"Since I can't be with you right now, I will have to be content just dreaming about when we will be together."
Ruhanika
The air was filled with the scent of fresh marigolds and sandalwood as the haldi ceremony began in earnest. The courtyard was alive with the sounds of traditional dholaks, the rhythmic beats adding to the celebratory air. Women adorned in rich, vibrant silk saris and gold jewelry, gleaming like the very treasures of ancient India, surrounded Princess Nandita. Their laughter and chatter reverberated as they moved gracefully to the soft, soulful tunes that played in the background.
Nandita, seated demurely on a small stool in the center, was the picture of calm grace, though the excitement in her eyes couldn't be hidden. Her glowing face mirrored the warmth and joy that the ceremony brought, her delicate features framed by strands of jasmine woven into her hair. The women, all from the highest echelons of society, crowded around her, their every movement exuding an air of regality. The first application of haldi was by her paternal aunt, who stepped forward with great reverence, holding two leaves dipped in the golden paste of turmeric and sandalwood. With gentle strokes, she applied it to the princess's face and arms, her fingers tracing blessings with each motion.
One by one, the other women followed, each contributing their portion of haldi and showering Nandita with affection and blessings for her new journey. The turmeric paste was said to purify the bride, preparing her for the next chapter of her life. The songs grew livelier, and soon the women began dancing in unison, their anklets jingling, their movements an age-old tradition passed from one generation to the next. Laughter erupted, filling the air with joy and camaraderie, yet the occasion held a certain gravity. After all, Nandita was to be married to Gautamiputra Satakarni, the crown prince of the Satavahana dynasty, in a union that held great political significance.
I stood there, watching from a distance, admiring the ceremony. Despite the grandeur of it all, my thoughts drifted to Nandita. She was still so young—barely a teenager, and already she was being ushered into a life that had been decided for her. I couldn't help but feel a pang of sorrow for her. She was innocent, kind-hearted, and sweet, but her marriage was not out of love, not yet anyway. It was an alliance, a strategic move to secure the kingdom's future. My heart ached, hoping that she would find happiness and love in her new life.
The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the palace as the ceremony came to an end. The princess, covered in golden hues of turmeric, was now ready for the next ritual. Women surrounded her, clapping and singing songs of joy. She smiled shyly, the image of a perfect princess, unaware of the heavy responsibilities that would soon befall her young shoulders.
As the evening drew on, the princess sought the comfort of her mother, Queen Anamika. I watched as she ran toward her mother, her innocent giggle ringing through the air, her youth evident in the way she clung to her. Their bond was unbreakable, filled with love and tenderness. It was a bittersweet sight, knowing that soon she would be leaving this place and stepping into the unknown.
With the ceremony now complete and the princess occupied with her mother, I felt an overwhelming sense of exhaustion creeping in. The day had been long, filled with rituals and traditions, and I longed for a moment of peace. My mind was clouded with thoughts of my own troubles—of the decisions I had made, and the heartache that weighed heavily on me. I decided to visit Janki Amma and spend some time with her. Maya was still preoccupied with the preparations for the wedding, but Janki Amma had always been a comforting presence. She had a way of making everything seem less overwhelming, her wisdom and kindness a balm to my restless heart.
As I walked through the palace corridors, the soft glow of the torches lighting my path, I took a moment to admire the beauty of the royal gardens. The flowers were in full bloom, their colors vivid against the darkening sky, and the scent of jasmine filled the air. It was peaceful, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions I was feeling inside.
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Beyond Destiny ~ A Saga Of Timeless Love
Random"We shouldn't play with fire, Rooh," He spoke near my ears, pecking my jawline. I was breathing erratically unable to encompass my perturbation. "What if I want to play with it?" I said, my voice sensual, subduing my thudding heart. His hand went t...
