“Let’s see how long you last,” he teased.
I gulped and looked away.
As we walked out of the chamber, King Abhinandan joined us, along with Eklavya and Ashwin. Other male guests followed. Maidens lined the path, showering me with flower petals.
The air was alive with the music of flutes, tablas, and dholaks. I inhaled deeply, searching for my mother.
I found her standing at a corner. Smiling, I walked toward her. She circled her arms over my head, warding off the evil eye.
I bent to touch her feet.
“May God give you all the love you deserve and desire,” she blessed.
Her blessing brought a broad smile to my face.
I touched Daadi-sa’s feet next.
She kissed my forehead gently.“God bless you, my child.”
Together, we walked toward the mandap.
As I climbed the steps, I saw the priest seated before the hawankund. With folded hands, I greeted everyone at once. My sword rested firmly in my hand.
“Pranaam, Panditji,” I said, touching his feet.
He blessed me.
“You may take your place now.”
I sat down, leaving my left side empty for her.
“Pray to your ancestors and the deities,” the priest instructed,“as I light the sacred fire. Invite them with a pure heart.”
Closing my eyes, I joined my palms and prayed, inviting every known and unknown divine presence to bless our union.
The priest lit the fire and placed bowls ofghee60and hawansaamagri61before me.
“I will chant the mantras,” he said,“and you will offer the aahutis to cleanse this ceremony of all evil and seek blessings from the four directions.”
I nodded, following his every cue. With each chant, I offered ghee into the fire. As the flames rose higher, the air felt sanctified and divine.
“Call the bride,” the priest announced.
My heart raced. I bit the inside of my cheek as nerves surged, but then when I sensed her presence, a smile bloomed instinctively.
I lifted my gaze and watched a group of women enter, scattering flower petals. As they parted, I saw her.
My chest tightened. Tears welled in my eyes. How far we had come.
I inhaled deeply to contain my emotions.
She looked divine.
Draped in deep red, adorned with gold, her steps were slow as if she was burdened by the weight she carried. A soft chuckle escaped me. Her face was hidden behind the veil. Red and gold bangles hugged the dark henna on her hands.
As she walked closer, I stood up without thinking and made my way down the steps.
My bhabhi-sas laughed as I extended my hand. She hesitated for a moment, then gently placed her hand in mine.
