Utpatti – Episode 039

Vasudev and Netra arrive at their usual spot and get out of the vehicle to breathe in the night air. Vasudev goes over to Netra and hugs her from behind while she snuggles into his embrace.

Netra: I could get used to this.

Vasudev: That’s what I’m afraid of.

Netra: What do you mean?

Vasudev: Haven’t you given any thought to where any of this is going?

Netra: I have.

Vasudev: And?

Netra: And I keep seeing you and me together.

Vasudev: It’s more complicated than that and you know it…

Netra: Of course I know it’s complicated but I can’t tell you how I intend to fix those complications unless you let me in on what some of those complications are.

Vasudev: Ok you know what?

Netra: What?

Vasudev: Let’s forget about all that stuff and just enjoy the night.

Netra: I like these ideas you have.

The two of them smile. Vasudev kisses her on the cheek. They stare up at the stars. But suddenly, Netra feels uncomfortable and Vasudev feels it too.

Vasudev: What’s wrong?

Netra: I don’t know.

Vasudev: Are you ok?

Netra: Yes I’m fine, I just have this feeling that I’m being watched.

Vasudev doesn’t respond but he also doesn’t push the thought away because he’s been feeling the same thing. He looks around and sees nothing. Then he turns around abruptly and in the dark he notices someone scurry off.

Vasudev: Who’s there?

The person in the dark starts to run.

Vasudev: Wait here.

Netra: What?

Vasudev: Just wait here.

Vasudev starts running and Netra is suddenly on edge. Vasudev sees the stalker in the distance but he’s already got a head start and so it seems difficult to catch up. Finally he sees the mystery man get into a vehicle and drive off.

Vasudev: Damn it!

The man in the vehicle is of course none other than Rajveer who started his evening off by going to the Haveli so he can spy on Netra. What he didn’t expect, however, was to see Netra with someone else.

Rajveer: Who is that man? What is she doing with him? She can’t do this to me! She just can’t! I will not have my future wife sneaking around the city with some other man. It’ll look bad on our marriage. What if they get caught? Everyone will be talking about it. I can’t allow that to happen. She’s mine. Only mine.

Back to the couple…

Netra: Who was it?

Vasudev: I don’t know. He got away.

Netra: That’s just crazy, who would follow us like that? Could it be some random person?

Vasudev: I don’t know but we have to get back home, now.

Netra: Ok. I just wish it wasn’t someone from home…

Vasudev: Not unless anyone at the Haveli drives a Mercedez.

Netra stops in her tracks.

Netra: Oh my goodness.

Vasudev: What is it? Is it someone from the Haveli?

Netra: No… the last time I went for a drive in a Merc was with Rajveer, Rajveer Shastri.

Vasudev: The guy you were supposed to get married to?

Netra: The guy they have you doing background checks on.

Vasudev: What the hell does this mean?

Netra thinks for a moment and then it hits her.

Netra: What if he’s become mentally unstable?

Vasudev: What? How?

Netra: I don’t know…

Vasudev: Did he seem like that when you were together?

Netra: What do you mean together? I was never with him.

Vasudev: You were engaged to him weren’t you?

Netra: You were dead weren’t you?

Vasudev: Ok let’s not get sidetracked here.

Netra: He seemed fine. But when he spoke to me the other day and asked me why things ended, he did have this look on his face…

Vasudev: What look?

Netra: Like, you know, that look of not being able to let something go.

Vasudev: You can judge a look like that?

Netra: Yes.

Vasudev: Ok.

Netra: So what do we do now?

Vasudev: Well your former fiancée is stalking you in the middle of the night; I think the least we can do is get you home.

Netra: Ok.

Vasudev: I’m sorry the night was cut short.

Netra: It doesn’t have to be.

Vasudev: I know. I’m just worried about you.

Netra: I find that so sexy.

Vasudev: Do you now?

The next day… Dixita is in Pratiksha Devi’s room…

Dixita: What do I do now Moti Ba?

Pratiksha: Well obviously you need more evidence if you’re going to move ahead with any of this.

Dixita: I need to find out exactly what happened to Ramya and I need to know who is connected with her death. Do you think I’ll find more of the answers I’m looking for in that room?

Pratiksha: Well it seems to be your only hope for now.

Dixita: There was something that I read next to Ramya’s name.

Pratiksha: What was that?

Dixita: It said something about Doctor Varma’s clinic… What do you suppose that means?

Pratiksha: I don’t know but for starters you could look for doctors with that name in and around the area.

Dixita: Good idea.

Pratiksha: Maybe whoever this Doctor Varma is will have the answers you are looking for.

Dixita: I sure hope so. Ok so I’m going to start looking for this doctor. I’ll keep you posted on my progress.

Pratiksha: You do that.

Dixita: Thanks so much for helping me out Moti Ba…

Pratiksha: My only wish is to see you and your friend receive some justice and if there’s anything I can do to help, I will…

She smiles and Dixita leaves the room. Then she turns around and breathes deeply.

Pratiksha: That’s what I want you to believe my dear girl. That’s the only way I’ll be able to use you to get what I want. Within you lies the key to tearing this family apaprt and I have a feeling we’re getting there, slowly but surely.

She picks up her phone and makes a call.

Pratiksha: It’s me… Just calling to keep you updated. Things are going very well at this end. This girl, Dixita, she’s very dedicated to her cause. She won’t leave a single stone unturned until she finds something on her friend.

The voice on the other end says something…

Pratiksha: Well it wasn’t easy. I had to intervene. I mean really, Veena is not stupid enough to leave information on minor details like this lying around even in her secret room. I had to sneak in there and scribble things about Ramya Bansali and Doctor Varma on that book, otherwise Dixita would never have found anything. She did surprise me though when she found that article Vinodh Patel had written.

The voice at the other end says something again…

Pratiksha: I know, I know… But I’m not as young as I once was. It takes a great deal of stealth to run in and out of that room. And those two women keep a close eye on the upper room, I’m lucky Dixita found anything at all. Anyway, everything is going well so far so don’t you worry about a thing. I’ll keep you posted on everything that happens. Jay Sri Krishna.

She hangs up and looks around to see if anyone is watching. In the meantime… there’s a knock on Netra’s room door. She wakes up and wonders who it is.

Netra: Come in…

The door opens and Magan Bhai walks in.

Netra: Magan Kaka? What’s the matter?

Magan: I tried to tell him that you were sleeping and that you did not want to be disturbed but he just wouldn’t listen.

Netra: Who is it Kaka?

Magan: Rajveer Shastri.

Netra has a worried expression on her face now. She sits up in bed.

Netra: He’s here? Now?

Magan: Yes.

Netra: Is Mom at home?

Magan: She is.

Netra: Get her.

In the meantime… Dixita has made her way back to the upper room. She opens the secret entrance and walks in but to her utter shock, everything seems to have vanished. No files, no boxes, no books no cupboards – nothing.

Dixita: Where did everything go?

Veena: I’m sure you’d like to know.

Dixita feels the blood drain from her body as she slowly turns around to see Veena sitting in a corner of the room with a big smile on her face.

Dixita: Kaki… I… was…

Veena: Looking for the bathroom? Is that what you were going to say?

Dixita: No… I…

Veena: Your game is up Dixita. What do you want?

And back downstairs, Netra is standing outside her room when Shakuntala walks up to her with Magan Bhai.

Shaku: Netra, what is it?

Netra: Mom he’s here.

Shaku: Who’s here?

Netra: Rajveer, I think he’s stalking me.

Shaku: What?

Netra: He says he wants to see me but…

Shaku: No, you stay here.

Shakuntala walks downstairs with Magan Bhai hot on her heels. She sees Rajveer standing in the lounge area and walks up to him.

Rajveer: Jay Sri Krishna Aunty ji…

Shaku: You need to leave this house now Rajveer.

Rajveer: What? Why? I just want to speak with Netra.

Shaku: You can’t do that.

Rajveer: But why?

Shaku: Because there is nothing to talk about. Because the relationship between the two of you is over and most importantly, because Netra doesn’t want to!

Rajveer: No you don’t understand. I really need to see her.

Shaku: Please leave now before I have you thrown out.

Rajveer is silent for a moment and then his expression changes.

Rajveer: You can’t do that to me.

Shaku: I can and I will.

Rajveer: I won’t leave until I see her.

Shaku: You will leave right now. Magan Bhai, call the guards.

Magan: At once Mota Sethani.

Magan Bhai leaves and Shakuntala turns to Rajveer.

Shaku: I’m giving you one more chance to leave of your own accord.

Rajveer: Fine! I’ll leave. But tell your daughter that I don’t appreciate her sneaking around with other guys in the middle of the night. Especially not when we’re supposed to get married.

Utpatti – Episode 036

Pratiksha Devi realizes the seriousness of what has happened and she begins to think of what must be done. She turns to Dixita.

Pratiksha: Go to your room and stay there until I tell you otherwise.

Dixita: But the article.

Pratiksha: Don’t worry about it, I’ll sort something out.

Dixita: Are you sure?

Pratiksha: Positive. Now go.

Dixita: Ok.

Dixita leaves and Pratiksha Devi starts thinking. Then she realizes something.

Pratiksha: Wait a minute… Why am I getting so worried? This is the article that I have wanted to be published from day one. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for. Now all I have to do is wait a little longer. Once Nitesh finds that document then he is surely going to want to read through it. Yes… yes of course. What better twist of fate could I ask for? Once her children know all about her sordid past then her life will slowly start to unravel. That’s it… now all I have to do is wait…

Not long after, the files arrive at the office and are taken to Nitesh’s office. He takes all the files from the delivery guy. He then looks at the file right on top.

Nitesh: Wait a minute.

The delivery guy turns around.

Nitesh: This file has all the information on the construction for the new home for the aged. Please have this taken to Nakul’s table.

He hands the file over to the delivery guy and he takes it away. In the meantime… back at the Havelie, Veena is walking into the library when she hears vehicles outside. She turns around and realizes that someone has just come over. She walks over to the entrance and is shocked to see Hemat Lal and his retinue. She walks to the main entrance to greet him. He signals for his guards to stay back as he walks up to her.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna MP Sahab.

Hemat: Jay Sri Krishna Veena ji.

Veena: How can I help you?

Hemat: Is Shakuntala ji at home?

Veena: I’m afraid she’s unavailable at the moment.

Hemat: That’s not what I asked.

Veena: She is not at home.

Hemat: I doubt that.

Veena: Is there something you wanted to discuss with her?

Hemat: Well seeing as you’re not allowing me to do so, I might as well discuss it with you.

Veena: Fine. Come this way please.

She leads him inside to the lounge area and they sit down.

Veena: Can I offer you something?

Hemat: Perhaps some assistance with a problem that has recently risen between our households.

Veena: Shastri ji, I’m sure Shaku Bhabi made it very clear about where we stand on this issue.

Hemat: She did. She really did. But I’m not sure you understand the gravity of what’s going on here.

Veena: I trust you’re here to explain just that.

Hemat: Some of it.

Veena: Go on then.

Hemat: Your niece’s life may be in danger.

Veena looks unmoved by the statement.

Hemat: Did you hear what I said?

Veena: I did. Is there more or are you simply going to bore me with your idle threats.

Hemat: That wasn’t a threat Veena ji. It was a warning.

Veena: I see.

Hemat: I’m more than willin to wash my hands off this matter instantly. The city is not short of young women I can make my Bahu and given my history with this Haveli I’d much rather things worked out that way. But you see, my son is a different person all together.

Veena: What do you mean?

Hemat: Rajveer grew up with low self-esteem issues.

Veena: He doesn’t seem to be the type.

Hemat: Maybe not on the surface. But when he was a child, he was always an introvert. He never spoke out of turn and was never one of those go-getters. As he grew he learned to control himself whenever he watched someone else walk away with his dreams. It may have been an event at the sportsmeet at school or the prize giving at school; he was always content with being lesser than the others and never showed any signs of competition. What we didn’t know at the time is that he was bottling all his anger up inside, never once choosing to express it.

Veena: So he’s passive aggressive.

Hemat: In a sense yes.

Veena: Go on.

Hemat: You see the first thing that he didn’t have to compete for in life was the affection of a girl named Kamya Virani. The two of them seemed like they were perfect for each other.

Veena: What happened?

Hemat: Arjun Pratap Singh.

Veena: I’m guessing he’s the third angle in this story.

Hemat: He was.

Veena: What do you mean he was?

Hemat: I don’t want to go into too much detail, but suffice to say, Kamya and Arjun haven’t been heard from in a very long time.

Veena: Did they leave the country?

Hemat: I’m hoping that the women of this household would be slightly more imaginative. The point I’m trying to make here is that we have no control over what happens to Rajveer.

Veena: Are you saying he would hurt Netra?

Hemat: Not would but could.

Veena: And you will allow this to happen?

Hemat: What are my alternatives?

Veena: Have you tried speaking with a psychiatrist? I hear they’re good at this sort of thing.

Hemat: I understand your cynicism…

Veena: You can’t begin to understand anything that’s going on in my head right now. What gives you the privilege of thinking that setting your mentally unstable son on the daughter of this house would change our decision on this matter? It sounds to me like your son is not the only one who needs help.

Hemat: I would do what’s best for him and take him to a doctor but I cannot for several reasons.

Veena: Such as?

Hemat: Well for one my wife wouldn’t allow it. And above that, my political career will be at stake. Do you have any idea how news like this can damage one’s image?

Veena: First of all your wife is in far greater need of help than both you or your son and second of all, what kind of father puts his needs ahead of his son’s?

Hemat: A barren woman giving me advice on how to raise children. Fantastic. As for that comment you made about my wife I wouldn’t expect you to understand her either, not when you’ve lived with a missing husband for all these years.

Veena: Oh so now we’re down to taunting is it?

Hemat: Seems to be the only way to get through to you.

Veena: You’re not getting through to me MP Sahab. You’re wasting my time and ruining a perfectly healthy day.

Hemat Lal stands up and Veena follows suit.

Hemat: I’d like to stay and continue our little banter but I have better things to do.

Veena: As have I.

Hemat: But consider yourself warned. If anything ill fated should happen to Netra, it won’t be my family’s concern.

Veena: No, it won’t. Just like it won’t be your concern when we punish the people who hurt her. Thank you for stopping by and thank you for the heads up. Now if you’ll excuse me.

Hemat: With pleasure.

He leaves and Veena shakes her head in dismay. Meanwhile… back at the office, Nakul sees the file on his table and goes to pick it up. As he does, the papers fall out of it. He rearranges the file and the article about Shakuntala seems to have ended up at the back. Nakul looks through the first few pages and then realizes something.

Nakul: This was one of those things I wanted to go through at home. How the hell did it end up here?

At that moment Nakul’s extension rings. He picks it up.

Nakul: Hello?

Netra: Hey it’s me.

Nakul: Hey, what’s going on?

Netra: Nothing much. I just dropped by the office because I wanted to see what this place looked like after all these years and I also wanted to see how you were doing.

Nakul: Ok that’s cool. Where are you?

Netra: Downstairs.

Nakul: Hold on there just a minute. I’ll come say hi.

Netra: Ok.

They hang up and Nakul heads downstairs. Back at the Haveli, Dixita is losing her mind with worry.

Dixita: What the hell is happening? One day my life was moving along fine and the next thing I know I’m caught up in some weird conspiracy and I don’t even know it. If this family had something to do with the death of that reporter then is it possible that Ramya’s disappearance is connected to them also? But how? Why? Moti Ba seems to think so and she’s already been a member of this family for years.

Then another thought hits her.

Dixita: I have to get back into that room. I have to try and find something about Ramya.

Dixita sneaks out of her room and looks around. She sees Veen walking in with purpose and then taking the stairs to Shakuntala’s room. She watches as Veena disappears from sight. Then she slowly comes out of her room and makes her way back into the upper room with the secret wall.

While Dixita is on her mission to uncover the truth about Ramya, Veena has gone to see Shakuntala about Hemat Lal’s visit.

Shaku: The man doesn’t want to give up. I don’t see why he can’t understand.

Veena: What if there’s some truth to what he’s saying?

Shaku: What that Rajveer is not mentally stable?

Veena: Well yes.

Shaku: Plese Veena, politicians lie all the time.

Veena: I don’t know Bhabi there was something about the way he spoke that made it seem true.

Shaku: He wouldn’t be very successful at what he did if he wasn’t able to convince you.

Veena: Still… what if there is some truth to it? Could Netra really be in danger?

Shakuntala turns to face Veena and then thinks for a while.

Shaku: Call Vasudev. Ask him to do a background search on the missing people he mentioned. Kamya Viran and Arjun Pratap Singh. Once we have that information with us then we’ll know if the story is true or not. Based on that we will be able to take necessary precautions.

Veena: Understood.

Back at the office, Nakul and Netra are almost done having their chat.

Nakul: Hey could you do me a favor?

Netra: Yea sure.

Nakul: This file was brought here from home by accident together with some other files. Could you take it back home for me please?

Netra: Sure.

Nakul: Give it to Veena Kaki, I meant to do it yesterday but…

Netra: Nakul, are you still avoiding her?

Nakul: I’m not avoiding her.

Netra: Yes you are, I’ve seen it, don’t lie to me.

Nakul: Ok fine so maybe I am.

Netra: But why?

Nakul: Netra…

Netra: Is this connected to that thing you’ve not yet told me?

Nakul: Look I can’t talk about this right now. Thanks for dropping by and taking the file home. I’ve got to get back to work.

Netra: Ok. See you at home.

Nakul walks off and Netra shakes her head. Meanwhile back at the Haveli, Dixita is back in the secret room and she’s going through all kinds of things trying to figure out something about her missing friend.

Dixita: There are files in here about contacts around the world. Some of these documents date back over thirty years.

She turns around and hits her shoulder on a cupboard causing something to fall off of it. She looks down and picks it up. It is another file but this one is different. On the cover of it she sees an illustration of the sun. When she opens the file there’s nothing inside but the inner cover reads: ‘CONFIDENTIAL PROPERTY OF THE SURYAVANSHI DYNASTY’.

Dixita: What the hell is this?

Utpatti – Episode 037

Dixita is trying to fathom what she has just come across when her eye catches something else… She sees a book placed on a table, almost completely covered with papers. She tosses the file she’s holding aside and walks over to it. She opens the book and starts pouring through it. After some time, an unpleasant shocker crosses her path. She sees a page filled with details of her friend.

Dixita: No…

The page reads: RAMYA BANSALI, DOCTOR VARMA’S CLINIC, CONDITION: DEAD. Dixita drops the book instantly and her whole body goes numb.

Dixita: This can’t be true. It just can’t be true.

She tries to stop the tears that are now flowing out of her eyes but finds that she is unable to. So she puts everything back where she found it and then runs out of the room. In her haste however, she forgets the lock.

Not long after, Netra comes home and Veena is the first person she runs into.

Veena: There you are, I’ve been wondering where you went off to.

Netra: I went down to the office. Haven’t seen that place in so long. It looks so different. Bigger, better.

Veena: Isn’t it though?

Netra: Yea. Oh, Nakul wanted me to give you this file. Something about it being delivered to office by mistake.

Veena: Thank you. But, he could have just brought this home with him and delivered it himself, couldn’t he?

Netra: Well…

Veena: He’s still not talking to me.

Netra: I don’t know, I really don’t… Did something happen with you guys?

Veena: Forget about it. Tell me about you. Have you figured out how you want to move forward now that the wedding is not happening?

Netra: Well, I have a few options open and I’m looking into them but I don’t want to start anything at least for a few months. Although I wish Rajveer was able to move forward too.

Veena’s ears pick up on this.

Veena: What do you mean?

Netra: Well I was out shopping the other day and I ran into him.

Veena: Oh?

Netra: Yea and he was talking to me about the whole situation. I mean I tried hard to make him understand and I really hope he did get it but there’s a part of me that feels really bad for him.

Veena: Netra, it’s probably best that you let Rajveer come out of this on his own time.

Netra: I know, it’s just he seemed so helpless and sad.

Veena: It’s not your concern anymore.

Netra: But somehow I feel like I’m to blame.

Veena: This is life. These things happen.

Netra: If you say so. But someone should tell him that. Anyway, I’ve gotta go get some stuff done upstairs. I’ll see you later Kaki.

Veena: Ok.

Veena smiles as she watches Netra leave and the moment she is out of sight Veena has a worried expression on her face.

Veena: So Rajveer is already stalking Netra. I should get those background checks done soon.

Veena walks away with the file while Dixita makes her way to Pratiksha Devi’s room. Pratiksha Devi sees her and realizes at once that something is not right.

Pratiksha: Come in my child. Sit down. Have some water. What’s wrong?

Dixita: Oh Moti Ba, it’s horrible!

Pratiksha: What’s horrible?

Dixita: You were right… There is some sort of connection to Ramya’s death, this family is connected.

Pratiksha: Have you found something?

Dixita: It isn’t much but I found this book, which had her name on it and proclaimed her dead.

Pratiksha: Oh dear… That can’t be good.

Dixita: No… What do I do now? How do I find more?

Pratiksha: Patience my child. I will help you in any way I can. Just be patient for now and don’t let anyone figure out that something is wrong. Do you understand me?

Dixita: I…

Pratiksha: It is vital that you remain normal and as though nothing has happened. Understand?

Dixita: Ok…

Pratiksha Devi smiles to herself. Meanwhile… at the Shastri Mansion… Rajveer is in his room, staring at a photograph of Netra. He smiles to himself.

Rajveer: Beautiful… simply beautiful. I love the way your hair moves in the wind… I love the way your smile brightens up everything around you… Netra… such a beautiful name for such a beautiful girl… Simply beautiful…

He continues to swoon over the photograph and then he stands up. His face turns serious.

Rajveer: I can’t let you go. I can’t let you become someone else’s. We were made for each other Netra. You and I were meant to be. Fate brought us together and I’ll make sure we stay together. You and me, always and forever.

Rajveer has a look of insanity, faint but sure in his eyes. We leave him in his stupor and move swiftly over to the Suryavanshi Haveli where Nitesh has just arrived home.

Kalyani: How was your day?

Nitesh: Uneventful.

Kalyani: Oh. You know Nitesh, I was thinking, maybe it’s time to start a family.

Nitesh turns around in shock.

Nitesh: What did you say?

Kalyani: A family, let’s have a baby.

There is a big bright smile on Nitesh’s face.

Nitesh: Do you really mean that?

Kalyani: Yes of course I mean it.

Nitesh runs over to her and hugs her.

Kalyani: I mean it’s bad enough we have to fight tooth and nail to keep what is ours in this Haveli, just imagine what would happen if Nakul and Dixita decide to have a baby before us? That child would be the older sibling then and ours would have lost its right…

Kalyani doesn’t see it, but Nitesh’s face turns sour. He pushes his wife away and she finally gets a glimpse of the expression she’s brought upon him.

Kalyani: What?

Nitesh: You are absolutely unbelieveable do you know that?

Kalyani: What do you mean?

Nitesh: For a moment there I was so happy because I thought to myself, I’m finally going to get to be a father and this child coming into our lives could change everything. But you, you’re still on your one track thought of how to own the Suryavanshi legacy!

Kalyani: Well that’s a bit harsh Nitesh… after all I don’t want the whole thing; just what’s rightfully ours.

Nitesh: Are you listening to yourself right now? You want to have a baby so you can use it as a bargaining chip!

Kalyani: There are many different ways of putting it and that you should find the most degrading out of the lot is really not my problem.

Nitesh: NO!

Kalyani: No, what?

Nitesh: We are not having a baby.

Kalyani: But you’ve always wanted one.

Nitesh: I guess I’ll just do without one then.

Kalyani: Nitesh be reasonable.

Nitesh: Reasonable? Are you insane? What am I saying? Of course you’re insane.

Kalyani: Just hear me out.

Nitesh: I’m done hearing you out. I think I’ll sleep in another room tonight.

Kalyani: Fine, suit yourself.

Nitesh walks out and Kalyani sulks. In the meantime… Vasudev calls Veena…

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna.

Vasudev: Jay Sri Krishna… I have news for you.

Veena: Let me have it.

Vasudev: The people you asked me to check up on, Kamya Virani and Arjun Pratap Singh, I’ve got the info.

Veena: Oh… Tell me.

Vasudev: Well you were right, this Rajveer Shastri guy is connected to them or at least to Kamya Virani. It seems the two of them were romantically involved.

Veena: So Shastri was telling the truth about that.

Vasudev: There is also a record of this Kamya girl getting married to Arjun Pratap Singh.

Veena: What? When?

Vasudev: About two years ago.

Veena: What about after that.

Vasudev: Well that’s where things get strange.

Veena: Explain.

Vasudev: After the two of them got married, they seem to have disappeared off the face of the earth. There are no records of them being anywhere. No credit card bills, no ATM withdrawals, no doctors appointments, no train tickets, no plane tickets, nothing!

Veena: And death records?

Vasudev: Not even those.

Veena: What about missing persons?

Vasudev: No.

Veena: So they basically vanished into thin air?

Vasudev: It seems that way.

Veena: This is not good.

Vasudev: May I ask what this is about?

Veena: Yes but I’m not in the condition to answer you presently.

Vasudev: Alright.

Veena: Thank you for the work. I’ll contact you soon.

Vasudev: As you wish Choti Malkin. Jay Sri Krishna.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna.

They hang up and Veena looks beside herself. She immediately makes her way to Shakuntala’s room.

Shaku: What is it?

Veena: I’m afraid it isn’t good.

Shaku: Shastri?

Veena: His story checks out Bhabi. Kamya Virani and Arjun Pratap Singh did disappear without a trace.

Shaku: Alright. So what conclusions can we draw out of this?

Veena: Rajveer did something to them?

Shaku: Or Hemat Lal himself made them disappear.

Veena: Or both.

Shaku: You’re right… I mean even if Rajveer did do something then Hemat Lal would have had some part to play in it. There is no way two people could vanish just like that without involvement of his level coming in to play.

Veena: But still, his actions would have been prompted only after Rajveer did what he did.

Shaku: The question then becomes, what did he do?

Veena: The worst he could have done, is kill them. If Hemat Lal is to be believed then Rajveer’s obsession with Netra can’t be good.

Shaku: We don’t know that it’s turned into that yet.

Veena: But it may be getting there.

Shaku: What do you mean?

Veena: Netra spoke to me about meeting Rajveer on a random shopping spree.

Shaku: And…

Veena: And according to her he seemed to be unable to get over this situation.

Shaku: So now he’s following her?

Veena: Possibly.

Shakuntala shakes her head in dismay.

Shaku: This is all my fault.

Veena: How?

Shaku: Think about it Veena, if I hadn’t pushed Netra into consenting to this marriage then none of this would have happened.

Veena: How were you to know Bhabi?

Shaku: That’s the point, I should have. I was so busy trying to protect Netra from the dark truths of my life that I ended up putting her life at risk.

Veena: Don’t worry Bhabi. The situation is still under control… we’ll handle it.

Shaku: Will we?

Veena: Yes, but not tonight… We need to get some rest. We’ll think about this in the morning.

Shaku: Ok… Oh, did you have a chance to speak with Vasudev? Is everything alright with him?

Veena: It is… Although I think that maybe you should hold back on your intimate meetings with him.

Shaku: Why?

Veena: He hasn’t told me much, but he did mention that there was someone new in his life.

The words prick Shakuntala’s chest a little harder than she had ever thought possible.

Utpatti – Episode 038

The next morning, Veena is getting ready to go downstairs from her room when she sees the file that Netra gave her from Nakul. She opens it and starts going through the papers. Suddenly she stops when she sees the article from Vinodh Patel’s file.

Veena: What the hell?

She goes through the rest of the file and then sees that the article is the only thing present there from the Vinodh Patel file.

Veena: How did this document make it out of the upper room?

Veena panics and runs out of her room and to the upper room with the file in her hand. She reaches the door and is shocked when she sees the lock is unlocked.

Veena: Oh no… Someone has been in here…

She looks around, opens the lock and runs inside. She then pushes the little brick on the wall and opens the secret room. She walks inside and looks around. She then finds the Vinodh Patel file and sees that someone has gone through it.

Veena: Someone has definitely been in here… But who? The only people who know about this room are Shaku Bhabi, myself and… Ba.

She spends the next few minutes angrily rearranging the room and locking up all the files that have been messed about. When the entire room is clean she quickly runs back out and when she reaches the outside of the upper room she makes sure the lock is in place. She then marches all the way down to Pratiksha Devi’s room and barges in.

Veena: Ba!

Pratiksha Devi looks up from the book she’s reading and takes off her reading glasses.

Pratiksha: To what do I owe this ridiculous entry?

Veena: What game are you playing now?

Pratiksha: Whatever are you talking about?

Veena: Don’t give me that. You know what I’m talking about.

Pratiksha: I assure you I haven’t the slightest clue.

Veena: Please don’t lie to me. I know you’ve been up to the secret room.

Pratiksha: Which one, this Haveli has so many of those.

Veena: The upper room!

Pratiksha: Oh there. No I haven’t been there in ages.

Veena: Then how have documents that were specifically placed in that room made their way into office files?

Pratiksha: What documents might these be?

Veena: Are you trying to tell me you don’t know?

Pratiksha: I really have not been in that room and honestly, I think you should go bark up some other tree and get out of my room.

Veena: I’m warning you Ba. Stay out of our matters.

Pratiksha: Or you’ll do what exactly?

Veena doesn’t have an answer and so she leaves. As she walks out, Pratiksha Devi smiles an evil smile.

Pratiksha: It has begun.

Veena walks through the Haveli trying to figure out how things got this way and then she sees Netra coming out of her room.

Veena: Netra!

Netra: Yes Kaki?

Veena: That file you gave me yesterday, didn’t you say Nakul gave it to you?

Netra: Yes he did.

Veena: Did he say anything that may have been important when he gave you the file?

Netra: Not really, no. He just wanted me to give you the file.

Veena: Ok thanks.

Netra: Is everything alright?

Veena: Yes it’s fine.

Veena walks away and Netra wonders what is going on. Veena then takes out her phone and calls Nakul.

Nakul: Hello?

Veena: Nakul it’s me.

Nakul: I’m a little busy now Kaki…

Veena: I know but this won’t take a minute. You sent a file for me through Netra yesterday.

Nakul: Yes I did.

Veena: Where was it before you had it?

Nakul: Well it was supposed to be at home but somehow Nitesh Bhaiyya had it and he’d sent it to me with some other files I wanted.

Veena: Did you happen to go through it?

Nakul: Not in detail no.

Veena: Ok thank you.

She hangs up and then looks even more worried. She then calls Nitesh.

Nitesh: Hello?

Veena: Nitesh, did you send Nakul some files yesterday?

Nitesh: Just one, it was on one of your projects I believe.

Veena: It was but how did you get it?

Nitesh: Well I asked Kalyani to send me some files from home and she must have mixed this one in with all that stuff.

Veena: Oh… ok. Thanks.

She hangs up.

Veena: So Kalyani was responsible for sending the files from home. Could it be? Was it Kalyani? But how could she know about the upper room and why would she put that document in there? I don’t get it… I have to look deeper into this problem.

Veena walks away, not knowing that Dixita has been hiding behind a pillar listening to everything that she’s been saying to all the people she’s been talking to, including herself. When Veena is fully out of sight, Dixita comes out of hiding.

Dixita: This is not good. This is not good at all. But why is Veena Kaki so concerned about that document and how it got into that file? There can be only one reason; there must be truth to it. There has to be truth to everything. Vinodh Patel’s death, Ramya’s disappearance and alleged death, it’s all connected to this Haveli! But if Veen Kaki persists any further then she’s definitely going to end the trail at me. I have to do something to stop that from happening… But what?

Suddenly, she think of something.

Dixita: That’s it.

Later that afternoon, Netra is in her room when she receives a call from Vasudev.

Netra: Hey!

Vasudev: And how are you today?

Netra: Bored. I’ve been going through all kinds of stuff trying to figure out what I need to do with my life and nothing seems to be coming together.

Vasudev: That doesn’t sound boring, it sounds, confused.

Netra: Are you making fun of me?

Vasudev: A little.

Netra: Cute. Stop it.

Vasudev: Ok. So are we still on for tonight?

Netra: Of course.

Vasudev: So I’ll pick you up at the usual time.

Netra: Yes.

Vasudev: I wanted to ask, is everything alright at home?

Netra: It is, why do you ask?

Vasudev: No reason.

Netra: Come on, what is it?

Vasudev: No your Kaki has me doing research on some guy and it’s quite random.

Netra: What do you find random about it?

Vasudev: Well I’ve never heard his name before and all of a sudden everything is about him.

Netra: Well what’s his name?

Vasudev: Rajveer Shastri.

Netra: What?

Vasudev: Rajveer Sh…

Netra: No I heard what you said I’m just confused now.

Vasudev: Do you know him?

Netra: Yes, he’s the guy I was supposed to marry.

Vasudev: I thought you said the wedding was called off.

Netra: It is. Which is why I’m confused. Come to think of it…

Vasudev: What?

Netra: Nothing, it’s just that, the other day I said something to Veena Kaki about Rajveer meeting me while I was out shopping and she seemed a bit alarmed. What’s going on?

Vasudev: I wish I knew but I haven’t been told anything yet.

Netra: But…

Vasudev: Uh, uh, uh… there’s nothing further I can tell you, it’s work related and you know what that means.

Netra: We can’t talk about it. Yes I know. But this sounds like it has to do with me somehow.

Vasudev: Well if it does then I’ll find out.

Netra: And if you find out, you let me know.

Vasudev: I’ll think about it.

Netra: Ok don’t be mean.

Vasudev: I’m not being mean.

Netra: Yes you are.

Vasudev: Ok I have to go now. I’ll see you tonight.

Netra: Ok, bye.

They hang up and Netra doesn’t look one bit comfortable. Later… Dixita walks out into the outercourt and looks around. She sees Kalyani going through a magazine in one corner and then she observes Veena walking out of the kitchen. She times herself well and then walks towards Kalyani…

Dixita: Hi Bhabi.

Kalyani looks up from her magazine and raises a brow. Then without a word she goes back to her magazine.

Dixita: I just wanted to ask, did you manage to get those files you took from me to Nitesh Bhaiyya on time?

At the sound of the files being mentioned, Veena stops and turns her attention to the Bahus.

Kalyani: Yes I did.

Dixita: Was it something important? I mean you just rushed right out of my room with them.

At this point Kalyani gets irritated.

Kalyani: It must have been important, to Nitesh. Otherwise he wouldn’t have asked for it. I was just getting it across to him. Now if you’re done with your twenty questions then can I please go back to reading my magainze?

Dixita: Oh… I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb you.

Dixita observes Veena looking at them from the corner of her eye and then smiles to herself when she leaves. As Dixita makes her exit Veena begins to look at Kalyani with suspicious eyes. She thinks to herself…

Veena: So, Kalyani was in a rush to get the files out of the room and to Nitesh’s office was she? Why? The pieces of this puzzle are finally beginning to fall into place. Kalyani has always tried to bring discord amongst the family. If she found that secret room then…

Veena’s eyes narrow and she breathes deeply.

Veena: Now I understand exactly what’s going on.

Veena turns her eyes upwards and then nods to herself. Later that night… Netra steps out of her room and looks around. She checks the hallways both upstairs and downstairs. Seeing no one around, she quickly makes her way to the secret entrance and rushes out. She runs all the way to the side entrance of the Havelie and finds Vasudev there, waiting for her.

Vasudev: What took you so long?

Netra: I’m a girl. We take time to get our shit together ok.

Vasudev: Do you now?

Netra: Shut up and help me in.

Vasudev laughs and stretches his hand out. Netra smiles, grabs it and jumps in.

Vasudev: Hey.

Netra: Hmmm.

Vasudev: I’m really glad you’re in my life.

Netra: Hey.

Vasudev: Hmm.

Netra: Me too.

The two of them smile at each other and then share a small kiss before Vasudev hits the gas and drives them off. As they leave, neither of them notice the vehicle parked behind them or the man who gets out of it. The man who happens to be Rajveer Shastri.

 

Utpatti – Episode 033

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

An angry looking Lalita Devi stands in the main hall of the Haveli. Behind her are three servants carrying three golden platters full of gifts for Netra. In front of her bearing apologetic faces are Shakuntala, Veena and Nitesh.

Lalita: Do you have any idea how damaging this is for us?

Shaku: I understand. But my daughter’s happiness comes first. You must understand that.

Lalita: And what about my son? He is smitten with Netra! He will be heartbroken when he finds out.

Nitesh: For that we are truly sorry.

Lalita: Not as sorry as you will be when my husband finds out about this. Do you have any idea who he is?

Shakuntala and Veena exchange glances.

Shaku: We are well aware of who your husband is. But regardless of his political background if my daughter does not consent to this marriage then it won’t happen.

Lalita: And why did she say yes if she had no idea of seeing this through?

Shaku: She felt like she had to out of respect for me…

Lalita: You should be glad that we even considered this relationship to begin with!

Veena: What do you mean?

Lalita: We’re not stupid. Do you think we pay no attention to the whispers that pass along the streets about the things that happen behind the closed doors of this Haveli?

The mood in the room changes as the Suryavanshis go from being apologetic to unsettled.

Lalita: That’s right. The whole world knows about the secret life of Shakuntala Suryavanshi but no one is brave enough to talk about it in fear for their lives!

Shaku: Is that so?

Lalita: It is. But I think it’s time to break that silence.

Veena: You would start unfounded rumors to abase someone’s reputation simply because we’ve refused to move ahead with this marriage?

Lalita: We’ll see how long it takes for rumors to turn into facts.

Lalita Devi spins on her heel and is about to walk out when…

Shaku: Wait.

Lalita Devi stops but doesn’t turn around. Shakuntala walks over to her and stands behind her. She speaks to Lalita Devi over her shoulder.

Shaku: How dare you walk into my house and threaten the name of my family?

Lalita Devi raises a brow and turns to face Shakuntala.

Lalita: And how dare you think of yourself as my equal?

Shaku: I’m sorry you live in the unfounded belief that you are somehow greater than I am. But the truth is you’re not.

Lalita: Don’t compare us whore, you don’t have the class for it.

Shaku: Don’t cross me bitch; you don’t have the stomach for it. Now I understand that what has happened should not have happened… But it has. We will do well to find an amicable solution to this scenario so both our families can move on with our lives…

Lalita: I don’t see anything amicable coming out of this. I assure you, when my husband hears about this he will make sure your family pays for what you’ve done to my son and his honor.

Shaku: And I assure you, this subject will be put to rest before you could even find the time to bring it up before your husband.

Lalita: Don’t make me laugh.

Shaku: Oh I assure you, I intend quite the opposite.

The two women stare each other down and finally Lalita Devi leaves with her servants. Shakuntala takes a deep breath and turns around to face Veena and Nitesh.

Shaku: That went well.

According to Shakuntala it has but fires of fury have just begun to burn with Lalita Devi who arrives at her home in a fit of rage. She walks in slamming doors and breaking vases along the way. She makes her way up to her husband’s study and finds him there, lost in his work.

Lalita: You’re home.

Hemat: Yes and by the sound of all our broken furniture, so are you.

Lalita: Do you know where I’ve just come from?

Hemat: I’d guess but then I’d lose the privilege of having you tell me.

Lalita: I’ve come from the home of that lecherous bitch Shakuntala Suryavanshi!

Hemat Lal’s ears receive an unfriendly warning at the sound of Shakuntala’s name. He shuts the files he’s looking at and turns to face his wife.

Hemat: What on earth were you doing there?

Lalita: In your absense I’ve been trying to settle our son’s future. So when the Pandit brought forward Netra Suryavanshi’s name I went over to see her with Rajveer.

Hemat: And…

Lalita: And everything was fine until this morning.

Hemat: What happened this morning?

Lalita: I go over there with the shagun and what does she tell me?

Hemat: You’re killing me here, please get on with it.

Lalita: She says the affair is off!

Hemat Lal breathes a sigh of relief.

Hemat: Good riddance then.

Lalita Devi is shocked at this statement.

Lalita: Excuse me?

Hemat: Well if you dislike Shakuntala Suryavanshi so much then it’s probably best that this marriage did not take place.

Lalita: Our son is in love with this girl!

Hemat: So? He’ll find someone else to fall in love with.

Lalita: How can you be so blasé about this whole thing?

Hemat: Because it was nipped in the bud. Don’t you think it was better to have had this happened now than, oh let’s say, at the mandap?

Lalita: How am I going to tell Rajveer that this wedding is not going to take place?

Rajveer: What do you mean Mom?

Lalita Devi and Hemat Lal both turn to the door of the study and see Rajveer standing there.

Rajveer: Why can’t this wedding take place?

Hemat: Because they’ve called it off.

Rajveer: What?

Lalita: Now Rajveer, I know how much you like this girl but…

Rajveer: Like… I love this girl Mom! You have to do something. You have to fix this.

Lalita: Rajveer please…

Rajveer: I can’t believe this is happening.

He storms off and Lalita Devi turns to Hemat Lal.

Lalita: Do something!

Hemat: What would you like me to do?

Lalita: I don’t know damn it! If I did I would have done it myself!

Hemat: Listen Lalita…

Lalita: No you listen. Do I need to remind you of what happened the last time?

Hemat: We’ve come a long way passed that.

Lalita: Yes we have and it takes one little thing like this to reignite everything all over again. Are you ready for another round of what we experienced before?

Hemat Lal is silent.

Lalita: Now that I have your attention, I’ll repeat myself. Please, do something!

Meanwhile at the Suryavanshi Haveli… Netra is on the phone with Pavan.

Netra: Can you believe it? The wedding is off!

Pavan: That’s great news.

Netra: I know!

Pavan: So how are things with lover boy?

Netra: He has a name you know.

Pavan: I prefer lover boy.

Netra: Well lover boy is fine. We’ve been meeting each other in secret almost every night since he came back.

Pavan: Have you found out more about what he does for your Mom?

Netra: He refuses to talk about it and I’ve given up probing. I really like him and I think I’m falling for him so I don’t wanna screw it up by talking shop.

Pavan: Well if that’s how you feel…

Netra: It is.

Pavan: Right. So you keep me posted on how things are going over there and…

Netra: And you try and stay out of trouble over there.

Pavan: Got it.

Netra: Talk soon.

Pavan: Bye.

Later that evening Shakuntala gets a call she’d been expecting the whole the day.

Shaku: Jay Sri Krishna MP Sahab.

Hemat: Jay Sri Krishna Shakuntala ji. I take it you know what this call is about?

Shaku: How could I not? Your wife called me a whore in front of my son before she left the house, I hardly forget something like that you know.

Hemat: I apologize for her short temper.

Shaku: I trust you’ll calm her down about this whole marriage business.

Hemat: About that… You see, I understand why you would not want to go ahead with this wedding…

Shaku: Amongst other reasons the fact that my daughter is not ready to get married is the biggest.

Hemat: That maybe so but would you consider letting Rajveer court her for a while?

Shakuntala is baffled by this request.

Shaku: Why would you want to give your son hope over a relationship that cannot take place?

Hemat: Maybe in time Rajveer and Netra will come to a place where…

Shaku: Let me rephrase myself. Yes, Netra’s refusal is the key reason this wedding is not taking place but had that not been so I would still not have allowed it. Are you forgetting our intimate history or do you need to be reminded?

Hemat: I’m willing to forget it if you are.

Shaku: I’ve already forgotten it.

Hemat: Then what is the problem?

Shaku: I will not have my daughter be the Bahu to a household where her Sasur cheats on her Saas.

Hemat: You’re one to talk about sexual immorality.

Shaku: To save my daughter from the life I lead I sent her away to New York when she was just a child. The moment she returned I tried to get her married so that she could once again live a life free of my antics. So yes, I am one to talk about sexual immorality.

Hemat: Look, I understand this is a tricky situation but…

Shaku: But what? What would make you want to have this conversation in the first place?

Hemat: It’s Rajveer…

Shaku: What about him?

Hemat: He… he’s fallen in love with Netra.

Shaku: I’m sorry to hear that.

Hemat: You should be… You see, my son has a mild history of rejection. It’s not something he responds to very well.

Shaku: Elaborate…

Hemat: I can’t at this moment in time. But please tell me you’ll consider allowing the children to see each other for a while. Maybe after some time, Rajveer himself will find Netra is not the right one for him and let her go…

Shaku: So you would like this charade to continue so that my daughter can end up getting rejected, so that your son can feel good about himself?

Hemat: In a manner of speaking, yes.

Shaku: Even if I were to allow this, what guarantee do you have that Rajveer will let Netra go. What if his feelings grow in time? What if he falls so madly in love with her that there’s no turning back? What then?

Hemat: I hadn’t thought of that extreme.

Shaku: Of course not, because you’re keeping your son’s best interests at heart. As a parent I can appreciate that but then you should also know that my daughter comes first for me and I cannot allow her to do this when I know how disastrous the outcome would be.

There is a slight pause. Then…

Hemat: If you will not listen to reason maybe you will listen to force?

Shaku: Are you threatening me?

Hemat: It’s not something I enjoy doing but you have to realize what is at stake here.

Shaku: Oh I do. The question is, do you?

Hemat: What do you mean?

Shaku: I’ll burn my reputation in the streets and die before I let you determine the fate of my household. If you so much as raise a forcefull brow in the direction of this Haveli, I will tarnish your political image so badly you won’t be able to recover from the damage. You will lose everything and all I will lose is my life. Don’t start a war with me Shastri because I’m a living, breathing bomb. I won’t go off, as long as you don’t push the button. Now… thank you for understanding our situation and I hope Rajveer will be ok, he’s a nice boy, I like him very much and I think he’s turned out well in spite of a father who strays and a mother who has no control over her tongue. As conversations go, this one is over. Jay Sri Krishna.

Hemat: Jay Sri Krishna.

Utpatti – Episode 034

The next morning… Nakul is ready for work and he’s heading out when Veena sees him.

Veena: Nakul…

He stops and turns around. She walks over to him.

Veena: I wanted to talk to you…

Nakul: What is it about Kaki? I’m running late.

Veena: Are you sure about this decision you’ve made?

Nakul: Yes I am.

Veena: And you’re sure you haven’t done this out of…

Nakul: Can we talk about this later Kaki? Please.

Veena: Ok. Have a good day at work.

Nakul: Thank you. Jay Sri Krishna.

Nakul runs off and Veena looks upset. In the meantime, Dixita is putting her new room in order when her phone rings. She is alarmed at the sound and when she sees ‘private number’ flashing off her screen, she’s even more concerned.

Dixita: Hello…

Voice: Good morning.

Dixita: It’s you. What do you want?

Voice: To help you of course.

Dixita: You said you had information on my friend Ramya.

Voice: I do. But what’s the point of me saying anything to you? You wouldn’t believe me. You don’t even know who I am.

Dixita: Then why do you keep calling me?

Voice: Because I can lead you to the people who have the answers.

Dixita: The members of this family? That’s what you told me last time…

Voice: And that’s what I’m telling you again. To start you off on things, why don’t you speak with your husband’s grandmother, Pratiksha Devi.

Dixita: What would she know?

Voice: More than you.

Dixita: How do I…

The line goes dead and Dixita feels frightened and confused.

Dixita: What would Moti Ba know about Ramya’s disappearance. I only told her about Ramya at the dinner party. But if this person is right and Moti Ba actually does know something about what’s going on… But how do I approach the subject? What do I say? I’ll have to think of a way.

Later that afternoon, Netra is out shopping and she’s just about to get back into her car when suddenly, someone grabs her by the arm. She’s shocked and spins around instantly.

Netra: Rajveer? What are you doing here?

Rajveer lets go of her arm and smiles at her.

Rajveer: I was just out buying myself some things and I saw you here so I thought I’d say hi.

Netra: Oh… well that was sweet of you. I uh… have to get back home.

Rajveer: Ok.

Netra is about to leave when…

Rajveer: Netra.

She stops and turns around again.

Rajveer: Could I just have some time with you to talk about what happened?

Netra: What do you mean?

Rajveer: I mean one day we’re getting married and the next we’re not.

Netra: Oh… that. I thought my Mom would have explained it to you. I’m sorry I know that this was supposed to happen but I really wasn’t ready for it.

Rajveer: Do you think you got cold feet?

Netra smiles at him.

Netra: It’s not about cold feet Rajveer. The truth is that my Mom was unaware of my plans for the future when she decided to give me in marriage. I didn’t want to talk to her about it at the time because I believed it was my duty as a daughter to go through with whatever she felt was good for me. But then I realized that this is my life and if I didn’t say anything now then I’d have to remain silent the rest of my life, which in turn would have been unfair to you as well because you would have been stuck with someone who doesn’t really love you.

Rajveer: But I…

Netra: Don’t say it. Please.

Rajveer: Why not? It’s true.

Netra: I know that’s what you think right now but trust me, it isn’t so. We barely know each other Rajveer and to be quite honest I believe you deserve someone better.

Rajveer: But why not leave that decision up to me?

Netra: That’s exactly what I’m doing and that’s why I must ask that you leave this decision up to me and let me go.

Netra checks her time.

Netra: I’m sorry I really do have to go now. I’ll see you around hopefully. Bye.

Rajveer: Ok…

Netra walks off and Rajveer looks absolutely forlorn. Back at the Haveli, Dixita takes a cup of juice up to Pratiksha’s room. She knocks on the door and Pratiksha turns around.

Pratiksha: Oh it’s you. Come in.

Dixita: Thank you Moti Ba. I’ve brought you some juice.

Pratiksha: Oh take it away child, I’m not too fond of juices.

Dixita: But it’s good for you Moti Ba.

Pratiksha: I know. I just can’t be bothered. There are some days that I wish all this would be over soon and if you keep making me healthy stuff then I’m just going to be around for longer than I intend to.

Dixita: Why do you say that?

Pratiksha is silent for a moment. Then she looks up at Dixita.

Pratiksha: It’s not my place, it really isn’t.

Dixita: It’s not your place to what?

Pratiksha: To talk about the people who live in this house. After all, you are one of us now and they are my family.

Dixita: But if there’s something you think I should know then please…

Pratiksha goes silent again for a while.

Pratiksha: There are many things that you should know, now that you are a member of the Suryavanshi Family. There are many secrets that are hidden within these walls and in the course of time I will try and tell you as much as I know but until such time you ust be patient. Don’t come to me for information, wait till I come to you. These walls have ears and I don’t want you to get into any trouble because of the things I say.

Dixita: Whatever you have to say can’t honestly be that bad, could it?

Pratiksha: Oh yes, yes it could.

Dixita looks a little scared and Pratiksha realizes that she’s got her right where she wants her. In the meantime, Rajveer has returned home and on his way to his room he keeps tossing things in the house around, breaking vases, shattering pictures, throwing ornaments against the wall. Lalita Devi hears the noise and comes out to see what’s going on. She sees Rajveer in a state and walks up to him.

Lalita: Rajveer! What on earth are you doing?

Rajveer: She said no Mom.

Lalita: Oh honey please you have to understand…

Rajveer: I don’t want to understand anything, do you hear me? I don’t want to understand anything! She gave her heart to me and then she took it away. She’s not allowed to do that Mom! Why didn’t anyone stop her?

Lalita: We tried… we tried very hard but…

Rajveer: You didn’t try hard enough. You never try hard enough. Remember what happened the last time? It was all because of you!

Lalita: What on earth are you saying?

Rajveer: The truth! You couldn’t do one simple thing and it resulted in destruction.

Lalita: Don’t talk this way Rajveer. If it hadn’t been for your father and myself then there’s no saying what might have happened to you. We were there for you, we helped you throught it.

Rajveer: And for what? To bring me to this point so that it could happen all over again?

Lalita: That was not our intention.

Rajveer: Well regardless of your intentions, things have still ended up the same way. I’m alone!

Lalita: Rajveer listen to me…

Rajveer: Not this time. Do you hear me? Not this time! This time is going to be different. This time, I won’t lose. This time she will be mine.

Rajveer walks off and Lalita Devi is beside herself. She turns around and sees Hemat Lal standing at a distance watching the whole thing. The two of them look at each other for some time and then she walks over to him.

Lalita: Did you see that? It’s happening again.

Hemat: What would you like me to do about it?

Lalita: I don’t know, talk to Shakuntala, threaten her if you have to!

Hemat: You think I haven’t already tried? That woman is unshakable.

Lalita: But right now the foundation of this family is!

Hemat: He needs help.

Lalita: He needs Netra.

Hemat: No! He needs professional help.

Lalita Devi looks shocked at this statement.

Lalita: I will not have my son see a psychiatrist!

Hemat: Why the hell not? It’s for his own good.

Lalita: You should have thought about that the last time. Now it’s just too late. What if Rajveer starts talking about the past?

Hemat: It’ll do him some good won’t it?

Lalita: Would it really? When the doctor delves deep into his past and finds the things that we’ve worked so hard to hide then what are you going to do?

Hemat Lal goes silent and turns to look at Lalita. The moment is tense. The world around them goes dark and the mood intensifies.

Lalita: We’ve done some terrible things to keep our son safe in the past and if we have to, we will do them again to protect his future. Now, tell me, are you going to sort out this issue with the Suryavanshi Family or would you like me to do it instead?

Hemat: I don’t want you to get involved in anything you don’t have to.

Lalita: Then see to it that this wedding takes place. Because if it doesn’t, then we’ll be dealing with a whole lot more.

Lalita Devi walks off leaving Hemat Lal in a terrible state.

Hemat: What do I do?

Later that evening, Nakul is standing at the west end of the Haveli, he stares out into the dark pink sky and sips on his coffee when Nitesh joins him.

Nitesh: Hey.

Nakul: Hey.

Nitesh: You did good at work today.

Nakul smiles.

Nakul: I did?

Nitesh: Yes you did.

The two of them clink their mugs together.

Nakul: Thank you.

Nitesh takes a moment and then…

Nitesh: Listen, I’m sorry about the things I said and I’m sorry I haven’t been more of a big brother to you, the way I should have.

Nakul: You’ve been there for me…

Nitesh: Yes but not in the way I should have. I feel like I let you down somehow and I think that if I hadn’t then things would have been very different today.

Nakul: And by that you mean, I wouldn’t have been married…

Nitesh: Well if I’d have done things differently then maybe today I wouldn’t have been married either.

Nakul gives his brother a strange look.

Nakul: Are you saying you’re not happy?

Nitesh: I’m saying that we spend a lot of time trying to grow up way too faster than we should. We don’t stop to enjoy life and before we know it, so much of it has just passed us by.

Nakul: I know exactly what you mean.

Nitesh: And that’s the strange thing, you wouldn’t know what I meant unless you made the mistakes you did, so I guess they’re important too.

Nakul: I guess. But now that we’ve made these mistaks and come to where we are… where do we go from here?

Nitesh takes another sip of his coffee.

Nitesh: I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

Nakul: Cool.

Utpatti – Episode 035

Dixita is walking through the Haveli and looking around to see if anyone is watching her. As she moves ahead she can hear Pratiksha Devi’s voice in her head, from a conversation they’ve had earlier today…

Pratiksha: You have to wait for the right time. After Nitesh and Nakul have left for work Kalyani will go to her room for a few hours, she likes to spend her morning either reading or grooming herself. After that you must wait until Magan Bhai begins the work with the other servants and then you can start on what you’re looking for.

Dixita continues to walk almost on tiptoe. She keeps walking and soon arrives at the uppermost place of the Haveli. She sees the locked room that Pratiksha Devi was talking about and she opens her right hand and looks at the key she’s holding.

Pratiksha: This key will open the lock on the door. When you go inside you will find many files and boxes but they will do you no good. Move all the way to the back of the room and you will find a bare wall, on it, you will see a brick, very much out of place.

Dixita opens the lock and walks inside. She looks around and find the wall Pratiksha Devi was talking about. Then she sees the brick.

Pratiksha: Push it.

She does.

Pratiksha: You will be surprised at what happens next.

The wall moves slightly creating a doorway onto the other side. Dixita looks around one more time and walks through it.

Pratiksha: Now the files and boxes you find on this side of the wall will be far more interesting to look through.

Dixita: But why would I have interest in any of these things?

Pratiksha: Because I know you’re looking for your friend. The one you told me about. I tried looking for her but she seems to have vanished without a trace.

Dixita: And you think I can find the answers to her disappearance here, at the Haveli?

Pratiksha: I have a feeling you’ll find a lot more than that.

Dixita: Are you saying that Ramya’s disappearance is connected to the Haveli?

Pratiksha: I guess I am, although I don’t know how quite yet, but if it is, this would be the perfect place to find out. The members of this family keep a very close record of all their doings they don’t want others to know about.

Dixita: What kind of doings?

Pratiksha: All kinds my dear, all kinds.

As the words of their conversation continue to echo in Dixita’s head, she looks through the files that are marked with various codes. She looks through as much as she can and then she sees something that catches her eye.

Dixita: What the hell?

She goes over to the big box file and picks it up.

Dixita: Vinodh Patel? Why do I know this name?

She opens the file and sees a photograph of Vinodh Patel.

Dixita: Oh my goodness, this is the reporter who committed suicide a few weeks back.

She then starts going through the file.

Dixita: Birth certificate, marriage certificate, driver’s license, press pass… what is all this?

She continues to turn the pages and finds more stuff.

Dixita: What the… These are pictures of his family members. Medical records, insurance claims, school records, employee files, bank drafts…

And then, she sees something that makes her blood turn cold. She picks up a photograph of Vinodh Patel with an ‘X’ marked over his face. Next to it she sees a document that shows her the date Vinodh allegedly committed suicide and what shocks her most is when she sees the venue of the suicide written down right next to it.

Dixita: This can’t be happening. Why would anyone in this house want to get rid of a random reporter?

Suddenly she hears a noise and in her panic she drops the file. She quickly bends down to pick everything up and put them back in and as she does, she finds yet another document amongst the pile that she may have overlooked before. She picks it up and reads the headline.

Dixita: Unmasking Shakuntala Suryavnashi… by Vinodh Patel. This is an article.

She turns around and realizes that someone maybe coming towards the secret room. She quickly packs up the file and leaves it where she found it but the article; she folds up and takes with her as she hastily makes a run for it.

Elsewhere, Veena has met up with Vasudev who is in the middle of his daily training.

Vasudev: To what do I owe this honor?

Veena: We’ve been way overdue for a chat haven’t we?

Vasudev: I thought masters didn’t have time to chat to their slaves.

Veena: Don’t start that again.

Vasudev: I didn’t start it, you did.

Veena: Very well, then just put it behind you. Now… I’m here to talk to you about your strange behavior.

Vasudev: My what?

Veena: You heard me. Why have you been acting so strange lately? Especially to Shaku Bhabi.

Vasudev: I’ve done nothing strange.

Veena: You don’t answer the phone when she calls you, you seem preoccupied when she needs you…

Vasudev: I haven’t delayed a single job nor have I left a single one of her tasks undone.

Veena: Granted, but you do seem to have left her undone.

Vasudev stops his workout and turns to Veena.

Vasudev: Look I’m sorry but I no longer wish to be used for her amusement in the bedroom.

Veena: Why?

Vasudev: Why? Because I’m not some thing to be used the way she uses me.

Veena: You didn’t seem to have a problem with it in the past.

Vasudev: Well I do now.

Veena: So what has changed?

Vasudev: I have changed.

Veena: How so?

Vasudev: Choti Malkin, I’m forever in your debt for everything you have done for me, you know this. But there is a part of my life that belongs to me and me alone.

Veena: I’m sorry Vasudev, I wasn’t aware you had a personal life.

Vasudev: Yes well that’s because you’re all too busy involving me in yours.

There is a moment of silence and Vasudev stands up and walks over to Veena.

Vasudev: Forgive me, I did not intend it to come out that way.

Veena: It’s alright.

Vasudev: It’s just that, there’s someone in my life.

Veena’s eyes grow large and there is a tiny smile on her face.

Veena: Well this is a surprise.

Vasudev: You have no idea.

Veena: Tell me more.

Vasudev: I wish I could but the circumstances are such that… well I can’t go into too much detail.

Veena: What can you tell me?

Vasudev: That she is loving and beautiful. She’s not perfect, I mean, she has her flaws but she isn’t afraid to acknowledge them.

Veena stares at Vasudev long and hard.

Veena: You are absolutely smitten aren’t you?

Vasudev smiles and Veena is more surprised.

Veena: Good gosh I don’t think I’ve ever seen you smile before. This is very good news for you I must say.

Vasudev: I know… I’ve never felt this way before and if I didn’t know any better I’d call this happiness.

Veena: And I am happy for you.

Vasudev: Which brings us back to the little problem we have.

Veena: Oh… Shaku Bhabi…

Vasudev: Will you speak with her on my behalf? Tell her that I no longer wish to engage in any act of… you know…

Veena: I know.

Vasudev: But please, you can’t tell her why.

Veena: Why not?

Vasudev: Because she isn’t the kind of woman who would take this lightly.

Veena: You don’t know Shaku Bhabi the way I do.

Vasudev: Perhaps not. But it is also true that you do not know her the way I do either.

Veena looks into Vasudev’s eyes and she suddenly sees the eyes of the boy she rescued many years ago.

Veena: I haven’t seen that look in your eyes for a very long time. Alright. I won’t tell her why.

Vasudev: Thank you.

Veena: But you must introduce me to this girl some time.

Vasudev: I don’t think that’s possible.

Veena: Why not?

Vasudev: She likes to keep a low profile.

Veena: Does she now?

Vasudev: Yes.

Veena: Well if she changes her mind…

Vasudev: She won’t… but if she does… then yes.

Veena: Alright. I’ll be on my way then.

Back at the Haveli, Dixita runs all the way to her room and locks the door. She sits on her bed and starts to read the article when she hears a knock on the door.

Dixita: Who is it?

Kalyani: It’s me, Kalyani.

She panics and wonders what to do with the article. She sees a file on the bedside table and quickly puts the document inside it. She then goes to the door and opens it.

Dixita: Bhabi… What can I do for you?

Kalyani walks past her into the room.

Kalyani: Nitesh called from the office. Apparently he’d given Nakul a set of documents to go through but he’d given him the wrong files and he needs them now for a meeting.

Dixita: Well I can help you look for them.

Kalyani: No need.

Kalyani walks over to the bedside table.

Kalyani: He already spoke to Nakul and he told him where it was.

To Dixita’s utter shock and horror Kalyani picks up the set of files containing the article that Dixit has just found.

Dixita: But…

Kalyani: Thanks.

Kalyani walks out of the room without another word and Dixita looks beside herself.

Dixita: Oh crap! Now what do I do? If someone else comes across that article then there’s no saying what could happen. I don’t even know what’s in it. The question is how do I get it back?

Dixita thinks for a while. Then she has an idea.

Dixita: Moti Ba, she will know what to do.

Dixita runs out of her room and all the way to Pratiksha Devi’s room.

Dixita: Moti Ba!

Pratiksha: What is it? What have you found?

Dixita: I was in the room you sent me to and I was looking through the stuff and then I came across this weird file.

Pratiksha: What was it?

Dixita: It was to do with that reporter who died recently.

Pratiksha: Vinodh Patel?

Dixita: Yes.

Pratiksha: And?

Dixita: And there was an article in it about Mummy ji… But the thing is I put it in this file that’s not on its way to the office. What do we do?

Utpatti – Episode 032

Veena runs out of the kitchen and sees that Shakuntala has almost made her way to the entrance. She then looks around the Haveli and sees that no one is to be found.

Veena: Where is Bhalchandra?

She runs to their room but finds no one there. She then makes her way to one of the nearby windows and looks down. From her viewpoint she sees Shailendra getting off the car and as he does, he waves at Shakuntala who’s walking outside to see him. She looks to her right and she sees a little boy walking into the garden. She then sees him pull out a gun.

Veena: Oh my goodness!

She runs as fast as her feet can carry her to the main entrance of the Haveli. When she has a view of the front door she sees Shakuntala getting closer to Shailendra.

Veena: BHABI!!!

Just then Shakuntala turns around and sees Veena running in her direction.

Shaku: Veena? What’s going on?

And at that moment… a shot is fired! Shakuntala covers her ears and bends down in shock while Veena finds herself clinging on to a pillar as she reaches the top of the stairs that lead to the garden. Shailendra looks up and sees the boy who’s holding the gun. To his astonishment, the boy fires a second shot!

Shailendra falls to the floor and Shakuntala turns around to see her husband covered in blood.

Shaku: No… No… NOOOOOOO!!!

Shakuntala runs to Shailendra’s side and as she does, Veena turns to look at the boy. She sees him toss the gun aside and stand there, speechless.

Shaku: VEENA GET HELP!!!

Veena: I don’t know what to do Bhabi!

Shaku: Call someone! ANYONE!!!

Shakuntala turns to Shailendra.

Shaku: Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.

Veena turns to run back inside when she sees all the servants of the Haveli running out. Suddenly, she has a very disturbing thought and so she runs to the bookstand where she found the secret entrance. She opens it and heads outside, once there she sees the boy standing still, as though he’s waiting for something.

Veena: HEY!

The boy turns to look at her.

Veena: Come here!

For a moment the boy doesn’t move.

Veena: I said COME HERE!

Then, something about Veena’s voice makes him obey. He goes over to her before anyone else sees him. She grabs him by the hand and takes him into the secret passage.

Veena: Who sent you here?

Boy: I don’t know.

Veena: Why did you do what you did?

Boy: It was my mission.

Veena: Mission? Are you… This… What do I do?

Boy: I have to go now.

Veena: Where?

Boy: The people have to see me and then they have to follow me and I have to run away from them.

Veena: You’ve been brainwashed haven’t you?

Boy: I don’t know what you mean.

Veena: I can’t let them find you. If they find you they will do terrible things to you. I just can’t let that happen.

Boy: But that is how it’s supposed to happen.

Veena turns to him and slaps him hard across the face.

Veena: You shut up! Do you hear me?

Boy: I…

Veena: I said shut up! You will not speak until I speak to you and you will do exactly as I say. Come with me.

She takes him through the secret passage and into the Haveli. Once there she leads him to the highest point in the mansion and into an old storeroom that is barely visited by anyone who lives there. She leaves the boy within.

Veena: You will stay here until I come back for you, do you understand me?

Boy: I must run…

Veena: If you try to do anything else I will strike you again! Do you undertand me?

There is a moment of silence and then…

Boy: I understand.

Veena: Good. Now stay here. Don’t make a sound. Just sit here and stay put.

Boy: Ok.

Veena looks into his eyes and then runs out of the storeroom. She locks the door and takes the key with her. She then quickly makes her way downstairs and realizes that she’s done nothing to help with Shailendra’s situation. She gets back outside and sees Shakuntala weeping over her husband’s dead body and next to her, Pratiksha is wailing. Veena feels the anger rise up inside her. She goes over to the scene and sees Shakuntala’s face smeared in Shailendra’s blood.

A few days later… Veena watches the setting down below from her vantage point upstairs as she lulls baby Netra in her arms. She sees seven year old Nitesh and Nakul who’s not turned four yet sitting on either side of their mother as they try to comfort her over their father’s death. Veena then sees Pratiksha Devi and Bhalchandra standing in a corner, observing everyone with their crocodile tears. She wishes she can hear their conversation but she can’t…

And downstairs… Pratiksha Devi and Bhalchandra are talking…

Bhal: Where is the boy?

Pratiksha: I don’t know…

Bhal: I thought you said this was a foolproof plan.

Pratiksha: It was until the little bastard disappeared. Thankfully some of the servants and Shakuntala seem to have gotten a look at him before he disappeared.

Bhal: Is that what they told the police?

Pratiksha: It is. Now you need to stop worrying about this.

Bhal: What if they find him? What if he rats us out?

Pratiksha: He won’t… Now you need to stop whispering in a corner and join your family out there to mourn your brother’s death. Unless you want people to think that we had something to do with it.

Bhal: Ok…

He removes himself from his mother’s side and joins the others in mourning. Meanwhile back upstairs… Veena thinks to herself…

Veena: I have to find a way to get that boy out of her. I can’t keep him locked up there for much longer. If they find out what I’ve done then all hell will break lose. But where do I send him?

Veena looks down from where she is and she sees Magan Bhai serving some of the mourners.

Veena: Magan Bhai… Why didn’t I think of him before? It has to be him. He has to help me save this boy. I’ll have to speak with him soon.

In the early hours of the morning… Veena has summoned Magan Bhai to the upper room.

Veena: What I’m about to ask you to do has to stay between the two of us always. Do you understand me?

Magan: Yes Choti Bahu.

Veena: No one can know about this, I can’t make that clear enough.

Magan: I understand.

She opens the door and they go inside. The boy stirs when he hears them come in. He stands up and looks on to Veena.

Veena: Come here.

He goes over to her.

Veena: This is Magan Bhai.

He looks at Magan curiously.

Veena: He is going to take you with him to some place that is safe. I want you to do everything that he says. I will know where you are at all times and I will come and see you whenever I can but for now it is important that you do as I say. Do you understand?

The boy nods. Veena turns to Magan Bhai.

Veena: Have you thought of where he is to be taken?

Magan: There is a place.

Veena: Is it safe?

Magan: It’s in my old village. No one there will take him but I know of one place that might show him some pity.

Veena: Where?

Magan: It’s a place full of gangsters and thugs.

Veena: This boy has already been through enough…

Magan: Please, let me finish.

Veena: Go on.

Magan: If he is as traumatized as you say he is then sending him to mingle with other children is not going to help him. I do not know what he has done and I won’t cross any boundaries by asking either… But I gage that it is something horrible.

Veena: You gage correctly.

Magan: Then it is important that you trust me on this. You may think it is possible to save him but I fear it is too late. But by being around other people who understand what he has done, he may be able to recover a part of his conscience that he has lost.

Veena thinks for a while…

Veena: Very well. Do what you think is best. But I want a report of what’s going on with him whenever possible.

Magan: Of course.

Veena: And I’m sure I don’t need to stress again on how important it is that we keep this between us.

Magan: Indeed.

Veena: Good. Now go before it’s too late.

Veena turns to the boy.

Veena: I want you to know that I’m doing the best possible thing for you. You’re caught up in too much of a web and I need to do this in order to keep you safe.

She holds him by the shoulders.

Veena: The people who did this to you are ruthless and if they find you, they will find a way to silence you forever for fear that you may divulge information that could hurt them. I don’t know how much of this you’re able to understand… but you need to trust that I’m trying to save you.

The boy nods his head.

Veena: Now go.

He looks into Veena’s eyes one last time and then leaves with Magan Bhai.

Magan Bhai’s Village – September 1993

Veena gets out of her car and looks around. She looks at a piece of paper and then makes her way through the streets. Finally she comes to the place she’s looking for. A big man walks over to her.

Man: Can I help you?

Veena: Yes… I’ve been sent here by Magan Bhai who’s under my employment.

Man: Oh… I think I know who you’re here to see. He’ll be with you in a moment.

Veena: Thank you.

The man leaves and moments later, the boy arrives. He’s happy to see Veena.

Veena: There you are. You’re looking well. How have you been, Vasudev?

Utpatti – Episode 031

The Suryavanshi Haveli – December 1991

Pratiksha Devi is in her room, in deep thought. Bhalchandra walks in.

Bhal: Ba, you wanted to see me.

Pratiksha: I did. I’ve come up with a plan to get rid of Shailendra once and for all.

Bhal: What do you mean?

Pratiksha: I mean we’re going to kill him you fool.

Bhal: You tried that once before and we both know how that ended up.

Pratiksha: This time is going to be different.

Bhal: How so?

Pratiksha: I have a secret weapon that I’m going to use to my benefit.

Bhal: Do you care to elaborate?

Pratiksha: Not right now. But soon.

Bhal: What would you like me to do in the meantime?

Pratiksha: I would like you to focus on the future of this Haveli. With Shailendra gone you will be in charge, finally.

Bhal: I will won’t I.

Pratiksha: Yes you will. And I’ll finally have that bitch Shakuntala exactly where I want her. Helpless and at my disposal! In the meantime you would do well to explain to your wife that her friendship with Shakuntala will only end up getting her in trouble.

Bhal: Veena is a non-entity in this whole thing Ba and you know it. The woman is dumb and incapable.

Pratiksha: No wonder you two make such a lovely couple.

Bhalchandra clenches his jaw.

Pratiksha: Now go. I need to give this plan of mine more thought.

Bhalchandra leaves and Pratiksha Devi begins to put into motion her designs for the future. In the meantime… Bhalchandra is in his room looking for something when Veena walks in.

Bhal: Where the hell have you been?

Veena: I was helping Shaku Bhabi put Netra to sleep.

Bhal: How sweet. I mean what else can you do eh? Now that we know for certain that you can’t bear any children of your own I guess we’re fated to putting other people’s bundles of joy to sleep our whole lives.

Veena: Please don’t speak that way. You know how much I love those three children. They’re like our own.

Bhal: But they’re not! Now where the hell is my black kurta?

Veena: It’s been washed and put out to dry.

Bhal: Well then bring the bloody thing inside!

Veena: Alright…

Veena leaves to bring the kurta for Bhalchandra who is furious. While all this is happening… Pratiksha steals herself away from the Haveli and to an abandoned old farmhouse that belongs to the family, just outside Rajkot. Once there she meets with a woman, a nurse, who has been placed under her employment.

Pratiksha: How is he?

Nurse: He ate well and is well rested.

Pratiksha: Good. Has he spoken?

Nurse: Just once to ask for water.

Pratiksha: Is he awake now?

Nurse: Yes.

Pratiksha: Ok. Then leave us alone.

Nurse: As you wish.

The nurse leaves and Pratiskha Devi walks into a room. In a corner of the room, on a bed, sits a little boy who can’t be more than nine or ten years old. Pratiksha Devi walks up to him and sits down next to him on the bed.

Pratiksha: How are you feeling today?

Boy: Better.

Pratiksha: Good. I hear you’ve eaten well.

Boy: I did.

Pratiksha: Listen to me carefully. I am going to take good care of you but I need you to be fit and strong for the days that are ahead of us.

Boy: Why? What’s going to happen?

Pratiksha: You will undergo some training that will be very important for you and for me both. Do you understand?

Boy: What kind of training?

Pratiksha: You’ll see. But I assure you, it will all be very interesting.

Boy: Really?

Pratiksha: Yes, really. Now, get some rest. We start tomorrow.

Boy: Ok.

Pratiksha gets up and pats the boy on the head before leaving the room. She finds the nurse again.

Pratiksha: Have his room covered with pictures of blood and gore. The images must look violent.

Nurse: May I ask why? After all he’s just a child.

Pratiksha: Do what you’re asked to do. When I need counsel from you I’ll ask for it.

Nurse: I apologize.

Pratiksha: Yes, yes. Now go. There’s much to be done.

The nurse takes her leave and Pratiksha Devi looks rather pleased with herself.

A few weeks later… The boy is on a trainng field, which happens to be the bare garden of a deserted old house. He holds in his hand, a gun. He fires it and collapses from the impact. From a distance, Pratiksha Devi watches him. A goon is present to assist the boy and as he does, Pratiksha Devi is joined by Bhalchandra.

Bhal: This is your foolproof plan? Sending a little boy to kill a man.

Pratiksha: Can you think of something more perfect?

Bhal: I’m sorry but I can’t seem to think of how this is going to keep us out of trouble.

Pratiksha: Would you pull the trigger yourself?

Bhal: No.

Pratiksha: Me neither.

Bhal: But we can hire a professional assassin.

Pratiksha: One who if caught will lead the police right back to us.

Bhal: And this kid won’t give us up just as easily?

Pratiksha: How could he? I picked him up from the streets, gave him shelter and fed him. I’m the only family he’s come to know in the weeks that have gone by. I’ve clouded his mind with thoughts of violence and bloodshed. When he fires that gun people will see him do it. When he runs people will chase him for having shot at Shailendra Suryavanshi. And when they catch him, they’ll do so many unspeakable things to him that he won’t live to talk about what we’ve done.

Bhal: You seem to have this all figured out.

Pratiksha: I do.

Bhal: What if something goes wrong Ba?

Pratiksha: What did I do wrong to have such a worthless idiot for a son? Can you not think positively at all? I mean for goodness sake!

Bhal: I’m just saying. We have to make sure all areas are covered.

Pratiksha: And you think I haven’t done that? We’ve had this discussion before, stop judging my plans by your standards.

They both turn their attention to the boy who fires the gun again. This time he does not fall back. Pratiksha turns to Bhalchandra and smiles.

Pratiksha: I have faith in the outcome of this situation. Do you?

The Training Ground – January 1992

Pratiksha: What is your name?

Boy: I have no name.

Pratiksha: What is your age?

Boy: I do not know.

Pratiksha: Who am I?

Boy: I do not know.

Pratiksha: What is your purpose?

Boy: To find and kill a very bad man.

Pratiksha: What is his name?

Boy: I do not know.

Pratiksha: Do you know what he looks like?

Boy: Yes.

Pratiksha: How do you plan on killing him?

Boy: I will shoot him till he is dead.

Pratiksha: What will you do after that?

Boy: I will make sure people see me and then I will run away.

Pratiksha: Where will you run away to?

Boy: I do not know. But I will run as fast as I can, as far away as I can.

Pratiksha: What will you do if people find you or catch you?

Boy: I will try to attack them and keep at it till they attack me instead.

Pratiksha: Very good. Now, let’s begin your training for the day shall we?

Boy: Ok.

And so the boy trains day and night and soon, weeks go by…

The Suryavanshi Haveli – February 1992

In Pratiksha Devi’s room, she and Bhalchandra discuss the final part of their plan.

Pratiksha: The time is almost here to get rid of Shailendra once and for all.

Bhal: You’re sure about this?

Pratiksha: I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life.

Bhal: Ok.

Pratiksha: Now… when the day comes, Shailendra will go to work as he always does.

Bhal: Half the day will go by, during which time the boy will be brought here to the Haveli.

Pratiksha: When the time is right, we will place a phone call to the office, informing Shailendra that Shakuntala is unwell and that he has to come home immediately.

Bhal: When he arrives at the Haveli we will put the boy in position for the attack.

Pratiksha: Moments before Shailendra walks into the Haveli, the boy will open fire.

Bhal: He will fire two rounds and hopefully won’t miss.

Pratiksha: Of course he won’t miss.

Bhal: Ok… then what?

Pratiksha: Then he will hang around till the servants and whoever else see him. When he’s got their attention, he will drop the gun and start running.

Bhal: And then?

Pratiksha: And then, that will be the last we see of both him and Shailendra.

Bhal: Chapter closed.

The two of them smile at each other. However, unknown to both of them, Veena has heard their entire plan from outside the room. She finds herself covered in a bath of sweat and quickly makes her way out of there before she is caught.

She runs as fast as her feet can take her and she soon finds herself at the other end of the Haveli. She keeps moving along and makes her way to an old bookstand. While trying to catch her breath she moves around a few books and to her shock, the stand moves to aside revealing a secret passage. She looks baffled at first but then makes her way down the secret passage and finds the other end of it leads to the outside of the Haveli.

Veena: What the hell?

She gets outside and muses around. The secret entrance closes behind her and she remains shocked. Then she starts feeling around the wall and discovers a lose rock that opens the passage from outside. She uses this method to get back inside and when she’s there she makes sure no one sees her. She then makes her way to her room and closes the doors. She sits down and starts thinking of what must be done.

Veena: What am I going to do? If I tell Shaku Bhabi about what I heard then she’s going to tell Jeth ji for sure. There is a chance he might not believe me. And if Ba and Bhalchandra find out that I tried to stop their plan then there’s no saying what they’ll do to me. If they find it so easy to kill one of their own… But what else can I do? How do I stop this terrible thing from happening? Can I stop it from happening? I have to try… I’m so scared…

The Suryavanshi Haveli – March 1992

Pratiksha: He’s ready.

Bhal: Are you sure about this?

Pratiksha: Yes. You need to get out of the house now.

Bhal: What do you mean?

Pratiksha: I mean get out of here. I’m not taking any chances.

Bhal: Are you sure?

Pratiksha: Yes I’m sure. I’m about to place the call to the office so go.

Bhal: Ok…

Pratiksha: Pray that it all goes well.

Bhalchandra leaves and Pratiksha makes the phone call. Later… Shakuntala is fast asleep when she has a horrible daydream… She wakes up covered in a bath of sweat. She sees Netra sleeping and heads down to the kitchen where she meets Veena.

Veena: Let me get you some water.

Just then they hear a vehicle outside.

Shaku: Who is that?

Veena: I don’t know.

Shakuntala heads out to see who it is and then… Veena realizes something.

Veena: Oh no… What if it’s Jeth ji? What if today is the day? No… I can’t let this happen. I have to stop Shaku Bhabi from going out there. What if they kill her too? I have to do something and I have to do something now!

Utpatti – Episode 029

It’s late evening. Shakuntala and Veena stand in silence as the violent breeze on the rooftop of the Haveli plays tricks with their hair. At this moment, Pratiksha Devi walks in and smiles at their condition.

Pratiksha: Tsk, tsk, tsk…

They both turn to look at her.

Shaku: There you are.

Pratiksha: You were expecting me?

Shaku: Yes as a matter of fact I was wondering when you were going to show up to rub salt in our wounds.

Pratiksha: Is my timing that obvious.

Shaku: Always.

Pratiksha: So what have you decided to do?

Veena: What can we do? We have to accept this girl as our Bahu and move on with life.

Pratiksha: You met with her parents today?

Veena: Yes we did.

Pratiksha: And?

Shaku: And as furious as they were, they calmed down when they realized their daughter’s future was secure. But I can’t understand why Nakul would do something like this.

Veena looks down and realizes that it may have something to do with what she said to him the night before.

Pratiksha: Let’s just hope that history doesn’t repeat itself in the Haveli. We all know what happens to the men of this family. They die.

Shaku: Not now Ba.

Pratiksha: Why not? I think now is the perfect time.

Veena: It’s been a long day and I think we all need some rest. Come on Bhabi.

Shakuntala and Veena look to Pratiksha Devi one last time and leave the rooftop. When they’re gone Pratiksha Devi smiles to herself.

Pratiksha: Things couldn’t be more perfect. Now we can really start playing some games in this house.

Meanwhile in Nakul’s room.

Dixita: This was a bad idea.

Nakul: Don’t say that.

Dixita: I don’t know what I was thinking saying yes to you.

Nakul: Ok you know what if you want to walk out of this, now’s the time. Just go.

Dixita: That’s not the point Nakul. We can’t just get up and run when we hit a wall. We need to think of a way to make things right.

Nakul: I thought getting married would do that. That it would make things better somehow.

Dixita: Ok look. Clearly you’re going something and that’s why you did this and athough I’m not really sure why I did this, now that it’s done I want to make this work.

Nakul: Do you mean that?

Dixita: Yes but that means you need to share whatever it is you’re going through with me.

Nakul: Dixita I wish I could but…

At that moment there’s a knock on the door.

Nakul: Come in.

The door opens and Magan Bhai walks in.

Magan: Your mother would like to see you.

Nakul: Now?

Magan: Yes.

Nakul: Ok. Come on Dixita…

Magan: Uh no… just you.

Nakul: Oh ok.

Magan: In the meantime I’m to show Choti Bahu to your new room.

Nakul: What’s wrong with this room.

Magan: Mota Sethani feels that this room will not be able to accommodate the both of you so she wants you shifted.

Nakul: Ok. Dixita, go with Magan Bhai. I’ll be back.

Dixita: Ok.

Nakul leaves and Magan Bhai escorts Dixita out. Meanwhile… Pavan is outside the Haveli, his vehicle has arrived and he’s ready to leave. Netra is bidding him farewell.

Netra: Thank you so much for hopping that plane and coming here when I needed you the most.

Pavan: Hey, what are friends with benefits for?

They both laugh.

Netra: So when do I see you again?

Pavan: I don’t know. Let’s see how the world treats us and where it takes us. Have you decided what to do with your marriage situation?

Netra: Not yet. But I can’t elope now, it’ll be like I’m copying Nakul!

They laugh again.

Pavan: That was a strange move wasn’t it?

Netra: Too strange, especially for Nakul. There’s something up there that no one knows about.

Pavan: Are you going to try to get to the bottom of it?

Netra: I would love to. But I have my own issues to deal with at the moment. Trust me if I hadn’t discovered the truth about Vasu then I would have been on that plane with you. But I can’t leave now.

Pavan: Well if you ever change your mind about running back to the big apple…

Netra: You’ll be the first to hear about it.

Pavan: Ok. So you take care of yourself then and I’ll talk to you soon.

Netra: Yep. And you be good and stay out of trouble.

Pavan: Do you have enough stuff with you?

Netra: I do. But I doubt I’ll be using a lot of it.

Pavan: Good.

They hug. Then Pavan gets into his car and takes off. Netra sighs deeply and turns around to go back inside when she comes face to face with Nitesh.

Netra: Bhaiyya, hi…

Nitesh: I’m glad he’s gone.

Netra: Look, I know you know about the whole situation between him and me but trust me, it wasn’t…

Nitesh: Netra, I don’t wanna know more than I already know. Ok?

Netra: Ok.

Nitesh: But what I do want to know is if you’re happy with this marriage or not.

Netra looks at Nitesh and for a moment she doesn’t know what to say or where to start. Then…

Netra: I’m not happy Bhaiyya. I’m really not.

Nitesh: Then why did you say yes?

Netra: Because I was going through some stuff and… it’s a long story but the bottom line is I said yes to something that I have no intention of seeing through and I’m afraid of what Mom will say if I broach the subject.

Nitesh: Then I’ll talk to her for you.

Netra’s eyes light up.

Netra: You would do that for me?

Nitesh: Why wouldn’t I? You’re my little sister. If you can’t count on me then who can you count on?

Netra rushes up to him and hugs him.

Netra: Thank you Bhaiyya.

Meanwhile… Nakul walks into the lounge area and finds Shakuntala there. She’s reading a book. She sees him and puts it down.

Shaku: There you are. Come here and sit down.

Nakul sits down and folds his hands before him.

Shaku: Why did you do this Nakul?

Nakul: I don’t know Mom. I guess I was just trying to prove something.

Shaku: To whom? To your family? To your friends?

Nakul: No… to me.

Shaku: How so?

Nakul: Mom… Nitesh Bhaiyya handles everything at work and Netra has spent her whole life making something of herself in New York. I feel like I’m the only one who doesn’t have anything to show for myself. I’m just the guy who makes the stupid jokes and cuts class at college.

Shaku: And you thought getting married would solve that problem?

Nakul: I thought it was the big step I needed to start focusing on a more responsible life.

Shaku: And do you think you’re ready for more responsibility?

Nakul: I don’t know Mom. I mean how would I? No one’s really given me a chance to be responsible.

Shaku: Ok… I see where you’re coming from. You wanted our attention and now you’ve got it. So the next question is… where do you go from here?

Nakul: I think I need to get myself a job. I have a wife to support now.

Shaku: At least your thoughts are coming from the right place.

Nakul: So how do I proceed now?

Shaku: Would you like to start working at the company?

Nakul: Can you think of a position suitable for me?

Shaku: Nakul… it’s your company, you start at the top.

Nakul: I don’t want that Mom.

Shaku: What do you mean?

Nakul: I mean yes I do want to go to the top. But I want to get there fair and square. No more special treatment just because I’m your son.

Shaku: But Nitesh started off the same way.

Nakul: He deserved to start at where he did Mom. I don’t. So start me off at the bottom. I’ll do anything. I’ll file stuff and bring people coffee and…

Shaku: Ok look. As much as we all like to think the world is a fair place, it isn’t. And as much as I’d like to start you off by making someone’s coffee, I won’t. No son of mine is going to start their career that way. But… I see where you’re coming from and you have no idea how proud of you I am for the way you think and things you’ve just said to me. So let me give it some thought and tomorrow we will discuss your new position in the company. How does that sound?

Nakul smiles.

Nakul: That sounds great. Thanks Mom.

He stands up and moves over to her and hugs her. When they part Shakuntala stands up.

Shaku: Off to bed now.

Nakul: Yes Mom.

Nakul is about to leave when suddenly he turns around.

Nakul: Mom, can I say something.

Shaku: Of course.

Nakul: Why don’t you do this more often?

Shaku: What do you mean?

Nakul walks over to her and breathes deeply before he begins talking.

Nakul: Everyone in this Haveli suffers from some form of confusion and I think that the reason for that is because we don’t communicate enough with each other. I think that if siblings shared more with each other they’d find that more of their problems would have easy solutions. If parents spent enough time with their children they’d see that we’ve grown up quite a bit. Everyone has such a different perspective on everything and we never see it because we’re all too caught up in our own. No one wants to see someone else’s point of view because we’re afraid that if there’s too much contrast in our thinking, we may end up despising each other. But the truth is that through communicating with one another we can be of so much help to each other. All we need to do is talk. So thank you for talking to me. I enjoyed this. We should do it more often.

Shakuntala smiles at her younger son with tears in her eyes.

Shaku: Things may change in our lives as we move ahead Nakul. But remember, that one this day, you made your mother so thankful that she had you and gave her so much to feel proud about.

Nakul: I love you Mom.

Shaku: I love you too my son.

Nakul walks off and Shakuntala lets the tears flow. Meanwhile… in Dixita’s new room, she’s just settling in when she gets a call from an unknown number.

Dixita: Hello?

Voice: Hello is this Dixita Suryavanshi?

Dixita: Yes it is. Who is this?

Voice: Consider me a friend who has your best interest in mind.

Dixita: Who are you and what do you want?

Voice: I want to tell you a little story about your friend – Ramya Bansali.

Dixita: What do you know about Ramya? Where is she?

Voice: She’s dead.

Dixita: WHAT?

Utpatti – Episode 030

Dixita: What did you just say?

Voice: You heard me. Your friend Ramya is dead. She has been for some time now.

Dixita: How do you know this?

Voice: Oh I know many things. But before we proceed any further I need you to promise me that no one else can know of this phone call or the ones that are to follow.

Dixita: Why not?

Voice: Because you have placed yourself in extreme danger by marrying into the Suryavanshi household.

Dixita feels her heart racing. She starts to perspire.

Dixita: What do you mean?

Voice: Ramya Bansali’s death is connected to the Suryavanshi Household in ways that you cannot bring yourself to imagine. But that story is for another day.

Dixita: Wait, you have to tell me more.

Voice: This is all you get for now. Wait for my next call and I’ll tell you more.

Dixita: But…

The line goes dead and Dixita feels her head spinning. Just then Nakul walks in.

Nakul: Hey.

Dixita turns around in shock. Nakul sees the expression on her face and wonders what the problem is.

Nakul: Dixita… are you alright?

Dixita: Um… yea… I am. I think.

Nakul: What’s wrong?

Dixita: I just got this call and…

Nakul: Who was it?

Dixita: It was…

But then she remembers the caller’s warning and decides to keep things to herself, for now.

Dixtia: It was from someone in my family. They… they heard about the marriage and they were not too pleased with what I had done but…

Nakul walks over to her.

Nakul: I am so sorry. I didn’t mean to put you in this position but…

Dixita: It’s ok Nakul. It’s ok. We’re in this together. We’ll figure it out.

They smile weakly at each other.

Dixita: How did it go with your Mom? Was she pissed?

Nakul: On the contrary, we had the kind of conversation that I’ve been meaning to have with her for a really long time.

Dixita: That’s good right?

Nakul: It is. I’m also going to start working soon. At the company.

Dixita: That’s great.

Nakul: Yea. But seeing as today has been a long day… why don’t we just call it a night and go to bed?

Dixita: Ok.

Nakul: I’ll go freshen up. Do you need anything?

Dixita: No… I’m fine…

Nakul: Ok, I’ll be right back.

Nakul goes to the bathroom and Dixita sits on the bed trying desperately to make sense of everything she just heard. And at the other end of the Haveli, the person who called Dixita leans back in her chair with a smile on her face.

Pratiksha: What do you suppose will happen when poor Dixita finds out that her husband was reposnible for the death of her best friend? Looks like my patience finally paid off. This girl is now the key to the undoing of this family. I will use her to create so much of chaos in this house; Shakuntala won’t know what hit her. Tonight I shall sleep in peace and dream of things that are to come.

As the entire Haveli starts to wind down, Nitesh makes his way to his room and then realizes he has a seething wife he must deal with.

Nitesh: Hey…

She doesn’t respond.

Nitesh: Kalyani are you ok?

She stands up and turns to face him.

Kalyani: Ok? Do you really think that after everything that happened here today that I would be ok?

Nitesh: Look I know you’re upset but…

Kalyani: But what Nitesh. That little brat of a brother of yours who thinks he’s grown a pair just because he got married, which I might add is the stupidest thing he could have done, insulted me and spoke to me in such a hostile tone! No one said or did anything to stop him.

Nitesh: That’s not true. I stood up for you.

Kalyani: Cutting me off and asking him to shut up is hardly standing up for me now is it.

Nitesh: What would you like me to do? Beat him up?

Kalyani: Yes!

Nitesh: Kalyani…

Kalyani: Oh you know what I mean.

Nitesh: I don’t know what you mean half the time but can’t you look past this?

Kalyani: Why? No one looks past anything I do.

Nitesh: That’s not true.

Kalyani: There you go. Look at how quick you are to come running to the defense of your family. But when it comes to defending your wife, suddenly you’ve lost your gut!

Nitesh: It’s been a very long day. Can we discuss this later?

Kalyani: Oh but later never comes for you does it?

Nitesh: I’m going to bed.

Kalyani: No. You’re not.

Nitesh: What?

Kalyani: Get your things and go sleep in another room. I’m not sleeping next to you tonight.

Nitesh: Fine. At least I’ll get some rest.

Nitesh walks off and Kalyani looks positively furious.

Kalyani: This is what happens when I let my guard down about family matters. I try to be the responsible, loving, caring wife that everyone wants me to be and before you know it, they’ve run all over me. Not anymore. I’m done being nice.

And with that, night falls. As it does… Netra sneaks out of her room and goes to where the secret entrance is. She opens it and heads out. On the other side, she finds Vasudev waiting for her.

Netra: I was worried thinking maybe you wouldn’t be here…

Vasudev: Would I do that to you?

Netra: I don’t know… Would you?

Vasudev: Nope. So I need you to head over to the truck and sit inside.

Netra: Where are you headed?

Vasudev: I need to finish up some work with your mother.

Netra: Oh ok.

Vasudev: I’ll be out as soon as I can.

Netra goes to sit in the truck and Vasudev heads inside. He goes through the secret entrance and then makes his way to Shakuntala’s room. When he’s there he knocks on the door and walks in.

He sees Shakuntala sitting in a corner of her room with a glass of wine in her hand. She’s staring at some photographs on the wall before her.

Shaku: Explain yourself.

Vasudev: I’m very sorry about what happened. There was an emergency.

Shaku: What kind of emergency?

Vasudev: I’m not at liberty to say.

Shakuntala turns her head very slowly and stares at Vasudev.

Shaku: Not at liberty to say?

Vasudev puts his head down.

Shaku: I’m sorry, I wasn’t aware you had a personal life Vasudev.

Vasudev: With all due respect Malkin, I do. And with regard to it, may I please be excuse tonight as well?

She stands up and makes her way up to him ever so slowly.

Shaku: Are you keeping something from me Vasudev?

Vasudev: Nothing pertaining to my work.

Shaku: And therefore you believe it is not important to tell me what it is.

Vasudev: That is the thinking.

Shaku: And don’t you find it alarming that your personal life seems to be affecting your professional life.

Vasudev: Again, with all due respect, I lead a ring of thugs who do your bidding, as do I, in various capacities. I’d hardly call that a profession.

Shakuntala feels stung by these words but doesn’t let it show.

Vasudev: If there is nothing else, may I please be excused?

She remains silent for a moment and then exhales with a look of serenity.

Shaku: Of course.

Vasudev: Thank you. Is there anything else you require me to look into, in the morning?

Shaku: Not at this time, no. If something does come up, I’ll contact you on your mobile, hopefully I’ll be able to get through to you this time.

Vasudev: I’m sure you will.

Shaku: Are you?

Vasudev: I shall take your leave then Malkin.

Shaku: Very well.

Vasudev keeps his head down as he leaves the room. Shakuntala gives herself a few minutes and then in one quick move she spins around and flings her glass of wine against the wall, shattering it into bits.

Meanwhile… Vasudev makes his way to the truck and gets in. He looks shaken up.

Netra: Are you ok?

Vasudev: I’m fine.

Netra wonders if she should probe further but then decides to let it go. She stays silent while Vasudev starts the engine and then drives off.

The next morning… The family has descended for breakfast but before that, Shakuntala performs Dixita’s ‘graha-pravesh’ and the family welcomes her in. Everyone has a smile on their face but inside their heads, everyone isn’t really there.

Nitesh: I know I promised Netra that I would talk to Ma about this. But… how am I going to open the subject? I’ve never opposed a single decision she’s made all my life.

Shaku: What is Vasudev up to? Why has he become so distant? Doesn’t he find me attractive anymore? I have to find out what’s going on. But why have I become so dependent on him? Why do I vie for his affections the way I do? Is it possible that I feel something more for him? No. I mustn’t.

Nakul: Calm down Nakul, just calm down. You made a big decision and now you’re going to have to see this through. It’s going to be ok, it’s all going to be ok. Everything will be fine, I just need to make sure that Dixita never finds out about what I did.

Pratiksha: Your wife will find out about what you did very soon Nakul. And when that happens she will become the apocalypse I’ve been waiting for. Your mother came into this house as Bahu to destroy me and now I’m going to use her Bahu to destroy her.

Kalyani: Look at her, the new Bahu… I bet she thinks she’s walked into a world of fortune and fame. Little does she know what this Haveli can do to the people who become part of it. Either way, I don’t care. I’m not going to let anyone forget that I’m the Badi Bahu of this house.

Dixita: Who was that person who called me yesterday? What do they know about Ramya? And how is her death connected to this house? This all seems so ridiculous. I’m so afraid right now. Why did I say yes to this marriage? What was I thinking?

Netra: I’m so sleepy. I wish all this would just finish so I could go get some rest. Vasu seemed really distant last night. I wonder what went down between him and Mom. What the hell kind of work does he do for her anyway? Why does he keep saying it’s confidential?

Veena: There’s that feeling. There’s that feeling that I’ve felt so many times in the past. The calm before the storm. Why do I feel that way again? Why do I feel like the worst is upon us? Everything looks so proper and in place at this moment in time. But I can tell by the looks on the faces of my family that each of their thoughts are far away. I fear that these thoughts may be the tiny stones that have begun to roll down a hill and that soon… a landslide will follow.

Utpatti – Episode 028

Pavan reads the note that Netra has left him.

Pavan: CRAP! This is not good. This is not good at all.

He gets out of bed and puts his clothes on. Then he rushes over to Netra’s room and opens the door to find she’s still not in.

Pavan: Great. Now what do I do?

He thinks for a moment. Then he takes out his phone and dials Netra’s number. After a while it starts ringing. He waits for her to answer but she doesn’t.

Pavan: Come on Netra, you can’t do this to me.

At another end of the Haveli, Veena comes out of her room looking perplexed. She closes the door behind her.

Veena: What am I going to do?

Just as she’s about to head downstairs, she hears the sound of something breaking. She also hears muffled screams and heads towards the sound.

Veena: Shaku Bhabi?

She runs towards Shakuntala’s room and realizes that the noises are coming from inside. She opens the door and walks in and to her horror she sees Shakuntala screaming as she trashes her room.

Veena: Bhabi? What are you doing?

Veena shuts the door and runs towards Shakuntala who seems to be in a fit of rage. Veena grabs Shakuntala by the shoulders and shakes her roughly.

Veena: BHABI! SNAP OUT OF IT!

Shakuntala stops and looks at Veena for the longest time. Then she hugs her Devrani and continues to cry.

Veena: Bhabi what’s wrong?

Shaku: I’ve grown so old Veena… I’ve grown so disgustingly old!

Veena: What are you talking about?

Shaku: Look at me. I’m losing it over a man who’s basically hired help! Has it come to this Veena?

Veena: Bhabi what are you talking about?

Shaku: Last night I called Vasudev. He said he would be here and then he turned his phone off.

Veena: I’m sure something must have come up.

Shaku: Oh I think so too. That’s exactly why he isn’t here! How dare he do this to me!

Veena: Bhabi you need to calm yourself down… Please.

Shaku: You’re right. You’re absolutely right. I’m sure he has a good enough explanation.

Meanwhile… outside the Haveli… Netra arrives with Vasudev. They sneak inside and then Netra turns to face him.

Netra: So am I seeing you tonight?

Vasudev: I have no choice in the matter. You keep threatening me with all kinds of cute things.

Netra: Sweet.

Netra turns to leave and then sees Dixtia standing outside.

Netra: What the hell?

Vasudev: What is it?

Netra: That girl… I think she’s Nakul’s girlfriend.

Vasudev: Who?

Netra: My younger brother.

Vasudev: Oh. Well… your brother seems to be quite the player.

Netra: I know. She’s hot huh?

Vasudev: That aside, she’s married.

Netra: What?

Vasudev: Look, she’s wearing a mangal sutra and sindoor.

Netra looks closer.

Netra: Oh crap. She is!

Vasudev: Yes she is.

Netra: But she wasn’t last night.

Vasudev: What do you mean?

Netra: She was here for dinner last night and she wasn’t married.

Vasudev: Well she is now.

Netra: Wait, that’s Nakul coming out now.

Vasudev: Your brother?

Netra: Uh huh.

Vasudev: He’s taking her in.

Netra: Oh no… No, no, no!

Vasudev: Am I supposed to be able to read your mind this early in the relationship?

Netra: Shut up! Don’t you see what’s going on?

Vasudev: What?

Netra: They’re married! Nakul married her! Oh my gosh!

Vasudev: You do know your family is crazy right?

Netra: It’s slowly starting to dawn on me. This is just great. If Nakul is in there introducing everyone to his new wife then that must mean that there’s drama happening in the house. If I walk in there now then attention will shift to me. What do I do?

Vasudev: Well, there is another way in.

Netra: I can’t go through the back. What if someone is in the kitchen?

Vasudev: It surprises me to see how little you know about your own house.
Netra: Huh?

Vasudev: Come with me.

Vasudev leads Netra to the secret entrance. He shows her how to open it.

Netra: So that’s how you appear out of nowhere!

Vasudev: It’s magic.

Netra: Yea, yea. Now go before someone sees you.

Vasudev: Be here tonight when I come to get you.

Netra: I will.

Vasudev: Can I kiss you goodbye?

Netra: If I say no will that stop you?

Vasudev: No.

Netra: Good.

Meanwhile… in the main hall…

Kalyani: Wow so last night we get introduced to you as Nakul’s friend and this morning we’re introduced again this time you’re his wife. How lovely. Welcome to the family.

Nakul: Bhabi…

Kalyani: What? What do you want me to say to her? What do you want me to say to you?

Nitesh: Kalyani now is not the time…

Kalyani: Then when is the time Nitesh? Your siblings have been running amock and everyone in this family is intent to just sit down and watch the show. Now look at what this one’s gotten himself into.

Nakul: I did this to prove that I am responsible.

Nitesh: Do you even believe a single thing you’re saying? You call THIS responsibility? What is the matter with you? Do you have any idea how Ma is going to react when she finds out?

At that moment, Pratiksha Devi walks into the main hall.

Pratiksha: What in the world is going on here? What’s all the racket about?

Kalyani: Your grandson went and found himself a wife.

Nitesh: Kalyani…

Kalyani: What? I’m sick of being the supportive wife when all you do is try to bury things beneath the surface! Take some action for goodness sake! Your sister doesn’t want to tell anyone that she doesn’t want to get married and your bother didn’t tell anyone before he got married so please do something before I lose my mind.

Nakul: Why are you so concerned anyway?

Kalyani glares at Nakul and takes a step in his direction.

Kalyani: Excuse me?

Nakul: You heard me. Why do you care about what happens with us? All you’ve ever cared about is yourself.

Kalyani: You arrogant little pr…

Nitesh: Nakul! That’s no way to talk to your Bhabi!

Pratiksha: Everybody shut up!

While this is happening downstairs, Netra has managed to sneak into the house through the secret entrance. She’s almost made it to her room when Pavan sees her. He comes running over to her.

Pavan: There you are!

Netra: Shhh!!!

Pavan: Sorry… where have you been?

Netra: Come inside I’ll tell you all about it.

Back upstairs… Veena goes to her room and she finds Rakesh up and ready.

Rakesh: There you are, I was wondering where you’d gone off to.

Veena: Sorry, it’s a bit of a crazy day.

Rakesh: How so?

Veena: I can’t talk about it right now but you need to leave.

Rakesh: Just like that.

She walks over to him.

Veena: Rakesh, I don’t mean to be insensitive but…

Rakesh: I know, your family comes first.

The two of them smie at each other for a while.

Veena: Thank you for understanding.

Rakesh: For what it’s worth, last night was…

Veena: I know.

Rakesh: Ok, so I guess I’ll get out of your way.

Veena: It’s not quite like that but…

Rakesh: It’s alright.

Veena: Oh and one more thing. You can’t leave through the main entrance. Everyone thinks you’ve gone home.

Rakesh: Then how do you propose I leave?

Veena: I’ll show you.

And downstairs…

Pratiksha: What has been done cannot be undone. We have to accept this and move on.

Nitesh: How can you say that Moti Ba? He is too immature to have made a decision like this.

Nakul: I’m not immature.

Nitesh: The fact that you can’t see that right now means you are.

Pratiksha: Nevertheless, no one here is in a situation to make a decision about how to move further.

Nitesh: So what do you suggest we do?

Pratiksha: I suggest you tell my Bahu that her new Bahu has entered the Haveli. I’m sure she’ll know what to do.

And in Netra’s room…

Pavan: So he was not who he said he was?

Netra: Basically.

Pavan: How do you know you can trust this guy?

Netra: I just do ok.

Pavan: Ok fine… I’ll let you be the judge of who you want to spend the rest of your life with but how are you going to get out of this wedding?

Netra: I don’t know.

Pavan: Well whatever you’re going to do you better decide fast. I can’t be here much longer either.

Netra: Why not?

Pavan: Because Nitesh knows about you and me.

Netra: What do you mean?

Pavan: He knows that we… you know…

Netra: WHAT? HOW?

Pavan: It’s a long story but needless to say, now that he knows I’m really worried about what he could say or do and I realized that I do know your Kaki’s friend, Rakesh Grover.

Netra: You do?

Pavan: Yep. He’s a drug dealer.

Netra: What?

Pavan: Yes and he said he remembers me so that could mean there’s a possibility…

Netra: That the truth about what you do will come out.

Pavan: So I need to go back to New York ASAP.

Netra: Ok now I’m worried.

Pavan: When are you meeting this Vasudev guy again?

Netra: Tonight.

Pavan: Ok so when you meet him you need to figure out how this is going to work out. I’d like to stay and help Netra, I really would but…

Netra: I understand.

Not long after… Shakuntala arrives downstairs and finds everyone in the main hall.

Shaku: What’s going on here?

Utpatti – Episode 027

The Day of Chaos – 12.23am

Vasudev: What do you mean? Of course I’m alive.

Netra: But they said you were dead.

Vasudev: Who said I was dead?

Netra: The papers.

Vasudev: What?

Netra: Yes they said… wait a minute… unless…

Vasudev: What is it?

Netra: You’re not Vinod Patel are you?

Vasudev is suddenly struck with silence.

Netra: Oh my goodness! You’ve been lying to me all this time!

Vasudev: Don’t shout. Please you’ll wake everyone up.

Netra: Well maybe I should wake everyone up considering you might be a fraud!

Vasudev: No I’m not. I mean yes, I’m not Vinodh Patel… but I’m not a fraud. I do work for Shakuntala Suryavanshi.

Suddenly his phone starts ringing. He looks at the screen and sees it’s Shakuntala. He shows Netra the phone.

Vasudev: Look, she’s calling me right now. I’ve been summoned here by her. That’s why I’m here.

Netra: At this hour?

Vasudev: Well yes.

Netra: Aren’t you going to pick that up?

Vasudev: I will, but I need to know that you’re not mad at me.

Netra: Of course I’m mad at you! I’ve spent days thinking you’re dead! I’ve even agreed to marry someone else.

Vasudev: WHAT?

Netra: Don’t shout.

Vasudev: But we were just getting to know each other and…

Netra: And we like each other very much. But there seem to be too many lies between us.

Vasudev: So how do we fix this?

The phone continues to ring.

Netra: You really need to get that.

He looks at the phone and then back at Netra. Then, he ends the call and switches his phone off.

Netra: What are you doing?

Vasudev: Coming clean with you.

Netra: Now?

Vasudev: What better time?

Netra: We can’t talk here, someone might see us.

Vasudev: Ok fine then we’ll go out. Far away from here where there’s only you and me.

Netra: Really?

Vasudev: Really.

Netra: Ok… Go outside and give me five minutes. I need to do something first.

Vasudev: Ok.

They part ways.

12.28am

Shakuntala keeps trying to call Vasudev but finds that she can’t get through.

Shaku: What the hell?

She stops trying to call him and tries to breathe easy but she’s too wired and angry to do so. Nevertheless she goes to her walk-in closet and changes into her night clothes and jumps into bed.

Shaku: Why is his phone switched off?

She tries calling him one more time. The phone is still switched off. She throws the phone aside and lies in bed, staring up at the ceiling.

12.31am

Netra writes a note to Pavan.

Netra: Ok, ok so how do I word this in a way that won’t make him panic when he reads it? Um… let’s see… Dear Pavan, guess what? It turns out that the man of my dreams isn’t dead after all. He’s here and he wants to talk so I’m going out with him. If I’m not back by the time you wake up, please cover for me. Lots of love, Netra.

She reads through the letter again and sees that it’s the best she can do within the given time. So she sneaks into Pavan’s room and tiptoes to his bedside table and leaves the note under his phone. She then sneaks back out of the room, out of the Haveli and drives off with Vasudev.

2.00am

Nitesh jumps out of bed and this awakens Kalyani as well.

Kalyani: Nitesh, what’s wrong?

Nitesh: I don’t know. But something isn’t right.

Kalyani: Hold on I’ll get you some water.

She gets out of bed and gets him some water. He drinks it. She sits next to him.

Kalyani: Did you have a bad dream?

Nitesh: No it was more like this strange feeling.

Kalyani: Is this about Netra’s marriage?

Nitesh: I don’t know, it might be. I’m sorry I disturbed you.

Kalyani: It’s ok. Now go back to sleep.

Nitesh: Ok.

3.41am

Shakuntala is still awake in her bed and still staring at the ceiling. She is trying to think about how to fix the problem at hand, which is the situation with Netra’s wedding.

Shaku: How do I go about doing this? This is such a delicate issue. I have to make sure everything happens before Hemat Lal comes back from wherever he has gone to. Of course he’s not going to let the truth come out but then it might be too late. So how do we get out of this without shaming Netra’s honor and without offending the Shastris?

She reaches for her phone again and tries to call Vasudev one more time but she still can’t get through.

Shaku: What happened to him? Why would he say that he’s on his way and then not show up? What could have gone wrong?

4.00am

Vasudev and Netra have been talking for a really long time and he has told her lots of things about his past and how he got to where he is. But he has craftily avoided his line of work and what else he does for Shakuntala.

Vasudev: So that’s me. And the reason I didn’t want to tell you my real name is because… I don’t know… I guess I was shy.

Netra smiles at him.

Netra: So can I call you Vasu?

He smiles back at her.

Netra: Ok, now it’s my turn to make a confession.

Vasudev: You’ve been keeping secrets too?

Netra: In a manner of speaking, yes.

Vasudev: And what might these secrets be?

Netra: Well to start with… I’m not the personal assistant to Shakuntala Suryavanshi’s daughter.

Vasudev: Then who are you?

Netra: My name is Netra Suryavanshi, I AM Shakuntala’s daughter.

Vasudev’s face falls.

Vasudev: What?

Netra: Look ok, don’t be mad. It’s just that, you weren’t even willing to see where this went when you thought I was a member of the family. I had to do something to keep you from walking out on me so I lied. I’m sorry.

Vasudev: You don’t understand how bad this is.

Netra: It isn’t bad. It’s just…

Vasudev: I have to take you home. We can’t see each other anymore.

Netra: No. Don’t say that.

Vasudev: What do you want me to say?

Netra: Say that you’ll look beyond this. We’re not too people from two different walks of life, we’re two people who find interest in each other and through that interest we have common ground. Why can’t you see that?

Vasudev: Because I can see things that you can’t see. I can see how fatal this relationship can turn out to be for the both of us. This is not going to happen.

Netra: And you’re willing to give up on this even before it starts?

Vasudev: It’s best this way.

Netra: Fine.

She moves away from him and folds her arms.

Netra: You’re right. We should move our separate ways. I’ll go back to my house and come sunrise I’ll start making preparations for my wedding. Soon I’ll have a husband and then he can do with me as he pleases.

Vasudev looks up at her, slightly peeved by this. She turns around to face him.

Netra: Then I’ll forget all about you and sit on that mandap and marry him.

She starts walking towards him.

Netra: Then he’ll take me home to his bed. He’ll lay me down and undress me, first with his eyes then with his hands then with his mouth…

Vasudev: Netra… enough. Let’s go.

Netra: Oh no I’ve only just begun to tell you the joys of my married life. Hold on. We may not cross paths anytime soon after tonight so I have to share this with you.

Vasudev: I don’t want…

Netra: You’re getting what you want. Now let me tell you what my soon-to-be-husband will want. He’ll want to hold my hand and kiss me in the moonlight and drive me around town and parade me before his friends and at night… he’ll want to slide his hands up my…

Vasudev: Shut up!

Netra: Why?

Vasudev: Because!

Netra: Because what?

Vasudev: Because I can’t bear to hear you talk like this.

Netra: Really? And imagine how much worse it will feel when all this is actually happening. There’s a lot of reasons why we can’t be together but I’m willing to fight through those reasons. Are you?

She stares into his eyes for the longest time before he pulls her in for a kiss.

5.15am

Nakul and Dixita are at a mandir not too far away from the Haveli. There’s a pandit present and he has begun the marriage rituals.

7.00am

Nitesh wakes up and gets ready for work. Kalyani heads downstairs to get his breakfast ready and notices that the Haveli is rather still.

Meanwhile… in Veena’s room, she wakes up next to Rakesh and memories of the night before come flooding back. She sits up in bed and doesn’t know how to react to what has happened. She hasn’t been with another man since her husband.

7.23am

Not long after Nakul and Dixita arrive outside the Haveli. They get off the car and walk to the main entrance.

Nakul: Wait here, I’ll come get you.

Dixita: Ok.

Nakul walks inside the Haveli. Just as he approaches the main hall we see Kalyani walking in with Nitesh. They see Nakul, still dressed in clothes from the night before.

Nitesh: Nakul… what’s going on? Where have you been?

Nakul: Bhaiyya, I’m… There’s something I need to tell you guys.

Nitesh: What is it?

Nakul: This morning, I got married.

Nitesh: You did what?

Kalyani: You’re joking right?

Nakul: No, I’m quite serious.

Kalyani: Oh crap.

 

Utpatti – Episode 026

At the Suryavanshi Haveli, morning has broken and many other things are about to be broken as well. Nitesh and Kalyani are standing in the main hall, looking shocked. Standing before them is Nakul.

Nitesh: You did what?

Kalyani: You’re joking right?

Nakul: No. I’m quite serious.

Meanwhile… Veena walks out of her room and looks perplexed.

Veena: What am I going to do?

At the same time, Pavan wakes up in his room and reaches out for his phone. As he does, he finds a little paper placed at the bottom of it. He sits up in bed, opens it and reads it.

Pavan: CRAP! This is not good. This is not good at all.

And at the other end of the Haveli, Shakuntala is lying in bed with her eyes open. She hasn’t the slept the whole night. She sits up, gets out and walks over to her dresser. She stands there for a moment looking at all her things. Then one by one she starts picking up those things and throwing them around the room in extreme rage.

Shaku: ARGHHHHHHHH!!!

The members of the Suryvanshi Family and their loved ones were slowly discovering that a lot could happen between the time you decide to go to bed and the time you wake up.

The Night Before – 11.30pm

Shakuntala is in the kitchen, by herself, when Veena walks in.

Veena: Bhabi, are you ok?

Shaku: How could I be after what we learned tonight?

Veena: I know and I promise you we will fix this.

Shaku: Although I cannot seem to see how. But that’s not our concern for now.

Veena: You’re right. Let’s go back out there.

Shaku: I can’t… I’m too tired, so I’m going upstairs. Will you take it from here?

Veena: Of course.

Shaku: Dinner was lovely by the way. Nice work on the menu.

Veena: Thank you Bhabi. Now go.

Shaku: Thank you. Good night.

Veena: Good night.

Shakuntala walks out of the kitchen and Veena takes in a deep breath before she walks back outside. She looks around at everyone and makes an announcement.

Veena: May I have your attention please? Shakuntala Bhabi has called it a night and in a while, I might do the same. The rest of you take your time and enjoy yourselves.

Having made her announcement, Veena walks over to Rakesh.

Veena: So, do you fancy a walk?

Rakesh: I’d quite like that.

Veena: Good.

The two of them walk out. At the same time, Nakul walks over to Dixita.

Nakul: Come on, I need to talk to you.

Dixita: Where are we going?

Nakul: To my room.

Dixita: Ok.

The two of them leave as well. Pavan walks over to Netra and Rajveer.

Pavan: It was nice meeting you Rajveer.

Rajveer: And you.

Pavan: I’ll be seeing you soon.

Rajveer: Yes you will.

Pavan: Netra I’m off to bed. See you in the morning.

Netra: Ok.

Pavan walks upstairs and Nitesh watches him go. He turns to Kalyani.

Nitesh: I’m not happy one bit about this boy being in this house.

Kalyani: Then just stick to your side of the house and don’t run into him. This place is big enough to do that.

Nitesh: No I’m serious. This is madness.

Kalyani: Nitesh, please. Your sister spent almost all her life in New York. For you to even assume she’s a virgin is just…

Nitesh: Ok stop. It’s not about that.

Kalyani: Then what?

Nitesh: It’s knowing that this is happening under our very noses.

Kalyani: Well she’s your sister but if you ask me… I think you should use this situation to your advantage.

Nitesh: How?

Kalyani: If you really think this wedding is a bad idea you might want to consider using this new information as a means of stopping it.

Nitesh: What do you mean?

Kalyani: What if Rajveer were to find out that Netra and Pavan are… you know…

Nitesh looks shocked.

Nitesh: Are you insane? Do you have any idea what that would do to my sister’s character?

Kalyani: Ok fine. Like I said, she’s your sister. I’m off to bed. Let me know what you intend doing, when you figure it out.

Kalyani walks off and Nitesh is left thinking by himself in the outer court. Everyone else seems to have left or somewhere else in the Haveli.

11.45pm

In Shakuntala’s room – she calls Vasudev on his mobile. After a while he picks up.

Vasudev: Jay Sri Krishna Malkin.

Shaku: Vasudev, where are you?

Vasudev: Where you asked me to be.

Shaku: Fine. How fast can you make it to the Haveli?

Vasudev: Half an hour.

Shaku: Make it quick. I need you.

Vasudev: I’m on my way.

And at another end of the Haveli, in Nakul’s room, Dixita has a look of disbelief on her face.

Dixita: Are you serious?

Nakul: Yes I am. So what do you say?

Dixita: Nakul, you can’t just pounce a question like that on me and expect me to give you a serious answer immediately. I need to think about this and…

Nakul: I don’t want you to think about it I just want you to say something.

Dixita: But this is crazy.

Nakul: Look, I’m trying to turn my life around and be more responsible. I believe I’m ready for this.

Dixita: But I’m not.

Nakul: Is there someone else?

Dixita: No there’s no one else!

Nakul: Then what’s the problem?

Dixita: Nakul do you understand the gravity of what you are asking me? It’s not just you and me in this equartion with a question like that. There are other people involved.

Nakul: Like who? Your family? My family? Yea I know this will be a bit hard for them to digest at first but then when they see we’ve made a firm decision and that we can make this happen then they’ll back down and be supportive.

Dixita: I need time to think about this.

Nakul: Think fast. I wanna do this tonight.

Dixita: You have lost it, haven’t you?

Midnight

Veena and Rakesh have been walking around for a while and have finally made their way back into the Haveli.

Veena: So now you’ve seen most of this Haveli.

Rakesh: Interesting architecture.

Veena: I’ll say.

Rakesh: Maintaining it must be a horror though.

Veena: It would feel that way, if we didn’t have people doing that work for us. Would you like to look around upstairs?

Rakesh: Sure.

Veena: Come on.

They make their way upstairs and at that time in Netra’s room… She’s removed all her jewelry and kept them aside. She stares at the mirror and lets her hair down.

Netra: What am I doing? What the hell am I doing? I don’t want to get married. I don’t want to go through with this. Maybe I should have just tried saying no. Maybe I still can. Mom will understand. She has to.

She sighs deeply.

Netra: Ok, first thing in the morning, I’m going to talk to her and tell her that I can’t go through with this. If she says yes, then cool. If she says no, I’m hopping on the next flight back to New York with Pavan.

She looks around her room.

Netra: That reminds me. The stuff is still with him. Damn it! I’ll have to go to his room and get some from him.

12.17am

Veena: And this is my room.

Rakesh looks around and is amazed.

Rakesh: Wow. You must feel like you’re going to sleep in a fairytale every night.

He looks to Veena and she seems to be lost in thought.

Rakesh: What is it?

She smiles at him.

Veena: It feels like anything BUT a fairytale within these walls.

Rakesh: Why do you say that?

Veena: Rakesh… It might seem to you that we all lead very happy lives here. But each of us has a past that we’re constantly running away from. Things we’ve done still haunt us, the people who’ve left us behind still invade our thoughts.

Rakesh moves closer to Veena.

Rakesh: And through it all, you’ve somehow managed to keep it all together.

Veena: It hasn’t been easy.

Rakesh: I can see that.

He moves closer.

Veena: What are you doing?

Rakesh: Trying to take some of those bad memories away and leave behind some good ones.

He kisses her. She hesitates. She kisses him back. They shut the door.

12.20am

Dixita: Ok fine. Let’s do it.

Nakul: Are you sure?

Dixita: Don’t ask me that question again. I might say no.

Nakul: So we’re doing this?

Dixita: I guess we are.

The two of them slowly sneak out of the room and make their way out of the Haveli without anyone’s knowledge. Meanwhile… Netra has made her way to Pavan’s room and is about to knock on it when…

Netra: No… I shouldn’t. I need a clear mind to think about what I want to do now. I’m gonna go back to sleep.

She starts walking back to her room when Vasudev suddenly walks in through the secret entrance. He sees her from across the wings. She doesn’t see him. So he makes his way over to her and taps her on the shoulder. She turns around and almost jumps out of her skin when she sees him. He moves to her quickly and covers her mouth.

Vasudev: Shhh… Don’t wake up the household.

He slowly moves his hand away from her mouth and smiles at her. She looks shocked.

Netra: You’re alive?

Utpatti – Episode 021

The young woman walks into the Haveli and goes straight in. She looks around and then finally she sees Nakul sitting in the lounge area. She walks up to him and Nakul suddenly realizes someone is standing in front of him. So he looks up from his book and almost jumps out of his skin.

Nakul: Dixita! What the hell!

Dixita: You haven’t been returning my phone calls, I was worried.

Nakul: I know, look I’m sorry but I wasn’t feeling too well and I decided to stay at home for a few days.

Dixita: Yes but I heard you were back at college.

Nakul: So what you have informants folling me around?

Dixita: Don’t be silly. They’re just friends.

She sits down next to him.

Dixita: I missed you.

She leans her head against his chest and he embraces her with one arm.

Nakul: And I missed you.

Dixita: Liar.

Nakul: I’m serious. I was just going through some stuff.

Dixita: Well I was going through some stuff too and I really needed you.

Nakul: What kind of stuff?

Dixita: It’s Ramya.

Nakul: What about her?

Dixita: Well she was acting really strange for some time.

Nakul: Strange, like how?

Dixita: I don’t know. She was just avoiding me or something. She didn’t pick up my calls or return them or my texts. Then a few days ago I go to her place and her folks tell me that she’s disappeared.

Nakul starts to get uneasy.

Nakul: And?

Dixita: And… no one’s been able to find her. No one remembers where they last saw her.

Dixita sits up and looks at Nakul with tears in her eyes.

Dixita: She’s my best friend Nakul, I’m really scared.

Nakul: Don’t cry, I’m sure it’ll all be fine.

Dixita: How is it going to be fine? The police are saying they have no leads.

Nakul: Well I’m sure they won’t give up searching that easily.

Dixita: What if they do?

Nakul: Well then I guess that means they’ve come to the conclusion that…

Dixita: I don’t want to hear it.

Nakul: Ok I’m sorry.

Dixita: If she was going through something she should have told me. We were always there for each other. How could she just disappear like that? Nakul, the two of us wouldn’t be together today if it weren’t for her.

Nakul: What do you mean?

Dixita: The day you met me at that restaurant, I was with her. Ramya went to the bathroom and that’s when you decided to come grace me with your presence.

Nakul: That was her?

Dixita: Yes it was.

Nakul: Wow.

Dixita: Yes and on top of her being missing I hadn’t heard from you in so long. Can you imagine what I was going through?

Nakul: I know and believe me when I say this – I am truly, truly sorry for what has happened.

Dixita: Well nothing has happened yet.

Nakul: I know, that’s what I meant, I mean what I meant is, something will happen soon, good I mean, something good.

Dixita: Oh I hope so.

Rajkot – January 2011

Nakul is standing by his car, it’s late in the night. Someone else is with him, a girl, Ramya.

Nakul: So I’ve written all the details down for you. They’ll be expecting you tomorrow.

Ramya: You’re not even going to come with me?

Nakul: Look Ramya we’ve had this conversation before.

Ramya: I know, which is why I’m so shocked that this is still happening. I thought you would have changed your mind about this by now.

Nakul: Why can’t you understand that this is something we have to do?

Ramya: Yes we have to do this but you’re sending me there to do it all by myself! How dare you!

Nakul: You and I understood perfectly what we were getting ourselves into when we started this now all you have to do is make sure this mistake is rectified.

Ramya: You are talking about my baby! Our baby!

Nakul: Ramya please get over it. There can never be anything serious between you and me. I have feelings for Dixita!

Ramya: And yet here I am, carrying your child.

Nakul: What can I say to you that is going to make aborting this child easier?

Ramya: What if this was Dixita and not me?

Nakul: Excuse me?

Ramya: What if it was Dixita in my place right now? Would you have subjected her to the same thing?

Nakul gets very close to Ramya.

Nakul: If this were Dixita’s baby then I may have considered keeping it. But not this one. Not your baby.

Ramya slaps Nakul hard across the face.

Ramya: You bastard!

Nakul: I think you’ve heard what you need to. Please do this.

Ramya: I don’t think I can.

Nakul: Of course you can. Call me tomorrow, let me know how it goes.

Nakul gets in his car and drives off. Ramya is beside herself with grief and falls down in tears.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day
Netra and Pavan are coming downstairs when they see Nakul heading upstairs.

Netra: Hey, how’s it going?

Nakul: Not bad.

Netra: This is my friend Pavan, from New York. Pavan, my brother Nakul.

Nakul: Hey dude.

Pavan: Hi, nice to meet you.

Nakul: You too.

Netra: So who was that chick who was just here?

Nakul: Oh, a friend.

Netra: A friend huh? Not your girlfriend?

Nakul: Netra…

Netra: Ok, ok I’m sorry. I’m taking Pavan out, he says he wants to buy some clothes that are more India friendly. Wanna come?

Nakul: No I’m cool. Have some studying to do.

Netra: You’re sure you’re feeling ok, right?

Nakul: I’m fine, now go. I’ll see you later Pavan.

Pavan: Likewise man.

Nakul walks off and Pavan turns to Netra.

Pavan: I thought you said Nitesh was the boring brother.

Netra: Shut up. Nakul is going through some stuff right now, he doesn’t want to talk about it but I know him. He’ll come around. I just don’t know how I missed it.

Pavan: Missed what?

Netra: Well whatever he’s going through happened after I came to Rajkot and I was too busy with my own madness to notice it.

Pavan: You can’t blame yourself for everything that goes wrong you know.

Netra: I know. It’s just that I’ve spent so much time away from home and now, even before I have the chance to reconnect with everyone after all this time, I’m being shipped off to my Sasuraal.

Pavan: Charming.

Netra: Ok come on let’s go. We have to be back early, I think there’s a dinner at home we’re supposed to attend.

Meanwhil… in Shakuntala’s room, she and Veena are having a little chat over lunch.

Shaku: Rakesh Grover… I can’t believe I’m finally going to meet him.

Veena: I haven’t seen him in quite a while myself.

Shaku: You never told me about the two of you.

Veena: There’s nothing to tell Bhabi.

Shaku: Of course there is.

Veena: He’s just always been so nice to me you know. I mean, we had no idea what we were doing back then. The first few times we moved around in those dangerous circles, we were just winging it.

Shaku: You more than me.

Veena: You had your own share of issues to deal with at the time Bhabi. But the point is, Rakesh was always so good to me. There was no lying or cheating, just the exchange of goods for cash and we would go our separate ways. We’ve had quite a remarkable professional relationship.

Shaku: And your personal relationship with him?

Veena: It’s never gone there.

Shaku: Can I ask why not?

Veena: I think it’s because of that ridiculous fear I’ve never been able to let go all my life. The fear of Bhalchandra walking back into my life one day and turning it upside down.

Shaku: That’s all in the past now Veena.

Veena: I know… but still… Anyway, let bygones be bygones and move on with our lives shall we?

Shaku: We shall.

Veena: I’ve got to go make sure dinner is under control. Have you met Netra’s friend from New York yet?

Shaku: No and I think they’ve gone out. I guess I’ll see him at dinner.

Veena: Do you think I should invite Rajveer Shastri as well?

Shaku: I don’t see why not.

Veena: Lovely.

Shaku: Also, why don’t you ask Nakul if there’s anyone he’d like to invite?

Veena: I’ll ask him. Now, what about Ba?

Shaku: What about her?

Veena: What if she chooses to stay in her room like she always does.

Shaku: Then let her. We’ll send her a plate and some flowers.

Veena: Why doesn’t she just swallow her pride and give up this craziness?

Shaku: Because she wants our heads on a platter before she dies. That’s why.

Veena: Then why don’t we just send her away someplace?

Shaku: Because I promised Shailendra once a long time ago that no matter what happened between Ba and me and no matter how strained our relationship became, I would always give her the respect that is rightfully her’s as my Saas.

Veena: You miss him don’t you?

Shaku: All the time.

Veena: I’ll see you in the evening Bhabi.

Veena walks out of the room and closes the door behind her. Shakntala becomes very thoughtful and sighs deeply.

Shaku: All the time…

The Suryavanshi Haveli – March 1992

Shakuntala is having a nap after having put Netra down for the afternoon. However, her slumber is broken when she has a horrible daydream. She wakes up in a bath of sweat and looks around the room. She sees Netra sleeping peacefully in her cot but she is still uneasy. So she gets out of bed and goes out of her room. She looks around and then heads towards the kitchen where she finds Veena.

Shaku: Veena…

Veena: Bhabi, what are you doing here? I thought you were asleep?

Shaku: I was but I had this horrible dream.

Veena: Let me get you some water.

Just then they hear a vehicle outside the Haveli.

Shaku: Who is that?

Veena: I don’t know.

Shakuntala doesn’t wait for the water; instead she heads outside to see who has arrived. When she gets to the main entrance she sees Shailendra getting out of his car.

Shaku: Shailendra, what on earth.

He sees her and waves at her. She walks out into the garden to greet him.

Shaku: What are you doing home so early?

Shai: The servants called and said you were really sick.

Shaku: What? I’m… I’m fine. Nothing’s wrong with me.

Just then Veena comes running out from inside.

Veena: Bhabi!

Shakuntala turns around, a gun is fired, Shailendra is shot and will soon be dead.

Utpatti – Epsidoe 022

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

Veena walks into Nakul’s room and finds him lost in his studies.

Veena: Nakul.

He looks up and smiles at her. She doesn’t smile back. His smile fades away.

Nakul: What is it Kaki?

Veena: There’s a dinner happening here at the Haveli tonight.

Nakul: Ok.

Veena: Your mother wanted to know if there was someone you wanted to invite.

Nakul: Really? Mom asked you that?

Veena: She did.

Nakul: Ok… yea… there is someone I’d like to invite.

Veena looks curious to hear this.

Veena: Really?

Nakul: Yea.

Veena: Alright then. Make the call.

Veena is about to leave the room when…

Nakul: Kaki…

She stops and turns to look at him.

Nakul: When are things between you and me gonna go back to being the way they were?

Veena: When are you going to bring that girl back from the dead?

Nakul looks away in shame.

Veena: Life is serious Nakul. I know you love to live and let live, but you need to understand that your actions could at times destroy you and those around you.

Nakul: I’ve learned my lesson Kaki, I’m sorry.

Veena: No you haven’t. You haven’t come close to learning your lesson. I may have done what I did to save you but there hasn’t been a day that has gone by since then when I haven’t thought about that girl and her family. How they must still be waiting for her in hope that she will come home. Have you thought about all that? Have you thought about the friends who miss her? Have you thought about the life you kept her from living?

Nakul: What else do you want me to say?

Veena: There is nothing you can say that’s going to fix this.

Nakul: So will things between us never be ok again?

Veena: I don’t know. I’m sorry.

With that, Veena walks out and Nakul looks distraught. But he shakes the thought out of his head momentarily and picks up his phone. He dials a number and waits for the person on the other end to pick up.

Dixita: Hello?

Nakul: Would you like to come to my place for dinner tonight?

Dixita: I’d love to.

Later… In Nitesh and Kalyani’s room – Nitesh has come back home from work and he looks stressed. He moves around the room putting files away and looking through stuff when Kalyani walks in.

Kalyani: Oh, you’re here. Have you decided what to wear this evening?

Nitesh: No.

Kalyani: Would you like me to pick something out for you?

Nitesh: I’ll do it myself.

Kalyani: Are you alright?

Nitesh: I’m fine ok.

Nitesh is abrupt and Kalyani wonders what his problem is. But being who she is, she decides that she doesn’t care.

Kalyani: Fine. Suit yourself.

She’s about to leave the room when.

Nitesh: Wait.

She stops and turns around. He turns to face her.

Nitesh: Look I’m sorry, it’s just that this whole wedding business is not sitting well with me.

Kalyania raises a brow and walks up to Nitesh.

Kalyani: Oh? Why not?

Nitesh: I don’t know. I feel like Netra is not really happy with this marriage and that she’s doing it out of helplessness more than want.

Kalyani: Well have you spoken to her about it?

Nitesh: Not really. I mean what do I say?

Kalyani: Well you could ask her if this what she really wants.

Nitesh: I don’t know… But you’ve been really close with her in the past few days. Has she said anything to you?

Kalyani sees opportunity and decides to grab it.

Kalyani: Actually… I think you might be spot on with your thoughts.

Nitesh: What do you mean?

Kalyani: I don’t think Netra is happy with this marriage either.

Nitesh: Did she say something?

Kalyani: She didn’t have to. I mean I can see it on her face Nitesh. She’s just too afraid to say anything because of Mummy ji.

Nitesh: I thought as much.

Kalyani: Listen, you are her older brother. You have as much a right as anyone to share your views on your sister’s life; after all, it’s her future that’s at stake here. You should talk to her; find out what’s really going on.

Nitesh: You really think so?

Kalyani: I do. And whatever decision you make thereafter, I’m with you.

Nitesh smiles at his wife and holds her shoulders.

Nitesh: Thank you.

Kalyani: Don’t thank me. She’s your sister. You should do right by her.

Nitesh: I’ll go talk to her right now.

Kalyani: Ok.

Nitesh leaves the room and Kalyani smiles to herself.

Kalyani: Now we’re on to something.

And so Nitesh makes his way to Netra’s room. When he gets there, however, he sees the door half open and he sees Netra in conversation with Pavan.

Pavan: Have you ever considered just telling your mother the truth?

Netra: You think I haven’t thought about that? But what is she going to say?

Pavan: You won’t know until you talk to her. Netra, you can’t gamble with your life like this. I care about you too much to let you do this to yourself.

At this point, Netra sits on Pavan’s lap and hugs him.

Netra: I know. But there’s no other way. Mom has decided that this wedding is taking place and I have to obey her wish.

Pavan: Is this why you came back here? To watch your life fall apart and do nothing about it?

Netra: You think I like standing by and watching all this drama unfold? I don’t.

Pavan: Then do something about it.

Netra: Just kiss me.

Pavan: Netra…

Netra: Now.

The two of them lean in for a kiss and from outside the room, Nitesh turns away. He thinks to himself…

Nitesh: So Pavan is not just a friend, he’s more than that. Oh no… This can’t be happening. How could Ma not think about Netra’s happiness? If she wants to be with Pavan then she should be with him. I will see to it that my sister’s happiness is not toyed with. I’ll fix this, one way or the other.

Nitesh walks away and back inside Netra’s room, the kiss ends.

Pavan: Have you ever wondered why you and I never became a couple?

Netra: I have actually. But we both know that we work better as friends.

Pavan: Special friends.

Netra: I believe the term you are looking for is friends with benefits.

The two of them laugh.

Netra: Now go to your room and dig through all those clothes we bought you and find something decent to wear for this evening. I’m sure they’ve invited my husband to be. You can meet him and greet him and say all kinds of nice things about me to him.

Pavan: Basically you want me to lie.

Netra: I want you to do nothing of the sort.

Pavan: I’m kidding.

Netra: You better be, if you know what’s good for you.

They smile at each other and Netra stands up allowing Pavan to get up and leave.

Time ticks away fast and members of the family continue to get ready for the dinner that night. Soon, they start arriving downstairs one by one. The first to arrive, surprisingly, is Pratiksha Devi. She looks around and sees that all preparations have been made with great finesse. She seats herself down in one end of the outer court and listens as the music is turned on.

The second to arrive is Veena. She raises a brow when she sees Pratiksha Devi. She walks over to her.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna Ba.

Pratiksha: Yes, yes, whatever.

Veena: I’m glad you made it.

Pratiksha: I’m not.

Veena: Then why are you here?

Pratiksha: Beats sitting in my room plotting your demise.

Veena: Oh you’re such a ray of sunshine.

Shaku: Isn’t she though?

They both turn around to see Shakuntala walking into the outer court.

Veena: Bhabi, you look beautiful.

Shaku: Only second to you my pretty.

Pratiksha: Please stop before I throw up.

Shaku: Aren’t you in the brightest of spirits Ba?

Pratiksha: Indeed.

The next to walk in are Nitesh and Kalyani.

Kalyani: Good evening everyone.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna Kalyani… Nitesh you look dashing.

Nitesh: Thank you Kaki. I was wondering, could I have a word with you?

Veena: Of course.

Just then Magan Bhai walks in.

Magan: Sethani, the guest has arrived.

Veena: Oh. I should probably go greet him.

Shaku: Yes you should.

Veena: I’m sorry Nitesh, you’re going to have to wait.

Nitesh: Of course.

Veena leaves to go welcome Rakesh Grover. At this point Nakul walks in.

Shaku: There’s my little boy.

Nakul: Hi Mom.

Shaku: How are you feeling now?

Nakul: Much better.

Shaku: That’s lovely.

Shakuntala goes to check on a few things and Nakul looks at Pratiksha Devi who gives him a slight nod. He smiles at her and looks guilty. Moments later, Netra walks in, wearing a sari, she looks breathtaking.

Netra: Hello everyone.

Kalyani: Netra, you look beautiful.

Netra: Thank you Bhabi.

Nitesh: Where is Pavan?

Netra: I have no idea. He should have been down by now.

At this point Veena walks into the outer court with Rakesh Grover.

Veena: Everybody, meet my old friend, Rakesh Grover.

Rakesh: Jay Sri Krishna.

Everyone starts greeting Rakesh and Pavan walks in. Rakesh sees him and his face falls.

Utpatti – Episode 023

Rakesh looks at Pavan and suddenly his expression changes. Pavan however, smiles all around and says hello to Netra while Rakesh continues to exchange greetings with the others. Veena introduces Rakesh to everyone and finally he and Pavan are standing face to face.

Veena: And this is Netra’s friend from New York. Pavan Sachdeva.

Pavan: Hello, it’s nice to meet you.

Rakesh: Have we met before?

Pavan: I doubt it, I would remember if I had.

Rakesh: Right. But I’m certain we’ve crossed paths somewhere.

Pavan: Well, let’s hope we remember where as the evening progresses.

Rakesh: Of course.

They shake hands and Rakesh is introduced to everyone else. The dinner party kicks off with everyone picking up a glass to drink from. Light conversation ensues and moments later Dixita walks in. Nakul sees her and goes to welcome her. As he brings her in, Veena turns her attention to them. Nakul brings Dixita up to Shakuntala.

Nakul: Mom, this is my friend, Dixita.

Shakuntala smiles broadly, clearly Nakul has never invited a girl over before.

Shaku: Well hello, it’s nice to meet you.

Dixita: I’m honored to meet you. I’ve heard so much about the great Shakuntala Suryavanshi.

Shaku: All good I hope.

Dixita: Of course.

Shaku: I’m charmed. Please have something to drink.

Dixita: I’m alright for now.

Shaku: Nonsense, Nakul, get your friend a drink.

Nakul: Ok. Come on.

The next guest to arrive is Rajveer Shastri.

Rajveer: Jay Sri Krishna.

Shaku: Rajveer, I’m so glad you made it.

Shakuntala goes to welcome him and Netra moves close to Pavan.

Netra: And here comes the blushing groom.

Pavan: Hmmm…

Netra: What was that?

Pavan: I’m just assessing him and trying to picture the two of you growing old together. Not bad.

Netra: Shut up, this is not funny.

Pavan: On the contrary, it really is.

From a distance Shakuntala turns to Netra.

Shaku: Netra…

Netra: Coming Mom.

Netra turns to Pavan.

Netra: Excuse me, I’ve got to go start rehearsing to be Mrs. Shastri.

Pavan: Knock yourself out.

Netra: You’re enjoying this aren’t you?

Pavan: Oh relax, I’m sure you would too if you were in my position.

Netra: Urgh! Ok I’ll be back.

Netra walks away and Pavan smiles to himself as he sips on his drink. Unknown to him, Nitesh has been watching him and Netra. Kalyani walks over to Nitesh.

Kalyani: What’s going on?

Nitesh: Nothing.

Kalyani: You’ve been staring at Netra and Pavan the whole time. What’s going on in that mind of yours?

Nitesh: I think there’s something going on between Netra and Pavan.

Kalyani: Get out.

Nitesh: No seriously. I walked in on the two of them making out today.

Kalyani: What?

Nitesh: Yep.

Kalyani: And?

Nitesh: And nothing. I walked away.

Kalyani: So do you think Pavan is Netra’s boyfriend?

Nitesh: I’m quite certain of it.

Kalyani: So why hasn’t he said anything since he came back.

Nitesh: That’s what I’m not sure of.

Kalyani: Nitesh you have to do something and you have to do it fast.

Nitesh: Don’t you think I knowt that? I’m going to Veena Kaki as soon as I get the chance.

Nitesh continues with his drink and Kalyani surveys the room with a hint of excitement. At another end of the room Dixita looks out of sorts and Nakul walks over to her with a drink.

Nakul: Here you go.

Dixita: Thank you.

Nakul: What’s going on in that head of yours? You look upset.

Dixita: It’s nothing.

Nakul: Dixita come on you can talk to me.

Dixita: I know but I don’t want to ruin the evening by talking about boring stuff.

Nakul: Nothing you say is going to bore me. Now come on spill. What is it?

Dixita: It’s just that, no one has heard from Ramya yet and I’m starting to get really worried.

Nakul: Oh…

Dixita: I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bring her up right now.

Nakul: No, but I asked.

Dixita: I just really miss her and I’m really scared. I don’t know where she is and no one has heard from her in days and…

Nakul: It’s going to be alright. Ok… now just relax and have your drink.

Unknown to the two of them, Pratiksha Devi has been eavesdropping on their conversation and she thinks to herself…

Pratiksha: Ramya… could she be the one that… well, well, well… Looks like coming down to this party wasn’t a bad idea after all. I’ll have to remember that name though and maybe even try and find a surname. If this missing girl is the same one that died during the abortion then she could be the key to my success.

And at yet another end of the room…

Veena: I’m so glad you could make it. It’s been so long since we met.

Rakesh: I know and look at you, beautiful as ever.

Veena: Oh stop. You’re just saying that.

Rakesh: Well of course I’m just saying it but I’m only just saying it because it’s true.

Veena: Should I pour you another drink?

Rakesh: Let me finish the one I’m on first.

They laugh.

Rakesh: You know, I’m really sure I’ve seen that boy Pavan somewhere before.

Veena: Well he’s from New York. Have you been there recently?

Rakesh: No, not recently. But I don’t think that’s where I’ve seen him. How long have he and your niece been friends?

Veena: A long time I believe. He’s come down for Netra’s wedding.

Rakesh: Oh she’s getting married?

Veena: Yes, to that boy over there. His name is Rajveer Shastri.

Rakesh turns to look at Rajveer.

Rakesh: Oh I’ve seen him before too.

Veena: Don’t be absurd.

Rakesh: No really I have.

Veena: Where?

Rakesh: On the news.

Veena: Really?

Rakesh: Yes. That’s MP Hemat Lal Shastri’s son.

The smile on Veena’s face disappears.

Veena: Wait, what did you say?

Rakesh: That boy Rajveer, his father is a minister of parliament.

Veena: Hemat Lal Shastri?

Rakesh: Yes. I hear he’s out of town these days but that he’s returning to Rajkot soon.

Veena: That makes sense.

Rakesh: What makes sense?

Veena: Why he wasn’t here with his wife and son the day they came to see Netra.

Rakesh: Oh ok.

Veena: Will you excuse me a moment?

Rakesh: Of course. I’ll go pour myself a drink while I wait for you.

Veena walks off hurriedly. Meanwhile…

Shaku: So I’ve been meaning to ask, did the two of you enjoy your drive?

Rajveer: Well I can’t speak for Netra but I sure did.

Netra: It was… nice.

Shaku: Splendid.

Veena walks over to them.

Veena: Bhabi… Excuse me.

Shaku: Veena, come say hello to our Damad.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna Rajveer, how are you?

Rajveer: Jay Sri Krishna Kaki. I’m very good thank you. And yourself?

Veena: Well, we’ll see… Bhabi, can I speak with you for a moment?

Shaku: Sure, what is it?

Veena: It’s… business related.

Shaku: Oh… Well then excuse me children. You two enjoy yourselves and I’ll be right back.

Shakuntala walks off with Veena and Netra turns to Rajveer who is all smiles.

Netra: Why are you smiling that way?

Rajveer: You look really beautiful this evening.

Netra: Oh, well, thank you.

Rajveer: Don’t thank me. I’m the one who should be thanking God for bringing us together.

Netra: Yea, God’s great. He has a great sense of humor too.

Netra looks around and sees Pavan holding back his laughter with all that is in him. She makes a face at him and he tries to act serious.

Meanwhile… Pratiksha Devi notices that Nakul has stepped away momentarily and she sees Dixita is standing by herself. She decides to take advantage of the situation and moves towards her.

Pratisha: Hello dear.

Dixita: Hello.

Pratiksha: You’re a friend of Nakul’s aren’t you?

Dixita: Yes… well I’d like to think we’re more than that actually.

Pratiksha Devi raises a brow.

Pratiksha: Really? Well that’s lovely. I’m Nakul’s grandmother.

Dixita: Oh…

Dixita looks embarrassed.

Dixita: I… uh…

Pratiksha: No need to be embarrassed, it’s alright.

Dixita: I’m sorry I just… well it’s nice to meet you.

Pratiksha: And you. Tell me, is everything ok?

Dixita: Yes, yes it is.

Pratiksha: Are you sure? Because I couldn’t help but notice that you seem upset.

Dixita: I have to work on that.

Pratiksha: Talk to me. Tell me what’s bothering you.

Dixita sighs deeply.

Dixita: Well, it’s like this. I have this friend… actually, she’s my best friend, her name is Ramya and she’s been missing for a few days now.

Pratiksha: Missing?

Dixita: Yes. No one has heard from her and the police keep saying that they have no leads whatsoever and I’m really starting to freak out.

Pratiksha: That’s so sad. I’m very sorry. Perhaps I could speak to someone on your behalf and help speed up the process.

Dixita: You could do that?

Pratiksha: My dear… you’re standing inside the Suryavanshi Haveli… trust me, anything is possible here.

Dixita: Wow, that would be so cool.

Pratiksha: What is this girl’s full name?

Dixita: Oh, she’s Ramya, Ramya Bansali.

Pratiksha: Ramya Bansali… Ok then. I’ll make a few calls first thing in the morning and we’ll see what we come up with.

Dixita: Thank you so much.

Pratiksha: Oh and… let’s not tell Nakul about this. I don’t think he’d like it very much to know that his grandmother is helping his girlfriend… I mean, friend.
Utpatti – Episode 024

Veena has dragged Shakuntala away from all ears that could pick up on anything she is about to say.

Shaku: Veena… what is it? I’m starting to get worried.

They stop moving and Veena turns to Shakuntala.

Veena: You should be worried Bhabi. We all should.

Shaku: Now you’re scaring me. What is wrong?

Veena: All you’ve ever wanted with Netra’s marriage is to get her as far away as possible from anything to do with our pasts right?

Shaku: Right.

Veena: Well the exact opposite of that will happen if this marriage takes place.

Shaku: What? What are you talking about?

Veena: Do you know who Rajveer’s father is?

Shaku: No. Who is he?

Veena: Hemat Lal Shastri.

At this point Shakuntala feels as though the lightning gods have struck her in a million places of her body and ripped her insides into shreds. She catches her neck in panic and turns around to look at the rest of the people at the dinner party.

Shaku: It can’t be true.

Veena: Bhabi it is.

Shakuntala turns back to Veena.

Shaku: How do you know this?

Veena: Rakesh just told me. He recognized Rajveer and told me who his father is.

Shaku: Oh good lord!

Veena: What are we going to do now?

Shaku: I don’t know. I really don’t know. Oh bloody hell. I need some water.

Veena: Hold on I’ll get you some.

Veena rushes off and Shakuntala sits down on a nearby chair. She fights hard to catch her breath and tries to remain as calm as she possibly can.

Meanwhile… Pavan walks over to Netra and Rajveer. Netra looks relieved to see her friend and quickly proceeds to make introductions.

Netra: Rajveer, this is my friend Pavan from New York.

Pavan: Hello. It’s a pleasure to meet the man my friend is going to be spending the rest of her life with.

Netra gives Pavan a fiery stare. Rajveer and Pavan shake hands.

Rajveer: Well any friend of Netra’s is a friend of mine. It’s nice to mee you.

Pavan: So have you two known each other long?

Rajveer: No I’m afraid this is an arranged marriage.

Pavan: Ah yes. One of those.

Rajveer is taken aback by that but Netra comes to the rescue.

Netra: Pavan has grown up in New York his whole life and he’s only heard about arranged marriages, now he gets to experience one first hand.

Pavan: Not as first hand as you two though.

Rajveer: Well my parents were married in a similar fashion and they’ve been together ever since.

Pavan: Really?

Rajveer: Yes. I look at them and all I can hope for is that my relationship with Netra will be as strong as theirs.

At that moment, Veena returns to Shakuntala with a glass of water.

Veena: Here you go Bhabi.

Shaku: Thank you.

She gulps down the water and gives the glass back to Veena before she stands up.

Shaku: Veena, this wedding cannot happen. I cannot send my daughter to that house. I will not allow her to be married to a man whose father has shared my bed!

Veena: I know Bhabi but how do we get out of this?

Shaku: It’s all such a mess. I can’t even think straight.

Veena: I’ll tell you what. Why don’t we just get through this dinner tonight and we’ll talk about this in the morning.

Shaku: In the morning? That’ll be too late. Lalita Devi is already making preparations. She’ll have the bharaat outside our door before we have a chance to figure anything out. What do you think will happen to Netra when that woman finds out that her husband used to sleep with her son’s Saas?

Veena: Bhabi you need to relax.

Shaku: I can’t relax. What I need is a gun to shoot myself.

Veena: Don’t talk that way.

Shaku: What else am I supposed to say? I’m the one who’s been pushing for this wedding to take place. I’m the one who hurried everything up.

Veena: But you did all that for Netra.

Shaku: Yes and now if this wedding takes place, we’re all screwed!

Veena: What if you talk to Shastri and explain the situation to him and tell him to call off the wedding instead?

Shaku: We can’t do that. I ceased communication with that man a long time ago. Besides, I can’t have the groom’s side call off the wedding, it’ll be bad for Netra and it’ll be so hard to get her married off after that.

Veena: You’re right. But we really do need to get back to this party Bhabi. We’ll sort this out soon but we can’t afford to stay hidden like this for the rest of the evening. So come on.

Shaku: Ok, ok… I need another glass of water.

Veena: Oh for goodness sake!

Back to Netra, Pavan and Rajveer.

Rajveer: So Pavan, you must tell me, does Netra have any interesting hobbies?

Pavan looks at Netra and she makes eyes at him.

Pavan: Well, you could say that.

Rajveer: Really? Do share?

Pavan: Oh I would, but… I’m sure Netra would like to tell you herself.

They both turn to Netra who looks rather spaced out.

Netra: I… uh… love snor…kling.

Rajveer: Really?

Pavan: Oh yea she loves that.

Rajveer: Are there many places to go snorkeling in New York?

Netra: Oh well… you know… it’s like… oh my goodness, your drink’s over. Hold on, let me get you another one.

Rajveer: Don’t be silly… I’ll go get it myself, you’ll have plenty of time to take care of me when you become my wife.

Netra smiles broadly at him and so does Pavan. Rajveer walks off and Netra grabs Pavan by the hand and rushes out of the party, away from the outer court and to a secluded part of the Haveli.

Netra: What the hell is your problem?

Pavan: What do you mean?

Netra: Pavan come on, you’re supposed to be helping me out, not making this harder for me.

Pavan: I’m sorry, it just seemed like so much fun.

Netra: Well it’s not ok.

Pavan: Ok I’m sorry. Can I make it up to you?

Netra: Are you going to cut me a line?

Pavan: Even better…

He pulls her in for a kiss. She pulls back.

Netra: Here? Now?

Pavan: It’s perfect isn’t it?

Netra: If someone walks in…

Pavan: We’re screwed, I know. But that’s half the fun.

Netra: You are unacceptable.

They lean in for another kiss and the moment gets intense. Back at the party, Nitesh sees Rajveer pouring himself a drink. He then looks around for Netra but realizes that she isn’t there and also that Pavan is not around.

Nitesh: Oh crap.

Kalyani: What is it?

Nitesh: Netra and Pavan are missing.

Kalyani: Really?

Nitesh: This is terrible. Where could they be?

Kalyani: I don’t know. Should we look for them?

Nitesh: No, that would make things look even more suspicious. Let’s go talk to Rajveer until they get back from wherever it is they’ve gone to.

As Nitesh and Kalyani make their way over to Rajveer, Veena and Shakuntala walk back into the party.

Veena: We have to act as normal as possible.

Shaku: Yes I know.

Rakesh: There you are. I’ve been looking for the two of you all over the place.

Veena: Sorry we had some busness to attend to.

Rakesh: That’s amazing, don’t the two of you ever rest?

Shaku: That’s exactly what I was telling Veena here.

Veena gives Shakuntala a confused glance and Shakuntala smiles back at her.

Shaku: Well I should go see to it that dinner is set out.

Veena: Oh no, Bhabi, I’ll do it. You stay here.

Shaku: Nonsense, I’ll take care of it. You stay here with Rakesh. I’m sure the two of you have a lot of catching up to do.

Veena: Well…

Shaku: I’ll be back.

Shakuntala walks off and as she does, she passes Nitesh and Kalyani who’ve cornered Rajveer.

Rajveer: And although I have no interest in politics my father does keep encouraging me to show up at all kinds of rallies and other political events.

Nitesh: Interesting.

Rajveer: Have you guys seen Netra anywhere?

Kalyani: Oh… she and Pavan received an overseas call, another of their friends from New York calling to find out more details about the wedding

Rajveer: Wow. That’s nice.

Nitesh: Yes, although I wish that call were over and done with by now.

Kalyani: Should I go check on them?

Nitesh: No, stay here and keep Rajveer company. I’ll go check on them.

Kalyani: Ok.

Nitesh walks off and Kalyani continues talking to Rajveer. At the same time, Nakul has returned to Dixita’s side.

Nakul: You ok?

Dixita: Yes. I’m feeling much better.

Nakul: Cool. So do you want a tour of the Haveli?

Dixita: Really?

Nakul: Yea. Come on I’ll show you around.

Dixita: Ok.

The two of them leave and as they do, we shift back to Rakesh and Veena.

Veena: What’s the matter? You look like you’ve got something on your mind.

Rakesh: It’s that boy Pavan. I know I know him from somewhere.

Veena: Oh just let it go…

Rakesh: No… I think…

Veena: What?

Rakesh: I could be wrong Veena but I think he’s a coke dealer.

Veena: What?

Rakesh: Yes I think that’s where I’ve seen him before. One of his guys bought stuff from me while he was sitting in the car. I didn’t get a good look at his face when the transaction happened but I’m quite sure it’s him.

Veena: It can’t be. He’s Netra’s friend and if he was a dealer then Netra would know.

Rakesh: Well maybe he hasn’t told her or maybe she does know.

Veena looks around the party.

Veena: Where are the two of them?

Nitesh is looking for Netra and Pavan but can’t find them anywhere. At that moment he runs into Nakul and Dixita.

Nakul: Bhaiyya… what are you doing here?

Nitesh: I uh… nothing. What are you doing here?

Nakul: I’m giving Dixita a tour of the Haveli.

Nitesh: Oh ok. Well if you see Netra, or Pavan, tell them to come downstairs.

Nakul: Is everything ok?

Nitesh: I sure hope it will be.

Utpatti – Episode 025

Nitesh heads back down the party and Nakul continues his tour of the Haveli with Dixita. They haven’t gotten very far when they hear noises coming from nearby.

Dixita: What was that?

Nakul: I don’t know.

Dixita: Is there anyone else here?

Nakul: Only one way to find out.

They two of them head in the direction of the noises and before long they come upon Netra and Pavan who are in a very compromising poisition.

Nakul: Holy crap!

The guilty parties see Nakul and Dixita and immediately proceed to adjust themselves.

Nakul: Netra what the hell?

Netra: I can explain.

Nakul: Please, I don’t want you to.

Pavan: This is not what it looks like.

Nakul: You, I’m not talking to right now.

Netra: Nakul.

Nakul: Your fiancée is downstairs and Nitesh Bhaiyya is looking for you.

Netra: Shit, we better get down there.

Netra sees Dixita.

Netra: Oh hi, I’m Netra, Nakul’s sister. We haven’t officially met.

Dixita: Hey it’s nice to meet you.

Nakul: Really? You’re going to do this right now?

Netra: Ok look, I’m sorry you had to walk in on that. Please don’t tell anyone.

Nakul: Just go.

Netra: Ok, ok we’re leaving. Come on.

Pavan: Coming.

The two of them rush off and Nakul looks pissed off. He turns to face Dixita.

Dixita: Your sister seems nice.

Nakul: She is… when she has her clothes on!

Dixita: Oh come on. They weren’t doing anything we haven’t done.

Nakul: Do you even understand the gravity of the situation? The man she is going to marry is downstairs!

Dixita: Let me guess, arranged marriage?

Nakul: That’s not the point.

Dixita: Of course it is. People should be allowed to be with whomever they want to be with. Like I want to be with you and you want to be with me.

Nakul: Dixita… not now.

Dixita: Actually I think now is a very good time.

Back at the party… Netra and Pavan walk in and Nitesh sees them. He walks over to them.

Nitesh: Where have the two of you been?

Netra: We uh…

They’re interrupted by Rajveer who walks over to them.

Rajveer: There you are.

Netra: Hey…

Rajveer: I heard you were on an overseas call.

Netra looks at Nitesh who widens his eyes to indicate to her that Rajveer was lied to.

Netra: Oh… yes, yes. An overseas call. Well it was meant to be a quick one but, you know how long distance calls can get.

Rajveer: Yea. So I got you a drink.

Netra: Thank you.

She takes the drink.

Rajveer: Would you like to walk with me?

Netra: Oh… Of course.

Rajveer extends his arm and Netra takes it. She walks off and Pavan breathes a sigh of relief. Nitesh turns to him.

Nitesh: Ok so would you like to tell me what’s going on between you and my sister?

Pavan is caught off guard and looks blank.

Meanwhile, Pratiksha Devi has retreated to a corner of the outer court and she is on her phone.

Pratiksha: I need you to find out everything you can about a girl named Rekha Bansali. She’s been missing for a few days. Yes. Call me as soon as you know something.

She hangs up and picks up her drink as she turns around to look at her family at various areas of the party.

Pratiksha: What fun.

She has a sip and ventures back into the party. Meanwhile… Veena and Rakesh continue their conversation.

Veena: There’s Netra over there with Rajveer. But I still can’t see Pavan. Are you sure about him being a dealer?

Rakesh: I can’t be one hundred percent sure but…

Veena: I’m rather worried now.

Rakesh: Why?

Veena: You don’t really understand the gravity of what you’re doing until one of your children is involved.

Rakesh: How do you mean?

Veena: If Pavan is in fact a dealer as you say he is then there is no way that Netra doesn’t know about it. They’re very close friends and they seem like the type who share everything with each other.

Rakesh: What is your point?

Veena: My point is, there might be a chance Netra does drugs with Pavan.

Rakesh: Interesting.

Veena: It’s not interesting it’s frightening.

Rakesh: Come on Veena, by the looks of it your niece is a very settled girl. I doubt she’s addicted to anything.

Veena: That maybe so but it still isn’t right.

Rakesh: I’m sorry but you’re not exactly in a position to make a statement like that are you.

Veena: I know and I apologize for being such a hypocrite, it’s just that…

Rakesh: What?

Veena: To understand my worry Rakesh, you have to understand the women of this family. You must understand the complicated lives we lead and how we fight every single day of our lives to maintain our sanity. Whether we like to accept it or not, we’re all addicted to something. Some of us won’t let go of our thirst for vengeance. Some of us can’t give up our hungry desires. Some give into materialistic pleasures in order to keep from dealing with real issues and others cling to the insides of these walls even though they know deep inside that they should probably leave. So you see, we all succumb to some form of addiction and when we do, we just keep wanting more and more. The dangerous thing though, is that we all know exactly how to get what we want.

Rakesh: Fascinating bunch of women.

Veena: Indeed.

Rakesh: So what are you going to do about Pavan and Netra?

Veena: I’ll wait for a convenient time and talk to Netra about it.

Back upstairs…

Nitesh: So? What’s the deal between you and my sister?

Pavan: Look there’s no deal dude.

Nitesh: Really? Well it didn’t seem that way to me this evening.

Pavan: This evening?

Nitesh: Yes, I came over to talk to Netra and I saw the two of you making out.

Pavan purses his lips.

Nitesh: Yes that’s right. I saw you. Now spill, what the hell is going on?

Pavan: Listen, I’m really sorry that you had to see that but… there really is nothing going on between me and Netra.

Nitesh: Don’t expect me to believe that.

Pavan: You have to man. It’s the truth. Netra and I are just really good friends who are quite… comfortable with each other… physically.

Nitesh gives Pavan a quizzical look.

Pavan: It’s like… how do I explain this?

Nitesh: You’re friends with benefits?

Pavan: I didn’t think you’d heard the expression but yes. That’s it.

Nitesh bites his lip, looks away and then looks back at Pavan.

Nitesh: If I didn’t have other guests downstairs right now I’d kick your ass.

Pavan: I appreciate you not doing that.

Nitesh: Do you know that I was on the verge of trying to call this wedding off because of what I saw?

Pavan: Oh you shouldn’t change your mind about doing that.

Nitesh: What?

Pavan: You see, while it’s true that there’s nothing emotional going on between Netra and me, it’s also true that Netra isn’t happy with this marriage. That’s why she asked me to come to India.

Nitesh: She told you this?

Pavan: In a manner of speaking, yes.

Nitesh: I knew it. I knew she wasn’t happy with this. So why the hell did she agree to it then?

Pavan: I don’t know man.

Nitesh: You know what screw the guests I think I’m going to kick your ass anyway.

Pavan: Whoa. Hold on a second… I… may know something.

Nitesh: Start talking.

Meanwhile… Nakul and Dixita make their way downstairs and Veena observes them walking into the room. She looks to Rakesh and smiles.

Veena: Excuse me a moment.

Rakesh: Sure.

Veena walks over to Nakul and Dixita.

Veena: Are you two enjoying the evening?

Dixita: Yes, thank you very much for having me over.

Veena: You’re welcome dear. Nakul, may I speak with you a moment?

Nakul: Of course.

Veena: Sorry dear, this’ll only take a minute.

Dixita: Oh sure, no problem.

Dixita walks away and Veena turns to Nakul, her expression is cold.

Veena: Who is she?

Nakul: A friend.

Veena: Just a friend?

Nakul: Ok maybe she’s more than a friend.

Veena: Was this more than a friend of yours in the picture when your other friend, the dead one, was having your child aborted?

Nakul is hurt by Veena’s words and gives her a sad look.

Veena: I’d like to say I’m sorry for being so harsh on you but I’m really not.

Nakul: Kaki I know that what I did was horrible but…

Veena: It wasn’t horrible Nakul, the fault lies not in the action but in the blood. Suryavanshi blood.

Nakul: How can you say that? You’ve always said that my father was a good man.

Veena: He was, way better than your Kaka. The difference between the two of them was that Jeth ji had class, Bhalchandra didn’t and the reason I’m so angry with you right now is that you’ve created within yourself a Bhalchandra Suryavanshi of the next generation.

There are tears in Nakul’s eyes.

Veena: Save yourself before it’s too late Nakul. You don’t want to walk in those shoes. They’re covered in too much blood. I saved you once, trust me, I won’t do it again.

Veena turns around and then puts her smiley face back on as she walks back to Rakesh. Not long after Dixita comes back to where Nakul is and holds his hand.

Dixita: Are you alright?

Nakul: No I’m not.

Dixita: Is there something I can do?

Nakul: Yes, as a matter of fact there is.

Dixita: What is it?

Nakul: Not now, after dinner.

At that moment, Nitesh and Pavan come back downstairs. Nitesh sees Netra at the other end of the room and nods to himself. Shakuntala walks out and smiles brightly at everyone around her.

Shakuntala: Alright everyone, dinner is served.