Here After!

5. Destiny's Dance: The Day We Said 'I Do'

Anu

When Mom noticed my emotional state, she gently took my hand in hers, offering reassurance that everything would be fine. Anitta and Anish joined me in the car, attempting to lighten the mood with some jokes. The journey was brief, just 10 minutes from our home, and upon arrival, we found that some guests had already arrived. I was escorted to the bridal waiting room, where I was joined by Merin, Lakshmi, and Maria along with their children. Despite my inability to fully enjoy the moment, they made an effort to lift my spirits, and we had a pleasant time together. Guests visited intermittently, and occasionally Gayu and Mom also came by, their presence comforting me. Mom affectionately patted my head and kissed my forehead, expressing her support. When they left, Merin's comment about my future mother-in-law brought me some relief, noting her demeanor as calm and understanding, unlike the stereotypical mother-in-law. We spent the time chatting and reminiscing like old times until I was called for the wedding ceremony.

I was made to sit beside Giri who passed me a laugh upon my arrival. When it was the auspicious time, some elder gave the nuptial chain to Giri and he tied the 3 sacred knots. Each knot represents a sacred commitment and blessing, the union of the couple's souls, bringing them together in a bond of love, trust, and companionship. It signifies their agreement to support and uplift each other throughout life's journey. The three knots represent the bridegroom's pledge to accept her as his wife through three channels: Manasa (thoughts), Vacha (speech), and Karmana (actions). When he was tying the knot I felt myself joining hands and praying for our fruitful life ahead. He filled vermilion on my partition symbolising our marital union and commitment.

The next moment was undoubtedly the most emotional one in my father's life. I was his first daughter, the one who had made him a father for the very first time, the one who had uttered "Father" for the first time, and the one who had followed his guidance, walking, talking, and progressing in life. As tears welled up in my eyes, Dad gently placed my hands into Giri's, who held them tightly, silently promising each other their commitment ahead. It felt as though they were silently pledging to take care of me, just as my father had done, which moved me deeply. With all marriage rituals completed, we were asked to step down from the platform, and throughout, Giri never once loosened his grip on my hands.

Once the photographers had us in their grasp, they captured numerous photos in various poses, some of which felt a bit awkward, especially when Giri held me close, his hands encircling my waist. I avoided eye contact, unsure of his feelings at the moment. Our cousins and friends joined in, and we posed for some trendy group photos. After the session concluded, I introduced my friends to Giri, who greeted them warmly and answered their questions. Later, I was called to change into another saree, this time with assistance from Giri's family. Gayu and another cousin of his helped me with the saree, and then we headed out for lunch.

As we emerged, Giri joined us. Unsure of my siblings' whereabouts, I didn't catch sight of them after our arrival. We settled down for lunch, and the famous South Indian feast, known as Sadhya, was served. Amidst the meal, we were prompted to feed each other, which we did amid playful teasing from Giri's college friends and colleagues seated opposite us. After finishing lunch, we stepped outside and joined some of his relatives, who made efforts to include me in their conversations. Anxious to find my siblings and parents, whom I hadn't seen, I felt restless. Sensing my discomfort, Giri asked Gayu to accompany me to find them, for which I was truly grateful.

Papa came over and sat beside me, sensing my fatigue, I leaned my head on his shoulder. He gently held my hands and began, "Anu, I know you're wise beyond your years, and though I may not always express it, as a father, it's natural for me to worry. Remember, you can always confide in me if you have any concerns. Your mother is just as supportive. Do you believe I rushed into this marriage, putting your happiness at stake for Anitta's sake?" Despite feeling a pang of sadness, I reassured him of my contentment. "Papa, I trust your judgment. You've always been deliberate in your decisions, even for the smallest matters. Why would I doubt you now, especially when it comes to finding a life partner for your children? Consider yourself lucky; at least you had the chance to find a match for one of us." Mom chuckled at my response, while Anitta put on a pouty expression, and Anish retorted, "How can you blame us when the problem lies with you not finding your match?" Our emotional conversation quickly turned lighthearted and playful, reflecting the warmth of our bond.

Giri's mother joined our conversation, and after a few moments, I was prompted to change once more as the time drew near for our departure to my new home. Gayu accompanied me as I changed, and when we emerged, I found Giri seated beside my father, engaged in animated conversation and laughter. Anitta's mood seemed to shift slightly, perhaps due to the presence of Pradeep's family, and Anish teased her about it. The joyful atmosphere abruptly turned somber when one of Giri's relatives announced that it was time to leave. I glanced at my father, silently pleading with him not to send me away. His eyes welled up with tears, and my mother approached, taking my hands and placing them in Giri's mother's, asking her to look after me. Anitta and Anish hugged me tightly, and we shed tears together. I noticed that Papa didn't move from his spot to see me off to the car; he simply stood there with tear-filled eyes while my siblings and I struggled to contain our emotions. Mom guided me into the car, and Giri joined me inside as it slowly began to move.

Gayu and Anil accompanied us in the car, attempting to lift the spirits with their conversation. Gradually, I found myself drawn into their discussion and realized that Giri was holding my hand; I wasn't even aware of when he had taken it. With our hands intertwined, we embarked on our new journey, filled with fresh promises for our future together 🤝.