#why nandkisore why

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Saheb, Bibi Aur Ghulaam

#1

For IPKKND’s 13th anniversary, hosted by the lovelies @arshifiesta

1903, Kolkata

Nandkisore sat by the ghats, watching the sun set on the Ganges. Devotees offered prayers while lovers sat in the ferries, gently bobbing from one end of the river bank to the other.

Not too many summers ago he had arrived, with barely a paisa in his pocket, and only a few local words that he had picked from fellow travellers.

“What were you thinking about sahab?” Mohan, his rickshaw puller, asked. Nandkisore chuckled at being referred as a sahab. It would take him some time to get used to that honorific. Granted, his patent for a new type of printer at the printing press gave him a financial security that his ancestors had never seen, but that couldn’t really make him a sahab.

Nandkisore pointed to the sprawling mansion across the river.

Sheesh Mahal

Owned by the richest zamindar in the city. By a true sahab - Arnav Mullick.

“Oh Maa! Did you know him? Were you both friends? Is that how you learned how to make money?” Mohan asked.

“No, Arnav sahab was my employer,” Nandkisore said. The formidable Arnav Mullick was nobody’s friend but his kindest, sweetest wife was the closest friend Nandkisore ever had.

And the only thing he learned in the godforsaken house was tragedy.

— — —

1897, Kolkata

The white marbles and mirrors of Sheesh Mahal made it stand like a diamond amidst the city. A step into the haveli and one would think another city lived inside it. Water fountains to an army of servant, Nandkisore hoped to find some employment within that army.

As a Punjabi lad he struggled to find meaning between all the Bengali words thrown left and right at him, but he was able to piece together what all the househelp agreed on.

Since he hadn’t seen the haveli in entirety yet, he must see the central courtyard! Chhote sahab, although strict, disposed the idea of servants not being allowed in certain areas or using separate cutlery.

Huh, it was surprising that in a house of two brothers it was the younger one that wielded more power.

But why would anyone be surprised? Given his progressive ideals that made him a favorite amongst the workers and a sore in the eye among other zamindars, London return Chhote sahab brought the financially wrought Mullick household into prosperity.

The househelp clearly favoured him, reciting some of his speeches as well. For those who blamed modernization and London as an influence for his liberalism, he laughed that studying the English and seeing the effects of their Industrial Revolution opened his eyes in ways one could never imagine.

So Nandkisore was eager to meet Chhote Sahab. But before that - a trip to the main courtyard. There were whispers of tapestry belonging from the Mughal eras, intricate woodwork that took countless hours and men to produce, ingenious architecture that illuminated the courtyard at all times of the day.

Except nothing caught Nandkisore’s eyes apart from the lady in red, sitting on a swing.

“That’s Choto boumaa,” one whispered.

Nandkisore reddened, for having admired the wife of Chhote Sahab. But there was a genuine goodness in her that radiated an aura of kindness, of childishness.

Little bells chimed in the air as the youngest bride of the house swung high, her alta stained feet adorned with heavy payals, a Jalebi in her hand.

None could ever look at her with an evil eye. She was a good person. He knew it. He believed in it.

The bahu nearly jumped off the swing when a babu appeared. Given the way he strode to her with two helpers who had a pile of gifts - sarees and jewleries - that must be Chhote Sahab!

Then why did a chill run up Nandkisore’s spine?

“Dada, you have no business gifting things to my vwife.” A man strode into the courtyard, his gait enough to frighten the babu’s two helpers.

Tall, sharp nosed and not a hair out of place. His eyes held an icy wrath that could shake the soul out of any ordinary man. Nandkisore knew that that man had to Chhote Sahab.

Then who was the other man? And why was he gifting Chhoto Boumaa?

A bile rose up in NK’s through as understanding dawned.

“A wife who spends all her time alone? Perhaps you and I aren’t that different Chhote,” The babu scoffed.

“If I find you, again, near my wife, then you can find yourself another home.” The young bride cowered behind her husband - clenching her saree in anxiety.

“ARNAV! HOW DARE YOU!”

“Keep your voice down Shyam Mullick, if it wasn’t for boudi’s plea then…”

Of course, the other babu was Barrister Shyam Mullick. The older son, the heir eclipsed by his younger brother.

Shyam threw the gifts aside and stormed off. Nandkisore breathed a sigh of relief. Thank God Chhote Sahab had arrived in time, if not then Chhoto Boumaa would have had to deal with the sleaze of a brother in law-

“Your greed has no end, does it?” She yelped, her arms in Arnav’s brutal grip.

“Na, na ami-” her soft pleas for mercy had no audience in him.

Nandkisore dropped a metal bowl and ducked, Arnav sprang apart from his wife and walked away, while the fragile woman picked up the fallen Jalebi from the floor to put it away.

Her eyes were full of tears, and Nandkisore rued on the fate she had. Her home had two men who abused her and she had nowhere to run.

He was thankful Chhote sahab didn’t see him drop the bowl.

He was careful to tiptoe away.

“Darao,” he halted at Chhoto Boumaa’s order. She studied his face for a moment.

“Shukriya,” she whispered.

“Oh no no, please Chhoti Malkin-”

“Call me Khushi please,”

— — —

A/N; finally!!! Here’s my little contribution to the festival! Enjoy enjoy and let me know your thoughts 😊

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hi JWB! How are you doing? I was rewatching ipkknd and came across the episode where Khushi decides to leave after Arnav calls her his"biggest mistake " Had she left before he turned up do you think she would have gone home and confided in Bhuaji? Also, would Arnav have gone behind her immediately or waited till morning and do you think he would have got her back? Thanks

Hey there Anon!

I'm doing well :) Hope you're well too.

No she wouldn't. Khushi doesn't have anyone to confide to in general and she knows revealing her marriage (or the lack of it) would cause more issues in their families than any resolutions.

Also Khushi, inherently, never wants to bother anyone nor does she know how to share her problems. So there's no way she'd tell Buaji about her marital troubles and bother her old aunt.

Of course Arnav would straight up march and get her home. And they'd have a big fight. And he would've told the 14 days left to her in the Gupta house and blackmailed her to get back with him.

However,

I think it would've been a super interesting track if he blackmailed her at Gupta House and Buaji overheard it. It would give Buaji the chance to shine as a completely positive character who'd get protective of Khushi and a solid redemption track to Arnav - but I guess it was too much drama and the audience was perhaps getting tired of the constant struggles and they needed comedy.

Which, again, in my opinion could've played for immense comedy. Cause when Buaji is stern with Arnav - it's hilarious to watch! Just imagine after a heartbreaking argument and Buaji banishing Arnav from Gupta House - Arnav resolves to get Khushi back (and earn Buaji's good graces) but it's impossible with Madhumati.

Arnav brings gifts - she throws them on his face (and he probably falls on gobar on that process).

Arnav tries to apologize to Khushi but of course he has a hesitation saying anything beyond the soft 'sorry' and Buaji butting in with - WHY ARE YOU SORRY? WHAT DO YOU THINK MY NIECE WILL BE OK WITH ONE WORD? WHERE IS THE REST OF YOUR APOLOGY? SAY IT LOUDER!

And everytime they accidentally Rabba Ve, Buaji would butt in.

It would be hilarious because at one point even Khushi would forgive Arnav but Buaji wouldn't until Arnav has genuinely mellowed down;

Buaji: "WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU NEVER MARRIED HER?"

Arnav: "No, that's not true. She's my legally married wife."

Buaji: "HAYE RE NANDKISORE THEN YOU WERE LYING TO HER?"

Arnav: ...

Khushi: "You lied to me???"

Imagine Buaji and Khushi teaming up and slamming the door on a flabbergasted Arnav's face. And of course you'd pace the comedy with some genuinely tender moments where Arnav actually apologies, Buaji apologises to Khushi for forcing her with Shyam and denouncing her on the day of the elopement and Khushi apologises to Arnav for hiding about Shyam (most likely Buaji will).

It wouldn't be your classic redemption track but it would have the heavy rom-com tropes and Buaji+Arnav is my favorite comedic duo tbh and the only one who isn't intimidated a bit by Arnav.

But yes, that's my lengthy answer that went into more of a 'what if' category, lol.

Best,

JWB

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Agent J, this is S-A. Here

Dearest S-A, Tumblr again ate your ask *grrr* the above is all I got, I’m so sorry - try sending your ask again.

Love, 

Agent J

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hi S&R. how are u guys I have been listening to your podcast as a stress buster thus wanted to thank u, and I am the same anon who asked about shashi and Arnav. I have request its totally upto u guys to fulfil or not as u guys have life. My request is if u could make a shot of their 1st conversation like on what occasion do they talk, about whats its like for both(inner feelings).🙏😊

Hello Anon!

FIRST OF ALL I AM SO SORRY FOR POSTING THIS AFTER AGES. 

LITERALLY.

I am S and this is my blog, you can check out R's awesome blog here

Thank you so much for being so sweet and for loving our podcast - we're always happy to hear such things!

-- -- --

Arnav, Shashi OS: Damaad Ji

Once upon a time Arnav had teased Khushi at her strange ability to cry when she was overwhelmed with happiness. Today he finally found himself on her side.

Happiness had rarely come in full for Arnav to cry on it. There was pleasure, relief or heartbreak - but a complete sense of joy without impending doom? It had been a long time since such an event had happened.

Tears pricked his eyes as he tried to shush a sobbing Khushi.

"Arnav, Babuji can speak! He can actually speak full sentences!" Khushi gripped him, looking at him with her teary eyes and bright smile.

"I know," he smiled, pressing the briefest kiss on her forehead. Khushi held his wrist and grabbed him into the recovery room.

Shashi sat on the hospital bed, becoming the one to shush his sobbing wife and sister. Bua ji kept chanting Nandkisore and Garima held his hand.

"I am fine Jiji. And Garima ji, please don’t cry." Garima nodded and dabbed her eyes with the edge of her pallu.

"Say Jiji again?" Bua ji asked, her glossy eyes shining with happiness. For a moment Madhumati and Shashi were transported to their childhood. Where an eight years old, oily haired Madhumati with two missing teeth ran skipped the evening prayers because her baby brother had finally said the most important word in her life.

"Jiji." Madhumati cried and hugged her brother. Arnav watched all the tears and hugs with a fond smile.

-- -- -- 

Shashi observed Arnav with a keen eye. He had taken a fondness for this quiet man ever since Khushi had developed a fondness to him. He learned much later that this was her boss and that took a heavy blow on his image of Arnav, but watching him dote on Khushi brought a smile on his face.

In the past many a times they had exchanged a glance, being the only two quiet people in the room. Earlier in the days Arnav used to never meet his eyes completely, hesitating to even say ‘Happy Diwali’. Shashi hadn’t realised why the stranger had hesitated until he saw the long looks exchanged between his youngest daughter and him. 

The next time Arnav refused to meet his eyes when he and Khushi had eloped. For all asking questions to Khushi about their marriage, Shashi knew that the man looking away was responsible for it. 

The last time Arnav hesitated to meet his eyes, it was the first time he had come to live at Gupta house. Arnav’s discomfort was evident, and his behavior had worried Shashi to a great extent. However, the more time they spent together, the more Arnav smiled and opened up with the family.

So much so Shashi felt he had to bring Khushi’s attention to the poor child being overfed by Jiji as Arnav forgot Khushi’s birthday. It was the one time Arnav had an SOS signal painted on his eyes. 

But ever since then there was a touch of fondness and sincerity in the eyes his daughter loved. The eyes that no longer shied or hesitating from meeting his. 

Arnav walked towards Shashi, feeling like a child heading to his parent for an assessment of his behavior. 

“Uncle, how’re you?” Shashi smiled as Arnav pulled up a chair and tried to make small talk. 

“Thanks to you I’m fine bitwa, how about you?” Arnav refused the gratitude. Helping Shashi with his treatments was the least he could do. It was something he should’ve done a long time ago. 

“I also heard that you bought this house as well as our shop in Lucknow. Thank you.”

“Uncle please, now you’re embarrassing me. It’s nothing big... in fact I should’ve done it a long time ago.” Arnav sighed. Shashi nodded. There was a point of time when he had several questions to ask. But seeing the unparalleled love between Arnav and Khushi, the way he appeared to marry her regardless of their pasts rest all his questions. 

Perhaps one day he’d ask him. 

"Babuji!” Khushi walked in with a tray of jalebis and a bowl of halwa. Shashi laughed as Khushi struggled under the weight of the sweets. However before he could say anything Arnav was with her in two steps, setting the sweets on the table. 

“Thank you Arnav-ji,” Khushi singsonged for him.

“You’re welcome Khushi-ji.” Arnav mimicked her tone. Khushi laughed and slightly hit him on his shoulder.  Shaking her head, she picked up a jalebi and sat next to her father, holding the sweet to his mouth.  

“Babuji, I finally need your opinion on my sugar free sweets. There’s not a single Raizada who tells me truth.” Khushi sighed. 

“Excuse me?” Arnav commented, picking up a sugar free jalebi for himself. 

“Haan, excuse you.” Khushi turned back to her father, expectantly waiting for his review.

“It’s brilliant Khushi. When have you ever done anything that’s not brilliant?” Shashi teased. Khushi gave him a big toothy grin and helped herself to a jalebi. 

“Offo Babuji! But I’m glad you liked it. You’re the only one who gives honest comments on my cooking unlike my dearest husband who chomped down an entire breakfast of half cooked halwa and a crispy puri.”

“Crispy puri?” Shashi asked, wondering if he heard the word crispy for a puri. 

“Uncle,” Arnav cut in, “my wife is a hypocrite. She happily ate and praised my burnt jalebis once.” His damaad made jalebis?

“Arrey that’s because it was your first time! So I loved it.” Khushi huffed and crossed her arms. 

“And I cannot love your halwa puri?” Arnav mimicked her pose, raising a single eyebrow. 

“But Arnav-ji I know how to cook. And I don’t like the fact that you had a bad breakfast-”

“-Khushi, that was literally a month ago-”

Shashi burst into laughter, shocking the pair before him. For a moment Arnav and Khushi had forgotten that they had an audience. 

“I finally understand why Buaji calls you Sanka Devi and you call damaad-ji as Laad Governor.” Shashi chuckled as the two of them gave him a sheepish smile. His smiles receded as he saw Anjali in the doorway, without her sindoor and mangalsutra. 

Tonight he needed to have a deep conversation with both his daughters and sons-in-law. Even though he had learned that Shyam was kicked out of the house, they needed to know about him. 

Arnav followed his line of sight, instantly noticing Shashi’s thoughtful gaze at Anjali. An old memory resurfaced - one where Shashi had reacted violently seeing Anjali. Perhaps he knew more about Shyam than Arnav had expected. 

Their eyes met, similar confusions and questions reflected. 

“Arrey,” Khushi snapped her fingers, “Why is everyone quiet?”

In a quiet agreement to not discuss the matter when Khushi had just begun to experience happiness briefly, Arnav and Shashi shook their heads. 

“Nothing. I am thinking that how and when did my bitiya fall in love. I need to know everything.” Shashi demanded, amused as Khushi turned several shades of red. 

“Babuji...” Khushi pleaded, “No don’t Babuji me, I know when Payaliya fell in love. She and bade damaad ji use to chat either on the phone or by Happy Bitwa’s garage or... strangely at the vegetable stall. But, unlike you, she told me everything,” Shashi affectionately twisted her ear. 

“Arrey Babuji I can tell you if I know myself how it happened. It just did.” Khushi admitted. Arnav smiled softly, his hand reaching hers. Khushi blushed a deeper shade of red when a thought crossed her mind.

“Wait a second, if Akash jijaji is bade damaad ji, then Arnav-ji is chote damaad-ji?” 

“Haan, Payal is the elder one.” Shashi said. Khushi burst into laughter and nearly fell off her chair as Arnav rolled his eyes. 

“What’s so funny?” Arnav demanded. 

“What’s funny is that no matter where you go, you always end up as a chote!” Khushi held her stomach, her eyes watering. Arnav attempted a glare, but his lips betrayed him at the hilarity of the situation. He was damned as Chote, wasn’t he? 

Shashi couldn’t help but join in the laughter, thinking of the six feet tall man as Chote. Any gloom of the questions in his mind dissipated. Yes, important conversations were at bay but there was nothing more than the joy of laughing with his beloved daughter and damaad-ji. 

-- -- --

The End

A/N: Hope you all liked this! Let me know your thoughts :D

Best, 

- JWB

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Note: For A, @thatcollateraldamage.

An alternate universe where Arnav Singh Raizada is the retrograde Khushi Kumari Gupta prayed never came back. This story is 16+

#1 ‘Heer Toh Badi Sad Hai’

The hot winds of July was another reminder of her being back home. Nothing like five layers of silk, gold, makeup and sweat. The perfect ensemble for a dulhan ki behen. A poor fan tried its level best to blow some cold air of relief but one could rarely get that if an extremely paunchy tau-ji decided to stand and absorb all the air for himself.

With a warm cold drink, Khushi surveyed the wedding hall. She was sure she had never smelled more perfumes and pheromones than she had tonight. But she’d endure it, a thousand times, for the pair on stage. Payal and Akash.

Khushi had never pegged her sister to be romantic, for men out of fiction that is. But Payal and Akash had something that Khushi was convinced didn't exist - love at first sight. After a fateful meeting several years ago on - no, she didn’t want to remember when - Payal had returned home and flopped by Khushi’s side with a sheepish smile on her lips.

“Di, I think I’m in love.” Payal had whispered, her lipstick smudged and crooked glasses in her hands.

“Kyun saali-saheba, I have finally taken your sister away from you!” Akash grinned, exchanging a brief but warm hug with Khushi.

“Please Akash, you’ve been held hostage by my family the minute they saw a decent brown munda exchange puppy eyes with Payal. Any more delay to this wedding and I’m pretty sure Bua-ji would’ve married you!” Payal smacked Khushi on her arm, flashing a glare between all the smiles for the photographs.

“What? Amma has been legit calling you damaad ji when you gave Payal a potato. Like who flirts via potatoes?” Akash groaned, knowing he’d have to die listening to this,  “Ah, the kind son of the lords who bestows presents through the most benign objects Nandkisore!” Khushi imitated the operatic Bua-ji, causing Payal to choke on her glass of water.

“Seriously Akash, I think she has the hots for you.” Khushi chuckled, helping herself to - finally - a cold glass of pepsi.

“Why do you think I even married Payal?” Khushi laughed as Payal pinched Akash’s arm in annoyance. The trio laughed, with mostly Khushi taking shots on Akash and Payal’s fairytale romance that included trips to a grocery store, more potatoes and tomatoes, and of course - Bua-ji’s affection for the way her beloved damaad even sneezed.

“Soft and very gentlemanly. Unlike your phupha ji.” Khushi mimicked. Although that was one thing Bua-ji was right about. Khushi and Payal had been petrified at least ten times in their childhood thinking an earthquake struck the house. No, it was Phupha ji.

“Hello hi bye bye, must be so wonderful to see your younger sister married.” The trio grimaced as Manorama, Delhi’s elite gossip queen and unfortunately Payal’s mother-in-law graced the stage. Khushi nodded, keeping  only for the sake of Akash and Payal.

Manorama touched Khushi’s chin and tsked, “I told your father that it was a terrible idea to get the younger ones married first. It’s bad luck for the older one. It’s not that you didn’t even get anyone! Akash bitwa, who was that inspector type, arrey the one Khushi was almost married to - Arn-OHMYGOD!” The glass in Khushi’s hand shattered, spilling the drink over Manorama’s exclusive Benarasi saree.

It all happened in a blur. A furious Akash led his mother away, mouthing a sorry to Khushi. Few guests, intrigued further by another scandal, piqued their heads towards the bride and her bleeding sister. Payal, uncaring for all the photos and siken sharara, stopped the flow with her dupatta. Khushi hushed her, worried more for her blood tainting the gold zardozi than her injury.

“Shut up Di.” Payal dragged Khushi to the bathroom, applying antiseptic.

“Payal, you and Akash should be playing doctor-doctor tonight. Not us.” Khushi deadpanned, barely flinching at the sting.

“Di, seriously shut up. I have no idea what my saas was saying. Maybe someone spiked her drink.” Payal mumbled. It hurt Khushi more that her sister had to fret over her on her special day. Taking a deep breath, Khushi pulled her hand away and cupped her sister’s cheek.

“Enough coddling me. I’m fine. It was an accident.” Payal scoffed at Khushi’s reassurance.

“Also, Madam Manorama Bond was gossipping shit. That means your saasuma is completely fine. If she came here to compliment her bahuriya without taunting the one woman who made her cry - then I’d say someone spiked the drink.” Payal laughed. Everyone within hundred miles had heard the day Khushi threatened Manorama Bond to give her blessings while her kids were seeking one.

Khushi fixed Payal’s dupatta and led her outside.

“But Di, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have gotten back home when I know what this place reminds you-”

“Payal that man means nothing. And this place  is our hometown. It means us. He… literally doesn’t exist for me.” Payal hesitated, unconvinced. Khushi rolled her eyes and grabbed her hands, “You are fucking important to me. If you wanted to get married on Mars I’d kidnap Musk and get that done. This is still our hometown. Now go - find your husband and do whatever newly married couples do.” Khushi gave Payal a tight hug until she relaxed. 

They broke the hug and Payal flashed her brilliant smile. Relieved, Khushi watched her sister go back to the hall and charm the guests like the perfect hostess. That too for her own wedding.

Khushi’s smile receded the farther Payal went away.

Picking up her lehenga she headed towards the car. Tears pricked her eyes as the sound of the shehnai, baraatis and her town reminded her of a similar wedding years ago.

No, Khushi  Kumari Gupta wasn't one to mope about a married man.

---

Next chapter

A/N: I’m nervous because this is perhaps my first AU! I’ve played with a few different characteristics and style of writing. Hope you like this alternate story - leave your comments below. Heer Toh Badi Sad Hai means Juliet Is Incredibly Sad, check out the lyrics translation here. 

Love,

- JWB

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Namaste JWB!! Kaisan Ho??? How according to you Arnav let go of the truth of his horrible past and decide to move on his life with Khushi. I am not having any objections with his decision but would like to know how he and the other members of the Raizada family let go of their past and move on so easily. Also according to you what might have canonically happened in Arnav's past and can you provide a closure for the same. (peaceful one though😇)

Hum theek hai, aap kaisan ho Nandkisore???

Oh, these are interesting questions! So this is a two part ask that I'm going to summarize into:

1) How did all the Raizada's (Arnav included) let go of the past?

2) What happened in Arnav's past? (I believe the closure will be answered above)

Chalo, happy reading! (long post alert)

How did all the Raizada's (Arnav included) let go of the past?

In short: from the day the parents died until Arnav and Khushi’s second wedding, the whole family was working and reworking themselves to move on from the past. Be it celebrating events, talking about the dead parents, moving on from a similar event that Shyam caused and so on. When the first wedding happened, it was clear Arnav hadn’t even dealt - forget move on - with the past. But when the second wedding happened, everyone had a broader understanding of life, especially Arnav. 

We can see that the past has affected the Raizada's in several ways. It made Arnav bitter, Anjali religious (I believe her extreme, blinding faith in religion stemmed from the incident) and Nani more set in her ways. Since Akash, Mama and Mami were not that involved in it - I see them remembering the incident as something haunting but also moving on in life.

So, of course, there's a LOT to unpack here and I believe what was instrumental in figuring things out was the Shyam revelation post kidnapping.

We know that Arnav had an incredibly difficult time coming to terms with the whole misunderstanding because he went back to being the 14 years old traumatized child.

And for the family it was living the same trauma again. However, with Khushi in the picture everyone was forced to see the past in a different lens. Everyone knew Khushi, they knew she wouldn't do what Shyam accused her of.

Arnav literally saw in front of his eyes how Shyam switched from one lie to another to save his skin. And just like his mum, Anjali was faultless - but it made things even clearer that Shyam was a manipulative piece of shit who had two victims in his scheme - Khushi and Anjali.

Which is why Arnav slapped Shyam twice - for Khushi and Anjali.

And when Subhadra Devi brings in all the drama of the past on Arnav's wedding day - to avenge the past in her ways - she isn't aware that the Raizada's have seen things differently. They don't blindly believe the men of the house. Yes, Mami might agree on Subhadra's line of thinking that middle classed women seek out rich men - but even there she knows what's the truth.

Everyone is shattered. Mami doesn't hesitate blaming everything on Garima and Khushi because that is easier. Nani asks Garima questions she had pressed in her heart long ago. Why did Garima break the happy couple? Why did she not tell them anything? What was Ratna's fault?

And what I find most interesting is that Anjali asks one question to Subhadra - why is she telling them the truth now?

I don't think they're instantly over the past, but with the whole Khushi situation, Garima confessing no knowledge of his marital status and the whole loopy nature of past and present the family finds it easier to see the other side of the story.

For Anjali nothing matters more than Arnav's happiness - and I believe the fact Subhadra chose her revenge above her grandson reduces her worth in Anjali's eyes. She's shattered - but I felt that brought clarity in Anjali. She knew Arnav and Khushi loved each other and she also knew those two had warned her endlessly about Shyam. Now hearing about her mother in the same position I think Anjali finds it easier to make peace with the past.

Coming to Arnav, he has the hardest time. It breaks his heart that Khushi is in the center of all of this and can't bring himself to the mandap when his wounds have been reopened, again, on what was supposed to be the happiest day of their lives.

Given that he had made a colossal mistake regarding Khushi previously, I really respect him for taking the time and assessing his feelings, facts and logic.

He loves Khushi. Khushi loves him beyond everything. In no way is Khushi responsible for anything.

Arnav forgiving Garima comes from his immense love for her. Previously he had put Khushi in place of the other woman, Anjali in place of his mother and his father in place of Shyam.

That night he did the opposite. Garima could be faultless like Khushi, his mother was as innocent and loving as Anjali and his father was as conniving as Shyam.

Also, Garima has been living in regret and didn't mark a fortune by herself with this affair. Her life post the affair has been honest and simple. Which helps the Raizada's in believing her and the version of events.

Arnav had seen what happened when he let past override his future. It was terrible. So he gives hope a chance. And even when he runs back to mandap, it's only Khushi in his head.

And it helps that the family sees Khushi's legit breakdown on Arnav not showing up at the altar. That strengthens their belief on this relationship. Even Mami quietens looking at Khushi's hysteria.

It’s a final test of time that the family withstood. 

What happened in Arnav's past?

Three things happened:

- His parents committed suicide

- Anjali was abandoned at the altar

- His uncle kicked them out of their home and seized all Malik wealth and property for himself

To narrate, it’s 20/21 years old Anjali’s wedding. The Maliks are a happy family. Ratna is devoted to her family. The Maliks associate with generational wealth, patriarchal society and status. 

Ratna sees her husband with another woman - Garima. Her whole marriage, and in a way life, shatters. Her 20-25 years of marriage crumbles beneath her feet. 

I believe that since Anjali’s wedding was a grand affair, everyone in Lucknow knew it. And that’s how Garima learns that her love for the charming, older Mr Malik has been a scandalous extra marital affair. He is not only married, he has a daughter old enough to be married herself! I think Garima confronted him that night on getting to know the truth and Ratna saw that. 

Mr Malik, having lost his lover and wife’s trust attempts to gaslight Ratna that whatever she heard and saw was false. Arnav - having seen his mother distressed - followed her and learnt that his father is a terrible human being. 

Ratna, hysterical and hurt, commits suicide. Mr Malik is shocked and unable to bear the guilt of being the man who he is to his children, and that he caused an innocent Ratna’s death - shoots himself to death as well. 

Arnav is traumatized because he saw his parents killing themselves over Mr Malik’s extra marital affair.

Considering the society the Maliks are in - I’m pretty sure Anjali’s in laws didn’t want to associate themselves to this scandal. It’s ‘inauspicious’ for the parents to die on their daughter’s death and Mr Malik’s lack of character would’ve reflected on their judgment of Anjali. From characterless to cursed - Anjali probably bore a lot of insults. Hence, she was abandoned at the altar. 

Only reaffirmed Arnav’s belief that the whole institution of marriage is a sham. 

Seeing the eldest Malik is out of the picture, the younger Malik - Arnav’s uncle - seizes the opportunity to grab the ancestral property and wealth for himself before Arnav turns 18 because - as I said, patriarchal, I don’t think he would’ve been able to take the house if the eldest child had a claim on it. And since Anjali is female, the eldest heir, and definitely above 18 - yet Chacha is able to throw them out of the house without Anjali being able to contest for it means that:

- Anjali might have been misled and given off the will and property papers to the uncle, or that she didn’t have the heart to fight her uncle (which is contradictory that she would’ve brought heaven and earth together to save her Chotte from going homeless), or

- The uncle was someone trustworthy and had the power of attorney which he misused to gain all wealth, or

- The property and wealth was passed from the eldest son per generation. So in Arnav’s dad’s generation it was only Arnav’s father who got everything rather than the uncle - which is why the uncle was greedy and wanted everything his older brother had. Also why Anjali didn’t contest for the property cause maybe she didn’t have a claim on it. (A lot of the show is shown as Arnav getting his house back and Anjali being reluctant on it)

And I feel the uncle was middle classed and didn’t have enough wealth in his name. Hence it fed into Arnav’s image of power/money hungry middle classed folks. The men would not wait a day for their family to die and similar women wouldn’t mind sleeping with anyone to get rich. 

It’s the frame through which he sees Mool Rajani and Khushi. 

Closure? His meetings with Khushi, a brush with the ill-effects of his own generalization and rash judgements, Anjali’s ability to look over the man who restored her ‘honor’ by marrying her and the whole family just rising above the concept of marriage, societies and traditions gives them their much needed closure. 

Phew, that was a long answer! Hope you liked this :)

Best, 

- JWB

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hello AJ. Shy anon here.

I'm here to tell you that I showed your reply to my last ask to my husband and it led to a whole conversation explaining my origin story as your shy anon and THAT led to him wanting to actually watch IPKKND. We reached around episode 16 all in one night and when ASR dropped Khushi from the balcony my husband snapped 😅. He literally dropped the f bomb and was like "THIS IS WHO WE'RE ROOTING FOR???" and I was just sitting there laughing but he took it so seriously and was like "NO LISTEN HE'S AN ASS! WHY WOULD SHE MARRY HIM AFTER THIS" and then he just kept getting more and more irate so I had to skip waaaaay ahead and show him that ASR eventually turns into Arnav and after watching a few episodes that showed that his response was " Okay I see it. They're cute".

In conclusion, he is now invested and we've been continuing watching the episodes in order and and he says he's going to check out your blog after we're done watching the whole thing. He also gave me permission to disclose that our own haldi was indeed quite sexy but I'm still shy so I won't say what happened and just leave it at that 🤭🙈

PS: I'm really sorry your hard work keeps getting blocked, I can't imagine how frustrating and tiring that must be.

Please take care of yourself

Bye 🥰

(check this out for an important announcement on asks)

HELLO HI BYE BYE SHY ANONWA!

Lollll, I'm so glad to be getting people into the IPKKND Club.

MR SHY ANON YOU GOT UPSET OVER WHAT ARNAV BITWA DID.

...

Good. One must be.

There's nothing 'rootable' about him for some time. And I'm glad you see they're cute. It's a good thing it takes them time to fall in love otherwise I would've protested as well.

Since you're into the show, you might as well check out the podcast we have on the show! Nothing like another listener. Or you can listen to it on Spotify as well (Self promotion 101)

Also, welcome to my blog - whenever you decide to visit it. You're getting a personal invitation only because your wife is the MOST wonderful person I've met. She's shy (adorably so) and is always one of the few people to just simply check up on me and my mental health.

(this hug for you my Shy Anon)

OMG YOU HAD A SEXY HALDI... batiyao Nandkisore kya kya hua? Detail main, email main, private main

Lol. Let me bless you with all the happiness and prosperity for you both.

"Sada sexy times nibhaate raho"

Thank you for your consolation. Tbh it does get heartbreaking at times but I find the energy to strive on with wonderful people like you giving me love and hugs.

You take care ok! Honestly lots of love to you, my dearest Shy Anon.

Yours,

- AJ

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hello JWB! I love your writings and blogs. Sorry to increase your ask load. I just wanted to ask do you have any headcannons about NK Lavanya's wedding or Anjali Aman for that matter.

Have a nice day.

Hello dear!

Thank you for the love <3

Haha no I have all my asks lined up so it's cool.

I remember having an OTP ask meme that had a lot of head canons and Aman-Anjali and NK-La, you'd love reading them! I had an OTP ask meme 2 as well!

This tag of NK covers everything NK in the blog :) Similarly searching for Lavanya, Anjali, Aman would bring up results related to them on the blog.

Below I have compiled some of my head canons of these two from my previous OTP asks :)

NK-LA Headcanons

If they could each describe each other in one sentence, what would it be?

NK : The most beautiful woman who exists on this planet (also, Nannav was an ass to break her heart).

La : If you think he’s always funny then you don’t know him.

Have they made each other cry?

NK: Yes, when she chose not to date him because of his connection to Arnav and his family. It was painful.

La: Yes, when he asked her to marry him.

Name something they would never do for the other person.

NK: I don’t think NK would give up on his family.

La: She won’t change herself. She’s gone through it once and never again.

What is a promise they have made to each other?

NK: I’ll always be honest in this relationship, regardless of any truth.

La: I’ll always tell you that I love you before sleeping.

(Hilarious, imagine them having a fight and NK grinning cause he knows La has to say ‘I love you’ before she sleeps)

What activities do they enjoy together?

NK and La love:

Playing games - from cards, chess, strip poker, 8 ball pool.

Enjoying outdoor/adventure sports - hiking, bungee jumping, skydiving.

Binge watching Hindi TV shows and films - they love K3G, Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, Ssssh Koi Hai *lol* and it’s the easiest way for them to connect with Indian culture

Sex - both of them love it*

*I keep on writing that all the couples enjoy sex because I write them and I think of sex as fun but just want to let it out that sex is not all necessary for relationships. In fact several romantic relationships have more intimacy in other activities - it is completely normal to not even like sex! Remember that sex, sexual orientation, sexual desire, sexual activities have no one way and can go in multiple directions!

What would be their love motto?

“When you love someone, you love the person as they are, and not as you’d like them to be.” - Leo Tolstoy

What are things they both find funny?

They both find NK’s Hindi extremely funny, as well as Khushi’s choice in films and Buaji’s fixation with her beloved Nandkisore!

If they complimented each other, what would they say?

NK: Lavanya, aapse milkar meri mooh rooh kambal mukammal ho gaya. You’re the light of my life. You are my sun, my moon, my everything (Arnav: Yes of course, who needs blood, oxygen, water)

La: You made me meet myself. NK, there’s no one like you (Arnav: I agree, thankfully there’s no one like him)

I just love imagining Arnav loving and dissing this pair always. Lol (not in front of La, she’ll legit yeet him out of this world).

What were their first impressions of each other?

NK: He literally lost his heart the minute he saw Lavanya. For him, perfection finally had a face. An angel. Breath was knocked out of his lungs. He finally knew what love was and why it could drive people to madness because he literally signed his life off to a woman who’s name he was yet to learn. Check out the song Hosana - that would be his first impression of her.

La: Too good to be true. He had the sweetest smiles and was a terrible flirt. Men like him are like a good dream - best be forgotten at sunrise. He’s either a heartbreaker or a dreaded ‘nice boy’. She wouldn’t believe the dreams he’d evoke in her. Check out Iktara - it’s a beautiful song and one I think that would depict La’s mind very well.

Who does the hands-over-the-eyes “Guess Who” thing?

If that doesn’t spell out Nandkisore then I don’t know what does! I’m very sure that whenever NK visits La, especially by surprise, that’s how he greets her! And  she loves it!

Who says I love you first? How did it happen?

Nandkishore!

It happens something like this:

NK is always being NK. Making La laugh, being her most reliable friend, treating her right and just being her biggest support. They’ve been casually dating for about a year and for NYE NK catches a flight to go to London to see her.

Why? Because it seems to have worked like a charm with his cousins to see their beloveds on the stroke of midnight.

It’s a big gesture and with the NYE NK confesses that he loves her. He says this all to an unsuspecting Lavanya Kashyap who thought she’ll celebrate NYE alone in her apartment in her bathrobe and facemask.

They kiss in the doorway, she in her bathrobe and NK with his traveler’s pillow still around his neck - classic NK.

After which he’s glad he was 5 minutes late to the Gupta house otherwise according to his superstition he would’ve been married to Bua ji!

Who tells their friends/family about their relationship first?

My long standing theory is that Khushi finds out about it before anyone telling it to her. She has a knack for understanding relationship (if she puts her focus on it, otherwise she can be as blind as a bat). Khushi is NK’s wingwoman and she’ll tell him everything about La as well as encourage him to move forward.

But yes, in terms of informing I feel NK tells it first to his friends/family. Lavanya, in my opinion, would be hesitant in ‘telling’ friends/family cause in a way that makes a relationship official and she won’t take the first step in it until and unless she’s absolutely sure - which is a good thing.

NK decides he’s gonna marry her the minute he sees her toh at one point, he will tell the family/friends and knowing La’s history with the Raizada’s he’ll be very firm with them about how to treat La. (My opinion: he’s not the biggest fan of La ko desi banao project).

What do they do when they’re away from each other?

They talk, chat, video call and buy little presents for each other. It’s almost always something insignificant. A postcard, a keychain, a shirt - even a local flower!

While Lavanya doesn’t let anyone know that she’s away from NK, she always has her phone with her in case there’s a message from him.

NK - the whole of Delhi and Sydney are aware of his misery without his beloved. Also he sets his time in accordance to whichever country Lavanya is in irrespective of her multiple protests.

But they also know to give each other space - which is an important aspect of their relationship. They tell each other when they need time off to cool down from a hard day at work or are just overwhelmed by whatever situation they’re confronted with.

And sometimes they’re on FaceTime, doing their own tasks and happy with the other’s company.

What senses (sights, smells, feelings, etc). remind them of each other?

Anjali: glacial mountains (Himalayas, Alps), Armani cologne, lavender, cotton and silk, cold breeze, pleasure - intense pleasure remind her of Aman.

Aman: classic architecture (from Taj Mahal to Jagannath Temple), renaissance paintings, sandalwood, marigolds, gold, chiffon, yearning and satisfaction remind him of Anjali.

If they could each write a single line in their marriage vows, what would they be?

Anjali would write: “I thought I knew what love was, but it was until I met you that I realised that my definition was wrong.”

Aman would write: “If you go by the traditional definition of love, people would think I loved your brother more than you.”

And they’d both burst into laughter.

credit: @ridzmystique for the dialogues.

How have they changed each other for the better/for the worse?

For better

Anjali: a lot more verbal with her feelings, focuses more on self - less compromising, does not asses people from only her perspective (understands people do things that she wouldn’t), isn’t always perfect, and cherishes independence and family time, grows to love and accept herself and her past without blaming herself.

Aman: more communication, finally has a life outside ASR (lol), does not wait forever or for circumstances to ‘align’/'be right’ to express his emotions, makes less assumptions and questions more, takes his time to enjoy life out of work, devotes himself to the love he feels.

For worse

They’re both obsessed with Arnav as it’s one literal job and the other’s literal birthright hence a lot of their life decisions is often governed by what Arnav would think about it. Not that they’re waiting for approval, but let’s say Arnav’s opinions is always a matter of conversation (this is something Khushi, Arnav actively try to tackle).

They both are too ready to make sacrifices for each other. What if Anjali truly loves someone else? Aman should not be bogged down with a woman who has a tough past. Doesn’t Anjali deserve someone more than her brother’s manager? Won’t it be better to hurt Aman and let him hate her than suffer and wait for her longer? Fortunately these issues are easily dealt with difficult but important conversations.

There is a constant fear of losing each other because it took them forever to get together. Also the belief that they’re not 'good enough’ for the other person.

Write a short dirty talk between them

Anjali sat by the pool, lighting the last candle. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the soft breeze. A few more hours and it would be New Year. She noticed her beloved Chote and Khushi close dance in a private corner of the living room - blissfully unaware they were visible to anyone passing by.

Anjali smiled and thanked the lord for blessing her brother and Khushi with every imaginable happiness. Her chain of thought and prayers broke with her phone vibrating.

It was a text message from Aman.

“You look beautiful tonight.” Anjali looked around, searching for the handsome, curly haired, broody man she had grown to love. Aman Mathur.

His name sent shivers of pleasure he had given her the night before. There was something exciting about having a secret affair.

There he was, standing on top of the stairs, staring at her with his hawk eyes.

“You take my breath away in more ways than one Mr. Mathur,” Anjali replied.

“You give me too much credit Miss. Raizada, if I remember you are the one who excel at it.” Aman texted, leaning against the railing, wondering if he’d go to hell for romancing his boss’s sister. More likely killed and packaged by Arnav Singh Raizada to hell.

Anjali blushed at the text and leaned against the lounge chair, completely aware of how flattering and invisible her thin saree was under the moonlight. Keeping the eye contact she called him.

“You are too kind.” Anjali whispered.

“You haven’t seen my kindness yet. If you are kind enough, I might just show how kind I can be.” Aman flicker his gaze down, letting Anjali know where all he intended to show his kindness.

“If we were alone, I’d let you know how beautiful you look.” Aman fidgeted with his tie.

“Meet me out in five - use the back door.” Anjali cut the call and looked at the watch - it was 11:55pm. Although she no longer believed the ‘theory’ of seeing a beloved during midnight - she felt the sudden urge to see his face before anyone’s with the New Year.

Aman shot her a grin and walked the other way, playing with the small square box in his pocket.

Do they go on dates? What are they like?

Yes they do! Initially they would meet at coffee shops, making small talks and having meaningful silences. Once they got closer, Aman would invite Anjali for lunch dates at his home.

And then it became dinner dates.

Aman’s quite the chef so he’d cook dinners and that’s where they’d have the best conversations. Anjali would come out of her reserved, elegant shell and laugh boisterously at Aman’s jokes (humor is not his strong suit) and Aman would wind down, finally, and probably watch a terribly cheesy Hindi film/soap opera with Anjali for the night.

Who leaves little notes in the other one’s lunch? (Bonus: What does it say?)

Aman does! It started off as something small - when Anjali headed straight to her NGO from Aman’s when he packed her a small tiffin box. It said “Have a good day, A” and probably meant the whole world for her.

Since then it’s been a habit - even post their marriage that he drops little notes that says the most mundane, yet sweet things like “eat well”, “I’ll be late tonight, don’t stay up, A”. Things that could easily be communicated over text but they both prefer the little notes.

What is the first thing that changes when they realize they have feelings for the other?

In my head canon Aman has loved Anjali and is aware of it for the longest time and has made peace with his feelings. Being extremely practical and sans fanfare, when he realised he has feelings, he hid it in himself as his biggest secret. So nothing changed, except a young man might have matured overnight because of a heartbreak.

For Anjali her optimism and surface level happiness would break the day she realizes her feelings. As a person who compartmentalized her feelings and choses to bury her thoughts and live in denial, the realisation that she’s fallen in love, again, actually opens the careful cover she’s placed on ‘calm’ face. Her feelings, emotions - all become raw and exposed.

Fun thought: While Arnav becomes calm in love, Anjali becomes extremely volatile!

Who tells their friends/family about their relationship first?

Anjali tells it to Khushi because Khushi is the only one who wouldn’t ask Anjali to marry him the next day nor be scandalized. Then Aman tells Arnav, pained by how torn Anjali is in telling the rest of the family members - especially her Chote. Then Akash, Payal and finally the family knows (from Anjali and Arnav).

Hope you have a wonderful day ahead!

- JWB

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hiya! Lavanya and NK for the OTP. And because I loooove fluff: 1,3 and 8 please

Hello dearest Mutton!

Ah thank you for being the first to ask about NK & La! Thanks for participating in the OTP asks!

1) What are things they both find funny?

They both find NK’s Hindi extremely funny, as well as Khushi’s choice in films and Buaji’s fixation with her beloved Nandkisore!

3) If they complimented each other, what would they say?

NK: Lavanya, aapse milkar meri mooh rooh kambal mukammal ho gaya. You’re the light of my life. You are my sun, my moon, my everything (Arnav: Yes of course, who needs blood, oxygen, water)

La: You made me meet myself. NK, there’s no one like you (Arnav: I agree, thankfully there’s no one like him)

I just love imagining Arnav loving and dissing this pair always. Lol (not in front of La, she’ll legit yeet him out of this world). 

8) What were their first impressions of each other?

NK: He literally lost his heart the minute he saw Lavanya. For him, perfection finally had a face. An angel. Breath was knocked out of his lungs. He finally knew what love was and why it could drive people to madness because he literally signed his life off to a woman who’s name he was yet to learn. Check out the song Hosana - that would be his first impression of her.

La: Too good to be true. He had the sweetest smiles and was a terrible flirt. Men like him are like a good dream - best be forgotten at sunrise. He’s either a heartbreaker or a dreaded ‘nice boy’. She wouldn’t believe the dreams he’d evoke in her. Check out Iktara - it’s a beautiful song and one I think that would depict La’s mind very well.

Thank you so much for asking me such beautiful asks! In a strange way they’ve been the easiest pair for me to write!

Love, 

- AJ

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hi S! Here after a few days. I was so happy to see the OTP list. I loved your answers and gifs. You articulate your thoughts and justifications so well. It is a pleasure to read the posts. They most often picked up fights in the car. Do you have any canon on them having long, peaceful drives? The dupatta set is gorgeous. They used it so well and thanks for the bonus. It was used to convey an eclectic of emotions. The visuals of the 1st episode were remarkable. I loved the shots you highlighted

The specific moments you highlighted were spectacular. It added so much to the show. The impressive cinematography and design continued through the show and kept me hooked. It wasn't a one time wonder but the team invested a lot into planning the scenes and other nitty-gritties. That's another reason why IPK stood out for me. Now, about the otp list: 34 and 39 for Anjali and Aman, 20 (what they argue about) for mama and mami and guess who for La and NK. I hope you are very well :) Hugs- Rdx.

Dearest Rdx, 

I’m so happy to see you here - I guess preparations for the wedding are on a full swing! Keep me apprised with all the photographs! (To anyone else reading this, no she’s not getting married, her brother is - otherwise would I even be on this blog?!).

Do you have any canon on them having long, peaceful drives?

Yes I do. I quite like to think that their car is one of their ‘private’ spaces. So they argue, chat and enjoy rides out of town. In fact if they’re out for a vacation in India perhaps Arnav drives all the way there with Khushi. 

And maybe after Khushi brushed up her skills in driving, she drives them to the city/hill-station of their choice. 

And sometimes after a tiring day of work they choose to randomly go for a long drive instead of directly heading home. 

Also, thank you for the compliments on the gifsets! I love highlighting the shots in IPK - honestly it is a study on how to make a cliched yet unique love story.

#34. Do they go on dates? What are they like? (Aman Anjali)

Yes they do! Initially they would meet at coffee shops, making small talks and having meaningful silences. Once they got closer, Aman would invite Anjali for lunch dates at his home. 

And then it became dinner dates. 

Aman’s quite the chef so he’d cook dinners and that's where they’d have the best conversations. Anjali would come out of her reserved, elegant shell and laugh boisterously at Aman’s jokes (humor is not his strong suit) and Aman would wind down, finally, and probably watch a terribly cheesy Hindi film/soap opera with Anjali for the night. 

#39. Who leaves little notes in the other one’s lunch? (Bonus: What does it say?) (Aman Anjali)

Aman does! It started off as something small - when Anjali headed straight to her NGO from Aman’s when he packed her a small tiffin box. It said “Have a good day, A” and probably meant the whole world for her. 

Since then it’s been a habit - even post their marriage that he drops little notes that says the most mundane, yet sweet things like “eat well”, “I’ll be late tonight, don’t stay up, A”. Things that could easily be communicated over text but they both prefer the little notes.

#20. What do they argue about the most? (Mama/Mami) (NK/La)

Mama/Mami

On a serious note: The fact that Mahinder does not try to mend the fences between his mother and Manorama.

On a lighter note: That he goes away for long trips without taking her and a list of the makeupiya she needs. 

 #12. Who does the hands-over-the-eyes “Guess Who” thing? (NK/La)

If that doesn’t spell out Nandkisore then I don’t know what does! I’m very sure that whenever NK visits La, especially by surprise, that’s how he greets her! And  she loves it!

Lots of love,

- Soapy

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

There’s More To Her #7

Previous Chapter

All Chapters

A New World

If Payal and Akash were not romantically linked, and if Arnav and Khushi did not have the feelings (which they vehemently denied) for each other, then Akash and Khushi would have been the perfect match.

Three discussions of Salman Khan’s five films, one argument about Delhi’s transportation system, two unending apologies regarding the argument, and a final agreement on Indian music’s rapid declining state summarized their one hundred and twenty four minutes conversation.

This was a problem neither Arnav nor Payal had foreseen. One’s cousin loved to speak. The other loved to listen. Payal had long left the room, tending to Bua ji’s infinite questions on where the girls had been. Arnav finished his final notes, stood up and grabbed Akash’s phone out of his hand.

“Bhai! Khushi ji was telling me about how Pritam copied Teri Meri’s tune from a South Korean song and it’s disheartening because how the track is so wonderful, especially with Rahat Fateh-”

“-where are you taking Payal for a date?” Arnav cut in. Akash’s mouth opened and closed, like a fish.

“Oh.”

“Oh??”

“-aur Akash ji,” Even though Akash’s phone was not on speaker, Khushi’s voice rang out loud and clear, “-Rahat ji’s voice evokes a true pain so imagine my horror when I learnt the song was copied-”

“-Khushi Kumari Gupta, is this your plan to not get Payal on a date with Akash?” Khushi choked, gasped, turned red in mortification and huffed. How dare he think this is what she wants? And how can he always be so wrong about her? If Khushi had a list on the number of times Arnav misinterpreted her actions - it would match the salary of an average employee at AR!

Khushi grumbled and popped a channa in her mouth, “Aap-”

“Haan main. As usual Akash overestimated your capabilities and told me you had more than enough EQ to help him find a location for the date,” Akash tried to get his phone back, but one glare from Arnav and he was back on his seat. Never underestimate the power of a raised eyebrow and side eye.

“You always meet my expectations with your fruitless conversations.” Arnav scoffed, his files and Akash forgotten.

“Aap!-” Khushi glowered.

“-I should have warned Akash about your IQ instead. I’m sure with your channas, jalebis and bollywood music, you missed out on helping him out.” He said. Khushi stopped herself from eating a channa, cleared the empty plate of jalebi from her table and held her phone in a tight grip.

“Aap-” she began.

“Khushi, it’s established that it’s me.” Arnav rolled his eyes.

“Aap!-”

“Can we move on from aap? I think it’s better to set up Akash and Payal’s date at the AR head office.” If, Khushi’s God forbid, Akash and Payal were to go out on a movie for a date - it would mean that he and Khushi would have to watch that film too.

Trusting Akash, Payal and the overwhelming influence of Khushi Kumari Gupta, it would be a Salman Khan film.

Arnav winced in advance for that shiver that would crawl his spine at the thought of a shirtless Salman romancing a woman twenty years younger than him on a copied Bollywood item song with the crowd hooting on the screen.

Except, the prospect was tolerable, his spine did not shiver but something else did at the thought of sitting with Khushi in proximity, in the dark, for three hours.

“Hmm… it’s a good idea.” Her agreement brought Arnav out of his thoughts.

“You... agree?” He tried his hardest to keep his surprise at bay.

“It’s better to meet in the office. There’s no risk of running into anyone else, and it’s a comfortable environment for Akash ji. Also, AR’s studio can be set up for their date-”

“-the studio is not your playground.” Arnav warned. Khushi rolled her eyes.

“Arrey! I didn’t even say that I would decorate but now that you’re suggesting…” Khushi paused, muffling a chuckle as Arnav swore his ‘what the-’ on the other end of the phone.

“If you first planned on them meeting at the canteen or in Akash’s office, then I’ll decorate the studio for them.” Khushi challenged.

“I did not think of the canteen first,” He bit out. Contrary to popular opinion, Arnav was not a nitwit in romance. His first idea was Akash’s office, second was the canteen.

“So you planned it second?” Khushi asked.

“What the fuck!” He snapped.

“Haw! Fine, apart from two leather chairs - by the way you should stop buying leather chairs! As a multi million dollar company do you realise what message you’re giving for the environment? Animals are also-”

“Khushi. Date. Focus.” Arnav sighed. Khushi and derailing a topic were one and the same. Yet, Arnav shot a quick text message to Aman that said something like;

Arnav: Replace leather chairs with faux leather.

Aman: Ok, do we publicise going animal friendly?

Arnav: Don’t ask stupid questions. Yes.

Aman: Same for our clothing lines?

Arnav: Yes.

Aman: Who recommended this?

Arnav: Do you think I’ll change everything based on one person’s opinion?

Aman: Should I get fired?

Arnav: Was your answer yes.

Aman: Yes.

Arnav: You’re fired.

Aman: See you tomorrow.

“Arrey, are you even listening to me. Laad Governor, as if he will change anything!” Khushi grumbled, forgetting she was still on line. Akash checked in a choke at the nickname. He was also quick to bury himself in the lookbook before Arnav could shoot a metaphorical and literal dagger at him.

“What did you call me? And Khushi, you don’t really know me.” Arnav argued.

“So you weren’t planning on Akash ji and Jiji sitting on a round table with nothing apart from two chairs and two mineral bottles on the table?” Khushi drawled. She was granted with a five second silence.

“What… are your plans for the studio?” He asked.

“Give me Aman ji’s phone number.”

“What the-”

“Anyways you’re going to delegate work to him na?” Khushi countered. Arnav dignified her question by ending the call. While Khushi spent two minutes cursing him and his blasted manners, Payal walked up to her with their cell phone.

“Khushi, who’s this Aman Mathur?”

---

Three days later, thanks to Preeto’s pre engagement lunch party - a western and a ‘Hai Re Nandkisore’ concept according to Bua ji - Payal and Khushi were able to sneak out for the date. Shyam had stopped Khushi, offering to drop her at Preeto’s house. When he realised Payal was going too, his smile tightened and he remembered a case he had to attend. Nowadays Shyam seemed to be burdened by a lot of cases for he was rarely home.

For some reason it gave great relief to Khushi. Something was off about that man.

“Arrey Khushi!” Preeto ran down the stairs and grabbed Khushi into a tight hug. Privy to the little secret, she gave a wink to Payal and ushered them in.

“You’re looking beautiful Payal di.” Preeto whispered.

The plan was set - Preeto’s mum would see that the girls are sitting and enjoying the party and just as the other girls would come in, Khushi and Payal - having forgotten their ‘gift’ - would head out to the ‘market’.

Then they would get lost, in finding the perfect gift, and return a few hours later. After that, they’d have evening snacks together and head home.

“Okay, now chalo.” Preeto said, but she found a gift of glittered bangles in her hand. It was not cheap.

“Khushi?” Preeto hugged Khushi, tearing up. Payal finally understood why Khushi slogged an extra few hours at tuitions this week. Khushi couldn’t keep her own tears at bay. An engagement should be celebrated with utmost happiness.

“Preeto, do you think we’d leave without a gift?” Payal smiled. In a way both Khushi and Payal’s consciences were soothed from lying to their family. They, in a way, were really a part of Preeto’s party. Through the backdoor, the sisters held hands and sneaked into an auto, waving at Preeto.

---

Payal had only heard stories of the AR office. Now, staring at the ten storey glass building her heart hammered loud. Even though she had visited their massive house and been in his exclusive Mercedes, Akash’s presence had dulled her senses to how rich they were.

It finally dawned on her that these people had businesses worth millions. Frequented countries like the way she walked between her house and Lakshmi Nagar bazaar. That Akash, truly was a Raizada. He was wealthy beyond her imagination.

Khushi’s smile fell as Payal rapidly paled, stepping back from the glass doors.

“Jiji?” Khushi touched her shoulder, Payal grabbed her hand.

“Khushi, hum yaha kya kar rahe hai! What are we doing here? Our statuses are very different. We won’t be compatible by just two cups of tea.” Payal was on the verge of tears. Suddenly the shiny purple salwar kameez, the one she saved for special events seemed cheap.

Manorama, for all her crassness, had been honest.

Payal and Akash belonged from different worlds.

Akash and Arnav stopped at the first floor, seeing a shocked Payal and a crestfallen Khushi at the reception. They were not expecting this.

“Jiji, they come from the same world as us. We aren’t different.” Khushi led Payal to the visitor’s chair and they both sat down.

Payal shook her head, “No, when you told me a car was about to run you over in a parking lot I thought you were being your blind self. I didn’t know that their parking lot was four times the size of Bua ji’s house.”

“Jiji, five hundred people work here, they can’t just have Happy ji’s garage - which is in full capacity with one SUV and Bedi uncle’s scooter.” Khushi soothed Payal.

“Khushi, Akash is way out of my league.” Payal told Khushi.

“Why? Because he and his family earns a lot? But they’ve worked hard for it, like Babuji, like us.”

“Khushi, they won’t understand us-”

“Bas Jiji. They will. This is not inherited money, they’ve earned it. Like Babuji. If you say there’s a difference of intellect, education and business skills - I’ll agree. But differences in values, culture and ethics - then no, you’re mistaken. In most companies brothers fight for power, but there’s no rivalry between Akash ji and Arnav ji, you know why? For the same reason why there’s no rivalry between us.” Payal looked up, surprised at Khushi’s confidence.

“Now will rich people stop marrying normal people because they earned money? Ok, if you were marrying that Liza ji’s brother then I would, gladly, commit suicide.” Khushi shivered. Akash and Arnav exchanged a look - they shared the same sentiment.

Khushi never hated anyone, but she detested Liza from the bottom of her heart. Her snootiness, disrespect for money and humans alike, plastic smile rubbed Khushi wrong. And the way she had embraced Arnav, calling him ‘Arnie’. It bothered her then, it positively disturbed her now.

Payal cracked a small smile then frowned, “But the people they surround with are rude.”

“I agree. Some of them, their colleagues and they themselves are mean. But Jiji, if you spent even one day with Sim and Pam then you’ll also begin saying what-the-what-the-what-the.” Khushi explained. Akash glanced at Arnav, who remained expressionless, except for the slight curl of his lip.

“And you, if you want, plan on marrying Akash ji - not the people he surrounds himself with.” Khushi said. Payal brushed away Khushi’s humor.

“But-”

“Jiji, I know people are important. I know our status difference, their wealth, all of that matters but what means the most is that you love him. I don’t have the answers for everything. If you’re bothered by the people, you need to tell him so as to you both can work on it. If Akash ji expects you to immediately fit in then you need to make him see that by just adding a Raizada in your surname you won’t immediately turn into a woman who’s always lived in wealth.” Khushi held Payal’s hand.

“That’s why you wanted time. And that’s why he agreed. If you want I can find you a man who’s of the same status and community, but let me tell you something - nothing replaces love.” Payal looked at the scar beneath Khushi’s ring finger. They all believed in superstition. Khushi had always believed in love.

Khushi’s engagement and scar was inauspicious and loveless.

“Whenever you have these doubts, think of marrying another man. Your heart will tell you the truth.” Akash smiled at the advice. Arnav gulped, the knot in his chest becoming tighter with every passing day.

“You and Akash ji need to make it work. The easier it is to form a relationship, the more difficult it is to sustain it - yet the more worth it is. Acknowledging differences is the first step.” Khushi pulled Payal to her feet.

“Now are you feeling confident or not? Even the handsome Chulbul Pandey married penniless Rajjo because they had one thing in common - fearlessness.” Khushi gushed.

“Is he her neighbor?” Arnav asked Akash.

“Who?”

“The Pandey she’s talking about.”

“Oh, Chulbul Pandey. No, he's a character in Salman Khan’s film, Dabangg. And Rajjo was Sonakshi Sinha. The film was directed by Abhinav Kashyap and,” Akash stopped, realising Arnav was staring at him.

“No Bhai, I don’t watch Hindi films… woh, Khushi ji told me about this.” Akash turned red and looked at his shoes. Arnav narrowed his eyes to slits, vowing to show Akash better films.

“But life is not a film Khushi, what if it doesn’t work out in the future?” Payal asked. Akash and Arnav waited for Khushi’s reply.

“And what if it does? Jiji, how can you find answers to a future you haven’t lived? Everything might not be perfect, but you can only be upset if you’ve not given your hundred percent.” Khushi advised and removed a handkerchief from her purse.

“When did you grow up?” Payal smiled and took the handkerchief. Khushi gave her a half smile and fisted her hands. Off late she has had to grow up. Whether she liked it or not.

“Bhai, thanks for the studio, especially on a Sunday.” Akash said.

“Do me a favour and make this work. She’s a woman who will only love you for who you are.” Arnav cracked a half smile.

“Khushi, am I looking ok?” Payal straightened her kameez.

“Mind blowing! In fact you look like Sonali Bendre from Sarfarosh!” Khushi held out her hand. Payal grasped it, her nervousness and excitement blending into one ball of mess in her stomach.

“I’m guessing Sarfarosh is another Salman Khan-” Arnav began.

“Aamir Khan.” Akash corrected, straightening up his jacket as Payal and Khushi entered, “And Khushi ji must be referring to the purple salwar kameez right before the ‘Jo Haal Dil Ka’ begins playing.” But to him the color matched Payal better. It took him a second to realise Arnav was, again, staring at him.

“N-no, I mean…” Akash blanched. He had a reputation to protect before his brother and his knowledge of his Hindi films was not helping.

“If you tell me Khushi told you this,” Arnav stopped as Akash left him behind, staring at Payal in unabashed admiration. She had walked right under the chandelier, the light sparkling on her dress and jewelry.

Akash swallowed hard, staring at the woman who made every young fantasy come true. That one day there would be a woman for whom he’d forget everything else.

At the edge of Arnav’s office, Akash stared down at Payal who looked up at him in equal parts of wonder and adoration. In a small, forgotten corner of her heart it felt like she was visiting a palace. Standing tall and high above her, in a crisp white suit, with shadows and light casted on his handsome face, Akash was nothing short of a prince.

Arnav and Khushi stayed in the shadows, regarding the other in their silhouettes and gazes. She had worn an all white salwar kameez, the one she wore at the Dargah. He was in all black. With awareness, a heaviness sat in the hearts. It had been long since they took the time to look at the other, like this.

This was what Khushi had been talking about. For all her fears and cynicism, there was a magic that gave Payal endless optimism. That pleaded her to give her its best.

It didn’t matter which world either came from, one day they might just create their own.

---

Next Chapter

A/N: I hope you liked the update! Thank you so much for reading and leaving your notes - it really motivates me endlessly :) Hope you all have been doing well.

Love,

S

P.S: Bhai = brother, Jiji = (elder) sister, Aap = you, haan main = yes me, channa = chickpea, woh = a Hindi sentence filler like so/as/you know/that, Arrey = a common exclamation like what/uff, bas = enough, chalo = go/bye/goodbye.

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