HUMDARD- A Journey From Chaos To Calm

Chapter 16

The day had finally arrived for both families to come together and discuss the upcoming wedding. For Sidharth, this was more than just a formal meeting—it was the day Saana would visit his home for the first time. His heart was a mix of excitement and anxiety as he thought about how much this moment meant to him. He had barely slept the night before, his mind running through every detail, hoping everything would be perfect.

When Saana’s car pulled up to the grand entrance of the Dutta residence, Sidharth’s heart raced as if he were about to meet her for the very first time. The sight of her stepping out, draped in a stunning yellow saree, took his breath away. The fabric clung to her with an elegance that seemed almost otherworldly, and the vibrant color illuminated her presence, casting a warm glow on everything around her. He could hardly believe that this beautiful, graceful woman was soon to be his wife.

Sushant, Sidharth’s elder brother, who had always been able to read Sidharth’s emotions like an open book, stood nearby with a knowing grin. He nudged Sidharth, breaking his trance.

“Looks like someone’s head over heels. Ghoor mat! Muh band kar.”

Sidharth chuckled, though the comment only heightened his self-consciousness.

“Shut up, Dada. Let me have my moment.”

But as Saana made her way toward the entrance, Sidharth couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride mixed with a strange vulnerability. She looked so composed, yet he could sense a hint of nervousness in her eyes, a subtle uncertainty she tried to hide behind a polite smile. He admired how she carried herself, with a quiet dignity that spoke volumes about her character.

The house was alive with activity, adorned with traditional decorations that filled the air with the scent of marigolds and sandalwood. The festive ambiance was tempered by a touch of poignancy, as Sidharth’s late mother’s absence was deeply felt. But Jahnavi, his elder sister-in-law, had taken it upon herself to fill the void. She moved through the preparations with a grace that only years of experience and love for the family could provide, her calm authority ensuring that everything was just as it should be.

Gautam Ji, Saana’s guardian and Sahil’s father, commanded the room with his booming voice as he formally announced the wedding would be a traditional Bengali affair. The joy that rippled through the gathering was palpable, and even Kushal Ji, Sidharth’s normally reserved father, allowed a rare smile to break across his face. The exchange of approving glances between the patriarchs signaled the deep satisfaction both families felt in this union.

As the formalities continued, Sidharth found his gaze drifting back to Saana. She sat quietly, her hands folded in her lap, as she observed the grandeur of the Dutta household. Her eyes, normally so full of life, now held a mix of awe and anxiety. He knew she was feeling overwhelmed, and the realization tugged at his heart. He wanted to reach out, to tell her that everything would be alright, that she was not alone in this, but the moment didn’t seem right just yet.

Jahnavi noticed Saana’s quiet demeanor and approached her with a warm, reassuring smile.

“Saana, we’re so happy to have you here. I know it’s a lot to take in, but if you need anything or have any questions about the rituals, just ask me. Main humesha tumhare saath hoon.”

Saana managed a small, grateful smile.

“Thank you, Janhavi Di. It’s all so beautiful... I’m just trying to take it all in.”

Sidharth, watching the interaction from a distance, felt a surge of admiration for Jahnavi. Her kindness and the gentle way she reassured Saana were exactly what Saana needed. He couldn’t resist the urge to join them.