The Forbidden Marriage

70•अष्टषष्टिः (Ending)

Few months later...

The grand palace of the Durga Kingdom was a spectacle of vibrant colors and joyous sounds, adorned with festive decorations for the annual Durga Puja. The air was filled with the heady scent of marigold garlands and incense, mingling with the aroma of delicious traditional sweets being prepared in the palace kitchens. Golden lights draped over the palace walls shimmered in the twilight, casting a warm glow over the celebration.

In the central courtyard, a magnificent idol of Goddess Durga stood resplendent, adorned with intricate jewelry and vivid red and gold garments. The deity's serene yet powerful expression seemed to bless the gathering below. The courtyard was abuzz with activity as priests chanted mantras, their rhythmic voices rising and falling like waves, while the beating of dhak drums created a pulsating rhythm that echoed through the palace.

Family members mingled with the palace staff and their families, the lines between royalty and common folk blurred by the shared joy of the festival. Minakshi, the newly crowned queen, moved gracefully through the crowd. She was dressed in a stunning red and gold saree, the rich fabric shimmering with every step she took. Her hair, adorned with jasmine flowers, fell in soft waves around her shoulders. Gold bangles clinked musically on her wrists, and a delicate bindi adorned her forehead, completing her regal look.

As the priest performed the puja, Minakshi joined Lalita, Padmini, Bhavya, Adya didi, and her grandmother in performing ulur dhani, their voices blending into a melodious chorus that resonated through the courtyard. Trishul, standing beside them, played the conch, the deep, resonant sound adding a sacred rhythm to the ceremony.

Nearby, Katyayani, Surath, Kartik, and Atharv who are Trishul's uncles, engaged in animated discussions about politics. Their conversation, though serious, was punctuated with laughter and camaraderie, reflecting the strong bonds that held the family together.

In another corner of the courtyard, Damru and his young cousins danced energetically to the rhythmic beats of the dhak. The Dhakis, dressed in traditional attire, played their drums with joyful enthusiasm, their faces alight with the spirit of the festival.

Ambika, along with her cousins Ameya and Tulsi, clicked selfies and danced to trending songs, capturing moments for their reels.

Minakshi, with a broad smile, took the aarti lamp from the priest and moved among the gathered people, allowing them to receive the blessing of the divine flame. Each person cupped their hands over the flame and then touched their foreheads, grateful for the light and warmth she brought to them. The flickering flames of the aarti lamp illuminated Minakshi's face, casting a radiant glow that mirrored the light in her eyes.

Suddenly, everyone's eyes turned towards a woman approaching the center with a radiant smile. Her presence was nothing short of mesmerizing. She wore a deep peacock blue saree that sparkled with every movement, the fabric hugging her curves in a way that was both seductive and graceful. The saree was adorned with intricate silver embroidery that caught the light, creating a dazzling effect.

Her hair was a cascade of glossy black waves, tumbling down her back and framing her face perfectly. Her lips were painted a rich, bold red, complementing the subtle smokiness of her eye makeup. Her ears glittered with chandelier earrings that swung gently with each step. A necklace of diamonds and sapphires adorned her neck, completing the look with a touch of opulence.

Every step she took exuded elegance and confidence, and the crowd couldn't help but stop and stare in awe. The royal family members were visibly surprised and delighted to see her, their faces lighting up with recognition and joy. Minakshi, however, dropped her smile as she noticed her, memories of their last encounter flooding back. Steeling herself, she walked towards the woman with confidence and a soft smile.