Author's POV

Today, the grand wedding of the Rathore Prince and Chauhan Princess is set to take place at the City Palace of Udaipur, intertwining both royal families once again. Every nook and corner of the palace is adorned with beautiful and fresh flowers, candles, and diyas, transforming the palace into a celestial abode.

The intoxicating fragrances of roses and jasmines permeate the air, creating an ethereal ambiance of festivity and spirituality that touches the souls of all present to witness the sacred union. It feels as if the gods and goddesses themselves have descended to bless the union, leaving behind an aura of serenity and togetherness throughout the entire palace. The unparalleled beauty of the palace exudes a heavenly vibe, as if the very heavens have opened up to celebrate this sacred bond.

The mandap, nestled amidst the tranquil waters of a beautiful pond at the heart of the ancient open-air auditorium, stood as a masterpiece of design. 

A melody of peaceful music of the flute and the veena filled the air, perfectly synchronized with the auspicious occasion, creating a harmonious backdrop to the celestial union taking place.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the palace, it seemed as though time itself has paused to savor the magnificence of this royal wedding. 

INSIDE ABHIMANYU'S ROOM

"Haan haan...bas aise hi," Abhishree commanded the assistants of the designer to place the dupatta of the sherwani just the way she wanted. Abhimanyu looked at his sister with affection. He cared less about how the dupatta needed to be set; he was content that his sister was satisfied with his look.

(Yes yes...just like that)

Abhimanyu donned a heavily embroidered off-white sherwani, enriched with intricate golden threadwork, exuding the air of the rightful King of Marwar. An emerald kalgi graced his safa while a three- tier pearl and emerald necklace adorned his neckline completing the royal look. He as usual had his Rolex on.

"Wah mere sher! Aaj to aang lagadoge aap," Shree said, grinning while looking at her brother.

(Wow, my lion! Today you will set the stage on fire.)

Abhimanyu bent down to reach her height and said, "Kabse mujhse aise baat karne lagi hai tu?"

(Since when have you started talking to me like this?)

"Jabse aap itna sundar lagne lage ho," she replied still smiling. 

(Since you started looking so beautiful)

"Mai humesha sundar tha. Teri aankhein abhi khuli hain. Nahi to Samrat jaise ladke se shaadi kaise karti tu?" Abhimanyu teased.

(I was always beautiful. Your eyes have just opened now. Otherwise, how could you marry a boy like Samrat?)

"Mai acha hi dikhta hoon, thik hai," Samrat said from behind. Abhimanyu's friends were present in his room, and they chuckled at the trio's banter.

(I look good, okay!)

"Nahi bhaiyaa! Aapne sach kaha hain. Meri aankhein abhi khuli hain, nahi to isse kaun shaadi karta?" Abhishree said dramatically, making the other men in the room burst out in laughter.

(No brother! You spoke the truth. My eyes have just opened, otherwise who would marry him?)

"Karlo, karlo. Ek baar iska shaadi ho jaaye mere behen ke saath, phir dekhna hum dono milkar tum dono ko kaise satate hain," Samrat retorted, fake glaring at Abhishree, who gave him a sweet smile.

(Go ahead, go ahead. Once he gets married to my sister, then see how we both together tease both of you)

"Oho! Mujhe use bhi check karne jana hai. Samrat, aap bhai ko mandap me baithake aajao Samyukta ke room pe," Shree instructed.

(Oh! I also need to check on her. Samrat, you go and seat brother at the wedding pavilion and come to Samyukta's room)

"Ok, wife!" Samrat said in a teasing manner. In return, he got a scowl from her.

Abhimanyu observed his sister and his best friend, appreciating how cute they looked together and how genuinely happy they were with each other. Their casual banter is a living proof of it. He hoped that his reserved nature wouldn't cause any hindrance in his and Samyukta's relationship.

"Oh yes! Main to main cheez bhool hi gayi. Bhaiyaa...ye aapke liye." Shree came briskly towards her brother and forwarded him a box of a Rolex watch.

(Oh yes! I completely forgot about the main thing. Brother...this is for you.)

Abhimanyu was amused by her action. He opened the box and found a beautiful Rolex watch with a green dial and a golden chain, perfectly suiting his look. He took out his Rolex, which he was already wearing, and wore the one given by his little sister.

"Bahut acha hai," he said.

(Very beautiful)

"Hehe... Chalo bye," she said and ran towards Samyukta's room.

SAMYUKTA'S ROOM

Samyukta couldn't take rest at all. Immediately after finishing her lunch, she had to proceed with her makeup session. The makeup artist, accompanied by his team, was waiting in her room.

Upon entering her room, the artist instructed Samyukta to put on the blouse of her lehenga and take a seat. She adorned the blouse and paired it with comfortable jeans before settling onto the couch placed in front of a mirror.

As Samyukta sat on the couch, the makeup artist, armed with a palette of colors and an array of brushes, began the meticulous process of accentuating her features. He delicately applied foundation, creating a flawless base that seamlessly blended with her skin tone. The soft hum of conversation filled the room as the artist and his team worked together, ensuring every detail was perfect.

He enhanced Samyukta's eyes, delicately outlining them with eyeliner and adding a touch of shimmering eyeshadow that complemented the hues of her lehenga. The artist paid careful attention to every nuance, ensuring that Samyukta's makeup would stand out as the epitome of beauty among all on her special day.

As the final strokes were applied, Samyukta gazed into the mirror and saw a reflection that perfectly blended tradition with modern elegance. A subtle smile played on her lips.

As she completed her look by adorning the remaining part of her lehenga and draping herself in the carefully chosen jewelry, bejeweled with precious stones and metals intricately crafted, she transformed into the epitome of regal elegance. The royal maroon coloured lehenga, with its ornate details added a touch of grandeur to her ensemble.

Soon, her parents arrived with the family veil in their hands. Samyukta looked at them through the mirror while sitting on the couch. An exchange of affection took place between them without any exchange of words. They both smiled, looking at how queenly their daughter looked. Sarla's hands trembled ever so slightly, not just from the weight of the delicate fabric but from the profound realization that her daughter was embarking on the voyage of a new chapter. Ranvijay Singh Rathore's eyes mirrored the journey of a father, watching his daughter transform into a bride. While he maintained composure, a subtle quiver in his voice and the prideful gleam in his eyes revealed the depth of his emotions.

"Bahut sundar lag rahi hai humari bacchi," he said, quivering.

(Our child is looking very beautiful)

"Ekdam rani," Sarla added. She smiled at their compliments.

(Totally a queen)

Samyukta felt a gentle touch of reassurance as the veil settled on her head. It was not merely a piece of cloth but a mantle of family heritage, love, and protection. The subtle fragrance of the veil carried whispers of bygone moments, maternal lullabies, and the unspoken promises that had shaped her journey.

Standing there, adorned in her regal attire, Samyukta exuded a majestic aura that suited her status.

By the time she finished with her dressing and makeup, the clock had already struck seven in the evening. Stepping toward the window of her room, Samyukta couldn't resist the urge to witness the gradual gathering of the crowd. The palace, adorned in resplendent hues, boasted a breathtaking display of fresh flowers, twinkling diyas, and flickering candles that painted a picture of enchantment and festivity. The air itself seemed to shimmer with anticipation, as if every decoration held a story waiting to unfold in the magical moments of the upcoming celebration.

As she awaited the moment just before her marriage, a whirlwind of emotions dances within her. Nervous excitement coursed through her veins, and the weight of the bridal attire served as a poignant reminder of the significance of this day.

As the anticipation built, Abhishree, entered the room to check on her. With a warm smile and an understanding gaze, Abhishree brought a sense of comfort and reassurance. 

"You look beautiful, Sam." She said.

"Thanks but yaar, I'm feeling super nervous" Samyukta revealed.

"Nerves are completely normal, Sam."  

"I don't know. I feel a weird sensation inside my stomach. Excited, anxious, happy—sab kuch at once. It's surreal, you know?" Samyukta confessed, taking a deep breath as if trying to calm the fluttering emotions within.

(everything)

"You're on the verge of a beautiful journey, Sam. Embrace those feelings." Shree advised, offering comfort. "You'll do fine, dear. I know it. You want some water?" 

"Hmm...haan. I just now realized my throat is drying," Samyukta admitted.

Shree handed her a glass of water from the desk beside the bed. . "Take a sip. Sab kuch thik se ho jayega. You and Bhaiyaa are meant for each other."

(Everything will be fine)

Abhishree observed Samyukta's makeup, ensuring every detail was perfect. She adjusted a stray strand of hair and straightened the pleats of the lehenga.

"You're slaying, Sam. Bhaiyaa won't know what hit him."

Samyukta smiled at her compliment. At the mention of Abhimanyu, she wondered how he might be looking in his attire...

"Sam, we'll be shortly called for the bridal entry. The wedding rituals have started with Bhaiyaa, and Samrat will come to escort you. Okay?"

"Yes. It's just... it's a lot, you know?" She said nervously.

"I understand, Sam. But trust me, once you step into that moment, everything else will fade away. You'll be in your own fairytale."

Samyukta took a deep breath, finding solace in Shree's comforting words.

"Now, let's make sure everything is in place. Your dress, your jewelry—"

"And my nerves?" Samyukta said interrupting.

"Especially those. Now, let's get you ready for the grand entrance." Shree laughed and said.

As they made the final adjustments, the realization that the moment they had been preparing for was finally here brought a new wave of emotions. 

Shree decided to give Samyukta her gift. She pulled out a white box from her clutch and handed it to her best friend, who gave her a questioning look. She opened the box and smiled while looking at the gift.

"It's beautiful. I'll wear it," Samyukta said. Shree smiled at her response.

Samyukta pushed her bangles a little behind and adorned her left wrist with the watch.

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As Abhimanyu took his seat in the mandap, surrounded by the ornate decorations and the auspicious aura, a mix of emotions surged within him. The intricacies of the mandap, adorned with flowers and symbols of sacredness, seemed to amplify the significance of the moment.

He felt a sense of anticipation, a realization that this was the culmination of not just him and Samyukta but the union of two families and their legacies. The weight of responsibility settled on his shoulders. The traditional rituals that commenced before him carried a gravity that made his heartbeat resonate with the centuries-old customs.

As the priest chanted the Vedic hymns and the sacred fire flickered, Abhimanyu's gaze wandered to the entrance, awaiting the arrival of his bride. There was a subtle nervousness, a flutter in his stomach.

Abhimanyu stole glances at his family and friends, witnessing their smiles. The fragrance of incense and flowers and the melodious hymns created a backdrop for introspection, as he contemplated the vows he was about to take.

As the wedding rituals unfolded, the mandap became a symbolic stage where past, present, and future converged, and as he awaited Samyukta's arrival, the gravity of the occasion settled deep within his heart.

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INSIDE SAMYUKTA'S ROOM

Samrat entered the room with a grin, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Hey, ready to steal the show?" He asked.

"I don't know about stealing the show, but I'm hoping not to trip over this lehenga." She smirked and replied. 

"Don't worry, I got your back." he laughed and said.

She smiled and sighed a heavy breath.

"Rukjaa. I got something for you." Samrat said.

(Wait)

"Kya laya aapne?" She asked.

(What did you bring?)

"Kuch nhi. Bas tere look me thora swag lana tha mujhe." He replied smirking.

(Nothing. I just wanted to add some swag to your look)

He slipped a beautiful ruby bracelet onto Samyukta's right hand.

 "Bhai, where did you get this? Bahut sunder hai!" Samyukta asked surprised.

(it's very beautiful!)

"Pata hai mujhe. Mera taste hai hi itna acha. Isiliye to jab hum tujhe adopt karne gaye the tab maa na mujhe choose karne ko kahan or maine tujhe choose kiya or dekh tu bhi kitni sundar nikli." Samrat said dramatically with pride. Samyukta rolled her eyes at his words and soon both of them burst into peals of laughter.

(I know. My taste is so good. That's why when we went to adopt you, Mom told me to choose, and I chose you. Look, you turned out so beautiful too.)

"Abhi chal, Sammu." 

(Let's go, Sammu)

"Chaliye."

(Let's go.)

As they walked through the corridor, their banter continued, easing Samyukta's nerves. 

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As the soft strains of the wedding melody filled the air, a hushed anticipation settled over the venue. The entrance of the bride became a moment that tugged at the heartstrings of everyone present. Draped in a breathtaking ensemble, she walked down the aisle. The aisle transformed into a path of dreams, adorned with floral arrangements and the warm glow of golden lights.

Sarla and Nandini standing on either side of the aisle, witnessed this emotional journey with hearts full of joy. Nandini's eyes were glistening with tears of happiness. She felt a profound sense of peace. Seeing her son marry a woman like Samyukta filled her with immense contentment. She had known Samyukta since the day she was born, and the bond between the families was one of deep affection. She had always wished for Samyukta to become her daughter-in-law.

On the other hand, Sarla couldn't help but shed tears of joy. Seeing Samyukta begin this journey with a man who would always protect her, she felt solace, knowing that her daughter was entering a secure alliance.

Samyukta's father, overwhelmed with emotion, watched as his beloved daughter, the apple of his eyes, take steps towards a new phase of life.

At the end of the aisle, Abhimanyu awaited with a lump in his throat, watching Samyukta's approach. The world around him seemed to fade into a hush as her graceful steps drew nearer.

As Samyukta approached the mandap, a whirlwind of emotions enveloped her. The weight of the bridal attire seemed to lift with every step, replaced by the buoyancy of anticipation. The gentle rustle of her attire accompanied the rhythm of her steps, each one carrying her closer to a new chapter. With every passing moment, the world around her transformed into a blur, leaving only the image of Abhimanyu standing at the end of the aisle.  

As she gracefully reached the mandap, she was guided to stand on the left side of Abhimanyu, facing him.   

The jaimala ceremony ensued, the moment when they exchanged garlands. They held eye contact for a moment and progressed with the exchange which was initiated by Samyukta. Due to his 6'2" height she had to stand on her toes. Sensing the situation he bent down for her to put the garland around his neck. As Samyukta delicately placed the garland, an inadvertent touch of her fingers against a vein on Abhimanyu's nape sent a shiver through her, and her heart fluttered in response. Abhimanyu, in turn, gracefully adorned her with the garland over the veil. The vibrant cheers and hoots from the gathered guests added to the festive atmosphere, making Samyukta blush.

Once settled at her place, she couldn't resist stealing a glance at him, and to her delight, he was already looking at her. Their eyes met, and a spontaneous smile passed between them.

"You look beautiful." Abhimanyu whispered.

A gentle blush graced Samyukta's cheeks.

"Thank you. You look good too." Handsome!

"Thanks."

This brief exchange created a subtle sense of comfort and excitement.

As the rituals progressed, the ceremony of kanyadan unfolded. Ranvijay Chauhan, with his wife, Sarla Ranvijay Chauhan by his side, performed the rites with utmost devotion. Emotions ran high, especially in Ranvijay's expressions, reflecting the profound significance of giving away his daughter in marriage. The atmosphere resonated with a mix of joy, nostalgia, and the poignant beauty of a father entrusting his daughter to a new beginning.

Following the jaimala and kanyadan ceremonies, the sacred ritual of Satapdi commenced. The priest chanted the mantra, and seven betel nuts were placed on a sacred thread. The couple held the thread together, signifying their commitment to supporting each other in seven different aspects of life - health, wealth, happiness, progeny, long life, harmony, and understanding. The fragrance of incense lingered in the air, and the soft murmurs of prayers added a serene backdrop to the sacred moment. 

As soon as Samyukta placed her palm over his, a current seemed to surge through both of them, setting their hearts racing. Amidst the ongoing mantra chanting and the melodic tunes of the veena, their own heartbeats resonated so loudly that it felt as if the entire universe could hear their hearts. In the midst of the ritual, they exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the profound vows they were making with a tint of awkwardness. Abhimanyu guided Samyukta to take seven steps around the sacred fire, each step representing vows of love, understanding, and mutual respect.

The rhythmic chants of the priest and the flickering flames of the agni bore witness to their sacred union. As the echoes of the priest's blessings lingered, the couple stood together, ready to face the world united, their hearts and souls now bound by the sacred promises they made.

Finally, the most awaited moment came to a halt as Abhimanyu was asked to tie the sacred thread around Samyukta's neck. He held the golden thread with black beads in his hands and leaned over to her, gently tying it around her neck. His fingers delicately brushed against her nape as he secured the thread, sending a subtle shiver through her.

Next, the priest instructed him to fill the partition of her hairline with the sacred red powder, the sindoor. Abhimanyu delicately pinched some of the vermilion from the box, and as his hand approached her forehead, he couldn't help but notice its slight tremor, a manifestation of the overwhelming emotions within. When he glanced at her, he found her eyes closed, immersed in the solemnity of the moment. For a brief instant, he lost himself in the ethereal beauty before him. Gathering himself, he tenderly filled her hairline partition with the vermilion, marking her as his own. Some of the powder fell on her nose which is cherished as a fortuitous omen, believed to bring happiness and luck to the couple's life together.

They were announced married as vibrant red rose petals cascaded down upon the newlywed couple, symbolizing the shower of blessings and love from all those present.

After all the rituals ended, the couple settled in the couch specially decorated for them. People came and congratulated them. This time Samyukta's friends were successful in stealing the groom's shoes. 

"Humne socha tha ki Abhishree ko hum team mein nahi lenge, lekin usne to ekdam checkmate kar diya. Apne bhai se Samyukta ki shaadi karwa di!" Ananya said, and everyone broke into laughter.

(We thought we wouldn't include Abhishree in our team, but she completely checkmated us. She got Samyukta married to her brother!)

The room erupted in laughter again. Naina, overcome with joy, couldn't contain herself, "Congratulations to us, guys!"

"Cheers!" echoed the jubilant cheers from the bride's team, sealing their victory in the playful joota chupai ceremony. 

"All thanks to Samrat bhaiyaa." Shikha said.

"Yes. Thank you Samrat bhaiyaa. Aapke friends ke saath aap hi sabse achha deal kar sakte hain." Anhsika said eyeing Amrit. Everybody understood the hidden meaning in her words. Amrit raised an eyebrow to her which she royally ignored. 

(Only you can deal with your friends.)

Soon, everyone dispersed to have dinner and enjoy the night leaving the couple alone in each others company. 

Suddenly, Samyukta's stomach growled in hunger enough loudly for Abhimanyu to hear. He raised an eyebrow and asked, "Seems like you're starving again."

Samyukta, slightly embarrassed, responded with a sheepish grin, "I had to... until the wedding."

"You want to eat now?" 

Samyukta eagerly nodded making Abhimanyu smile at her cuteness. He signaled one of his men to come to him. When the man came he ordered him to bring a house helper from the palace to get interrupted by Samyukta.

"No, no! I can't eat now," she exclaimed. Abhimanyu raised a questioning eyebrow, silently inquiring about the sudden change of heart.

"Actually, there are some more rituals to be performed." She completed. He huffed in response and send his man back. 

After sometime, Nandini and Sarla came to them.

"Both of you come with us." Sarla ordered them.

They both followed behind their mothers into the palace. They stopped at the dinning space where two brass plates along with brass bowls and spoons were decorated with delicious foods. 

"You both have to feed each other." Nandini explained. They looked at them with shock. Nandini sensing their shock continued, "only the first bite..." Samyukta exhaled the breathe she was holding. 

The ladies ordered their children to sit beside each other. After they got themselves seated, Nandini asked Samyukta to initiate the ritual. 

Taking a brass spoon, Samyukta dipped it into the mound of pulao at the center of the plate, gathering a small amount of the rice dish. She extended the spoon towards Abhimanyu's mouth. He accepted it, holding an intense eye contact that added a layer of tension to the moment.

"Now, Abhimanyu beta, you feed her," Sarla interjected, breaking the magnetic eye contact between the couple.

Abhimanyu dipped the golden spoon into the kheer and offered it to Samyukta. In a low, audible voice, he suggested, "Let's start with something sweet."

She took the spoon in her mouth very elegantly and ate the dessert. Abhimanyu watched her rosy pink lips encircling the spoon. Beautiful. After she left the spoon, she licked the drop of the sweet liquid smeared on her lower lip. All of her actions were raising some kind of tension in his body making his heart speed. 

"Now, you both can help yourselves. Ask Ravi if you guys need anything. He's in the kitchen, okay." Sarla explained.

The couple nodded and the mother left them alone in each other's company. Samyukta smiled at Abhimanyu and started eating. Abhimanyu did the same. They didn't talk much while eating, just stole glances at each other occasionally. 

"Can you pass me the dal?" Abhimanyu asked Samyukta breaking her trance.

"Uh...sure." She forwarded the bowl of dal towards him. "Shall I serve you?"

"Sure, if you want to." Abhimanyu replied.

Taking a moment to serve him the dal, Samyukta felt a blossoming happiness within her. The simple act of serving her husband resonated with a newfound sense of companionship. My husband. She thought.

While she was serving him, he noticed that she wore the same watch as him.

"Seems like Shree got us couple watches." He chuckled and remarked.

Upon noticing him wear the same watch she hummed appreciating her friend's thoughtfulness.

They ate in silence. Samyukta finished before him due to how much less she ate compared to him. She noticed he ate two servings of rice, five rotis, two servings of all the other dishes while all she ate was one serving of rice, one roti and one serving of all other dishes. My husband eats like a hulk. 

Samyukta waited for him to finish after which the both left to wash their hands together. 

"What're we supposed to do now?" Abhimanyu asked her while drying his hands with a towel.

"I guess we've to go back to the venue." She replied.

They left for the venue. While going to the lawn, he lifted the hem of her lehenga. Samyukta's heart fluttered at his gesture, and a small, content smile graced her face as they walked to their couch. 

The night concluded as the last notes of revelry faded away, and the guests gracefully made their way to their respective chambers. Both Abhimanyu and Samyukta were exhausted from the day's elaborate ceremonies.

"You both will sleep in your own rooms today." Nandini said both of them to which they nodded.

"Yes, tomorrow is your first night!" Abhishree teased with a mischievous grin, causing an adorable blush to paint the couple's faces.

"Abhimanyu, we can't open the Saubhagya Bandhan today. So hand over your dupatta to Samyukta. She'll take it to her room with her." Nandini explained. 

Abhimanyu forwarded his dupatta to his wife who took it from his hands while looking down on the floor. As Samyukta held the fabric in her hands, the lingering scent of Abhimanyu enveloped her, creating a flutter of emotions in her stomach. With that, she departed for her room alongside Abhishree.

As soon as she entered her room, she started undressing herself. Abhishree helped her unstyle her hair and remove hundreds of pins placed in the hair. After about forty-five minutes, her hair was completely undone, making the girls sigh in relief. Samyukta took a refreshing warm bath, did her skincare, and went to bed in a satin midi nightgown. As soon as her back hit the bed, she fell into a deep slumber.

On the other side, Abhimanyu also removed his sherwani, placing it carefully in the wardrobe. After a quick shower, he checked and replied to some emails before heading to bed.

Tomorrow, their married life begins—a shared space of adjustments, and the unveiling of countless moments to cherish.

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