His Rooh

02 | His Captivation

The Shekhawat Palace, an architectural marvel, basked in the morning glow. Its regal sandstone walls, etched with ornate patterns, glowed warmly in the morning sun, casting intricate shadows that added to the palace's ethereal beauty. As the golden rays of the rising sun caressed the palace, it seemed to come alive with a radiant glow.

Amidst this picturesque scene, the palace was abuzz with activity. Workers bustled about the kitchen and gardens, each task executed with precision. Gardeners trimmed meticulously landscaped flower beds, their vibrant colours blooming like a visual feast. 

In the bustling palace kitchen, the head chef directed a team of cooks in preparing the lavish breakfast. The clatter of pots and pans filled the air as they expertly whipped up an array of mouthwatering dishes. The aroma of spices and fresh herbs wafted through the air, a symphony of flavours in the making.

Rudraksh

The morning sun filtered through the magnificent windows, painting intricate patterns of light on the marble floor as I made my way downstairs to the royal dining room from my chamber. The marble floors echoed the rhythm of our family's hustle and bustle. Servants moved with a practised grace, arranging the long dining table with a variety of breakfast dishes. The aroma of fresh parathas wafted through the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

As I descended the grand marble staircase, I greeted Dada Sa and Dadi Sa, my grandparents, who occupied the grandest seats in the dining room. Dada Sa sat at the head of the long, polished dining table, I bowed with reverence before Dada Sa, Deepak Shekhawat, and touched his feet.

"Pranaam, Dada Sa," I said, my voice a mix of respect and affection.

"Pranaam, Rudraksh," he replied with a twinkle in his eyes. "Kal ki tayari kaisi hai?"

It was a way for him to ask about the preparations for tomorrow, about Maa and baba's 30th wedding anniversary party. "Sab tayari mein hai, Dada Sa," I assured him.

I moved to Dadi Sa, and greeted her the same way, "Dadi Sa, kaisi hain aap?"

She smiled warmly. "Bade khush," she replied, her gaze filled with affection.

From there, I moved to greet my parents, Shubham and Tanvi Shekhawat. The Maharaj and Maharani of Rajasthan, commanded respect not only as my parents but also as the elder statesmen of our family. My father was stern and disciplined, but his heart was as warm as the Rajasthani desert. "Baba, Maa," I said, bowing and touching their feet. 

I moved on to Kaka Sa and Kaki Sa and greeted them the same way, Kaki Sa kissing my forehead as a gesture of affection.

Finally, I made my way towards my seat, where the younger clan was seated. Kiara, my cousin and a bundle of energy, was already seated next to my seat. I bent down to kiss her forehead, a gesture of affection that earned a bright smile from her. My brothers, Rishi and Atharv, couldn't help but grumble at this customary display of affection.

"Arey bhai sa, you always spoil Kiara with your attention," Kiaan teased, feigning annoyance.

Rishi joined in, "Yeah, bhai sa, what about us?"

I rolled my eyes at their drama, all the family members laughing and shaking their heads at them. My family was everything to me.

I looked around to see Vikram near the window, talking quietly on his phone.

As the laughter subsided, maa cleared her throat to address the family. "Hum soch rahe the ki aaj hum sab orphanage chalte hai, kaafi din ho gaye hai" she spoke as her eyes sparkled with excitement and a mischievous glint as she continued, "Shalini aur unki family bhi vaha ayenge."