Anupama
Anupama – April 5, 2024 Written Update
The Weight of Expectations
The Shah house is abuzz with chatter. Anupama bustles around, preparing breakfast for the family. Vanraj sits at the table, a frown etched on his face. Kavya enters, dressed for work.
Kavya: Good morning everyone. Ready for another exciting day?
Vanraj: (Grunts)
Anupama notices the tension between them.
Anupama: (Concerned) What’s wrong, Vanraj? Did something happen?
Vanraj: Just the usual office politics. Nothing to worry about.
Kavya, sensing his reluctance, speaks up.
Kavya: Actually, Anupama aunty, there’s something I wanted to discuss. Mr. Shah here isn’t too thrilled about it.
Anupama: (Raises an eyebrow) Discussion? About what?
Kavya: My promotion. I got promoted to Associate Director!
An ecstatic Kavya shares the news, but Vanraj remains stoic. A complicated mix of emotions – pride and insecurity – cloud his face. Anupama offers a genuine smile.
Anupama: Kavya, that’s fantastic news! Congratulations!
Kavya: Thank you, Anupama aunty. I’m really happy, but…
Vanraj: (Interrupting) But what?
Kavya: But it seems to be bothering you.
Vanraj: (Defensive) Not at all. I’m happy for your success.
Anupama: (Observing them) Vanraj, be honest. How are you feeling about this?
Vanraj: It’s just… unexpected. I’m used to being the one with the bigger responsibility at work.
Anupama: (Gently) Vanraj, times change. This is Kavya’s achievement, be proud of her. Maybe it’s an opportunity for you to explore new aspects of your career too.
Vanraj: Maybe. But it’s not easy seeing your wife climb the corporate ladder faster than you.
Anupama understands his insecurities. She knows his ego has taken a hit after his separation and Kavya’s success.
Anupama: Vanraj, success isn’t a competition. Be happy for Kavya, and focus on finding your own path.
Later at the Dance Academy
Anupama practices with her students, her worries about Vanraj lingering. Samar enters, looking glum.
Anupama: (Concerned) What’s wrong, Samar? You look troubled.
Samar: (Sighs) It’s Nandini. We had a fight again.
Anupama: About what this time?
Samar: The usual. She wants to get a job, be independent. But I worry about her working, especially with her health condition.
Anupama: (Understanding) I see. You want to protect her, but sometimes overprotectiveness can be suffocating.
Samar: But what if something happens to her? I can’t bear to see her struggle.
Anupama: Talk to her, Samar. Understand her perspective. Maybe you can find a middle ground. Nandini is strong, capable. Let her spread her wings.
Samar: (Ponders) Maybe you’re right, Anupama aunty. I’ll try talking to her calmly.
At the Cafe
Anupama meets with Anuj at the cafe. They discuss the upcoming dance competition.
Anuj: The students are all so excited. You’ve instilled a real passion for dance in them.
Anupama: It’s their dedication that matters. I’m just guiding them. But tell me, Anuj, how are things with you and Maya?
Anuj: (A shadow crosses his face) We’re managing. Maya isn’t too happy about the limited contact with her father. It’s a delicate situation.
Anupama: It wouldn’t be easy for any child. Have you tried talking to him?
Anuj: He’s not receptive. Thinks I’m trying to take Maya away.
Anupama: Give it time, Anuj. Maybe with patience, things will change.
Anuj: (Takes a deep breath) Maybe. But on a lighter note, have you given any thought to our dance routine?
Anupama: (Smiles) I have a
