Unbinding Tradition

6. Threads of tradition 🙁

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The sun had just begun to cast it's golden glow over the small village in Rajasthan, signaling the arrival of Raksha Bandhan.

The festival, a celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters, was marked with traditional rituals and heartfelt exchanges. In the modest yet vibrant home of the Kim family, Tae was busy preparing the aarti thali with meticulous care.

The thali was adorned with a gleaming diya, varities of sweets, a bowl of kumkum, alongside a beautifully embroidered Rakhi.

Tae, dressed in a dazzling Rajasthani ghagra-choli with delicate embroidery, stood in front of Namjoon, her home tutor who had become like a guiding elder brother to her.

She looked at him with a mixture of respect and affection. Namjoon, in his simple yet elegant kurta-pajama, watched her with a warm smile.

Tae- Bhai-sa (brother); today is Raksha Bandhan, and I always wanted to perform this ritual with you.

Namjoon's eyes twinkled with a blend of pride and tenderness as he nodded.

NJ- I am honored, Tae. Thank you.

Tae gently dipped her fingers into the kumkum and carefully applied it to Namjoon's forehead, a symbolic gesture of blessings and prosperity. With a delicate hand, she took the Rakhi and tied it around his wrist, ensuring it was secure.

Tae- May this Rakhi bring you joy and prosperity, Bhai-sa. (said, her voice tinged with both respect and warmth)

Namjoon, touched by the gesture, looked at her with a fond smile.

NJ- Thank you, Tae. Your gesture means a lot to me.

As Tae fed him a piece of sweet, her hands slightly trembling with the significance of the moment, she began the aarti, circling the diya in front of him while murmuring a soft prayer.

Namjoon watched her with deep appreciation, his eyes reflecting both his admiration for her sincerity and his respect for her.

Once the aarti was complete, Namjoon reached out to touch her feet, a traditional sign of respect but Tae quickly moved back, a gentle firmness in her tone.

Tae- No Bhai-sa, you are my teacher first. I cannot let you touch my feet. I am honored to perform these rituals for you, but you deserve my respect as a mentor.

Namjoon smiled, understanding her sentiment. He touched her head lightly, his gesture conveying both his approval and affection.

NJ- You are truly exceptional, Tae. Your respect and sincerity are commendable.

Tae's eyes shone with gratitude and relief.

Tae- Thank you, Bhai-sa. Your guidance has been invaluable to me.

As the ritual concluded, Namjoon's eyes sparkled with a sense of anticipation.

NJ- Tae, I have a small gift for you. (he said, handing her a neatly wrapped parcel)

Tae's fingers delicately untied the ribbon and peeled away the wrapping. As she opened the package, her gaze fell upon a small yet intricately carved idol of Lord Ganesha.

The idol was made of brass, with finely carved details, and it gave a calm, protective feeling. Tae's eyes filled with tears as she held the idol, moved by the kind gift.

Namjoon, noticing her emotional reaction, spoke softly.

NJ- Tae, as you embark on this new journey towards marriage, I wanted to give you something that symbolizes blessings and protection. Lord Ganesha is known to remove obstacles, and I wish for him to clear your path and bring you success and happiness.