The Shekhawat Bride

Mehndi 💚

1100+ Words

Chaitanya's POV

As I sat in the garden, two skilled ladies meticulously applied intricate mehndi designs on my hands. Two hours passed, yet their artistic work continued.

"Aur kitna time lgega" (How much more time will it take) I asked, shifting uncomfortably.

The ladies chuckled, lost in their creative world.

I sighed, feeling my back ache from sitting still. Suddenly, a cushion appeared behind my back, and I turned to see Papa's warm smile.

His eyes sparkled, but I detected a hint of sadness - the pain of letting his daughter go.

A firstborn daughter holds a special place in her parents' hearts, shouldering responsibilities, yet receiving boundless love.

I leaned into Papa's gentle hug, cherishing the moment.

"Ab thik hai beta," (Is it good now) he whispered, his voice trembling.

A call from someone interrupted our tender exchange. Papa smiled and departed, attending to wedding preparations.

His dedication ensured everyone's comfort and a seamless wedding celebration.

Just then, Ayush and Shreyas entered with my cousins.

"Where were you guys?" I asked.

"We helped set up the ghoomar venue," Ayush replied.

Their willingness to help touched my heart; my friends had become family.

As Dadisa sat beside me, I asked, "Dadisa aap bhi mehndi lgva lyo" (Dadisa, why don't you get your mehndi done too?)

She smiled mischievously. "Nhi beta main to rupyo hi mandshyu" ( No beta I'll apply coin on my hands)

The atmosphere shifted as the children's energetic dance session gave way to the ladies' graceful moves. Rajasthani mehndi songs filled the air, their melodious rhythms enticing everyone.

Bhabhisa took the floor, swaying elegantly to "Mehndi Rachi Mhara Hatha Main." Pihu twirled around her, captivating everyone with her innocence and carefree laughter.

Viraj sat beside me, curiosity sparkling in his eyes. "Bhuasha ye kya ho lha (rha)hai" ( Bhuasa what's happening)

" Bhuasa mehndi lgva rhe hai" ( I'm getting my mehndi done) I replied, smiling.

My Bhuasa joined us, sharing, "Ayushmaan Banna kaal chaitu ne leba aasi" (Banna will arrive tomorrow to take Chaitu with him.)

Viraj's smile faltered, his lips trembling. I swiftly intervened, diverting his attention.

"Viraj chocolate chahiye"(Hey, Viraj, do you want some chocolates!) I suggested, ensuring Moomal Jeeja's wedding preparations remained joyous and tear-free.

Dadisa's eyes met mine, understanding the unspoken message. She gently placed a hand on Viraj's shoulder.

"Kaal to boli (bhut) khushi ro din hai viraj"(Tomorrow will bring new joys, beta) she reassured him.

As the mehndi ceremony continued, laughter and music filled the air, masking the bittersweet emotions.

Dev appeared beside me, bearing a plate of savory snacks. His thoughtful gesture touched my heart.

"Thank you, Dev," I said, smiling.

He fed me with his hands, ensuring I didn't smudge my mehndi. His caring nature made this moment even more special.