Shiddat

Chapter 7

At the Rathore mansion, the morning unfolded in a more serene and celebratory manner. The grandeur of the previous night's event lingered in the air, but the atmosphere was one of quiet pride rather than tension. The family had gathered in the sunlit drawing room, a space that reflected the elegance and tradition deeply ingrained in the Rathore household. The walls were adorned with ancestral portraits, and the scent of fresh flowers filled the room, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

The ladies of the Rathore family were seated together, their conversation flowing easily as they discussed the events of the previous evening. Sunita Rathore exuded grace and authority as she sipped her tea, her eyes filled with a contented glow. She had always been proud of her children, but Arjun's recent victory had filled her heart with an extra measure of pride.

Beside her sat Priya Rathore, dressed in a light pastel saree, her eyes sparkled with excitement as she discussed the plans for the day with her mother-in-law and sister-in-law.

"I think it's only fitting that we go to the temple for a special pooja,"  Sumiran Rathore suggested, her voice filled with a quiet reverence. "Arjun's success deserves to be celebrated, and we should thank God for their blessings."

Priya nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely, Maa! Arjun has worked so hard for this. It's the perfect occasion to offer our gratitude and seek blessings for future success."

Sunita, who had been listening quietly, joined the conversation with a smile. "I agree, Priya. The pooja will also be a wonderful way for the family to come together and honor our traditions. It's important to remember that our success is not just our own but is also a result of the blessings and guidance we receive."

The women continued to discuss the details, their voices filled with warmth and affection. They planned the pooja with meticulous care, deciding on the temple they would visit, the offerings they would make, and the rituals they would perform. Each detail was considered with respect for their traditions and a deep sense of gratitude.

As the discussion came to a close, the conversation shifted to the evening's dinner. The family planned to dine together, and it was agreed that the topic of the pooja would be shared with everyone during the meal. This would allow the men to be informed of the plans and to participate in the preparations.

Later that evening, the Rathore family gathered in the grand dining room for dinner. The dining room, with its opulent decor and elegant table settings, was filled with the sounds of conversation and laughter. The family sat together, enjoying a meal that had been carefully prepared by the household staff. The air was filled with the rich aromas of traditional Rajasthani dishes, and the clinking of silverware against porcelain plates created a soothing rhythm. Laughter and light conversation flowed easily, and the day's successes and stories were shared among the family members.

As dinner progressed, Priya Rathore exchanged a glance with Sunita, signaling that it was time to share their plans with the rest of the family. When the plates were cleared and the staff began serving dessert, Priya spoke up, her voice carrying the authority of her role as the family's matriarch.

"Everyone," she began, her tone warm and inviting, "we've decided that tomorrow we should visit the temple and perform a pooja."

The rest of the family responded with enthusiasm, their voices overlapping as they expressed their agreement and excitement for the pooja. The idea of coming together at the temple, surrounded by the sacred atmosphere, and participating in the rituals resonated deeply with each of them.

As dessert was served, the conversation shifted to the details of the next day's plans. The ladies discussed the preparations that needed to be made, from the offerings to be taken to the temple to see the clothes they would wear. The men, too, offered their support, recognizing the significance of the event.