Double Dhamaka – Episodes 405 & 406

Kurukshetra – Episode 405

The doors of the Kaul Mansion fly open as Geet walks in. He tries to remember the house but he finds he can’t. Although he does feel like he’s in a familiar surrounding. Charithri sees him from upstairs and recognizes him at once. She rushes off inside and finds Gajendra, Sailesh and Drishti in the study going over some business plans.

Charithri: Bhabi…

They all look up at her.

Charithri: Bhabi… Geet is here.

Drishti: What?

Charthri: Yes, he’s downstairs. He’s all grown up but I can still recognize him, that’s Geet and he is here.

The others exchange looks.

Gajendra: Are you ready for this Rauktima?

Drishti: Rauktima would never be ready for something like this Papa, but Drishti is.

She stands up firmly and takes a deep breath and then walks out of the room. The others follow. She makes her way downstairs and sees Geet. She smiles when she sees him but then she holds herself back from getting emotional. He sees her and is stunned. She decides to speak before he does.

Drishti: Yes, can I help you?

Geet: I… it’s me…

Drishti: Me?

Geet: I mean it’s me Mom…

Drishti: Mom?

Geet: It’s me Geet.

She raises a brow and then walks over to him. She smiles a little.

Drishti: Well my goodness it is you… Look at you, all grown up.

Geet throws himself at her and hugs her tight. She almost bursts out into tears but then just taps him slightly on the back.

Drishti: That’s enough of that Geet…

Geet is a bit upset but moves back.

Drishti: What are you doing here?

Geet: I’m here to see you amongst other things.

Drishti: What other things?

Geet: Well… Dad said that he spoke to you about a business deal and…

Drishti: I said no to him so he sent you here to convince me?

Geet: Actually it was Urvashi Nani who wanted me to come and meet you.

Drishti: I see.

Geet: She’s keen on meeting you Mom and she wants to talk about a deal with you.

Drishti: I already told your father that…

Geet: Please Mom… please do this for us.

Drishti: For you? Why would I want to do anything for either of you?

Geet is taken aback by this.

Drishti: The two of you mean nothing to me.

And then, he’s hurt…

Drishti: I don’t even see why you’re wasting my time.

Geet: How could you be so cruel? I thought you’d be thrilled to see me after all these years…

Drishti: Well I’m happy to see you but that’s as far as it goes darling. I haven’t had a husband or a son my entire life, not since the world assumed I was dead.

Geet: And I’m beginning to think that that’s the way it should have continued being.

Drishti: Right… So if you have no further business with me then I have to get ready for an important meeting.

Drishti turns to leave…

Geet: Mrs. Drishti Kaul.

She stops and turns around to face him again.

Geet: I apologize for having appealed to you as a son. Clearly that was a mistake on my part. I’m here on business that concerns Mrs. Urvashi Agnihotri and Agnihotri Incorporated. Granted, our company is not as large as Chakra International but our reach has grown far and wide throughout the years. Agnihotri Incorporated itself has various areas of business and development that it deals with. The companies are flourishing at the moment and will continue doing so in times to come. Over the years the other companies that have merged with us include Shergill Industries, which has a loyal base of business partners. Recently the company has also brought on board Dushyanth Agnihotri’s production company, which has been successful for many years now. We believe that we can add value to Chakra International if a business deal should occur between the two parties. Will you please consider it?

Drishti gives Geet a half smile and walks closer to him.

Drishti: Now you’re talking. Tell your… Urvashi Nani that I’ll be in Delhi next week… I’ll meet her then.

Drishti turns around and walks away. Geet looks around at the others there and walks out. Upstairs in her room Drishti locks the door and begins crying. She takes in a few deep breaths and composes herself once again.

Drishti: I’m coming back home Urvashi, I’m coming back home. I will right every wrong that you’ve committed at Chandra Mahel and I will make you pay for all you’ve done. The past fourteen years has made me evolve into a force that not even you can reckon with. I’m coming home.

Meanwhile… back in Delhi… In a dark room somewhere a bunch of young men and women are getting intoxicated. There are lines of cocaine everywhere and clouds of smoke covering the ceiling. One of the young men snorts a line and then throws his head back taking it all in. He laughs a bit and one of the boys calls out to him…

Boy: What’s the matter Nikhil? Are you already on cloud nine?

Nikhil Agnihotri turns to face the boy and laughs a bit.

Nikhil: I was on cloud nine half an hour ago dude. I’m way past that now. But I have to go home now.

Girl: No way Nikhil… stay some more, there’s so much more drugs to do.

Nikhil: I know and as enticing as that sounds, I have to go. My mother must be worried.

Everyone starts laughing. Nikhil grabs his things and leaves the place. He then gets into his car and his driver takes him back to Chandra Mahel. He gets off and sways a bit. His eyes are read and he keeps sniffing and wiping the bottom of his nose. As he walks into the house he almost falls over when Shastra comes running over to him and helps him.

Shastra: Nikhil… are you alright?

Nikhil: I’m fine Di… Nothing to worry about.

Sahstra: You’re not fine. Where have you been?

Nikhil: I’ve been out.

Shastra: That’s a bit obvious. Come on let me take you to your room.

Shastra leads Nikhil up the stairs and takes him to his room. She helps him into his bed and then proceeds to take off his shoes.

Nikhil: Di what are you doing?

Shastra: I’m making you comfortable. Now shut up and lie down.

Nikhil: No Di I can do it myself.

Shastra: Nikhil you’re in no state to argue with me so please let me do this.

Nikhil lies down and then Shastra takes his shoes off. She puts his legs up into bed and covers him with a sheet. She’s about to leave the room when…

Nikhil: Didi…

She turns around.

Shastra: Yea.

Nikhil: Thank you…

She smiles at him.

Shastra: You’re welcome. Now go to sleep.

She switches the lights off and closes the door as she walks out. She’s walking away to her room when Urvashi appears out of nowhere. Shastra almost jumps out of her skin.

Shastra: DADI!

Urvashi: Hello… why so jumpy?

Shastra: Uh… no reason.

Urvashi: Really? Did I just see you taking Nikhil into his room?

Shastra: Well yes… I mean I wasn’t taking him I was just… walking with him.

Urvashi: Hmmm… What is he on?

Shastra: On?

Urvashi: He’s on drugs is he not?

Shastra: I… no… of course not.

Urvashi: Are you lying to me?

Shastra: No Dadi… I’m not.

Urvashi: Listen to me very carefully Shastra. I don’t give a rat’s ass as to whether he’s on drugs or not, he can ruin himself for all I care but the next time he’s sober just tell him from me that he better not be using my money to get high because if he is, that’ll be the end of him. You’re a good girl, I like you so I’m sure you’ll do the needful.

Shastra: Yes Dadi.

Urvashi: Good.

Urvashi walks off and Shastra breathes a sigh of relief. Later in her room… Shastra looks very worried… at that point Geet walks in.

Shastra: Bhaiyya… you’re back. I thought you’d be gone for a few days.

Geet: Well things didn’t turn out as I planned.

Shastra: Did you meet your Mom?

Geet: My mother is dead Shastra. The woman I met was Drishti Kaul… She gave birth to me but that’s as far as our relationship goes.

Shastra: Wow, was it that bad?

Geet: I’d really rather just forget it.

Shastra: Ouch.

Geet: Have you seen Nani? I need to give her the news.

Shastra: She’s in her room I guess. But I need to talk to you about something before you go.

Geet: What is it?

Shastra: It’s Nikhil…

Geet: What about him?

Shastra: He came home drugged out again Bhaiyya… and Dadi saw him and she’s quite livid about the whole thing.

Geet: Nani actually cares about what happens to Nikhil?
Shastra: No… she cares about what happens to her money.

Geet: Ah.

Shastra: But I care about what happens to Nikhil. We can’t just let him ruin himself like this can we?

Geet: No we can’t. But we can’t help him unless he’s willing to admit that there’s a problem.

Shastra: Well we have to make him understand he has a problem then.

Geet: I’ll see what I can do. But I really need to speak to Nani right now.

Shastra: Ok.

Geet walks away and Shastra goes back to stressing. Geet goes to Urvashi’s room and knocks on the door.

Urvashi: Come in.

Geet walks in and Urvashi turns to look at him.

Urvashi: Geet… what are you doing back so soon?

Geet: The job is done, there was no reason to stay.

Urvashi: What do you mean?

Geet: Drishti Kaul has agreed to meet with you next week when she arrives in Delhi.

Urvashi: Really?

Geet: Yes.

Urvashi: And how did the mother-son reunion go?

Geet: There was no reunion Nani, you sent me there on business, the business was done, I’m back.

Urvashi: Alright then. I’ll look forward to meeting Mrs. Drishti Kaul.

Geet: Good night Nani.

Geet is about to walk out of the room when…

Urvashi: Geet…

He turns around to look at her.

Urvashi: Is it true that she looks like Rauktima?

Geet: Yes… but that’s as far as it goes.

Kurukshetra – Episode 406

The next day Katya is walking into her room with some clothes when the phone starts ringing. She goes to answer it.

Katya: Hello?

Voice: Good morning Mrs. Agnihotri, how are you today?

Katya: Fine thank you, who is this?

Voice: Oh I don’t think you know me but I know you.

Katya: What?

Voice: How’s your pretty daughter by the way?

Katya: Who is this?

Voice: Is she at home? Do you even know where she is?

Katya: For the last time who is this?

Voice: Shhh… Don’t be angry… I’m just a concerned friend who wants to know if everything is alright…

The line goes dead.

Katya: Hello? Hello? HELLO!

She slams the phone down and then turns around and runs out of the room.

Katya: MANASVI! MANASVI!

She runs through the house looking for Manasvi and then finally arrives at the library. There she sees Manasvi in a corner of the room reading a book.

Katya: Manasvi!

She runs over to Manasvi and the latter stands up looking worried. She’s pretty and she has her mother’s eyes.

Manasvi: Mom… what’s wrong?

Katya: Oh thank God you’re alright…

Katya hugs her daughter and Manasvi is wondering what is going on.

Manasvi: Mom… what is the matter with you?

Katya: I… nothing… I was just wondering where you were and…

Manasvi: Well I’m at home. What happened? Why do you look upset?

Katya: Never mind. You know you keep leaving the house at all odd hours and staying over at friends and… I just don’t think it’s very good that’s all.

Manasvi: Mom please I stay out of the house maybe once in two weeks. I’m here most of the time. Besides, it’s not like there’s anything to do around here except watch Dadi rule everyone’s lives.

Katya: That is not the point. I want to know where you are every single moment of the day do you understand?

Manasvi: Seriously what has gotten into you?

Katya: Nothing! Is it too much for a mother to ask for her daughter’s safety?

Manasvi: Ok, ok I’m sorry. Just chill ok.

Katya: Sorry I’m a little on edge. I need to do something. Stay here.

Manasvi: Ok.

Katya runs off and goes through the house and finally arrives at the study where she finds Urvashi.

Katya: Choti Ma, I need to talk to you.

Urvashi: Make it quick I’m busy.

Katya: I just got a strange call from someone.

Urvashi: So?

Katya: I think they were threatening Manasvi.

Urvashi looks up at Katya.

Urvashi: Threatening her how?

Katya: I don’t know whoever it was kept saying that I should watch out for her and keep her safe.

Urvashi: Sounds more like a warning than a threat.

Katya: Well I feel like it is a threat. I need to do something but I don’t know what.

Urvashi: So you came running to me in hopes that I will help?

Katya: Yes… I suppose.

Urvashi smiles and walks over to Katya.

Urvashi: What makes you think I want to help you?

Katya: Choti Ma please. This is my daughter we’re talking about.

Urvashi: And she means absolutely nothing to me.

Katya: But she means the world to me and Soumil. If anything were to happen to Manasvi then Soumil would be beside himself and you would have lost your… what did you call him? Ah yes… your favorite employee.

Urvashi scoffs.

Urvashi: I’m glad to see you take my words to heart. Very well… I’ll keep an eye on Manasvi but you know the rules, nothing is for nothing.

Katya: I don’t have anything to offer you.

Urvashi: On the contrary, you have more to offer me than anyone else does.

Katya: I don’t know what you mean?

Urvashi: In the future I plan on making some huge changes in the company and when that time comes, it’s going to be very difficult to convince a lot of people in the family. They may even go against me.

Katya: That’s crazy. No one would ever go against you. You have too much power over everyone.

Urvashi: You still defy me don’t you?

Katya: That’s different… You still have Soumil at your beck and call.

Urvashi: For now… but in the time to come life is going to get more complicated. Certain decisions I make in the future may impact the family more than you know and when that time comes, I maybe overpowered by the rest of this family. I can’t allow that.

Katya: So what do you want from me?

Urvashi: The one thing I’ve never had from you in the past twenty years Katya… I want your support. Henceforth, every decision I make in terms of business and family, however irrational it may seem, has to be endorsed and supported by you.

Katya looks away.

Urvashi: What’s the matter? I would think that no price is too great to pay for your daughter’s safety.

Katya takes a deep breath and then looks Urvashi straight in the eye.

Katya: Alright then, I promise you, for as long as Manasvi is safe you will have my support in whatever you decide to do…

Urvashi: Whatever?

Katya: Whatever! But if anything happens to my daughter… then this deal is off.

Urvashi: Smart girl. Consider it done.

Katya walks out of the room and Urvashi smiles to herself and then thinks…

Urvashi: I know Katya, she wouldn’t be so upset if didn’t take that phone call seriously, which means that someone does intend to harm Manasvi. But who?

Later… Manasvi is walking out of the library when she sees Nikhil staggering out of his room. She goes over to him.

Manasvi: Hey little bro… what’s happening?

Nikhil: Oh hi. Nothing much.

Manasvi: You look like hell by the way.

Nikhil: Thanks, you don’t look too bad yourself.

Manasvi: Do you have a minute?

Nikhil: For you? Always.

Manasvi: Great. Come on let’s sit down and have a chat.

The two of them go to a little sitting area covered in cushions and they sit down.

Nikhil: Shoot.

Manasvi: What are you doing to yourself Nikhil?

Nikhil: What do you mean?

Manasvi: I mean… the drugs.

Nikhil: Oh that.

Manasvi: Look I’m not judging you or anything and I’m certainly not going to give you a lecture on why you should stop doing drugs but you have to learn to control your habits little bro. Anything is alright in moderation, again I’m not endorsing drugs but if you want to continue doing it then at least do it in a way that’s not going to hurt your health or your wallet. You haven’t been to college in so many days. Everyone is concerned about you.

Nikhil: Yea… well not the people who are supposed to be.            

Manasvi: What do you mean?

Nikhil: I mean my parents. They don’t give a damn about what happens to me Didi.

Manasvi: That’s not true…

Nikhil: Oh no?

Manasvi: Well what makes you think they don’t?

Nikhil: Dad is too busy with the company and Mom is all about saving her good graces with Urvashi Dadi and they both don’t give a shit about what happens to me!

Manasvi reaches over and hugs Nikhil. Then she pulls away from him and holds him by his shoulders.

Manasvi: I don’t know if this is just how you see this situation of whether it’s actually true. But what I do know is that your brothers and sisters care for you a lot… more than you know. We want what’s best for you and we want to see you happy. We don’t want to see you waste your life away at such a young age when you have a world of opportunities that can be explored in front of you. Don’t do this to yourself little bro… we care for you a great deal and no matter what happens we won’t let you fall. So the next time you feel like you’re all alone in the world then remember that you have our shoulders to cry on and people to fall back on.

Nikhil smiles weakly.

Nikhil: Thanks Di.

Meanwhile… Katya is in deep thought about the deal she made with Urvashi.

Katya: Should I tell Soumil about what has happened? I don’t know… How would he react? Is there a reason to tell him considering Choti Ma has agreed to help? What am I doing? But the most important question above all else is… who would want to hurt Manasvi? Who would want to threaten her safety?

Just then Soumil walks in.

Soumil: Hello there… what’s the problem?

Katya: Problem? What problem?

Soumil: I know you… you have that look on your face when you have a problem.

Katya: Very funny. I was just thinking about what to make for dinner.

Soumil: That’s great… considering you haven’t made dinner in ages.

Katya: Hence the problem.

Soumil: It’s not even lunch time yet…

Katya: I think ahead… stop being cheeky with me. Shouldn’t you be at work?

Soumil walks over closer to his wife.

Soumil: Now I know something is wrong.

Katya: Why?

Soumil: Since when would you rather have me at work than at home?

Katya: Since I realized that Choti Ma has our best interests in mind.

Soumil: Are you feeling well?

Katya: I am. Now… if you’ll excuse me, there’s some things I need to take care of.

Katya kisses Soumil on the cheek and walks off and he smiles but is still concerned. A few days later… Urvashi and Dushyanth are at a meeting with some partners who want to come on board with a new TV Serial project that Dushyanth’s company is working on.

Partner 1: Mrs. Agnihotri, we have read your proposal and we feel that investing in something like this will be very good for us.

Urvashi: Excellent.

Partner 2: However, there is one little problem.

Urvashi: Which is?

Partner 2: It has recently come to light that Mr. Dushyanth Agnihotri has a very tarnished past here in Delhi.

Dushyanth frowns and Urvashi looks from him to the partners.

Urvashi: Uh… such as?

Partner 3: Such as his liaisons with certain men, one of whom was murdered by his late wife Sanskriti Agnihotri.

Partner 2: We feel that this sort of negative publicity could ruin the reputation we have in the business world.

Urvashi is perspiring like mad and she is very nervous but she doesn’t show it.

Urvashi: What is it that you are saying?

Partner 1: What we’re saying is that if we are to continue with this project, then we would like to have Mr. Dushyanth Agnihotri’s involvement at a minimum.

Partner 2: No media coverage involving his name.

Partner 3: Of course he can work on the project from start to end but he will be a silent partner in all of this.

Partner 1: We hope you understand where we’re coming from.

Dushyanth has remained silent all this time and he turns to Urvashi who seems to have run out of things to say.

Episode 404

Kurukshetra – Episode 404

The next morning… Dushyanth is working in his room when he hears a knock on the door.

Dushyanth: Come in.

The door opens and Dushyanth doesn’t look up from his work.

Dushyanth: What is it?

No one says anything so Dushyanth looks up and then he smiles brightly and removes his glasses. Standing up he acknowledges his daughter.

Dushyanth: Shastra!

She goes running to him and hugs him as she giggles away.

Shastra: Dad I’m so glad you’re here at last… to stay!

Dushyanth: That’s right kiddo. I won’t be going away ever again. You and I have a lot of catching up to do.

Shastra: Dad there’s so much I want to tell you.

Dushyanth: Well you have all the time in the world to fill me in.

Just then there’s another knock on the door and both Dushyanth and Shastra look up to see Poornima standing there.

Poornima: Sorry to break this up but Shastra, the car’s waiting for you downstairs.

Shastra: Yes Maasi. I’m coming.

She turns to Dushyanth.

Shastra: I’ll talk to you when I get home from college Dad.

Dushyanth: Alright my darling, have a nice day.

Shastra: You too.

Shastra goes running out of the room and Poornima turns to leave as well.

Dushyanth: Leavnig so soon Bhabi?

She stops and turns around.

Poornima: Was there anything you wanted?

Dushyanth: No but a simple hello would have been enough.

Poornima: Sorry Dushyanth but there’s so much work to do and…

Dushyanth: So many servants to do them, hmmm… I wonder, are you plagued with the same problems that Jaya Bhabi seems to be plagued with?

Poornima: I don’t know what you’re talking about.

Dushyanth: Don’t play dumb with me Bhabi. I know that the two of you have huge issues with me coming back here.

Poornima: Our issues are none of your concern.

Dushyanth: Perhaps not, but for all future reference, let me make one thing very clear to you. I appreciate all that you have done for Shastra over the years but I’d also like to remind you that I’m still her father. Therefore, I’d appreciate it if you didn’t interrupt us when we’re talking again. Do I make myself clear?

Poornima: How dare you speak to me that way!

Dushyanth: I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings but I think this is something you need to get used to. She is my daughter and when it comes to her life, what I say goes around here.

Poornima huffs and walks out of the room. Dushyanth just shakes his head and goes back to work. Meanwhile… Aksh is on the phone with Drishti.

Drishti: This is a surprise. The way you left here the other day I didn’t expect to hear from you ever again.

Aksh: I’m calling on behalf of Mrs. Urvashi Agnihotri.

Drishti’s eyes go wide and she leans back in her chair and composes herself.

Drishti: Oh? Who’s that?

Aksh: She’s the head of the Agnihotri Empire, haven’t you heard?

Drishti: Vaguely.

Aksh: She wishes to speak with you on business terms.

Drishti: What makes her so sure I’d do business with her.

Aksh: She’s a corporate giant and so are you. She feels that a partnership would…

Drishti: Benefit her, not me. Aksh I’m disappointed in you. Where’s your sense of business or have you lost it while living in the lap of luxury all these years? Corporate giants you say? Do you know that to a spec of dust, an ant is a giant, but then… an elephant comes along and tramples that ant… do you get where I’m going with this? If we were to go into a partnership, Agnihotri Incorporated wouldn’t even be the ant before us; it would be the spec of dust. Chakra International is too huge to be associated with a mere tragedy like Agnihotri Inc. The Agnihotris are still talking millions while Chakra’s worth is unfathomable. You want me to consider coming into a partnership with a company like that? Forget it.

Aksh: Look, I don’t want to have to beg you but if that’s what it will take…

Drishti: What the hell has happened to you?

Aksh: What do you mean?

Drishti: You’re groveling! The Aksh Kaul I knew would never do that!

Aksh: The Aksh Kaul you knew is no longer alive. Now tell me, what is your final word on the matter?

Drishti: The answer is no.

Aksh: Then I guess this conversation is over.

Drishti: I guess it is. Goodbye.

She hangs up and Aksh looks devastated. On her end of the line Drishti looks up at Gajendra who is standing next to her.

Drishti: It’s working. She wants to do business with us.

Gajendra: And you turned her down, very good. Now she’ll be furious.

Drishti: She’ll be more than furious… after all, if the stories are true she’s going to say…

At Chandra Mahel… in Urvashi’s room, she’s talking to Aksh.

Urvashi: Nobody says no to Urvashi Agnihotri!

Aksh: That maybe true but Drishti Kaul has. She thinks Agnihotri Inc. is too small a company to be associated with.

Urvashi: How do I know this isn’t some trick of yours?

Aksh: What?

Urvashi: How do I know that you’re not trying to keep her away for your own personal reasons?

Aksh: That’s rubbish!

Urvashi: Really? Well if that’s true then we’re going to have to talk to her again. This time, we’re going to convince her for sure.

Aksh: I’m not speaking to that woman again.

Urvashi: You’re right. You’re not. But your son will.

Aksh is irritated to hear this.

Aksh: WHAT? No! You can’t send Geet to talk her.

Urvashi: Why not? She is his mother isn’t she?

Aksh: That’s not the point. All I’ve bee trying to do all along is to keep him away from her so that he doesn’t have to see what a cold hearted woman she’s become and you’re sending him right into the lion’s den!

Urvashi: It’s the only way Aksh.

Aksh: This is insane.

Urvashi: SHUT UP! Don’t you dare forget your limits and talk back to me. You do as I say or I’ll do something far worse that you’ll live to regret. Now… go and tell Geet that I want him on the next flight to Shimla.

Aksh: I beg of you please don’t do this.

Urvashi: I told you once, don’t make me tell you again. Now go.

Aksh is very angry and he leaves the room in a rage. Urvashi rubs her temples and walks off. Later… Poornima is pacing in her room when Nachiket walks in.

Nachiket: Hi, what’s for dinner?

Poornima doesn’t answer and Nachiket looks at her in concern.

Nachiket: Poornima? Hello?

He walks over to her.

Nachiket: Hey!

Poornima: Oh… hi. Sorry I didn’t see you there.

Nachiket: Clearly. What’s going on?
Poornima: You wouldn’t understand.

Nachiket: Try me.

Poornima: It’s Dushyanth.

Nachiket: What about him?

Poornima: You should have seen the way he spoke to me today.

Nachiket: What did he say?

Poornima: Well basically he was asking me to stay out of matters that concerned Shastra.

Nachiket: And why did he say this?

Poornima: I should have known… you’ll always take your brother’s side.

Nachiket: I’m not taking sides I’m just trying to understand how all this got started. I know Dushyanth, he doesn’t react to anyone unless he’s provoked or feels like he’s being provoked. So did you do anything to provoke him?

Pooornima: NO!

Nachiket: Listen, for the sake of peace in this house I would also like it if you could keep out of matters that concern Shastra. She is his daughter and…

Poornima: She is my sister’s daughter as well Nachiket. And when no one was there to look after Shastra I was there. He can’t just walk in here and tell me what to do. She’s like my daughter.

Nachiket: You’re right… she’s LIKE your daughter but she IS his daughter. So compromise.

Nachiket walks off and Poornima is even more livid. Meanwhile… Aksh has spoken to Geet about what Urvashi wants.

Geet: I’ll do it.

Aksh: What?

Geet: I’ll do it.

Aksh: Geet please, at least think about it.

Geet: There’s nothing to think about Dad. If Choti Nani wants me to go Shimla then I’ll go to Shimla.

Aksh: Why would you want to put yourself in that position? Are you sure you’re ready for this I mean…

Geet: I know the emotional risks that are involved here but I’m not going to let that stop me. Besides, I know that Choti Nani holds something over you that makes you keep doing her will, otherwise you would have left this house years ago.

Aksh looks away.

Geet: So I won’t let you get into trouble Dad. If she wants me to go to Shimla and meet Drishti Kaul then I’ll do it. It’s business after all.

Aksh: It’s business for Urvashi, it’s a completely different story for you Geet.

Geet: Whatever it may be, I have to do it and I will.

Geet walks off and Aksh looks concerned. Much later… Shastra and Dushyanth are having a father-daughter chat on the terrace.

Dushyanth: So tell me, have you thought about what you’re going to do when you’re done with college?

Shastra: Get married I suppose.

Dushyanth laughs and Shastra gives him a strange look.

Shastra: What?
Dushyanth: No it’s just that usually when someone says the next step is to get married, they already have someone in mind for the job. You sound like it’s just another thing off your to-do list.

Shastra: Well it is. Besides, Massi has always told me that girls should marry when the age is right.

Dushyanth: Really?

Dushyanth is slightly annoyed but he keeps himself in check and gets closer to Shastra.

Dushyanth: Can I let you in on a little secret?

Shastra: Ok.

Dushyanth: Ok… Your Maasi is a good woman, but she married into this family, she wasn’t born into like you were.

Shastra: What’s your point?

Dushyanth: Well, Agnihotri women are slightly different to the rest. They’re fighters and they’re survivors. You have a great future ahead of you and marriage isn’t something you should be checking off a list my darling. It’s something that needs to be given a lot of thought. I won’t lie to you, my marriage to your mother was one of convenience and the only thing I don’t regret about it is you. You are the one good thing that has happened to me in my life and I won’t let you make the same mistakes I made. I want you to take all the time in the world and think about your future and make all the right decisions when it comes to it. You have nothing to concern yourself with, you are my daughter and your father is here to stay. Having said that, if it is truly your decision to get married at an early age then I’ll support you, because that’s what parents do but it is our job to show our children their options.

He smiles at her and she smiles back.

Shastra: Daddy…

Dushyanth: Yes my love?

Shastra: I’m glad you’re back.

Double Dhamaka – Episodes 402 & 403

Kurukshetra – Episode 402

A few days later in Delhi… Geet is at work. He decides to take a short break and reads the papers. Suddenly his eyes go wide in shock. He picks up the phone and dials a number.

Aksh: Hello?

Geet: Dad… have you read the papers today?

Aksh: No I haven’t.

Geet: Dad, Mom is alive.

Aksh: What?

Geet: It says so right here…

Aksh: But why would it be in the papers and if Rauktima was alive then…

Geet: No… I don’t mean Rauktima Mom… I mean Drishti Mom.

Aksh: WHAT?

Geet: Yes it says so right here in the papers that she is now the president of a company called Chakra International, which she has been spearheading with the rest of the Kaul family for the past so many years. They’ve gone global and recently hosted a party at the Kaul Mansion to celebrate.

Aksh: This is not possible. Drishti is dead!

Kaul: There’s an interview in the papers that explains everything Dad. She faked her death years ago but returned to Shimla six years later to free Dadi from jail and re-join the family.

Aksh: That’s crazy! If she was alive then why would she keep us in the dark all these years?

Geet: I don’t know but I think you should call them and find out.

Aksh: You’re damned right I will!

When they hang up Aksh looks stupefied. He picks up the phone and calls the Kaul mansion. The line rings for a while and finally it is picked up… by Tagyatha.

Tagyatha: Hello?

Aksh: Who is this?

Tagyatha: This is Tagyatha Kaul who is this?

Aksh: Tagyatha this is Aksh!

Tagyatha is shocked to hear his voice but gathers herself quickly.

Tagyatha: Aksh Bhaiyya… how are you?

Aksh: How am I? What is that a joke?

Tagyatha: I’m sorry I don’t…

Aksh: What the hell is going on Tagyatha? Geet just told me that…

Tagyath: Geet! Oh my goodness he must be all grown up now.

Aksh: Well yes, he’s all grown up and he read the papers this morning and he told me that…

Tagyatha: That Drishti Bhabi is alive and has been for the past twenty years?

Aksh: Yes!

Tagyatha: Well it’s true.

Aksh is shocked.

Aksh: What do you mean it’s true? We were all there when Mom confessed to having killed Drishti.

Tagyatha: Yes Bhaiyya but apparently she survived the car crash and was in hiding for six years but when she realized that Dad and everyone else were sorry for what they’d done then she revealed herself again in public and helped release Mummy ji from jail.

Aksh: And none of you thought to tell me any of this? I have to find out about it through the newspapers twenty years later?

Tagyatha: Bhaiyya in all fairness you had moved on with your life. You and Rauktima Bhabi were happy together and Geet had found a new mother and Drishti Bhabi didn’t want to spoil any of that for you. It was her request that we keep this from you.

Aksh: Well your Drishti Bhabi should have known better… I’m coming to Shimla to see this for myself.

Tagyatha: If you say so.

They hang up… Tagyatha turns around to find Gajendra and Drishti (Rauktima) standing there.

Gajendra: Well?

Tagyatha: Seems like the plan has worked. He’s coming to Shimla.

Gajendra: Good. Do you think you’re ready to see him?

Drishti: I have waited years to see him.

Gajendra: But you must not get emotional.

Drishti: Don’t worry Papa, my emotions were destroyed years ago when Urvashi destroyed my family. Now all I want is revenge and my heart will be as hard as stone until this is over.

Gajendra: Good. Tagyatha, make the preparations, our Bada Beta is on his way home.

Meanwhile… back at Chandra Mahel… Aksh goes to see Urvashi.

Urvashi: What do you mean you have to go to Shimla? You just got back from Kolkota!

Aksh: I know but something has come up.

Urvashi: What exactly is this something?

Aksh: My wife… my first wife… is alive.

Urvashi: What? I thought she was dead!

Aksh: Apparently not. She’s alive and has been for a while. She’s been living with my family in Shimla for the past fourteen years. I have to see her.

Urvashi: Alright… but make this a quick visit.

Aksh: I want to take Geet with me.

Urvashi: No.

Aksh: But…

Urvashi: No. That’s final. If you want to go to Shimla then by all means do so but Geet stays here.

Aksh: His mother is…

Urvahsi: Not my concern.

Urvashi starts to leave and then turns around.

Urvashi: Wait a second… didn’t someone say something about your first wife and Rauktima looking almost identical?

Aksh: Yes… the resemblance was uncanny.

Urvashi: Hmmm… Carry on.

Urvashi walks off and Aksh looks angry. He heads off to make arrangements to leave. The next day he heads over to Shimla and before long he finds himself outside the gates to Kaul Mansion. Back at Chandra Mahel… Nachiket is going through some documents in his room when Poornima walks in.

Poornima: Still busy I see.

Nachiket: Yes.

Poornima: There was something I wanted to talk to you about.

Nachiket: Go ahead.

Poornima: I was wondering, shouldn’t we see to getting Shastra settled down?

Nachiket looks up at his wife in confusion.

Nachiket: What are you talking about? She’s still studying…

Poornima: Yes but how much farther can she expect to take that on I mean if she doesn’t get married sooner or later…

Nachiket: Then what?

Poornima: I’m just saying that she’s at an age where…

Nachiket: Poornima please, Shastra will decide on when she wants to get married. Besides, it’s not our decision to make. It’s Dushyanth’s decision.

Poornima: Oh please… if it were up to Dushyanth that child wouldn’t have had a future.

Nachiket: I’m sick and tired of you pointing fingers at Dushyanth.

Poornima: Well I’m sick and tired of the people in this house pointing fingers at my dead sister but you don’t hear me arguing.

Nachiket: Your fault, not mine.

Poornima: All I’m saying is that…

Nachiket: All you’re saying is that we should stop caring about Shastra and make her someone else’s problem right?

Poornima: How dare you accuse me of saying something like that? You know I love that girl like she was my own.

Nachiket: But she isn’t now is she?

Poornima: Nachiket don’t twist this around to make me sound like some sort of monster.

Nachiket: I’m not. I’m simply saying that you should back off and let Shastra make her own decisions, just like we let Shubh make his own decisions.

Poornima: Shubh is a boy, he can take care of himself.

Nachiket: And Shastra can’t?

Poornima: Of course she can it’s just that…

Nachiket: Dushyanth is coming back to Chandra Mahel one of these days and when he does he will make the decisions on what is supposed to happen in his daughter’s life. If you cannot continue to care for that child until then, then please let me know and I’ll make time for her. Now this conversation is over.

Nachiket stands up and walks away and Poornima looks miffed. Back in Shimla… Aksh goes into the Kaul Mansion. He opens the doors and steps in and looks around. Things look very different. Just then Umesh and Sailesh walk out.

Sailesh: Bhaiyya… it’s so good to see you.

Umesh: Welcome home.

Aksh: This is not my home. I’m here for one reason and one reason only.

Umesh: We know. You want to see her don’t you?

Sailesh: But where is Rauktima Bhabi and Geet? We thought you might bring them with you.

Umesh: We’re sorry you had to find out about this the way you did but I’m sure Tagyatha explained everything to you on the phone when you called yesterday.

Aksh: Where is she?

Umesh: Tagyatha?

Aksh: No… Drishti.

Umesh: Oh… hold on, I’ll call her.

Umesh heads upstairs and Aksh continues to look around. Just then, Gajendra and Nitya walk out. Aksh sees them and is stunned.

Gajendra: Oh my goodness… will you look at that. Our son has come back home.

Nitya: Aksh… it’s so good to see you.

Aksh: I wish I could say the same mom.

Nitya: Please don’t be angry with me.

Gajendra: Years have passed between us Aksh, it’s time to let the past go. Besides, your mother is innocent, as you know, Drishti is alive.

Aksh: Doesn’t change the fact that she tried to kill her.

Umesh comes running down the stairs.

Aksh: Where is she?

Umesh: She’s on the way.

Aksh waits impatiently and moments later, he hears the clicking of the heels and turns around. He is shocked and stunned when he sees the woman who looks like both his former wives walk down the stairs. She smiles at him mildly.

Drishti: Hello Aksh. How are you?

Aksh: This is unbelievable.

Drishti: Amazing isn’t it.

Aksh: How is this possible?

Drishti: Questions that were asked fourteen years ago.

Aksh: Why haven’t you tried to contact me?

Drishti: Because… you’d started a new life. One that didn’t involve me. I didn’t want to intrude. I didn’t want to confuse Geet and I didn’t want you to have to decide between me and Rauktima. I know we look alike but…

Aksh: Still you should have called or made some indication that you were alive.

Drishti: What would that have done? Destroyed your relationship with your wife and your new family.

Aksh: My wife is dead.

Everyone pretends to look shocked.

Gajendra: What do you mean dead?

Aksh: Rauktima had a fatal accident twenty years ago that put her into a coma. Soon after, she disappeared and later we presumed her dead.

Drishti: What do you mean disappeared? Didn’t you try looking for her?

Aksh: I did but after fifteen years of looking, I gave up.

Drishti: That’s too bad. Looks like things didn’t work out as you planned.

Aksh: Geet has grown his entire life without the love of a mother and you were alive all this time and denied him that.

Drishti: What was I supposed to do? Barge into your life suddenly and demand for my son? I didn’t know what was going on, I’m sorry for your loss but things aren’t that easy Aksh.

Aksh: Clearly they aren’t.

Drishti: Listen I’m sorry about everything that has happened but please… don’t blame me for the way your life turned out. You decided to abandon this family and…

Aksh: Abandon this family? I walked away from the hell that used to be this family…

Drishti: I see that you’re still living in the past.

Aksh: And I see that you’ve forgotten it.

Drishti: Everyone makes mistakes Aksh, we have to learn to forgive those mistakes.

Aksh: I’m sorry this is too much for me to take in right now. I don’t know how to deal with all this information and how to deal with you and all of you and…

Drishti: Please just calm down. Do you want some water?

Aksh: I don’t want water! I want answers! What happened to you that night on the cliff? Where were you for the six years that everyone thought you were dead? How did you come back?

Drishti: All in good time. But for now, you must be tired. Why don’t you get some rest?

Aksh: I don’t want rest! I want… you know what forget it. I came here expecting too much. I guess I’ll have to go back and tell Geet that his mother is as good as dead.

Drishti: After all these years I doubt it’ll make much of a difference to him don’t you think so?

Aksh: You are unbelievable do you know that? You’re like a completely different person.

Drishti: I am still the same person but it looks like you’re looking for Rauktima!

Kurukshetra – Episode 403

Aksh: You couldn’t get close to Rauktima even if you wanted to.

Drishti: Oh no?

Aksh: No.

Drishti: Then what is it that you’re doing here?

Aksh: I just wanted to see with my own eyes if this whole thing was true.

Drishti: Well it wouldn’t have been frontpage news if it weren’t.

Aksh: I’m going back, I’ve had enough of this.

Drishti: Don’t let the door hit you on your way out.

Aksh looks around at the rest of his family and then walks out of Kaul Mansion. After he leaves Gajendra walks over to Drishti.

Gajendra: Well done.

Drishti: That wasn’t easy for me.

Gajendra: No one said it was going to be. But if you want to regain everything you’ve lost then you have to be this person.

Drishti: Yes well doesn’t mean I have to like it.

Drishti walks away and Gajendra breathes in deeply. He then turns to Umesh.

Gajendra: She’s ready. We need to move into the next phase of this plan. We need to go to Delhi.

Umesh: Yes Dad.

The next day at Chandra Mahel… A vehicle arrives outside and someone steps out. He walks up to the main doors of the house and looks inside. It is none other than Dushyanth who has finally returned home for good. He looks around the house and walks inside. Just then Urvashi comes down the stairs.

Urvashi: Dushyanth! You’re here already. If I’d have known I would have sent someone to get you.

Dushyanth: Highly unnecessary Choti Ma. I managed just fine.

Urvashi: Well let me be the first to tell you that I’m so happy you’ve come back home.

Dushyanth: Thank you, I suppose your enthusiasm is going to have to be enough for everyone.

Urvashi: What do you mean?

Dushyanth: I’m not an idiot. I know that not everyone at Chandra Mahel is happy about my return.

Urvashi: Well they have their reasons…

Dushyanth: And you have yours.

Urvashi: Huh?

Dushyanth: Come on Choti Ma, let’s not play charades here. I know that the only reason you agreed to my coming back was because our businesses will be merging.

Urvashi is stunned to hear this.

Urvashi: That’s not true… I’m grateful to have a son of this house come back home and…

Dushyanth: Are you forgetting who my mother was?

Urvashi: What?

Dushyanth: My mother may not have left me with a lot but she did leave me some brains. I know you and I know what you’re about. Your just as power hungry as the rest of the Bahus who’ve walked the corridors of this house, including my mother. How about you and I come to an agreement? You don’t get in my way and I won’t get in yours. Does that work for you?

Urvashi: Well I suppose.

Dushyanth: Excellent. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m really tired and I want to see my daughter, where is she?

Urvashi: Um…

Dushyanth: Oh that’s right, you wouldn’t know… it’s not like you care about anyone else in this house except yourself. Will you have someone take my bags to my room?

Urvashi: Of course.

Dushyanth walks away and Urvashi thinks to herself…

Urvashi: I’m going to have to watch out for that one.

Then out loud… she shouts.

Urvashi: RAJIND!

Moments later Rajind comes out to the living room.

Rajind: Yes Choti Ma.

Urvashi: These are Dushyanth’s bags, take them to his room.

Rajind hesitates.

Urvashi: Is there a problem?

Rajind: I just…

Urvashi: You just what?

Rajind: Can’t Ramdas do it?

Urvashi: Ramdas is otherwise occupied besides, I though you didn’t like freeloading. Now move it.

Urvashi walks away and Rajind proceeds to carry Dushyanth’s bags. He starts walking up the stairs and the bags are really heavy. Just then Aksh walks into the house… He sees this and goes running to help him.

Aksh: Let me take that.

Rajind: Thanks.

Aksh: What is all this?

Rajind: Dushyanth’s bags.

Aksh: Why are you carrying them?

Rajind: Choti Ma asked me to…

Aksh: For goodness sake Rajind, why do you put up with it? Why don’t you just stand up to her?

Rajind: Because… as long as I’m here and do what she asks me to I can still see my wife. There’s no saying what she’ll do to Krithika if I say anything.

Aksh: She’s got us both right where she wants doesn’t she?

Rajind: What do you mean?

Aksh: Never mind. Come on, let’s take this up.

Meanwhile… Dushyanth is walking through the house when Jaya suddenly walks out of her room and sees him.

Jaya: Dushyanth, you’re back.

Dushyanth: For good this time.

Jaya: Yes I heard.

Dushyanth: What’s the matter Bhabi? You don’t sound too thrilled to hear that.

Jaya: Why would you think that?

Dushyanth: Your face says it all.

Jaya: Well it’s not that. You know you have every right to be here. It’s just that, some of us are concerned about your lifestyle.

Dushyanth: What about it?

Jaya: Dushyanth you’re the father of a young girl who will have to be married off one day and it’s not going to do much for the record to know that her father has been involved in many affairs with men.

Dushyanth: Is my daughter’s future really what’s bothering you? Or is it your son’s?

Jaya looks shocked.

Dushyanth: Cat caught your tongue Bhabi? You’re afraid that me being here will influence Nikhil somehow, am I right?

Jaya: I never said that.

Dushyanth: You don’t have to. I’m smart enough to read signs. Whenever I’ve come to visit in the past you’ve always made sure Nikhil wasn’t around. You send him off on errands and keep him busy. He’s a talented boy and like me, he has no interest in the family business, I know that. But you need to realize that and give him the freedom to express himself.

Jaya: Really? Are you going to stand there and lecture me on what’s best for my son?

Dushyanth: Someone should.

Jaya: This is exactly what I was afraid of.

Dushyanth: Relax Bhabi. I’m not here to start the Bohemian Revolution, I just think it’s time I came back home.

Jaya: That’s all good and well but stay away from Nikhil, he already has too much going on in his head and he certainly doesn’t need you to cloud his judgment with your way of thinking.

Dushyanth: All you had to do was ask. Now can I ask something of you?

Jaya: What is it?

Dushyanth: Stay out of my way at all costs. The reason I walk the halls of this house freely is because the money I’m bringing the business has Choti Ma’s interest. If I were to leave this house again and take my company with me then I will be forced to reveal to Choti Ma that I’m doing so because my Bhabi is making me feel uncomfortable and that’s going to do neither you nor Anirudh Bhaiyya any good. If you’ll excuse me now, I just got back and I’m really tired.

Dushyanth walks off and Jaya looks miffed. Later… Geet arrives home and goes to see Aksh.

Geet: Dad… what happened? Did you see her?

Aksh: Yes I did.

Geet: And?

Aksh: I’d really rather not talk about it son.

Geet: Dad come on. You have to tell me something.

Aksh: She’s alive.

Geet: I got that much from the newspapers, now what else?

Aksh: There’s nothing else to say Geet. Your mother has changed quite a bit in the years that have gone by.

Geet: Well I’m sure she has, we all have. But did you ask her why she kept away for so long?

Aksh: Yes and she told me that it was because she didn’t want to disrupt our lives.

Geet: But that’s crazy.

Aksh: That’s not even the craziest part of the conversation. Listen, I know you’re anxious to see her and all but take my advise son, don’t go to Shimla or anywhere near that family or your mother, there’s only heartache to be found there. In the years that have passed and in her remarkable resurrection, your mother has become a cold hearted woman who only thinks of business and money…

Just then they are interrupted by Urvashi…

Urvashi: Excuse me… I’m sorry but I couldn’t help overhearing the conversation.

Aksh: I’m sure you couldn’t.

Urvashi: So I take it the meeting with the wife didn’t go so well?

Aksh: She’s not my wife.

Urvashi: Well whatever works for you but I am interested to find out more about her.

Aksh: What on earth for?

Urvashi: After you left I did some reading on what Drishti Kaul has been up to over the years. The reason we haven’t heard a lot about her here in India is because she’s been traveling the world making deals that have benefited her company greatly. With the launch of Chakra International, Drishti Kaul has become quite the businesswoman. And anyone who is that good at what they do deserves to be my friend.

Aksh: What are you saying?

Urvashi: I want you to organize a meeting for me with this wife of yours.

Aksh: For what purpose?

Urvashi: I want to build a dog house Aksh! What the hell do you think I want to meet with her for? If she is as good as they say she is then her input at Agnihotri Incorporated could prove to be quite an asset. Who knows, she may even be interested in a partnership.

Aksh: You have got to be kidding me.

Urvashi: I’m not.

Aksh: Geet excuse us.

Geet looks at the two of them and walks out.

Aksh: Why are you doing this? It’s bad enough that this is taking a toll on Geet. He lived his entire life without both his mothers and now one of them is alive and you want to bring her back into his life at this stage, not to mention ruin the rest of the family’s peace of mind by bringing someone who resembles Rauktima into their midst!

Urvashi: This family and their emotional well-being isn’t my concern. They can all go to hell for all I care. The only reason I’m keeping them around is because I don’t want them turning on me. You just do what I’m asking you to and everything will be fine.

Urvashi smiles and walks out of the room and Aksh feels miserable. Meanwhile… Poornima is headed down to the kitchen when she sees Jaya lost in deep thought. She walks over to her.

Poornima: Bhabi… what’s the matter? Is everything alright?

Jaya: Nothing is alright. Dushyanth is back.

Poornima: So I heard, I haven’t seen him yet though.

Jaya: Well I have and I have to tell you that I don’t like all of this one bit.

Poornima: What do you mean?

Jaya: Doesn’t it annoy you that we have no choice but to deal with the fact that he is in our lives? He is a disgrace to this family.

Poornima: Nevertheless he is part of it.

Jaya: Exactly. That’s what annoys me. He could influence our children Poornima. I don’t like it one bit.

Poornima: It’s not like we have a say in the matter now is it?

Jaya: No it isn’t. Wait… are you not happy about his return as well?

Poornima: To be perfectly honest Bhabi I’m not. I have to think about Shastra’s future and with Dushyanth here that decision is not going to be mine. I care for that child and I want to see that she is well settled before it’s too late.

Jaya: I suppose it is a bit of problem then.

Poornima: Question is, what are we going to do about it. Choti Ma is on his side.

Jaya: Well then I suppose we need to ensure that certain things are done to change her mind. We need her to see that Dushyanth being here affects the business more than she knows. Once she realizes he is a threat to our good name, she will ask him to leave.

Episode 401

Kurukshetra – Episode 401

Later that day… Aksh arrives at Chandra Mahel and goes straight to see Urvashi. She is waiting for him in her room.

Urvashi: Welcome back. Where’s Geet?

Aksh: He decided to go straight to work.

Urvashi: You see that’s what I admire about that boy. He’s so dedicated to his work.

Aksh: He is.

Urvashi: Hmmm. How was the Barsi?

Aksh: The same as always.

Urvashi: Boring huh? I don’t know why you people keep having those things. It’s not like the dead are going to come back. Tell me, how is my old friend Darpana?

Aksh: She’s well.

Urvashi: Damn. Don’t you ever have any good news for me?

Aksh: I just came here to tell you we’re back. I should get going now.

Urvashi: You know Aksh. I’m proud of you.

Aksh: Excuse me?

Urvashi: You’re not a part of this family, technically and neither is your son. But keeping his best interest in mind you’ve stayed true to your word throughout the years.

Aksh: It’s nothing I’m proud of.

Urvashi: But you should be. Not many people can make a promise and keep it.

Aksh: It’s not like I had much of a choice.

Urvashi: No… no you didn’t did you? In any case it’s been a pleasurable twenty years for me.

Aksh: I wish I could say the same.

Urvashi: Oh for goodness sake cheer up Aksh. You’re alive and well and you’re taken care of. What’s the big deal?

Aksh: The big deal is that innocent people are still suffering a fate far worse than death because of my silence.

Urvashi: And that kills you a little bit every day doesn’t it?

Aksh: It does.

Urvashi: Fantastic. Let me know when it kills you completely so that I can stop stressing over when you’re going to let me down and open your big mouth causing me to bring harm to your son.

Aksh: Don’t talk about Geet that way. I would never let anything bad happen to him and if that means keeping my mouth shut for the rest of my life then I’ll do it.

Urvashi: After all this time I have no choice but to believe you. So I do. Now get lost. I have some calls to make.

Aksh shakes his head and walks out of the room and Urvashi sniggers to herself. Meanwhile… in Jaya and Anirudh’s room, Jaya is throwing a tantrum.

Anirudh: What seems to be the problem now?

Jaya: You know sometimes I wonder if Nikhil has only one parent.

Anirudh: What?

Jaya: Anirudh, you take no interest in your son whatsoever.

Anirudh: Of course I do.

Jaya: Well then how come you’re not concerned about his studies? Do you know that he keeps failing all of his classes?

Anirudh: Listen, I’m sure that when the right time comes he’ll buckle up and if he doesn’t then he’ll find something else to do. It’s not important that he join the business like the rest of us. Maybe he’s more inclined artistically.

Jaya: The last thing I want is for my son to end up like his Dushyanth Chachu.

Anirudh: Jaya.

Jaya: What? I don’t.

Anirudh: There’s no need to dig at Dushyanth at every opportunity you get. What do you have against him?

Jaya: The fact that he’s a disgrace to this family and the fact that now he wants to come back home for good.

Anirudh: What’s so wrong with that?

Jaya: Don’t get me wrong, it was fine when he came to visit Shastra now and again. But coming back for good after all these years? How is he going to adjust? A lot has changed at Chandra Mahel or haven’t you noticed?

Anirudh: I have but the one thing that hasn’t changed throughout the years is that this is still our home.

Jaya: Ok fine. But what bugs me is that Nikhil keeps behaving like he doesn’t care about his future and I’m afraid that when Dushyanth returns, he’ll just influence Nikhil to follow in his footsteps.

Anirudh: I think Dushyanth has more pressing issues to take care of, like his daughter for instance.

Jaya: His daughter is already taken care of. Poornima takes good care of Shastra. Dushyanth needn’t worry about her.

Anirudh: She is his child.

Jaya: I still don’t know how that happened.

Anirudh: Jaya, honestly do you have to be so downgrading all the time?

Jaya: I’ve learned to be like this living in this house of shards for the past twenty years. We never know what to expect. We don’t know who’s going to die next or who’s going to come back from the dead next or who’s going to kill whom next or who’s going to…

Anirudh: Alright… thank you for the history lesson. I thought we were talking about Nikhil.

Jaya: We are and I’m just worried that Dushyanth may have more of an influence on him than he should.

Anirudh: Please don’t forget that Dushyanth has just as much a right to this house as any of us.

Anirudh walks off and Jaya looks miffed. She too walks off and goes looking for Urvashi who’s still in her room.

Jaya: Choti Ma, can I come in.

Urvashi: What is it?

Jaya: I need to talk to you about something.

Urvashi: Alright, come in, have a seat.

Jaya goes in and sits down in front of Urvashi.

Urvashi: You look bothered, what seems to be the problem?

Jaya: It’s Dushyanth.

Urvashi: What about him?

Jaya: You know he’s coming back.

Urvashi: Yes.

Jaya: For good.

Urvashi: Yes.

Jaya: And you’re alright with that?

Urvashi: Shouldn’t I be?

Jaya: Choti Ma you know what Dushyanth is like, I mean he has a bad reputation and…

Urvashi: If by reputation you mean his sexual preferences then that is not my concern Jaya. Since Simran retired Dushyanth has taken over the Television Production Company she used to run. When Dushyanth returns he has agreed to merger of that company with the rest of Agnihotri Incorporated and honestly I think it’s a great idea. We’ve never explored that side of business before and Dushyanth has been doing quite well for himself. Besides, judging a person based on their sexual preferences is a thing of the past Jaya, get with the times.

Jaya: I am with the times Choti Ma, I just don’t want Dushyanth’s ‘lifestyle’ to rub off on Nikhil.

Urvashi laughs mildly.

Urvashi: Jaya… darling… your son will be fortunate if anything rubs off on him.

Jaya: What’s that supposed to mean?

Urvashi: Nikhil is the dud of this family there’s no going back on that fact. He doesn’t show proficiency or efficiency, frankly I ask myself why he’s still even in this house. He should have been thrown out on to the streets a long time ago. Maybe some time spent with the street folk would have done him some good.

Jaya: He’s a good boy and I know he’ll come around.

Urvashi: All mothers think of that of their sons, but the truth is, some sons never come around.

Urvashi gets lost in a moment of thought but then quickly regains composure.

Urvashi: Your son is currently a waste of space but you can continue pushing him in the so called right direction that he’s meant to fall into at some point or the other. But don’t make Dushyanth’s return your concern because from now on, regardless of whom the man sleeps with, he will be making money for me. Understood?

Jaya: Yes Choti Ma.

Urvashi: Very good.

Jaya looks upset but doesn’t show it to Urvashi and just smiles as she leaves the room.

Urvashi: All these people and their petty problems just stress me out too much. I think I should have a party. Yes, a party… Chandra Mahel hasn’t seen a good party in a very long time. It’s time to rock this joint.

Just then Urvashi’s phone rings and she looks at who’s calling.

Urvashi: Will this woman ever leave me alone?

She answers.

Urvashi: What do you want Rakshanda?

Rakshanda has aged as well but still looks beautiful. She has a stern look on her face as she speaks to Urvashi from her home in Boston.

Rakshanda: Urvashi… I’ve submitted papers requesting a transfer for Krithika.

Urvashi: Again?

Rakshanda: Yes, again.

Urvashi: Why do you keep doing that when you know you’re going to fail?

Rakshanda: Because she’s my niece and I can’t just stop trying.

Urvashi: Yes but we’ve been through this a million times. You’re not going to be able to do anything unless Rajind signs off on the documents as well. He is her husband and he has a legal right to state where he wants her institutionalized.

Rakshanda: He may be her husband but he certainly doesn’t have her best interest in mind. If he did then he would have helped me get her out of there years ago when I asked him to. But Rajind, like everyone else who lives at Chandra Mahel, is faithful to you.

Urvashi: Oh please, do you think I enjoy seeing Krithika suffer like this?

Rakshanda: I’m sure of it. Why else would you keep her locked up in a mental facility like an animal for twenty years?

Urvashi: I’ll have you know that Krithika is being attended to by the best doctors…

Rakshanda: Who haven’t been able to identify what’s wrong with her for the past twenty years.

Urvashi: Listen Rakshanda, you may be her Maasi but I’m her Choti Ma ok… She’s my stepdaughter and I want what’s best for her too.

Rakshanda: Somehow I doubt that.

Urvashi: Well that’s your problem not mine. But I suppose convincing you like this is not going to do any good. You’re still going to try to get Krithika out and you’re going to fail again like you have the past one hundred and something times. Besides, don’t you have better things to do? Haven’t you been running your father’s company since his death? Shouldn’t that keep you busy?

Rakshanda: What I do with my time is none of your concern.

Urvashi: And what I do with my family is none of your concern. It was nice talking to you, say hi to Vanshita for me. Goodbye.

Urvashi hangs up and tosses her phone aside.

Urvashi: That woman is like a thorn in my side! But I’m not going to let that worry me. I’m going to enjoy my life. Because now, there’s no one around to oppose me anymore!

Urvashi throws her head back and laughs… At that very same moment… In Shimla… A meeting is being held with high powered individuals who are attending from around the world. Umesh Kaul stands at the head of the table addressing everyone.

Umesh: Ladies and gentlemen it’s a pleasure to have you all present here today on this remarkable occasion. Today is the day the Kaul Group of Companies goes international and re-launches itself as Chakra International. As Co-Vice President of this company I have the pleasure of now introducing you to the personality behind the success and creation of Chakra International. She is a respected member of the Kaul family and many of you have worked with her over the past. She’s just returned to India after having signed a series of deals and mergers that has made Chakra International possible today. Her ventures throughout the past years have lead her to The United Arab Emirates, Africa, South America, London, Australia, New York and California. Without further ado I give you… the President of Chakra International – Mrs. Drishti Kaul.

The applause is amazing and everyone stands as the doors of the boardroom open and a woman walks in… She takes her seat at the head of the table and turns her chair around. We see that it is none other than Rauktima, who for all intents and purposes will now be referred to as Drishti. She looks stunning and her eyes are ablaze with power. There are no traces of innocence left in her and the unspoken aura around her speaks volumes of what she has become capable of.

Drishti: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for being here today. Your support in all our ventures have proved beneficial to both this company and yourselves. I look forward to your continued support as we take Chakra International from strength to strength. Together we have built an empire that has near dominated the business world globally. In the time to come we will strengthen that dominance and become a business giant that is to be reckoned with. That being said, there is a minor point I would like to touch on at this point.

She leans back in her chair and everyone else follows suit.

Drishti: We at Chakra International believe that our success lies within our transparency, both to our employees and our consumers of various products. It is no secret that many, many years ago the Kaul family name was synonymous with the world of drugs and the mafia. But we rose beyond that. Extreme steps were taken, I even faked my own death due to circumstances that made me do so but this family and this business has proved its honesty over the years and I’m sure you’ll all agree with me when I say that what we stand for today tips our scale over and beyond our past deeds. We were humble enough to admit our mistakes in the open and we thank each and every one who’s been part of our journey to success ever since. That being said, I’d like to declare Chakra International officially launched and welcome you to the Kaul Mansion for a celebration.

The 400th Episode

Kurukshetra – The 400^th Episode

14 YEARS LATER… Chandini Mahel – Kolkota

We start with a Barsi that is being held at Chandini Mahel for Protima Agnihotri, Nakshatra Agnihotri and Rauktima Kaul. Protima has been dead for ten years now. Since Rauktima’s disappearance and Nakshatra’s death, twenty years have gone by. Among the people sitting at the Barsi are Kaushik, Darpana, Aksh and Geet, who is now twenty five years of age. As the Barsi ends everyone gets up and starts leaving until only the family is left.

Aksh: I wish we could stay for longer but we have to catch the next flight back. Geet and I have to get back to work, there’s much that needs to be done.

Kaushik: We understand.

Darpana: I’m disappointed the others aren’t here.

Aksh: They are otherwise occupied.

Darpana: They’ve been otherwise occupied for many years now Aksh. You don’t have to cover for them anymore.

Geet: Don’t be upset Nani Ma. You know how things are. Everyone is busy.

Darpana: Either everyone is busy or someone is keeping them busy so they can’t come.

Kaushik: Darpana, we’ve been over this a million times. We promised to stay away from all matters concerning Chandra Mahel a long time ago.

Darpana: I lost my children to that house Kaushik. Do you really think I can keep myself from talking about it? So many years have gone by and bit by bit, all has changed. Our family is in disarray.

Kaushik: No… our family is fine. This is our family and this is all we have now. We have to make do with it.

Aksh: Baba, I promise we’ll come back soon to visit.

Kaushik: Please do. It’s good to see you both as always. Geet, you’ve grown up to be a wonderful young man. Your mother would have been proud.

Darpana: I just wish she had had more time to get to know you.

Geet: I’m sure that wherever she is, she’s watching over me.

Aksh: We have to go now. Or else we’ll be late.

The two of them take Kaushik and Darpana’s blessings and then leave.

Kaushik: Are you alright?

Darpana: Alright? How can I be alright?

Kaushik: You’ve harbored this bitterness inside you for long enough don’t you think?

Darpana: I can’t help but feel that my children’s souls are not at rest Kaushik. And even when Ma ji passed away, she was so very upset over all that had happened.

Kaushik: But she’s at rest now and we’re together. We should be happy.

Darpana: I gave up being happy a long time ago. But I suppose I should be thankful, at least we have each other.

Kaushik: Yes we do.

Meanwhile… at Chandra Mahel… a lot has changed. The mansion looks very different to what it was twenty years ago. The look and feel of it is very modern and sophisticated as opposed to the previous traditionally rich look. Rajind walks into the house and looks tired. Just then, old Ramdas walks over to him.

Ramdas: Sir… Urvashi Madam wanted me to inform you when you came home that she’s waiting for you in the main library.

Rajind: Thank you.

Ramdas goes away and Rajind looks disoriented. He walks up the stairs every so slowly and finally makes his way into the library. He stands at the door and knocks.

Rajind: May I come in?

From a distance, he sees a chair that’s turned to face away from him and a woman’s outstretched hand holding a book. She shuts the book closed and the chair turns around swiftly. Urvashi Agnihotri looks glamorous as ever. Her hair is neatly tied up and there is one strand of grey that has fallen out, fashionably of course.

Urvashi: You don’t ask for my permission to visit your wife Rajind, so why should you ask me for my permission to walk into this room?

Rajind: I…

Urvashi: Come in and close the door.

Rajind does as he is told. Urvashi places the book she is reading aside and sits calmly on the chair as Rajind approaches her. He stops in front of her and stands with his hands in front of him.

Urvashi: You know. I think I’ve been too nice to you over the years. I’ve given you the privilege of being part of this family even though the only thing holding you to this family is rotting in a mental facility and you repay my generosity by betraying my rules.

Rajind: I just…

Urvashi: Did I say you could speak?

Rajind: No.

Urvashi: Then shut up.

Rajind looks down.

Urvashi: Have you lost your identity Rajind? You may answer me.

Rajind: I don’t understand.

Urvashi: What day of the week is it today?

Rajind: Thursday.

Urvashi: And what day of the week have I allocated for you to visit your wife?

Rajind: Wednesday.

Urvashi: And who is the only other person that is allowed to visit her on any day of the week?

Rajind: You are… Choti Ma.

Urvashi: Now logically, if you went to visit her today that would make you… me. Are you Urvashi Agnihotri?

Rajind: No. I’m not.

Urvashi stands abruptly.

Urvashi: Then why the hell did you go visiting today?

Rajind: It’s just that, when I went to see her yesterday she seemed to upset and…

Urvashi: She’s mentally ill! Of course she’s going to look upset you idiot!

Rajind: I’m sorry Choti Ma, it won’t happen again.

Urvashi: It better not! Besides, Aksh and Geet are not around at the moment and I depend on you to keep watch of what’s going on over at Shergill Industries or have you forgotten your responsibilities?

Rajind: I assure you I haven’t.

Urvashi: Good. When the merger happened years ago I put you and Aksh in charge because you proved to be worthy businessmen. But if something should go wrong with the company then I assure you, Agnihotri Incorporated will not suffer the loss. I’ll rip that company out of my portfolio and throw you out of this house before you know what hit you do I make myself clear?

Rajind: Yes Choti Ma.

Urvashi: Good. Now get out.

Rajind walks out of the library as soon as his feet can take him and closes the door.

Urvashi: Imbecile! I should have tossed him out years ago when I hung his wife out to dry! But he has come in handy over the years. Oh the years that have gone by in glorious splendor. Chandra Mahel, Agnihotri Incorporated, the Agnihotri Empire, all mine. If only my enemies were around to see me today. But of course they wouldn’t be… I wouldn’t let them now would I?

Meanwhile… downstairs… Poornima is in the kitchen giving Ramdas instructions.

Poornima:… and that’s what the lunch menu should be, understood?

Ramdas: Yes Madam.

Poornima: Now make sure Shubh has had his mid-morning snack. The poor thing wasn’t feeling well at all yesterday.

Ramdas: Yes Madam.

Poornima starts to walk off.

Ramdas: Madam…

Poornima: What?

Ramdas: What about Shastra Madam’s food?

Poornima: What about it?

Ramdas: She didn’t eat anything before she left for college this morning. Should I send something to her?

Poornima: She’ll probably come home early for lunch. There’s no need to send anything off to the college.

Poornima walks off and Ramdas goes back to work. Meanwhile… in Soumil and Katya’s room…

Katya: What are you doing home so early? I thought you had another meeting.

Soumil: I did but I pushed it for tomorrow. I’ve been working like crazy these past few days and I decided to take a break.

Katya: Has Hitler approved your break?

Soumil: Katya…

Katya: What? You know that what she is. She’s a slave-driver. She shouldn’t be working all of you so hard like this.

Soumil: She’s doing what’s best for the company.

Katya: She’s doing what’s best for herself.

Soumil: Katya, why is it that you always have something negative to say about Choti Ma?

Katya: Probably because when I think of her, nothing positive comes to mind.

Soumil: She’s taken care of this family over the years. I know her methods may not have always been the best but…

Katya: But you worship her, like everyone else in this family.

Soumil: No one worships her.

Katya: Oh really? Then how come no one has stood up to her in order to get Krithika out of that bloody mental facility for the past twenty years? Huh?

Soumil: Krithika is better off in the facility. Besides, she’s a sore subject and we shouldn’t discuss it. Where’s Manasvi?

Katya: She’s not home yet. She’ll probably get late today. She said something about studying at a friend’s place.

Soumil: You should really keep a tab on that girl.

Katya: I trust her.

Soumil: That’s what all mothers say about their daughters.

Just then Urvashi walks in.

Urvashi: Soumil, what are you doing home so early?

Soumil: I… decided to take the rest of the day off Choti Ma. Everything is in order at work and…

Urvashi: And you deserve the break. Of course. When you have a moment I’d like to talk to you about the Goa project.

Soumil: Of course. Just let me freshen up and I’ll be with you.

Katya: Oh sweetheart, it’s not going to be much of a day off if you’re going to work now is it?

Urvashi raises a brow but quickly reverts to smiling sweetly.

Urvashi: You know what, Katya is right. You should get some rest. I’ll bother you some other time.

Soumil: It’s no bother Choti Ma, I’ll be with you in a bit.

Soumil smiles and heads for the bathroom. Urvashi walks into the room and smiles at Katya.

Urvashi: He works really hard doesn’t he?

Katya: Too hard.

Urvashi: I know… but what’s to be done. That’s how one keeps the home fires burning.

Katya: Home fires? Choti Ma have you seen where we are in life? We’re not destitute. We have enough money to last us three lifetimes.

Urvashi: Because we have dedicated and devoted people like Soumil at the helm of Agnihotri Incorporated. If the most important people of the company stopped doing their job then we wouldn’t have all these luxuries now would we?

Katya: I know. But sometimes I wish you’d let him relax just a bit. He’s overworked.

Urvashi: Nonsense. I would never overwork him. He’s my favorite employee…

The statement stabs Katya and she gives Urvashi a strange look.

Katya: Employee?

Urvashi: Yes as in he works for me.

Katya: He gave up the Thakral business to help Anirudh expand the company because he is part of this family and Agnihotri Incorporated is his birthright.

Urvashi: And he can have it when I’m dead and gone but as long as I’m alive the company belongs to me and what I say goes around here or have you forgotten?

Katya: No I haven’t.

Urvashi: Good. I hope you never do. I wouldn’t want to see my favorite employee… oops I mean… my favorite nephew and his family be out of house and home.

Katya is internally shocked but she doesn’t let it show on her face.

Urvashi: We’ve had such a nice relationship over the years Katya.

Katya: Yes, you’ve told me what to do and I’ve done it.

Urvashi: That’s right. And it’s worked so well for us both. Why would you want to ruin that now?

Katya: I… don’t.

Urvashi: Good. Now be a nice girl and when you’re husband comes out of the shower send him running along to me. I’ll be waiting in the study.

Katya: Yes Choti Ma.

Urvashi smiles and walks out of the room. Katya thinks to herself…

Katya: If it weren’t for Manasvi’s future I would have left this house years ago. But it looks like I’m stuck here, for good.

Second Leap on Kurukshetra

Later today you will read the 400th episode of Kurukshetra. Events leading to the end of the 399th episode showed Nakshatra’s death at Urvashi’s command followed by Krithika being sent to the asylum and Kartik being incarcerated, this time, for something he didn’t do. The biggest turn of events, however, revolved around Rauktima’s disappearance from the hospital after which we flash forwarded to six years later when she came out of her coma.

Rauktima was shocked to find herself in Shimla and was further astonished at the fact that she was saved by her Sasur – Gajendra Kaul and his sons who made her a remarkable deal.

The 400th episode will begin 14 years after Rauktima’s revival from the coma – so in total 20 years would have gone by. 

And so the drama unfolds.

Episode 399

Kurukshetra – Episode 399

Urvashi: Where shall we start? How about with Vijay Agnihotri? Was he an honest man? Wait… wasn’t he the one who married Protima Agnihotri while he got Mahamaya Devi pregnant? Two families that didn’t even know the other existed.

Krithika gets annoyed at hearing this.

Urvashi: Who shall we move on to next? How about Kamini Agnihotri? Wasn’t she the one who got pregnant before marriage and faked her death to hide away from the shame? There must be a paragon of good in this family somewhere… I know… what about Revati Agnihotri? Oh wait, wasn’t she the one who passed Sanket’s son off as Keshav’s? That’s right, she hung herself when the truth came out didn’t she? But wait… I’m sure that this upstanding family of yours has produced some goodness… How about Kartik Agnihotri? Oops, bad example… too many murders under his sleeve.

Krithika is furious now.

Urvashi: Shall we think of the sons of the family, maybe one of them was outstanding… Keshav… hmmm, turned his back on his wife when a small truth about her past was revealed. Ketan… cheated on his wife. Kaushik… turned on his wife because of his own disabilities. Kaurav… impregnated another woman weeks before he was married. Anirudh and Nachiket… forced their own mothers out of the house. Soumil… committed adultery with his brother’s wife. Soorya… was known to visit brothels. Dushyanth… there have been more men than women who frequented his bed!

Krithika: SHUT UP!

Urvashi: What’s the matter sweetheart? Is it difficult to hear about your respectable family and all their good deeds? But I was only talking about the sons of the house. What about the daughters? Hmmm?

Krithika stares daggers at Urvashi.

Urvashi: Oh yes the daughters… now let’s see. Vidhushi… turned on her own family to help the Chopras. Shubhavi… had her own sister raped. Vanshita… shamed and disgraced the entire family. Akarsha… refused to stand up for her own mother and brother. Rauktima… decided to continue keeping the secret of Nakshatra’s birth from her father even after she found out the truth. Krithika… married the man her mother was sleeping with!

Krithika: ENOUGH!

Urvashi: Oh I’m sorry did that hurt? Did it?

Krithika: You have no right to…

Urvashi: To what? Prove my point? I thought I did. I mean I can’t continue to let you live in this fantasy world where you believe your family is as pure as the morning dew now can I? And I’m only done with the sons and daughters of that house… what about the Bahus? Do you know about all of them? I’m sure you do but just to refresh your memory let’s remember shall we? Revati… lied about her son’s paternity. Darpana… lied about her son’s identity. Tamanna… has been married to three quarters of the Agnihotri generation. Ankita… tried to destroy the family from within. Sangeeta… was a mistress before she was a wife. Sanskriti… had Prithvi killed and stole you of your child. Poornima… assisted in making Chandra Mahel a living hell for everyone. Jaya… an undercover cop who married into the family for purely professional reasons. Ashvini… had both Sangeeta and Sanket killed and then kidnapped Shastra. Katya… cheated on her husband with his brother. Rudrakshi… slept around with everyone except her husband!

Krithika: URVASHI!

Krithika lunges at Urvashi and begins strangling her but Urvashi moves her hands aside with ease and pushes her back on her bed.

Urvashi: You’re not strong enough to take me on my dear. I suggest you don’t even try. But I also hope now that you no longer live in the false belief that you come from a family of saints. If you want to rot in this place then the choice is yours but don’t talk family politics to me, especially not when it involves the Agnihotris. Your family has bad karma and it is going to keep on biting them in the ass until all of them are dead. But I’m sure you still believe that they’ll stand together forever and ever. So I’m going to do something to prove you wrong. It might take me some time but I will have complete control of that house and all its people. They will belong to me and all of them will be my slaves. They will only care about themselves and forget about this family that you speak so highly of. I will make it happen and there will be nothing you can do to stop me. So enjoy your time running mad. I’ll be around to see you now and again… after all… it’s not like the rest of your family is going to care.

Urvashi smiles sweetly at Krithika and walks out closing the door behind her. Krithika looks helpless and beats her head on the wall crying. Later Urvashi arrives at Chandra Mahel and walks in. While she’s making her way in she sees the wall with all the pictures of the dead Agnihotris. She walks over to the wall and then stares at it for a while.

Urvashi: Ramdas!

Ramdas, the head servant comes running out.

Ramdas: Yes Madam?

Urvashi: I want this wall cleared.

Ramdas: I’m sorry Madam what?

Urvashi: Didn’t you hear what I said? I want this wall cleared.

Ramdas: But…

Urvashi: But what? I’m asking you to do something are you defying me?

Ramdas: No but I was wondering…

Urvashi: You’re not paid to wonder you’re paid to follow orders. Now clear this damned wall!

Ramdas: Yes Madam.

Ramdas goes to get busy and Urvashi walks in. As she does she sees Aksh watching her.

Aksh: Getting rid of old memories I see.

Urvashi: The old has to go when the new comes in doesn’t it?

Aksh: Don’t you even want to ask the rest of the family what they think about it…

Urvashi: If they have a problem with it they’ll talk to me won’t they?

Aksh: But still…

Urvashi: Aksh please… No one wants to see a bunch of dead people as soon as they walk into one of the greatest architectural sights of India. Chandra Mahel is supposed to exude power and nobility, I doubt a group of dead family members help uplift that image.

Aksh: How can you be so cold?

Urvashi: It’s a gift.

She smirks and walks off. Aksh watches as the servants gather together and one by one take down the photographs of all the dead family members. He thinks to himself…

Aksh: How am I going to live like this? Can I be so selfish that I keep a truth this ugly to myself just because I want the safety of my child? No I’m not being selfish. Geet’s safety comes first and foremost. Until I find Rauktima I have to stay silent.

SIX YEARS LATER… IN SHIMLA

A phone rings somewhere and someone picks up. The voice at the other end is that of a doctor.

Doctor: I have good news for you today. The patient has finally come out of the coma. I think you might want to come in as soon as possible.

The line goes dead and the person who picked up the phone places it down. Not long after we are taken to the hospital. In one of the rooms a coma patient stands by her window looking out. Her hair is grown and she looks frail. Her room door opens and a nurse walks in.

Nurse: I see you’re up and about. As difficult as this is going to be, we’re going to have to start you off on some solid food. I’ll be bringing it in shortly. My advise to you is don’t exert yourself. You have visitors coming in to see you.

The patient turns around ever so slowly when she hears this. It is none other than Rauktima.

Rauktima: Where am I?

Nurse: In Shimla.

Rauktima: Shimla? How did I get here? I’m supposed to be in… wait, how long did you say I’ve been in this coma?

Nurse: A little over six years.

Rauktima is shocked.

Rauktima: Six years? My husband… my son… where are they?

Nurse: I’m not sure. But like I said, you have visitors coming in to see you so you’d better get some rest.

Rauktima: Visitors? Who?

Nurse: The same people who brought you here six years ago. They’ve been keeping you alive in hopes that you will come out of your coma soon and today you have. You owe them a lot. If not for them, the doctors would have given up hope on you years ago. I’ll see you in a bit.

The nurse smiles and leaves and Rauktima goes into deep thought.

Rauktima: How did I get here? Who are these people who brought me here and why would I be here? Two years? Two years is a long time. Does Aksh even know I’m alive? How did all this happen?

Rauktima thinks and then suddenly she remembers her fight with Urvashi on the rooftop of Chandra Mahel.

Rauktima: Urvashi… She did this to me. But how did I get here?

Just then she hears her room door opening and a voice calling out…

Voice: Rauktima.

Rauktima turns around and is shocked beyond belief.

Rauktima: YOU!

To her utter horror she finds Gajendra, Sailesh and Umesh Kaul standing before her.

Rauktima: What the hell are you people doing here?

Gajendra: It’s nice to see you too.

Sailesh: And you’re welcome.

Rauktima: Welome?

Umesh: We’re the ones who saved you.

Rauktima: Saved me?

Gajendra: You might want to have a seat while we tell you the story of how you got to Shimla from Delhi.

Rauktima finds she has no choice and sits down.

Gajendra: After your little stunt threw us in jail we had to pull a lot of strings to get ourselves out. We were furious because our family was scattered but with a lot of effort we managed to bring Tagyatha and Charithri back home.

Sailesh: We were angry with you at first and wanted to come after you but then we realized that we were the ones in the wrong.

Umesh: We decided that we would end all the dodgy dealings we were a part of and start a new. But because we were keeping close tabs on you we knew that things were not going well for you and Aksh Bhaiyya.

Gajendra: In due time we came to know that this woman Urvashi was responsible for your accident. But only…

Rauktima: It was no accident.

Gajendra: Precisely. And how we came upon that was when we learned she planned on killing you while you were in your coma.

Rauktima: What?

Gajendra: Yes. So before her men got to you, we moved you out of the hospital and brought you here, where you have been for the past six years.

Rauktima: My family…

Gajendra: Is in shambles. I’m sorry to report this to you but… your brother Nakshatra is dead.

Rauktima: NO!

Sailesh: It’s true. And at the hands of Urvashi. She’s also imprisoned your sister Krithika in a mental facility and manipulated events so that Kartik Agnihotri is in jail for crimes she committed.

Rauktima: I have to go to my family at once!

Gajendra: And do what exactly? After six years of looking for you they’ve come to believe that you are dead as well. A lot has changed at Chandra Mahel and I’m afraid it’s too dangerous for you to just waltz back in there.

Rauktima: But Aksh and Geet…

Gajendra: Are safe for now. If you go back now Rauktima, Urvashi will find a way to crush you and kill you. Besides, she will use your sister and the rest of your family as leverage to do so and you… you have a lot to learn before you can battle a woman of this nature.

Rauktima thinks for a bit.

Rauktima: What do you want from me?

Gajendra: What do you mean?

Rauktima: You wouldn’t have gone through all this trouble to save the woman who destroyed your lives without a reason. So what do you want from me?

Umesh: It’s simple. We want our mother back. And you can help us get her.

Rauktima: How?

Gajendra: By letting Rauktima stay dead and bringing Drishti back to life.

Sailesh: If we can prove that you are Drishti Kaul and not Rauktima Agnihotri, then they’ll have to let Mom go.

Gajendra: In exchange, we will protect you, keep you away from Urvashi’s radar and train you until you are finally ready to face her in battle.

Rauktima: And if I refuse.

Gajendra: We wouldn’t care less what happens to you. So what do you say? Will you kill Rauktima and help us free Nitya or will you go back and let Urvashi kill you instead?

Double Dhamaka – Episodes 397 & 398

Kurukshetra – Episode 397

Urvashi waits outside the cafeteria of the hospital where Aksh can see her. She constantly keeps looking around to check on whether or not her job is being done. Not long after Aksh is done with his meals. He gets up and prepares to walk back to Rauktima’s room.

Urvashi: Are you done so soon?

Aksh: Yes I am. Thanks for the food.

Urvashi: But…

Aksh: But what?

Urvashi: Water… You didn’t drink any water.

Aksh: There’s water back in the room.

Aksh walks past her and Urvashi thinks to herself…

Urvashi: If he goes back to that room and those people are still there… I’m screwed.

She quickly walks behind Aksh and heads for Rauktima’s room. Aksh reaches the room and Urvashi is very tense. He opens the door and shouts out!

Aksh: RAUKTIMA!

Urvashi panics and she too runs into the room. But when she gets there she sees why Aksh shouted.

Urvashi: Where is she?

Aksh: She’s been moved.

Urvashi: But to where?

Aksh: I don’t know… NURSE!

Aksh goes running out of the room and Urvashi looks around. She quickly pulls out her phone and calls the goons.

Urvashi: What the hell is the meaning of this? I asked you to kill her not abduct her!

Goon: Sorry Madam… but by the time we got to the hospital, she was already gone.

Urvashi: What? What are you saying?

Goon: Someone else has taken her away. We don’t know where she is.

Urvashi is shocked to hear this and hangs up. Just then Aksh comes running back with hospital security.

Aksh: Where the hell is my wife? Will somebody please tell me?

Security: Don’t worry sir. She has to be somewhere in this hospital, we’ll find her.

They run off and Aksh is beside himself with horror. He then turns to Urvashi.

Aksh: Did you have something to do with this?

Urvashi: I swear I didn’t… How could you even ask me that!

Aksh: I don’t know what to believe anymore.

Hours later back at Chandra Mahel… Everyone is really tense.

Soumil: Still nothing?

Aksh: No news.

Soumil: Why don’t you go get some sleep while we wait to hear from someone?
Aksh: I can’t sleep Bhaiyya… not when my wife has gone missing.

Just then Geet walks into the hall, sleepy eyed.

Geet: I want mommy.

Everyone looks at him and Aksh walks over to him and picks him up.

Aksh: What’s the matter son?

Geet: I want mommy.

Aksh: Well mommy is a bit busy right now but she’ll be back soon ok.

Geet: I want her now!

Poornima walks over to them.

Poornima: Come with me Geet.

Poornima takes Geet away from Aksh and nods her head at Aksh assuring him that she’ll take care of him. Everyone keeps moving around tensely and no calls come in. The night passes and the next day dawns. Still nothing happens. Urvashi stands up…

Urvashi: I think we should all go and get some rest now. Everyone’s been up the whole night.

Aksh: We can’t just sit around and do nothing while…

Urvashi: We have no other choice Aksh. All we can do is wait…

Krithika: Why? So we can have more bad news?

Everyone turns their gaze upwards and they all see Krithika walking into the great hall. She looks like she’s done a lot of crying and she’s dressed in white like the others.

Urvashi: Krithika, how are you feeling?

Krithika: Oh stop this bloody bullshit drama of yours Urvashi!

Urvashi is thrown by this and so is the rest of the family.

Krithika: Are you shocked at what I just said? You should be. Because I’ll keep on shocking you until I see you behind bars!

Soumil: Krithika… what are you saying?

Krithika: I’m saying what is true Bhaiyya… this woman is a liar, a cheat, a murderer! She is the reason we’re all in mourning today. She is the reason we’re all in tears! She is the reason we’ve lost so many members of our family!

Urvashi: Krithika what on earth are you talking about?

Krithika: Stop playing dumb at least now! Rauktima Di knew what you were about so you got her out of the way! Nakshatra found out about you so you got him out of the way, even though he was your own flesh and blood! Who else are you going to destroy to get what you want?

Nachiket: Didi what are you talking about?

Krithika: I’m talking about this woman and her evil intentions!

Urvashi: What?

Rajind comes running into the room.

Rajind: Krithika what are you doing here? You should be resting.

Krithika: I will find my rest only once this bitch has been punished for what she ha done.

Urvashi: KRITHIKA!

Krithika: DON’T SHOUT AT ME! Nakshatra called me before he died! He told me everything on the phone… that’s when I called the police to send them to help him… That’s why I went looking for Dad… but it looks like you got him out of the way too…

Jaya: Krithika you’re not making any sense. Why would Urvashi Chachi do all this?

Krithika: For money, what else?

Urvashi: You think that I’d kill my own son for money?
Krithika: He found out about your truth and you wanted to stop him from telling anyone else… well too bad for you Urvashi, because he told me everything.

Urvashi: Someone please make her stop.

Krithika: I will not stop. I will not stop until I have justice!

Urvashi goes into panic mode and starts thinking of what to do… Then suddenly, she’s hit by a brainwave.

Urvashi: Wait a minute… Oh my goodness why couldn’t I see this before…

Krithika: See what?

Urvashi: Your father told me that the last time you lost your child, you went insane.

Everyone who was there during that time remembers this.

Urvashi: But then Rauktima was there to take care of you. But this time… this time Rauktima is gone too… so much has happened in your life… Nakshatra has died, Rauktima is missing, your father is in jail, you’ve lost another baby…

Krithika: URVASHI!

Urvashi: No wonder you’re blaming me for all these things. No wonder you’re making it sound like I had something to do with all of this. It’s not you… you’re not thinking straight.

Krithika: Nothing is wrong with me!

Soumil: Krithika, just relax.

Krithika: I will not… wait a minute, you don’t believe her do you? Bhaiyya she’s lying to you. She did all of this. She tried to kill Rauktima Di! She had Nakshatra killed!

Urvashi: I said ENOUGH! I won’t stand for you insulting me this way! I did not kill my son! How could you be so vicious in your accusations? How could you?

Krithika: Tell them… tell them how you made a deal with Rauktima Di… tell them how you made her convince Dad to marry you because you knew where Ashvini Bhabi was holding Shastra. Tell them!

At this point Aksh’s ears pick up because he knows this is true. He tries to say something but then quickly shuts his mouth.

Urvashi: What on earth are you talking about?

Krithika: I told you I know everything.

Rajind: Krithika that’s enough. Come with me.

Krithika: I’m not going anywhere until this woman is punished for what she has done.

Urvashi: I see what all this is about… you’re confused about what’s going on… you’re trying to continue this fight between the Bahus and Betis of this house with me because Rauktima isn’t here… you really miss her don’t you…

Krithika: Stop treating me like a child.

Urvashi: I’m not… I’m just trying to show you…

Krithika: I don’t want you to show me anything. I want justice. For my dead brother, for my sister, for my father! I want justice!

Urvashi: Someone take her up to her room.

Rajind: Krithika come with me…

Krithika: No!

Rajind tries to pull her away but she scratches him and lunges towards Urvashi.

Krithika: I’m going to kill you!

Urvashi steps back and everyone holds on to Krithika. They pull her away.

Urvashi: I’m going to call the doctor.

Urvashi rushes off and Krithika is screaming at the top of her voice. Not long after the doctor arrives and examines Krithika who has now calmed down in her room. He comes out and addresses the family.

Doctor: I’ve done a complete check and given her a mild sedative to calm her down. It is my opinion that she is suffering from mental trauma. If you ask me, I think she needs to be admitted into a psychiatric facility as soon as possible.

Rajind: I’m not taking my wife to an asylum.

Doctor: I’m not talking about an asylum Mr. Trivedi, I’m talking about a well maintained facility where she will get the proper help she needs.

Rajind: And how long will this so called treatment take?

Doctor: It could be days, months or years. No one knows. But it should be done before her condition worsens.

Soumil: Thank you doctor. I’ll show you out.

Urvashi: That’s ok. I’ll see to the doctor, you stay here with Krithika.

Urvashi walks out with the doctor and he turns to face her.

Doctor: I hope that was convincing enough?

Urvashi: Very… the money is already in your bank account. It was nice doing business with you.

Doctor: Thank you.

The doctor leaves and Urvashi smiles to herself and thinks…

Urvashi: Looks like both daughters of Chandra Mahel have now been incapacitated. Very good… looks like the Bahus won the fight between the Bahus and Betis of Chandra Mahel… but then again… not even the Bahus of this family will be given the chance to rule for as long as Urvashi is around.

Back upstairs…

Soumil: I’m not thrilled about the idea myself Rajind… but the truth is… we need her to recover fast.

Rajind: I know. I know… but it’s just that.

Soumil: It’ll only be for a short time. She’ll be fine.

Rajind: I hope so Bhaiyya. I really hope so.

In the meantime Urvashi is in her room, Aksh walks in.

Aksh: Can I come in?

Urvashi: Of course. What can I do for you?

Aksh: I’ve come to ask you something.

Urvashi: Go ahead.

Aksh: I know as well as you do that Krithika wasn’t lying about your deal with Rauktima, which leads me to believe that everything else she said was also true.

Urvashi: And yet you said nothing. Why?

Aksh: Do you know where Rauktima is?

Urvashi: Ah… so you kept your mouth shut because you want something from me…

Aksh: I just want to know where my wife is.

Urvashi: Alright Aksh, I’ll come clean with you. Krithika was telling the truth about everything.

Aksh is horrified.

Urvashi: Yet, no one else will ever know the truth because now I’ve taken care of Krithika as well. But what do I do with you?

Kurukshetra – Episode 398

Urvashi: I’ll tell you what I’ll do with you…

Aksh is tense.

Urvashi: Nothing… Absolutely nothing.

Now he’s surprised.

Urvashi: Consider this your lucky day Damad ji. As you know, I’ve taken care of every single person that has come in my way. Rauktima, Nakshatra, Kartik and now Krithika. We don’t want the same thing to happen to you now do we? So let’s make a deal you and me.

Aksh: What sort of deal?

Urvashi: I’ll leave you alone to pine over the loss of your wife… but in exchange, you will keep your mouth shut about all the things you know.

Aksh: But…

Urvashi: Did I say there was room for compromise? I don’t think so. You do as I say and I’ll leave you alone, try to break your boundaries and Geet is not going to be very safe…

Aksh’s eyes go wide in shock.

Aksh: You wouldn’t dare to hurt him.

Urvashi: I already have. Who do you think made Geet burn his hand at the mandir the other day?

Aksh is disgusted to hear this.

Aksh: How low do you sink?

Urvashi: Lower than most and it does me a world of good. Now if I can get your son to burn his hand just to cause a conflict between you and Rauktima then you can imagine what I’ll do to him if you open your mouth about what I’ve done. This is your plight Aksh. You’ll have to spend the rest of your days here in Chandra Mahel knowing the truth and unable to tell anyone… that is your punishment. You’ll know that Rauktima’s accident was really an accident, you’ll know that Kartik is really innocent, you’ll know that Nakshatra was really killed by my goons and you’ll know that Krithika isn’t really mad… but you’ll never be able to tell anyone anything… because… because… if you do… then little Geet goes bye, bye…

Aksh: Urvashi!

Urvashi: Shhh… show some respect. You are now standing under my roof. So get used to keeping your mouth shut Aksh and welcome to my hell.

Aksh turns on his heel and heads out of the room and Urvashi thinks to herself…

Urvashi: That worked for now but I’ll have to use constant pressure on him, which is why I won’t tell him that I don’t know where Rauktima is. Maybe he thinks that if he’s a good boy, I’ll let her come back home. But in all honesty… where is Rauktima?

The next day… the people from the mental facility come to Chandra Mahel and Krithika is taken from her room.

Krithika: Let go of me! I said let me go!

Rajind: Krithika it’s going to be alright. It’s going to be ok.

Krithika: Rajind please tell them to let me go… please… please…

Rajind: You’ll be fine. Just please let them help you.

Krithika: I don’t need their help. I need you to know what the truth is.

Krithika is taken through Chandra Mahel and she screams…

Krithika: Why won’t anyone listen to me?  Why won’t anyone listen? MAMA!!!

Her voice echoes through the walls and the windows of Chandra Mahel start to shake as everyone watches.

Krithika: MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

The wall that has the photographs of all the deceased in Chandra Mahel begins shaking… Suddenly Rudrakshi’s picture falls off and breaks into pieces… The others see this and are shocked.

Krithika: BADI MAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

As Krithika is taken down the stairs, Tamanna’s photograph falls off the wall and breaks…

Krithika: Somebody help me!!! No one is listening to me! MAAAA! BADI MAAA!

The family is confused as they see the shattered photographs on the floor. The wind howls in Chandra Mahel. Anirudh looks at Krithika and starts crying…

Anirudh: Mirchi… No… stop… don’t take her away.

But Jaya walks over to him.

Jaya: Anirudh… you have to remember that we’re doing this for her own good.

The people keep dragging Krithika away.

Krithika: DIDI!!! MUMMY!!! BADI MA! DAD!!!

From high above in the wings, Urvashi watches all this. She thinks to herself…

Urvashi: Shout as much as you want because the people you’re calling out to are long gone! You’re finished Krithika… Just finished…

And Krithika arrives at the great hall. As she’s lead to the doors of Chandra Mahel the force of the wind shuts them closed. Aksh walks in and looks around. He wants to help her but he can’t. He looks up and sees Urvashi looking back at him. He takes a step back and watches while the people from the facility open the doors and drag Krithika out. As she reaches the door Krithika gets very calm.

Krithika: Stop a moment please. I assure you I won’t put up a fight.

The people stop and Krithika turns around slowly. She looks up at Urvashi.

Krithika: Urvashi… I maybe leaving today, but this is not over. We worked very hard to bring love and peace back into this house but today… today you’ve managed to destroy all that we built. You’ve once again turned Chandra Mahel into Kurukshetra. But this isn’t over by a long shot. Silence whom you will but the truth won’t stay buried for long. Let these blind people follow you because the day their eyes open, they’ll know what they did wrong. But always remember… this is not over.

Krithika turns around the people from the facility escort her to the vehicle and drive off. And back inside, Urvashi thinks to herself…

Urvashi: Of course it’s over. It’s all over.

Two days later at the mental facility… Krithika sits in a corner of her room looking disgusted and defeated. Her room door opens and Urvashi walks in. The door closes and Krithika looks up at her.

Krithika: Have you come here to rub salt in my wounds?

Urvashi: Why do you have to be so harsh my dear? I only have your best interest in mind.

Krithika gets off her bed and walks over to Urvashi.

Krithika: Is that what you told Nakshatra before you killed him?

Urvashi smiles and then rather unexpectedly slaps Krithika hard across the face.

Urvashi: Don’t ever talk about my son again like that do you hear me?

Krithika looks back at Urvashi, unshaken by the slap. She laughs a little and then crosses her arms.

Krithika: What’s the matter? Is the truth too much to handle? How does it feel to know that your own flesh and blood is dead at your hand Urvashi?

Urvashi slaps Krithika again but Krithika doesn’t react.

Urvashi: I’m not here to listen to your small talk. I’m here to make you an offer.

Krithika: Wow, I’ve always wondered what it would be like to make a deal with the devil.

Urvashi: High praise coming from the daughter of the man who’s killed far more than me.

Krithika: Get to the point. What do you want?

Urvashi: I’d like to get you out of here but I don’t trust you. So while you’re in here I’d like to try and make your life a little easy. I’ll make sure that your every need is taken care of…

Krithika: But you won’t let me come back to Chandra Mahel?

Urvashi: Not until I know for sure that you won’t go against me.

Krithika: I suppose that’s a long wait then because I will come after you when I get the chance.

Urvashi: Somehow I knew you were going to say that. So how about this? While attending to all of your needs I’ll make sure that the family gets to see you frequently, if you promise to be a good girl…

Krithika: And if I refuse?

Urvashi: I’ll advise the people here to start on the shock treatment. Wouldn’t that be lovely?

Krithika: You are a monster aren’t you?

Urvashi: Took you long enough to realize it.

Krithika: Hmmm… I think you know what my answer is.

Urvashi: Why do all you Agnihotris have to be so stubborn? Didn’t you see where it got Rauktima?

Krithika: And Nakshatra… I know… But the thing is, we’ve faced far worse than you and we’ve always come out of it alive and well, ready to see the light of another day.

Urvashi: But that’s only because all the people you faced before me were weak. They were susceptible to your cheap talk, you Agnihotris do seem to have a way with words. But the thing is I’m not like the others. I’m the night that Chandra Mahel will never recover from so there’s no chance of seeing any light for anyone who opposes me. Got it?

Krithika: Keep your vile threats to yourself. I’m not backing off. You’re going to have to kill me just like you did the others…

Urvashi: A lovely thought but that would be too easy now wouldn’t it and it could also drag suspicion toward me. If you don’t agree to my terms and conditions Krithika I swear you will never set foot in Chandra Mahel again and I will make sure that you lose your mind within these walls.

Krithika walks about a bit and then comes back to Urvashi.

Krithika: I won’t stand here and pretend I have a clean slate. Goodness knows I haven’t been the best apple in the Agnihotri family. But I’ll be damned if I join forces with the woman who’s taken so much from me.

Urvashi: But I’m also willing to give you so much in return.

Krithika: Why am I suddenly so important? Are you afraid of something? You are aren’t you?

Urvashi: What could I possibly be afraid of?

Krithika: Oh I don’t know… that I’ll get out of here on my own accord and then come after you.

Urvashi: The only way you’re getting out of here is if I say so.

Krithika: Seems pretty secure. So why even bother? Isn’t this what you wanted? You’ve gotten rid of everyone who would oppose you.

Urvashi takes in a deep breath.

Urvashi: I’m trying to make up for what I did to Nakshatra.

Krithika: What? How so?

Urvashi: You were the last person he called. He was close to you. He looked up to you and loved you. If I can do something for you then it will make me feel a little better about the loss of my son.

Krithika bursts out laughing and claps her hands together.

Krithika: Oh my goodness woman! You are unbelievable. Nakshatra would be alive and well today if you hadn’t sent those goons after him. And now you’re trying to make up for his death? Are you sure you don’t need to be institutionalized? You sound like a madwoman! You want me to turn on my family and bury this truth just so you can have a good night’s sleep? Let me make one thing clear to you. You may have the Agnihotri name attached to your rear end but I have Agnihotri blood running through my veins. Maybe you haven’t realized this yet but that blood makes us beat a little differently to the rest of the people you know. Yes there are times we go against each other and yes there are times when we become each others’ biggest enemies. But we also stand up for each other and we stand by each other in the time of need. We will do whatever it takes to protect our own and…

Urvashi: Stop this nonsense! I’m not in the mood for your speeches. Do you think I’m stupid? This family stands for nothing. Your so called family has no integrity and every single member can be bent as easily as straw! If you want to turn my offer down then do so with dignity and I’ll respect that. But don’t preach the unstained reputation of the Agnihotri family to me. Not a single person in your family can call themselves an honest human being.

Krithika: I don’t have time for this. If you’re done then please leave.

Urvashi: Oh I will leave but I want to leave you with something to remember me by. Just to let you know I’ve done my homework on all of you and I know what each and every one of you are about. None of your family can afford to point the finger at me. No one can! All of you are a bunch of hypocrites who change your beliefs based on convenience. Do you want examples of what outstanding human beings the Agnihotris are? Listen!

Promo – Out With The Old

It is dark all around and suddenly a light comes on. There is a wall that has the photographs of all the dead Agihotri Family members. Urvashi appears out of the dark and stands before the wall. Then she throws her head back and starts laughing!

Her laughter causes the wall to tremble. The picture frames shake uncontrollably. Rudrakshi’s photograph falls off the wall and shatters into pieces… Tamanna’s photograph falls off soon after and breaks similarly. Urvashi continues laughing.

Keshav’s photograph falls off followed by Ketan… Rayyan… Maya… Revati… Kaurav and all the others. They all crash into one big pile. Urvashi turns away from the wall.

Urvashi: The old has to go when the new comes in doesn’t it?

The drama continues on Kurukshetra

Double Dhamaka Part II – Episodes 395 & 396

Kurukshetra – Episode 395

Krithika: Nakshatra where are you now? I need to make sure you’re safe.

Nakshtra: The gangsters are still on my tail Di, I’m trying to evade them but should something happen to me…

Krithika: Nothing is going to happen to you…

Nakshatra: But should something happen… I need to make sure that someone else other than me knows the truth!

Krithika: Nakshu…

Nakshatra: Di listen, there’s more.

Sequential Flashbacks…

Rauktima: Urvashi tell me where Ashvini Bhabi is! She has…

Urvashi: Sanskriti and Dushyanth’s baby, yes I know. And I will tell you where she is and then you can go find her and do with her what you must, I won’t interfere at all. But if I’m to share this information with you then you’re going to have to do as I say. You make sure that I get married to Kartik and I’ll make sure that the daughter of this house returns safe and sound and the best part is that you can have all the credit for finding her.

Rauktima: No…

 

Urvashi: It’s not very nice to eavesdrop on other people’s conversations my son.

Nakshatra: For the last time I am not your son! You disgust me!

Urvashi: That’ll change.

Nakshatra: Never.

 

Urvashi: Rauktima, I took the keys of this house away from Katya while you were sitting right in front of me and there was nothing you could have done. Do you really think you will be able to stop me from whatever I have planned on doing in the future?

 

Urvashi: Listen Rauktima, I know that you have your issues with the Bahus of this family especially due to the track record that Chandra Mahel has seen… but that doesn’t mean you can be nasty to your Bhabis who have been so nice to you and so loving and caring. Are you going to hold what Poornima did so long ago against her even now?

Rauktima: I never…

Poornima: Everyone deserves a chance to change Didi and forgive us if we can’t be a saint like you. But we are sorry for the bad things that we have done and I honestly thought that we were past all of that.

 

Rauktima: Bhaiyya… I… I… I had a miscarriage a few days ago.

Soumil is shocked to hear this.

Rauktima: Everyone’s been so happy since the baby came home and I didn’t want to spoil the mood by telling anyone.

Soumil: Have you told Aksh?

Rauktima: No… I didn’t want him to be upset. We’ve been talking about having a child of our own and then… this happens…

 

Urvashi: Listen I know we have our differences but… through it all, I just wanted to say I’m sorry.

Aksh: Sorry? For what? For trying to take this family apart?

Urvashi: Aksh please, I’m trying to be sympathetic here.

Aksh: About what?

Urvashi: About your baby of course.

Aksh looks confused.

Aksh: My baby?

Urvashi: Yes your baby. I just heard Rauktima telling Soumil about the miscarriage. I’m so sorry.

 

Urvashi: Me telling Aksh what I had heard and then running up to the rooftop of all places in Chandra Mahel… none of that was an accident. I knew Rauktima would be livid when she found out about what I had said to Aksh. Sure enough, she came running to look for me and I was there, on the rooftop, waiting. I waited as she came at me and I pretended to defend myself, all the time looking, waiting and watching for the perfect opportunity to send her flying off to her death.

End flashbacks…

Nakshatra: And now she’s after me because I know the truth Didi…

Krithika: This would explain why Dad hasn’t been out of his room in so long. So much has happened and Dad hasn’t so much as made an appearance. What if she’s done something to him too?

Nakshatra: This woman is capable of anything Didi… you must be careful.

Krithika: That’s not what’s important now. What’s important is that you tell me where you are so that I can send the police to assist you.

Nakshatra quickly looks around and then sees the signs on the road. He tells Krithika where he is.

Krithika: Don’t worry, I’ll send help. Just take care of yourself.

Nakshatra: Didi if anything should happen to me.

Krithika: Nothing is going to happen to you.

Nakshatra: But if anything should, then make sure Urvashi is punished for what she has done!

Krithika: Nakshu…

The line goes dead. Krithika quickly calls the police.

Krithika: Hello? Police!

She gives them all the details of where Nakshatra is and hangs up.

Krithika: God… save us.

She suddenly remembers Kartik…

Krithika: Oh my goodness, Dad.

She runs out of the room and heads towards Kartik’s room. In the meantime Nakshatra is still being chased and the gang has closed in on him. Urvashi also gains up to them. Back at Chandra Mahel Krithika goes to her father’s room and tries to open the door.

Krithika: Dad! Dad! Open this door! Dad!

Then suddenly, she feels a horrible pain in her stomach.

Krithika: ARGH!!!

From downstairs, Jaya hears this sound and so does Anirudh.

Jaya: Did you hear that?

Anirudh: I did.

They go rushing out of their room and look around. They can’t see anything.

Anirudh: It sounded like it came from upstairs.

Jaya: Let’s go in that direction then.

Meanwhile back on the road… the jeep has caught up with Nakshatra’s car and keeps hitting it, pushing it off the road. Urvashi can see this happening from her car.

Urvashi: What the bloody hell is that idiot doing? I asked him to stop the car not push it off the bend.

But the jeep continues hitting the car, Nakshatra feels himself being taken to the edge of the road. Back at Chandra Mahel… Krithika is in extreme pain…

Krithika: DAD! Dad please open the door! Please…

And from downstairs…

Anirudh: Krithika… that was Krithika.

Jaya: I heard her too.

They both go running up. Krithika is writing in pain as she pounds with all her strength on the door. Back on the road Nakshatra is pushed all the way to the edge of the road and his car is finally knocked off the edge.

Urvashi: NO!

Urvashi brings her car to where the jeep is and jumps out in time to see the car roll down the cliff. It hits a rock at the base and explodes!

Urvashi: NAKSHATRA!

Back at Chandra Mahel… Krithika can’t stand the pain anymore and moves in the direction of a nearby table…

Krithika: Dad…

She knocks over the vase and falls to the floor. Anirudh and Jaya arrive at that moment.

Jaya: Krithika!

Anirudh: Krithika!

They both run towards her. Back on the road… Urvashi goes up to the goon who drove the jeep and slaps him repeatedly.

Urvashi: YOU IDIOT! I asked you stop the car not hurt him! Get him out of there at once!

Goon: Madam there’s fire down there!

Urvashi: I don’t give a damn! Bring him back up here NOW!

The goon decides that he’s better off doing what she wants and heads down to where the car is. Back at Chandra Mahel…

Anirudh: Call the doctor I’ll take her to her room.

Jaya: Ok.

Anirudh rushes Krithika downstairs and Jaya calls the doctor. Back on the edge of the road, the goons finally manage to bring Nakshatra up and they place him at Urvashi’s feet.

Urvashi: Wake him up.

Goon: Madam…

Urvashi: Wake him up I said!

Goon: We can’t madam.

Urvashi: Why the hell not?

Goon: Because he’s… dead.

Urvashi is shocked to hear this. She bends down to Nakshatra.

Urvashi: Nakshatra… Nakshu open your eyes! Nakshu listen to me! OPEN YOUR EYES DAMNIT!

The goons don’t know what to do.

Goon: Madam…

Urvashi: Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!

She gets up in a rage and reaches for the goon’s gun and shoots him with it! He immediately falls over the side and goes rolling down to where Nakshatra’s car is.

Goon2: Madam?

Urvashi: Unless the rest of you want to suffer the same fate I suggest you follow my orders!

They hear sirens in the distance. Urvashi is scared.

Urvashi: Take this body back down there and get out of here as soon as you can. NOW!

The goons get to work and Urvashi watches as Nakshatra is taken down to the car again. She gets back into her car and drives off. As she moves along she starts crying uncontrollably and stops on the side of the road to finish crying. Back at the house the doctor finishes examining Krithika and comes out of the room.

Anirudh: Doctor how is she?

Doctor: I’m sorry Mr. Agnihotri but I have bad news.

Anirudh: No…

Doctor: Krithika has lost the baby.

Anirudh: Not again!

Doctor: I’m so very sorry. But now you should take extra care of her.

Anirudh: Doctor, the last time she lost her child she couldn’t take the trauma. She put herself at risk for this baby.

Doctor: I know and she shouldn’t have been placed in the stressful condition she was in, whatever it was.

Jaya: Will she be alright?

Doctor: She will suffer some minor physical pain and then she’ll be fine. But the mental affects will be far worse. You have to be there for her. I’m afraid I have to take my leave now.

The doctor walks out and Anirudh looks distraught. As the doctor walks out, Rajind walks in with Soumil, Poornima and Nachiket.

Soumil: Was that the doctor?

Anirudh: Yes.

Soumil: What happened?

Anirudh: I don’t know but whatever it was… caused Krithika to…

Rajind looks petrified. Soumil turns to him and sees as he begins to realize what has happened.

Kurukshetra – Episode 396

Rajind: Caused Krithika to what?

Anirudh: I think you should sit down Rajind and…

Rajind: Caused Krithika to what?

Anirudh: I’m sorry… she lost the baby.

Everyone is distraught at hearing this.

Rajind: NO!

Soumil: Rajind…

Rajind: No… how am I going to face her? What will I say?

Anirudh: Rajind listen, you have to be strong now more than ever. She’s going to need you to take care of her and to guide her through this. The last time this happened Rauktima Di was here for her but now she’s going to need you all the more.

Soumil: What sort of a day is this in our lives? First Rauktima goes into a coma and now this happens to Krithika…

Just then the police walk in.

Officer: Excuse me.

Everyone turns around. The police officer takes his cap off.

Officer: I’m sorry if I’ve come at a bad time, but I seem to have more bad news for you.

Anirudh: What?

Soumil: What’s going on officer?

Officer: A while ago there was a call that was made from this house informing us about a dangerous pursuit. We took action and got to where we were asked to but I’m afraid we were too late.

Soumil: What are you talking about? What phone call? What has happened?

The officer moves aside and some people bring a dead body into the house. The whole family is shell shocked. The body is placed in the middle of the great hall and then the wind blows off the white sheet covering the body moves aside.

Soumil: NAKSHATRA!

Everyone goes into shock at seeing Nakshatra dead. They all burst into tears at different times and run to the body.

Soumil: How did this… where… what…

Poornima: Nakshatra!

Anirudh: No!

At precisely that moment Urvashi walks into Chandra Mahel and she sees Nakshatra’s dead body there. She looks around and then everyone sees her standing at the door. Poornima rushes over to her.

Poornima: Chachi… Chachi… look at what has happened.

Urvashi: This is a lie. This is some sort of joke.

Poornima: He’s gone Chachi! He’s left us!

Urvashi: NO! He is not dead!

She rushes over to his body and falls next to it.

Urvashi: Nakshu… Nakshu wake up… wake up son… nothing is wrong with you. Come on wake up! WAKE UP!

Urvashi’s screams deafen Chandra Mahel and we dissolve to very much later when she’s in her room, dressed in white, crying on her bed.

Urvashi: Nakshatra… why did you do this? Why did you let this happen? What is with this family that made you believe that they were more your own than I was? What was the need? And all of this because of that Rauktima! The time has come to finish what I started, she’s only in a coma now but very soon, I’ll pull the plug on her and send her flying off to the next world! My will has just been strengthened by the death of my son… at my own hands… why did this happen? Why? But nothing is going to stand in my way from now on. Now I will show Chandra Mahel who they’re dealing with… The Agnihotri Empire will soon belong to me!

Not long after Urvashi makes her way down the stairs into the great hall… Just then, Darpana and Protima walk into Chandra Mahel. They both see Nakshatra’s body and stand shocked.

Protima: I didn’t want to believe it… I didn’t want to believe any of it…

Darpana: Ma ji… My Nakshu…

Protima leads Darpana up to the body and just as Darpana is about to bend down and touch Nakshatra’s face, Urvashi stops her by holding her hand. Darpana looks up in anger.

Darpana: What are you doing? Unhand me!

Urvashi: Step away from my son!

Darpana moves up and Protima gives Urvashi a distasteful look.

Darpana: You listen to me Urvashi… I’m not having this argument with you right now but I’ll be damned if you keep me from my child.

Urvashi: He is not your child, he never was. You were never there for him when he needed you!

Darpana: I was there for him his whole life.

Urvashi: Because I let you!

Protima: Stop it! Stop it! Both of you! This is ridiculous! Nakshatra is gone and you’re still fighting over who should have more rights over him as his mother? Urvashi you gave birth to him and Darpana you raised him. The two of you should be mourning this loss together not stealing each other’s rights to mourn!

Urvashi finally moves aside and Darpana has her chance to say goodbye to Nakshatra. Soumil walks over to Protima.

Soumil: Badi Dadi, where is Kaushik Chachu?

Protima: He’s on his way back from Australia. He’s not doing so well. How did all this happen Soumil?

Soumil: I don’t know but the police say that there were goons who were after Nakshatra.

Protima: How is that possible?

Soumil: They’re still investigating. But Krithika knew about this, she made a call to the police informing them about where to find Nakshatra.

Protima: So where is Krithika?

Soumil tells Protima about what happened to Krithika and where she was found.

Protima: What was she doing outside Kartik’s room?

Soumil: I don’t know. But she still hasn’t gained consciousness and we won’t be able to find out what happened until she awakes.

Just then the police walk in with one of the goons.

Officer: I’m sorry to barge in like this, especially at a time like this… but we’ve caught one of them who were involved in this murder and he has given us the name of the person who was responsible for ordering the hit on Nakshatra.

Everyone is shocked and stands up. Urvashi goes into static shock and looks like she’s about to melt.

Officer: According to this man, the person who ordered the hit on Mr. Nakshatra Agnihotri was a member of this family.

Again, everyone is shocked. Urvashi starts perspiring like crazy.

Officer: Tell them, tell them who ordered you to kill Nakshatra Agnihotri.

Goon: The person who ordered this hit was…

Urvashi closes her eyes and the rest of the family anticipates the name.

Goon: Mr. Kartik Agnihotri!

Everyone is shaken by this and all look at each other in confusion. Urvashi opens her eyes and looks relieved.

Soumil: What? Are you certain?

Goon: Yes I am.

Protima: Of course…

They all turn to Protima.

Protima: Think about it. Krithika was the one who informed the police of what was going on and she was found outside Kartik’s room. Maybe she found out about his plan and called the police to inform them.

Urvashi: Let’s not get ahead of ourselves here please…

Darpana: Don’t defend him just because he’s your husband Urvashi!

Urvashi: I’m not… I…

Darpana: If Kartik killed my son then I want justice.

Nachiket: But Kartik Chachu hasn’t even come out of his room in so many days.

Poornima: So then maybe he was in there, plotting and planning this all the while.

Nachiket: Poornima please you don’t know that…

Poornima: Why are you defending him? We all know what he is capable of.

Nachiket: Poornima shut up!

Officer: I don’t have time to make assumptions. I have to work on evidence and statements and this means that I have to arrest Mr. Kartik Agnihotri. Where is he?

There is a stiff silence and then…

Kartik: I’m here.

Everyone looks to the stairs and sees Kartik walking down.

Officer: Mr. Kartik Agnihotri, I’m placing you under arrest for the murder of Mr. Nakshatra Agnihotri.

Urvashi: Kartik ji… this isn’t true… is it?

Kartik: I don’t know what is true and what is not anymore Urvashi ji…

Kartik looks drained and miserable. No one wants to say anything and all watch silently as Kartik is handcuffed. As Kartik is being lead outside Urvashi glances over at the goon and he smiles at her. She nods mildly acknowledging him for what he’s done and the goon leaves with the police. Urvashi smiles to herself but soon after she pretends to look distraught. Later, Nakshatra’s last rites are performed and both Protima and Darpana leave back to Kolkota. Meanwhile… in Urvashi’s room she’s on the phone with more of her goons.

Urvashi: Make no mistake, I want this job done quickly, efficiently and with a minimum of trouble. I’ll arrive in the hospital and make sure that Aksh is occupied and when he is, you go into the room and take Rauktima off life support. Do you understand me?

She hangs up and leans back in her chair.

Urvashi: It’s not over yet, none of this is over yet, not until Rauktima is dead!

Meanwhile in Soumil and Katya’s room… Soumil is lost in deep thought and Katya is finally getting some much deserved sleep. Suddenly she jumps up in her bed as though she’s had a bad dream.

Soumil: Katya, are you alright?

Katya: Soumil… the baby… the baby needs me.

Soumil: Sweetheart, the baby is sleeping. She’s sleeping sound for once. Get some rest for now, she may wake up a while later.

Katya: Are you sure?

Soumil: Yes. Go back to sleep…

Katya pulls herself together.

Katya: I guess the stress of everything that’s been going on has really got to me. What’s happened to this family Soumil? Rauktima is in a coma, Nakshatra is dead, Krithika lost her baby and now Kartik Chachu has been arrested… what is this?

Soumil: I don’t know… I really don’t know.

Katya: Do you really think Kartik Chachu killed Nakshatra?

Soumil: I don’t know what to think. But given his past track record…

Katya: Still… it’s all very strange.

Suddenly Katya has a flashback… She can’t describe where she is or what she’s seeing but it disturbs her.

Soumil: Are you ok?

Katya: I don’t know. I… I must really be tired.

Soumil: Of course you are… now go back to bed.

Later that night… Urvashi arrives at the hospital and goes to see Aksh. She walks over to the room with food.

Urvashi: Aksh…

Aksh: What do you want?

Urvashi: I’ve brought you some food.

Aksh: I don’t want to eat.

Urvashi: You have to eat something whether you like it or not. You must keep your strength up. You can’t go on like this. Come on.

Aksh thinks for a bit and then stands up and walks out of the room. Urvashi smiles.

Urvashi: Just a little while longer Rauktima, just a little while longer…