HARIHARESHWARI 13 : DVOU PADOU VRISHABHAH

CHAPTER 20

Shankaraakshya stood behind a tree on top of a hill, gazing down at the temple premises where devotees were gathering with offerings and hearts filled with reverence.

The temple complex buzzes with a palpable energy, as the festivities begin with an enchanting procession. Some young girls and women were being carried in palanquins, dressed exquisitely. They were being felicitated and honoured by the priests, for these ladies were sharing their menstrual cycles with Harihareshwari.

Engaging in special rituals, women of all ages gather together to honor their own menstruation cycles and connect with the divine feminine energy, sharing solace in the shared experience of womanhood.

Today all the priests and men stood outside, the temple being looked after by the priestesses and only women were allowed to enter.

Melodious chants and devotional hymns permeated the atmosphere, incense wafted through the air, intertwining with the scent of freshly bloomed flowers, inviting a sense of sacredness and purification.

Traditional dances and performances by skilled artists paint the open courtyard with grace and elegance. Dancers, adorned in resplendent attire, move rhythmically to the beat of traditional instruments, depicting the ebb and flow of life's cycles.

Shankaraakshya kept looking at the festivities with awe. Oh how he hoped to be a human, so he could participate also. If only he could be. Maybe in next life. But what are the odds of that ? What are the odds ? There is a chance if the one who gave him life, decides to give him a human one.

A wide smile appeared on his face, as the possible solution to his existential problems came to his mind.

"Yadi mai Mata ka anushthan karu, toh kadachit.... Kadachit woh mujhe manushya yoni mei janm ka saubhagya de...." He breathed out.

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Golden flames were dancing beneath a gleaming copper pot. As the water began its melodic dance to a gentle boil, Srinav arranged the freshly plucked nettle leaves with utmost care in the vessel, their vivid green hues foretelling their healing properties.

He skillfully brewed the special tea. The gentle aroma of earthy sweetness filled the air, carrying with it a sense of comfort and relaxation.

He carefully measured each ingredient, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and restorative qualities. As the hot water kissed the blend of herbs, vibrant colors infused the liquid, turning it into a mesmerizing elixir.

With a serene smile gracing his divine countenance, he poured the steaming tea into a gem-studded cup. Holding the warm cup in his hands, he went through the sunlit halls and corridors, adorned with intricate carvings, making his way to their private sanctuary.

As Srinav entered his room, he saw his beloved Amarsri standing in the balcony, staring outside. She had shedded her external embellishments, her true essence shone through. Her hair was open and unrestricted, cascading freely, flowing like dark liquid silk, symbolizing her connection to the untamed forces of nature. A red saree loosely clung to her figure, each fold wrapped and pleated delicately.

A smile appeared on the lips of Srinav, as he lovingly gazed at such a raw and vulnerable beauty in front of him. In her simplicity, she emanated a beguiling charm that enchanted him more than her well adorned form.

He went towards her and stood beside, presenting the cup of nettle tea to her. She accepted it with a smile, holding the steaming tea cup in her hands, allowing it to cool down a little.

"Kya dekh rahi hai, Devi ?" Srinav asked.

"Shankaraakshya ko." Amarsri said in a gentle voice, "Yu toh mere kai bhakt hai, kintu iske prati mujhe aseemit vatsalya ka anubhav hota hai." She said.

"Iss balak ki pavitra aur bholepan ne toh mujhe bhi akarshit kiya hai. Asur hoke bhi, Asuri vikaaro se mukt hai woh." Srinav said, for he too was fond of the little son of Jabala.

Amarsri nodded in agreement before inhaling the fragrant steam rising from the cup, she took a gentle sip, her eyes closing in surrender. The velvety warmth spread through her being like a gentle kiss of life, chasing away the weariness.

"Kintu ab aapko vishram karna chahiye. Baaki sab kuch mai sambhaal lunga." He said, extending his hand towards his beloved wife. His eyes were expressing warmth and tender concern for her well-being.

Holding his hands, a wave of comfort enveloped Amarsri. Srinav took her to a darbha mat, and makes her sit on it, for the mat will give her respite from discomfort.

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A/N

Oh how ancient Indians treated women with such care, especially during menstruation ✨✨

If you want how menstruation was seen in ancient India or the coping methods used by women, then there is a chapter on it in my book 'BHARATVARSH' which I had published some months back. Do check it out if you want.