi - and the challenge - Arnav challenges her, what if you lose, Khushi replies, ok, if you're so sure, so am I, I'll do anything you say. 
Another unwise response, but made with complete confidence ... she has full faith in her talent ... like she had full faith in her ability to work hard and do all she was asked to do in office. She will give it her all, her very best - that's what she does. 
And his eyes say he's got her exactly where he wants her.
Has he even thought out what he will make her do? I don't think so ... at this point it's all about the challenge, the thrill of the game, the excitement of the chase, the competition, the sport ...
Really? Think about it. 
Loved his voice modulation here, testing, challenging, a hint of daredevilry and enjoyment of the game ... and the utter confidence that he will win.
I've given my word.
For her, that's the end of the matter. She's promised, she will live up to her word. Doesn't he know that much by now? That she doesn't back off?

She's not looking at him, so she doesn't see his satisfied smirk ... you might regret it. Meaning he will make sure she does. And will enjoy doing it. Oh yes, he's enjoying the game this time around - very much indeed. She is a match for him, he knows that, and he's going to enjoy making sure she loses ... but much more than that, he's going to enjoy the game. As he's enjoying this war of words right now ...

She turns then ... I don't do anything I might regret later. As self-assured, as confident as he is ...

He nods slightly.
I'll remember that. Let's talk now only after you lose the competition ... 
Momentary worry on her face at his confidence and his "when" ... has she bitten off more than she can chew? Again?

He turns to leave, then stops ... she's still standing there, the worry showing ...
Kuch bhi karogi, right?
Don't go back on your word, Khushi ... I'll remember every word you said, and make sure you remember it too.
If Khushi had any sense, she would turn and run for her life at that silky smooth predatory look and that softly threatening tone ... a man on the prowl, on the hunt ... backing her slowly and steadily into a corner from where she has no escape ...
And she seems to know it, to sense it ... her eyes fall, her face shows her uncertainty, and that unnamed pull to the man ... she looks away quickly before she shows too much, before she gets sucked in by his gaze and loses her composure ...
Kuch bhi ... although it's an agreement, her words are far more uncertain than his, her tone soft, unsteady ... what has she let herself in for?

He nods a reflective okay, and starts to leave ... stopped by her voice, more confident again ...
And what if you lose?
This is a contest between equals, Mr. Raizada, and believe it or not, there are chances of your losing too ... let's cover all eventualities, shall we?
She's already sounding like him here. :">
He looks at her as though he hadn't given that a thought. It can't happen, why bother thinking about it?
But she presses him for an answer.
If your kismat isn't on your side, then what?
The same question he asked her, tossed back to him now.
I won't lose. And kismat doesn't play a role in my plans. I make my fate myself. Confident, sure.
Her turn to shake his confidence ... that's what you said when you said I'd come in front of you on NYE, and you were the one who came. When you threw me out of a job, then had to call me back to work for you. The one who prepared a grand party, but the one who made it a success was me.

She made her point. Things don't go his way always, and she just reminded him of all the times they didn't. So maybe there is a chance she could win - not a great chance, but a chance, nonetheless. Fair's fair between equals. So this time, what's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. The same rules ... the same game ... the same penalty ... if I lose, I do anything you say.
And the same reprise ... Kuch bhi? with a slight challenging lift of her eyebrows. His challenge thrown back at him.
He nods ... Kuch bhi ...
And they shake on it ... the bet is one ... let the games begin! And they have, even without knowing it, reached the stage where they can start this game without knowing the outcome, such confidence they have in the other that the outcome won't be seriously damaging. There is that trust between them ... which they don't even realise.

The most heart-touching and completely Awww moment ... the moment they hear Nani going "Bus kijiye, Manorama" and realise there's a problem elsewhere, they forget their personal fight, and are together instantly ... to check out what's happening in the rest of the house.

Akash tries to save the day, and not insult his mother in his in-laws' house ... a tough proposition, but he manages. Shyam and Anjali step in as well, Akash points out that the silver is good quality, and Arnav adds business facts into the equation, the facts of money which he knows Mami can't refute or ignore ... and Shyam ogles Khushi shamelessly, until Anjali recalls him to his senses ... Shameless Slimeball.
Have to add that Khushi was looking beautiful, though, with her loose hair over her shoulder. :"> And Raizadas leave ... arey, what happened to their tea? Maybe they thought Arhi drank it all, they were certainly in the kitchen long enough! :P
Khushi says quietly to Arnav, "we meet tomorrow" and after a last challenging look, he strides out, leaving her slightly worried again, but determined.

Night in GH - Payal worried about Mami and her taunts still, Khushi ressures her that Akash is there for her ... Payal adds that Arnav also helped, but Khushi doesn't want to hear anything good about him at all ... he's her opponent and she has to win at any cost ... that challenge is uppermost on her mind.
Payal says don't get so obsessed with winning that you do something wrong ... hope that's not a foreshadowing of something that Khushi will do.
And as Khushi sleeps that night, all her thoughts are on what he might make her do if she loses ...

Second half of the episode was devoted to the Snake and the Scorpion ... Shyam's planning needs some serious overhaul ... a scorpion? Is that the best he could come up with? Where did he even get it from? Why not a snake, wouldn't that have been easier? And does he want to cancel the wedding? Or is that just a byproduct of killing Anjali? Most of the second half went in Snake trying to hide his pet  scorpion.
Anjali's hairstyle ... bad! The three guys - looking good :) Shyam's kurta was also nice - why does he get the best clothes?! Arnav needs a wardrobe change, but I guess like Khushi, his will only happen after marriage too.
Shyam's yellow plastic box ... :-/
Family pictures ...
Arnav tells NK that they have to, have to win ... is that all of Arnav's planning? Now I am very sure he will  end up dancing, a close dance which will flummox Khushi ... ok, ok, I can dream, can't !?! 
And Anjali's tubelight flickers very briefly ... why is Arnav so keen on winning a sangeet that he didn't even want to attend or have?! Is it because of Khushi? Of course Arnav negates Khushi's importance in his life or decision-making immediately!
Basically timepass second half, nothing much happened except for the scorpion going missing and setting up the scene for its dramatic reappearance. Actually, maybe Khushi will end up losing because of the scorpion ...

Precap - had to mention ... Nani CAN dance, saala!!! =))

Links:
Part 1 HD
Part 2 HD

13/1 - Epi 164 ... Imitation and intensity

13th Jan Fri


First half - imitation is the sincerest form of flattery - not here, it isn't! Sanaya ROCKED =)) she got Mami's intonations down pat! Buaji's too, though that part was shorter. The most hilarious bit was of course when she opened the door and saw entire Raizada khandan standing there - my husband actually chuckled aloud at that part - and he doesn't often find Indian telly genuinely funny! And loved the way Arnav had to swallow his laugh - even more of an effort than the Payal-Akash time!
Also loved the way ODB went all the way to GH just to have the last word with his lady love ... like I guessed, it's all about the challenge for them ...

The last part in the kitchen ... the intensity is BACK!!! :) :"> :) Well and truly back! And Khushi is growing up slowly ... she was all nervous, flustered and very aware woman in that last scene ... no child there at all!

*edited*
The phone conversation continues ... pretty one-sided ;) Khushi jumps to completely erroneous conclusion that Arnav is trying to sabotage her dance performance, hence the repeated phone calls ... she ticks him off, not letting him get in a word edgewise =)) And Arnav left frustrated again ... how dare she not listen, not stop, walk away from him ... the list of crimes is endless! :P


Buaji frustrated and furious at Shyam's antics ... but doesn't tell Khushi what happened.


Manorama throws tantrum at being replaced as 'bahuriya' in chief ... on the other side, Payal worried about handling Mami, who doesn't like her at all. So Khushi as usual, decides to cheer her up ...


While Akash cheers up his mother in a sweet scene, which shows he might not be a silent bystander in the saas-bahu battles ahead, Khushi cheers up Payal by enacting Mami and Bua ... OMG, Khushi was just EPIC!!! =D> Hats off to Sanaya ... the voice, the tones, the intonations, the body language, the walk ... everything perfect!!! Am sure she took lessons from the original ... that's why Nani, Anjali and Mami were laughing about it on the SBB segment! But whatever ... she was amazing!!!


AT RM, Raizadas get ready to go give shagun to GH ... Arnav, much to Anjali's shock, says he's coming.
She walked away from him, she put down the phone on him ... of course, he's coming. He has to tell her where she gets off.
Shyam also accompanies them. Hmmm ... Snakewa in action again ... :(


Khushi opens the door in full nautanki mode ... and her jaw drops seeing Arnav. His likewise =))
The she sees Mami, fortunately busy spraying herself, and her jaw drops even further =)) and she comes to life and shuts the door. Mami disturbed at door closing looks indignant ... Arnav hides his grin with difficulty.
The door opening scene with Arnav's, Khushi's and Mami's expressions was completely and utterly hilarious!!! :D :D :D Utter gem of a scene!!!



Raizadas are let in by Bua and Payal as Khushi runs for cover.
Buaji forced to eat her words and allow Shyam to enter her house ...
Some teasing of Akash, exchange of gifts, and Buaji lets out that Khushi is making tea. Arnav's ears and eyes prick up instantly ... was he looking for her, waiting for her? He came just to talk to her, after all.
Man of action, he gets up immediately ... I want water ...
Buaji offers to get it ... he refuses politely ... he knows his way around well enough.
Making himself completely at home ... and getting his private time with Khushi ...


Khushi in the kitchen, getting rid of telltale Mami earrings ... worried if Mami saw her ... not at all worried if Arnav saw her ... she knows she's safe on that front - he won't tell. She forgot one rose in her hair though ... Arnav comes into the kitchen, removes it as smoothly as though he's been doing this a long time, and her hair cascades down over her shoulder. He offers her the rose, she takes it and puts it down, nervous already ... he's in her space and looking very confident about it.
"Actually, I'm from Lucknow too ..." as though they were in the middle of a conversation and he's just continuing it ... tones smooth, silky, non-threatening ...
She stares, baffled ... aap ... kya? What has that do do with anything?
He repeats ... I said, I'm also from Lucknow.
Still baffled, the morning's conversation is the last thing on her mind, besides the way he's looking at her, so calmly, confidently is making her even more nervous ...
Haan ... toh?


He moves in, what he reallywanted to say, what's been bugging him ... so how dare you walk away from me when I'm talking, how dare you cut my phone ... 
Bua calls again for tea ... but before she can even answer, he cuts in ... no more interruptions, he will have his say this time, and the hell with anyone trying to interrupt ... Enough! Now I talk, you listen! Your saying you'll win doesn't mean a thing. I never lose ... the boys' side will win ...

So that's what this is all about. His challenge and his ego ... yet again. Well, she's never one to back away from any challenge. She never did earlier when she was a nobody, and definitely not now ...
I don't know what it is to lose ... that's not in my vocabulary ...
Are you so confident? ... and he starts moving in on her ... she starts backing, slightly alarmed but not too much yet ...
Try me ... 
My money and my power talks ... I don't need to test you ...
Money and power can buy you dancers, but not talent ... and you need talent to win this contest ...

He's got her where he wants her ... ready to take him on ...

So if you lose?
I won't lose. Still very confident ...
He reminds her ... you said this earlier too ... when you left my work ... you came back. You said it about Payal Akash too, then you agreed for their rishta ...
Her eyes fall ... he's right ... she lost those rounds to him ...

And he moves in for the kill ... he's got her where he wants her.
So think, Khushi Kumari Gupta ... if your kismat deserts you now ...?
She says uncertainly now ... if I lose ...
He smiles slightly, confidently ... if you lose ...?
And they stare at each other ... a man and a woman ... he confident, smirking slightly, she nervous, less of the challenge and more of the man it came from ... and the kitchen is thick with the tension and the sparks between them ...

What is he going to ask her if she loses? And knowing him, he is going to do his best and his meanest to make sure she loses ...

Links
Part 1 HD
Part 2 HD

12/1 - Epi 163 ... Let the Games Begin!

12th Jan Thursday

Competitiveness isn't confined to the male of the species. Our KKG has a very healthy streak of it as well ... so God help Arnav.
Slimeball Snake ogling Khushi all the way ... what exactly is he going to do?!
NK falling big time for Khushi ... and Arnav waters his plants ... not exactly my ideal jealous lover :-<
And Slimeball crushed by Roadroller Buaji ... STAR of the Day!!!

Judging by the precap, Khushi is going to be the star tomorrow ... OMGGGG =)) My Nautanki Queen!!! :-*

*edited*
So the entire junta party files in, looking like errant schoolkids in front of strict headmaster, NK asks if the drama is over and they can talk now ... everyone starts laughing nervously, Nani is happy Arnav changed his mind, and in the face of the obvious enthusiasm for the sangeet in his own family members, Arnav can't say any more ... Round One to KKG!
Didn't understand why she talked about haar-jeet with NK ... he doesn't know about her challenge with Arnav, does he? But despite being on the boys' side, he's very much on KKG's team - let Arnavji lose!
And Arnav accepts the challenge - okay, round one to her, but don't talk about victory yet - that's premature, because he is so gonna win. Wait for the day of the sangeet!
Is Barun going to dance?

He comes up close to her ... the game is on, try not to fall as per your habit, because this time I won't hold you.
He turns away, stumbles over the carpet and she reaches instinctively, instantly ... to steady him ... a very small eyelock ... another retun of the physical awareness ... before the challenge kicks in again.
And you don't worry about falling, because I will help you ... because in Lucknow, winners help the losers.
And then she gives a long spiel on their further conversation ... =)) and then says ... now do go ahead from your What The .. because where your What the ends, my thumkas begin!
She walks off, quite pleased with herself for getting the last word this time. And he looks after her with a small smirk ... let the games begin! It's only fun when it's a battle between equals anyway, and this time this one sure is!
Their challenges seem to be their way of staying connected, because neither is willing to acknowledge his/her feelings yet ... both are masking them, even to themselves. 

Mama, NK and Akash - Akash surprised how Arnav agreed, Nk says worshipfully, Khushi did it all :)
Slimeball is back (after his birthday celebrations, Abhaas looked dead! =)) ) and gazes besotted at a smiling Khushi as she descends the stairs, still very pleased with herself.
Mami busy chatting about sangeet song selection, Arnav comes in straight to Khushi .. how dare you?
How dare she what? Walk away from him before he's done? Old habit of hers, Arnav, don't you know? And one which riles him every single time.
Before he can say anything further, Nani and Anjali come in with the prize for the sangeet - a Nataraja murthi.

Lots of little nuances here ... Arnav and Khushi totally lost in each other and their private war, Shyam lost in Khushi, bumps into Anjali, so Khushi notices him and realises he was looking at her, her discomfort shows, Nani asks Arnav and Khushi to sit and Khushi sits promptly next to NK, who gazes at her worshipfully again, Arnav glares yet again ... both for her ignoring him and for sitting next to NK ... And Shyam sees her sitting next to NK, but not the byplay between Arnav and Khushi ... so likely he might think there's something between NK and Khushi, but won't suspect the truth about Arhi yet ...
Nani announces the prize for the dance - her Nataraj murthi - Khushi declares she will win it, Mami challenges her, so does Anjali ... the competitive spirit rising :) ... Arnav, of course is doing what he does best ... glowering! For him, it's more than just a competition, it's a question of his ego and pride - he challenged her, so of course he has to win!

Shyam tries to talk to Khushi, she ignores him completely and leaves. NK escorts her to the door ... Arnav glowers again! And he actually goes after Khushi this time ... While Shyam angry at Khushi's ignoring him also glowers and determines to do something again to get her back into his life.
Arnav wants to talk to Khushi ... she doesn't, so she runs. :P

GH - Khushi forcing exhausted Buaji to practice, so enthusiastic are the two that they forgot all about cooking lunch! This part was damn cute ... I so often forget to cook or eat when I'm engrossed in something! :P Loved Buaji's guilty expressions!
Shyam the slimeball arrives and ogles Khushi ... Bua sees him ... is this the first time she realises that he did all the drama just to get Khushi?

In the meantime, NK calling Khushi and doing an Akash - keeps cutting the phone when Khushi picks up! =)) And Arnav arrives to water his flowers ... stays glued there when he realises whom NK is calling ... and what does Arnav do? Glower, of course!!! =))
Liked Arnav's expressions when NK was talking to Khushi ... drinking in each word, every nugget of information as to what she was doing, and the final one as NK leaves, his quizzical look, what are you up to? NK leaves, just as Khushi, puzzled why he called at all, calls back ... and Arnav picks up. Khushi goes speechless. :">

Best scene - Buaji drags Shyam by the collar, and BLASTS him =D> =D> =D> GO, Buaji!!! After all the grief you gave Khushi, this is the least you can do, and your way of making up to her! And what a great way! And she warns him, don't you dare to show your face in this house or this neighbourhood again!

Precap - OMG, Khushi a la Mami =)) Complete with pink glares!

Links
Part 1 HD
Part 2 HD

11/1 - Epi 162 ... Dumb Charades Inc.

11th Jan Wed

I don't know whether it was because I didn't go on the forum at all today and completely missed all the negativity, but I thoroughly enjoyed today's episode. Seems the Diwali track was being re-created in a milder version, because it ended in the same way too, with Arnav telling Khushi that she had no importance in his life ... honestly, how does anyone expect Khushi to feel anything tender for him if he keeps repeating this ad nauseum? The moment the girl gets a bit close, or starts feeling aware of him as a man, he comes up with the same old stuff ... is she brainless or something that she will drool over the guy just for his looks, and forget everything he says?

Loved seeing the low firm-voiced Sanaya back ... the screaming girl of the last few episodes gone ... hopefully forever! Loved the Arhi kitchen scene where she ticked him off ... you want silence, you'll get silence. Let's see how you like it!

Loved Sanaya in the emerald green suit - her complexion was glowing today ... she looked simply stunning! :">

Felt sorry for Arnav at one point - when he was genuinely so worried about Anjali ... and poor Anjali, melting too quickly, and being told firmly by the others to hold steady ... =)) He looked like a school headmaster when he called his errant family in ... No wonder they love having Khushi around, if she livens things up so much, and manages to find ways to defeat his autocracy ... otherwise RM would be like a prison camp! Today, I was surprised when the episode ended, it went so fast ... shows that it was really good.

Loved the Dumb Charades at the lunch table ... the actors are ALL so good, they made it work and how! I could have watched that for a lot longer! Most hilarious part was when Arnav also started miming, and then realised what he was doing! =))

All in all, good fun episode, showed some signs of the old Khushi returning, and some of the old intensity as well ...

*edit - detailed update - because the episode deserves a longer one =))
Khushi tell Arnav to slap her, because while she does know that his cancelling the sangeet is due to her, she's not exactly sure why. Silly Khushi, didn't you figure out the moment you said the word 'competition', Arnav's antennae were on high alert? And this guy just challenged you that he wouldn't lose, remember?
Khushi doesn't remember ... or at least, she finds it easier to believe that he cancelled the sangeet because of her thappad. So she tells him - slap me, we're even and then we can go ahead with the sangeet, right?
Wrong. He won't slap her ... gone are the days when he could drop her from an open window, or even from his arms (I think so, wonder if he'll prove me wrong on that one?) ... he can't hurt her now ... not physically, at least. 
Loved the way Khushi kept muttering silently Devi maiyya, Devi maiyya all the time when her eyes were closed :P
He asks softly ... maar doon? and moves closer to her.
Then he adds, softly still ... forget it, you can't take it ...
And she opens her eyes to find him a bit too close for comfort, and looking at her still with that softness ... and she steps away hurriedly.

:"> Some of the old intensity returning?

But the guy can't show too much softness once she opens her eyes ... (This guy gets the softness in his eyes only when her eyes are closed ... buster, what earthly use is that? x( ) ... so he's back to his snarky ways ... who told you I cancelled the sangeet because of you anyway? Don't give yourself so much importance! I don't even think about you! 
Like, really??? Yeah right!!!!
(And then people wonder why Khushi is not madly, hopelessly, head over heels in love with the guy!)
But the way he's looking at her doesn't seem to tie in with his words ... as though he's actually wanting her to see the dichotomy ... then he adds, I stopped the sangeet because I don't want the noise, I like peace and quiet.
Really, sweetheart? Is that the best you could come up with? Agreed, her soft hazel eyes looking at him with that hurt, disbelieving look would have thrown him off a bit ... so he actually felt the need to give an explanation, lame though it was ...
Khushi is very upset ... her pleading didn't work this time ... but then when does it ever work immediately? He always stops and reflects AFTER she has gone ...

Anjali, Nani and Mami all upset ... Nani goes off to satsang to pray for sadbuddhi to strike Arnav ... Khushi says God helps those who help themselves ...
Laxmi bleats and Khushi gets an idea ... but of course =)) Even Mami joins in wholeheartedly =))

Arnav at work, waiting for his office to get ready ... he finally remembered he has an office! Maybe Navya is giving up the office sets now that the wedding is on ...
HP starts the dumb charades ... lunch is ready. All in gestures. Arnav baffled. Baby, you ain't seen anything yet =))
Mami next - asks him in gestures to attend her phone. Bafflement grows.
The supporting cast in this show is DAMN good!!! =))
Nani enters ... again liked the little touches - she's standing with beaming smile on her face, obviously has been informed about the charades and is all ready to take part ... sees Arnav and glares ... no, she's not happy with him at all! Gestures that she went to mandir and now she's hungry ...

Lunch table ... entire family communicating in gestures ... totally into the spirit of the game ... Khushi already behaves like a member of the house ... or rather, the bahu :"> Serves water silently to Nani, Arnav shoots her a very thoughtful look, brain starts ticking ...
NK starts, Khushi stops him, he zips his mouth ... =))
Hilarious ... every little noise Arnav makes, the family glares at him. Nani's expressions! =D>

Arnav starts to eat sweet, Khushi perturbed immediately, message passes around table, first in gestures, then in the note ... Arnav asks, you could have said so, what's happened to you all?
Nani shoots Khushi a questioning glance, Khushi shakes her head. Just in case Arnav had any doubt who was behind this ... ;)
Khushi goes to get water for NK, Arnav follows her ... yay, the private Arshi conversations are back! Nani slightly worried for Khushi.

Of course he loses it ... what's going on? Why isn't anybody saying anything?
Silence. She just looks at him then tries to leave. He blocks her.
I know this is all your doing. What have you told them?
Delicately raised eyebrows ... oh really? Unspoken - I thought I wasn't important enough?Then she gestures eloquently again - step aside, let me go.
You can't talk to me like this ... through gritted teeth.
She raises her eyebrows, shrugs her shoulders ... talk??? When did I even say anything?!
Why are you not speaking? Why is nobody saying anything?
Shhh ...
Why should I keep quiet? In fact, why are you quiet?! Why aren't you saying anything???!!!
(Side note to Khushi - in future, especially after marriage, whenever Arnav is angry with you, just give him the silent treatment. It works really well - he can't stand a silent Khushi! )
And finally she speaks ... because you want silence. And I do know what silence means. You said you don't like noise, you like solitude ... so that's what we're giving you. Then why the problem? We're just doing what you want.
Having made her point quietly, eloquently, she leaves. Leaving him frustrated as hell.
Was he also frustrated because she got the last word for once? And that she left him, not the other way around?
Totally loved Sanaya in the kitchen scene ... her eyes speak, they really do! Her eyes, her gestures, the way she gestures when he says why are you not speaking, as though to say, isn't that what you wanted? all subtle, nothing overdone ... cvs, please keep this Khushi now, not the OTT one!



Again liked the little touches as Khushi goes back to the table ... everyone worried, Khushi reassures that all is well, all relieved, even Mami! and go back to eating.
Arnav comes back, tells everyone to stop the drama. Laxmi bleats, Nani gestures her to shush =)) Then she and Khushi grin. Nope, drama not over yet!
Arnav's had enough. Where's Di? The only one always on his side.
Not this time, buster! She's as mad as everyone about the arbitrary sangeet cancellation.
Nani gestures - she's upstairs.
What's she doing?
NK gestures she's sleeping. Glare from Nani and Khushi. No, she's eating ... another glare. Nani takes over. She's crying?
Arnav horrified ... crying? He asks in gestures ... has she eaten? =))  then realises what he's doing and stops, angry with himself ... has she eaten?
No. Nani mournful ...
Arnav goes up with plate for Anjali ... the rest are ecstatic ... plan working!

Anjali bitiya is not crying or hungry. She's tucking into her food. Gets rid of plate hurriedly when Arnav comes in and tries frantically to finish her mouthful ... again, have to repeat the entire cast is really good! Anjali was hilarious!
The only thing irritating was that canned laughter.
Arnav really distressed that Anjali is not talking to him ... awww, poor guy! The one thing he can't take ... well, one of two, he can't take Khushi not talking to him either, but wild horses won't get him to admit that!
Anjali almost melts, she adores her younger brother too, and can't see him upset for too long. But the family spur her on ... no, she can't give way, not yet.
Arnav gives way remarkably quickly ... okay, have the sangeet if you want, just don't go hungry.
Sach, Chotey? 
Mission accomplished.
Not yet ... Arnav has a condition - she has to eat first. Anjali dismayed - she just tucked away a plateful ... and her first plate is showing near Arnav's shoe. Khushi stumbles in to the rescue ... and busted!!!

Good fun episode! Poor Arnav .. his autocratic ways are meeting major stumbling blocks these days.