The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton

The Raja Mata

Minnal Kumari stifled a giggle behind her hand as she watched the exotic dancer sashay past.

"Can you believe her?" she whispered to her sister Anjali Kumari. "Throwing herself at the Maharaja like that!"

Anjali's eyes widened. "I wonder if he'll actually take her to bed?" She leaned in, voice dropping conspiratorially. "I heard he has a new lover every week!"

"Anjali!" Minnal swatted her sister's arm playfully. "You shouldn't spread such rumors." But her eyes sparked with curiosity.

Just then, the stately figure of Raja Mata Janaki Devi swept into the hall, silencing the gossiping courtiers with her imposing presence. Trailing behind her was a mousy attendant struggling under the weight of her regal train.

Raja Mata Janaki Devi entered the hall with a straight back and a regal aura, her colorful silk saree shimmering in the candlelight. Her face was stern and commanding, and the courtiers quickly lowered their heads in respect. Her attendant trailed behind her, struggling to hold up the heavy train of her saree, her small frame appearing almost insignificant compared to the queen's grandeur.

Janaki Devi paused beside a marble column, sharp gaze assessing the hall. With an impatient snap of her fingers, she addressed the attendant in her signature biting tone:

"Come now girl, do try to keep up. Must I drag my train across the floor myself?"

The attendant flushed and hurried to rearrange the heavy fabric. Janaki Devi continued surveying the hall, missing nothing behind her knowing smile. When her assessing gaze landed on Minnal and Anjali, the girls quickly busied themselves, stifling nervous giggles.

Even the formidable Raja Mata could not resist speculating about her son's choice of bride this year. But Janaki Devi played the long game - she would not leave something so important to chance.