Marriage In The Pink City

Chapter 2

Hare Krishna
Chapter 2

Sushil Sirvi had spent a typical day in his humble traditional clothing shop, arranging rows of colourful fabrics, and tending to the occasional customer who sought the timeless elegance of Rajasthani attire. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows through the shop's open doorway, when an unexpected arrival disrupted the usual rhythm of his day.

As the bells on the shop's entrance jingled merrily, Sushil turned to greet the newcomers, his brow furrowing in surprise at the sight before him. Three cars had come to a stop in front of his modest shop, a stark contrast to the grandeur of the vehicles that had graced his quiet corner of the city.

Stepping out of the first car was an old lady, her attire radiating elegance. She was draped in a resplendent yellow saree that flowed gracefully around her, and a pair of shades concealed her eyes, adding an air of mystery to her presence. Beside her stood a young man, who carried an air of formality, like an assistant devoted to his charge.

The old lady approached Sushil with an air of quiet authority, her presence commanding respect. "Namaste, Sirvi ji," she greeted him with a warm but dignified smile. "I am Alka Rathore. May I have a word with you, if you don't mind?"

Sushil Sirvi, initially taken aback by the unexpected visit, quickly regained his composure. He knew the name Rathore; it was synonymous with prestige and influence in Jaipur's social circles. With a gesture of courtesy, he welcomed his distinguished guest, "Please, ma'am, do take a seat. Can I offer you some water?"

Alka Rathore, the matriarch of the influential Rathore family, nodded graciously and accepted the offer. Sushil hurried to fetch a glass of cool, refreshing water, returning to find her seated on a wooden stool, the patterns of Rajasthani fabrics serving as a backdrop to their conversation.

The atmosphere in the shop seemed to shift, as the two individuals from vastly different worlds prepared to engage in a conversation that would connect their lives in ways neither of them could have foreseen.
Alka Rathore, her gaze concealed by stylish shades, didn't waste any time with pleasantries or small talk. With a directness that mirrored her status and authority, she began, "I met your daughter, Tanushree, a few days ago in a temple. I was instantly drawn to her kindness and grace."

Sushil Sirvi listened attentively, his curiosity piqued by her straightforwardness. Alka continued, reaching into her elegant handbag and producing a photograph. She slid it across the counter toward Sushil, who picked it up and studied it with interest.

The photograph revealed a young man with an air of sophistication, his demeanor marked by the poise of privilege. "This is my grandson," Alka declared. "He's a young man of ambition and promise."

Sushil's gaze shifted from the photograph to Alka, his understanding beginning to take shape. She went on, "I would be honoured to have your daughter, Tanushree, as the daughter-in-law of our family. ”
Sushil Sirvi, a man of deep consideration and a loving father, pondered the offer before him. He recognized the immense prestige and opportunity that a union with the Rathore family would bring to his daughter, Tanushree. After a brief pause, he spoke, his voice resonating with a blend of gratitude and caution, "I would love to do my daughter's marriage in such a reputed family. But the last word will be of my daughter."

Alka Rathore nodded understandingly, acknowledging the importance of Tanushree's choice in this life-altering decision. "Of course, Mr. Sirvi," she replied with a sense of understanding. "The happiness and consent of both parties are paramount in such matters."

With that, Alka retrieved a card from her purse and handed it to Sushil, who accepted it with a gracious nod. The card bore the insignia of the Rathore family and contact details. "Very well," she continued, "please reach out to us within a week if you and your daughter wish to go ahead with the proposal. We would be pleased to proceed."