The day after Ganpati Bappa brought even more joy and celebration to Abhiya's home. It was a time of togetherness and laughter, and as the evening approached, they gathered around the beautifully adorned Ganpati idol for the final prayers.
In the cozy kitchen of their home, Jiya and Abhishek were engrossed in a delightful task - preparing ladoos and modaks for Ganpati Bappa. The aroma of ghee and cardamom filled the air as they worked side by side.
Jiya: (teasing) Abhishek, I bet my ladoos will be tastier than yours.
Abhishek: (playful) Oh, really? Challenge accepted! Let's see who makes the better modaks too.
As they playfully competed, flour dusting their hands and faces, their laughter rang through the kitchen. Jiya couldn't resist the urge to flick a bit of flour onto Abhishek's nose.
Jiya: (grinning mischievously) Oops, did I do that?
Abhishek: (feigning shock) Jiya, you're in for it now! You want it? You are asking for it, you're dying for it!!
He retaliated by flicking a bit of flour back at her, setting off a flour fight that left them both covered in white dust.
Jiya: (laughing) You asked for it, Abhishek!
Abhishek: (chuckling) You started it, Jiya!
Their playful banter continued as they molded the sweet treats, occasionally stealing glances filled with affection. Jiya's fingers brushed against Abhishek's, and he took the opportunity to intertwine them.
Jiya: (softly) You know, making sweets for Ganpati together feels so special.
Abhishek: (smiling) It does, Jiya. Just like every moment we spend together.
Their banter shifted to a more tender tone as Abhishek leaned closer, planting a sweet kiss on Jiya's flour-covered cheek. She blushed, but her eyes sparkled with happiness.
Jiya: (blushing) Abhishek, not with flour all over us! Ganpatii bappa hume dekh rhe hai
Abhishek: (grinning) I couldn't resist. You're irresistible. Haan toh ganpati bappa bhi karte honge na apni wife ko kiss!! Kyun bappa?
Abhishek (in tone of ganpati): Haan haan wahi! Yeh ladkiya itna sharmati hai
Jiya(laughing): abhiii!! Gadhaaa
Their playful antics and sweet romance continued as they filled the kitchen with laughter, love, and the delicious aroma of freshly made ladoos and modaks. Ganpati Bappa would surely be pleased with the offerings of their love and togetherness.
——-
As tradition dictated, each member of the family was asked to make a wish. Jiya and Abhishek exchanged knowing glances, their wishes not a secret to each other.
One by one, everyone closed their eyes and made silent wishes, hoping for happiness, prosperity, and love. Abhishek and Jiya stood side by side, their hands intertwined, and they exchanged knowing smiles.
Abhishek (whispering): (to Jiya) I know what I'm wishing for.
Jiya (whispering): (to Abhishek) Me too, Abhishek, me too.
Their wishes weren't for personal gain but for each other's well-being and happiness. They had learned that true love was about giving more than receiving, and their hearts were full of love and gratitude.
———
After the aarti, the night was filled with joyous celebrations. Everyone sang bhajans, danced, and shared stories. Ganpati Bappa's presence seemed to bless the entire house.
