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The courtyard was beautifully decorated with marigold garlands and twinkling fairy lights, casting a warm and enchanting glow over the evening. The air was filled with the soft hum of traditional music and the fragrance of flowers. The guests, a small circle of close family and friends, mingled quietly, their faces lit with joy and anticipation.
Anshul stood at the altar, dressed in an elegant sherwani, his heart pounding with excitement and love. He couldn't wait to see Aarushi, the woman who had captured his heart and soul.
As the moment arrived, a hush fell over the crowd. Aarushi appeared at the entrance, her red saree shimmering in the light. Her face was partly veiled, but her radiant beauty and grace were unmistakable. As she took her first steps forward, accompanied by Sakshi, she looked every bit the bride of Anshul's dreams.
Anshul's breath caught in his throat. He had always known Aarushi was beautiful, but seeing her as his bride, adorned in red and gold, took his breath away. She looked like an angel, ethereal and stunning. His eyes were glued to her as she walked slowly toward him, her gaze shyly fixed on the ground.
The priest began the ceremony, chanting sacred mantras that filled the air with a sense of reverence and solemnity. Aarushi and Anshul sat beside each other, the sacred fire burning brightly between them. They exchanged garlands, a ritual symbolizing their acceptance of each other. Anshul gently placed the garland around Aarushi's neck, his fingers brushing against her skin, sending a shiver down her spine.
As they proceeded to the rituals, their hands were tied together with a sacred thread, symbolizing their union. Anshul could feel the warmth of Aarushi's hand in his, a reminder of the life they were about to begin together.
One of the most significant rituals was the Saptapadi, where the bride and groom take seven steps around the fire, each step representing a vow they make to each other. As they took each step, Anshul couldn't help but glance at Aarushi. Her face was a picture of innocence and shyness, her eyes reflecting the same emotions he felt-love, hope, and a bit of nervousness.
With each step, they vowed to support and cherish each other, to share their joys and sorrows, and to remain true to their promises. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, the fire crackling softly as if in agreement with their vows.
As the ceremony neared its end, Anshul performed the ritual of applying sindoor (vermillion) on Aarushi's forehead, a symbol of their marriage.
His hands trembled slightly, overwhelmed by the significance of the moment. Aarushi closed her eyes filled with unshed tears, feeling the weight of the sindoor, signifying her new identity as his wife.
Next, he tied the mangalsutra, a sacred necklace, around her neck. His fingers lingered on her skin for a moment longer than necessary, his touch conveying the depth of his feelings. Aarushi's eyes met his briefly, a silent conversation passing between them-one of love, respect, and an unspoken promise of togetherness.
The ceremony concluded with blessings from the elders and the cheerful applause of the guests. The newlyweds were showered with flower petals, their faces glowing with happiness. Anshul couldn't take his eyes off Aarushi, his heart swelling with pride and love.
The small gathering moved to the reception area, where a modest feast was laid out. Laughter and chatter filled the air as everyone celebrated the union of Anshul and Aarushi. Despite the limited number of guests, the atmosphere was one of warmth and joy.
*****
As the night drew to a close, Anshul and Aarushi found a quiet corner away from the crowd. He took her hand in his, looking deeply into her eyes.
YOU ARE READING
THE COLOR OF LOVE
Short StoryIn a society bound by rigid traditions, Aarushi, a young widow, endures daily hardships and abuse. Her life takes an unexpected turn when Anshul, a principled and compassionate man, rescues her from a dire situation. Despite societal scorn and obsta...