In the 26th February 2025 episode of Mangal Lakshmi, where tensions escalate amid secrets and sabotage. Kusum faces humiliation over her haircut, while Mangal struggles with family conflicts. Meanwhile, Niketan plots against Mangal, and Karthik uncovers shocking truths about Lakshmi and Raghuveer. Stay tuned for all the drama and twists!
Kusum’s short hair becomes a source of amusement for everyone, leading Mangal to question her about it. Kusum explains that the mishap occurred at the salon. Meanwhile, Sowmya stirs up trouble at home by blaming Mangal for Kusum’s haircut. During the competition, Mangal is called upon to present her idea, but Kusum steps in to explain it instead. Following the round, the host announces that there will be no eliminations, and the next challenge will involve creating a jingle. Later, Niketan and his mother mock Kusum, prompting Mangal to intervene and remove her from the situation.
Back home, Sudesh advises Adit not to jump to conclusions about Mangal without understanding the full story. However, when Mangal and Kusum return, Adit immediately blames Mangal. Kusum attempts to defend her, but Adit dismisses her and calls Mangal an embarrassment. Heartbroken, Kusum locks herself in her room. Mangal pleads with her to open the door, but Kusum insists on being left alone. Sudesh advises Mangal to give her space.
The next day, Mangal makes preparations for the Shivratri pooja. Despite Mangal’s efforts, Kusum remains locked in her room. Shanti and Lipika visit, commending Mangal’s participation in the competition. Sowmya arrives with Adit and offers to take Kusum’s place in the pooja. Shanti reprimands her, but Mangal diffuses the tension. Feeling victorious, Sowmya drinks the masala milk intended for the bhog, unaware of its effects.
As the pooja commences, Sowmya begins feeling dizzy. Seizing the opportunity, Shanti locks her in a room, allowing Mangal to complete the ritual. Meanwhile, Niketan sneaks into Mangal’s house in disguise, intending to sabotage her chances in the competition.
In another storyline, Karthik refuses to have dinner unless Lakshmi eats lunch. Later, he decorates the house, leading Jia to believe he is planning to propose. When Lakshmi and Raghuveer arrive, Karthik surprises them with a double date. During dinner, Karthik playfully teases Lakshmi, while Raghuveer faces his own set of questions. Jia encourages Lakshmi to try Mexican food, but Karthik quickly points out that she dislikes it. Raghuveer grows suspicious and questions how Karthik knows this. In response, Karthik nervously credits Mangal for the information.
When Karthik asks to see their wedding photos, Lakshmi and Raghuveer panic and try to avoid the subject. Sensing something amiss, Karthik directly questions whether they are truly married. Overwhelmed, Lakshmi accidentally spills her juice and leaves the table. Raghuveer follows her, pretending to assist. Noticing Lakshmi’s distress over their wedding photo, Raghuveer quietly steps away. Later, he confesses to Karthik that he and Lakshmi have only been pretending to be married. As Lakshmi returns, Karthik observes them thoughtfully, processing the unexpected revelation.
