Apu finally begins enjoying the benefits of being single when a charity bachelor auction nets him dates with five different women. But his newfound happiness is cut short when his mother mails him a lotus flower from his native India. Apu explains to Homer that the flower signifies his arranged marriage to a woman he hasn’t seen in twenty years. Homer suggests that Apu tell his mother he has already married. Left with no other choice, Apu takes Homer’s advice and phones his mother with the news. The ruse works and Apu continues enjoying the bachelor life. Unexpectedly, Apu’s mother journeys to the United States to meet her son’s bride. Panic-stricken, Apu ask Homer for his help. Homer asks an incredulous Marge if she will pretend to be Apu’s wife. Hesitant, but seeing desperation in Apu’s eyes, Marge plays along with the charade.

Apu’s mother cannot hide her disappointment in Marge. To add insult to injury, Marge introduces Apu’s mother to her new “grandchildren,” Bart and Lisa. With no where else to go, Homer moves into Grampa’s nursing home and soon grows accustomed to be waited on hand and foot. But a nurse ascertains Homer’s true identity and kicks him off the premises. Homer returns home and beds with Marge. When Mrs. Nahasapeemapetilon catches the pair sleeping together, the charade unravels and Apu admits the truth.

Mrs. Nahasapeemapetilon flies her son’s bride, Manjula, to the United States. Apu laments that it is impossible for two people who have not seen one another in twenty years to fall in love, but he nonetheless complies with his mother’s wish. A sad Apu arrives at the wedding ceremony atop a decorated elephant, then takes his place in front of a sacred fire. When Manjula, a stunningly beautiful young woman, steps from a ceremonial tent, Apu’s jaw drops in disbelief. The pair take an immediate liking towards one another and they are wed.