Threads of Tradition: Tales Of Indian Arranged Marriages

7.

As winter settled over London, the city transformed into a glittering expanse of lights and cold, crisp air. I found solace in the season’s quiet beauty, but the holiday season brought its own set of challenges. With the festive period upon us, the city buzzed with energy, and I felt the weight of the contrast between my current life and the festive celebrations I missed back in Jodhpur.

Despite my growing familiarity with the city, there were still moments when the differences felt overwhelming. The holiday season was one such time. London’s Christmas markets and New Year’s celebrations seemed to highlight my distance from home, and I felt a pang of homesickness that was hard to shake.

Devansh noticed my subdued mood and wanted to do something special for me. He knew I missed the warmth and joy of the festive seasons in Jodhpur and wanted to bring a bit of that magic into our London life.

“Why don’t we host a small holiday party?” he suggested one evening as we sat together in our cozy, dimly lit living room. “Invite some friends over, and we can cook a few traditional dishes. It could be a nice way to blend our celebrations with the London festivities.”

My eyes brightened at the idea. “That sounds wonderful, Devansh. I’d love to bring a bit of home here. It would make the holidays feel more special.”

With that decision made, we dove into preparations. We spent the next few weeks planning the event, sending out invitations to our new friends, and gathering ingredients for traditional Rajasthani dishes. Devansh even helped me decorate our apartment with festive lights and ornaments, trying his best to recreate the vibrant, colorful ambiance of Diwali and other festivals I cherished.

As the day of the party approached, I felt a growing excitement about sharing a piece of my heritage with our new friends. I spent hours in the kitchen, preparing sweets and savory dishes that I hoped would transport our guests to the bustling streets of Jodhpur.

On the day of the party, our apartment was filled with the delicious aroma of Indian spices and the soft glow of holiday lights. The guests began to arrive, each bringing their own unique energy to the gathering. Among them was Sarah, the architect I had met earlier, who had become a good friend and a regular part of my social circle in London. Her enthusiasm and friendliness helped set a warm tone for the evening.

As the guests mingled, I felt a growing sense of contentment. The conversations flowed easily, and the blend of cultures created a lively and engaging atmosphere. Devansh moved through the crowd with ease, introducing me to everyone and making sure everyone was comfortable.

The highlight of the evening came when I served the traditional Rajasthani dishes. As the guests tasted the food, their reactions were overwhelmingly positive. My heart swelled with pride as I watched them enjoy the flavors I had grown up with.

“This is amazing,” Sarah said, taking another bite of the jalebi. “I’ve never had anything like this before. It’s so different from anything we usually have here.”

“I’m so glad you like it,” I replied, smiling. “I wanted to share a bit of my home with all of you.”

As the night wore on, the guests shared stories and laughter, and I felt a sense of connection that I had been missing. The party was a success, and I was grateful for the support and warmth of my new friends.

After the last guest had left and the apartment was quiet once again, Devansh and I sat together on the couch, exhausted but happy.

“You did an amazing job,” Devansh said, taking my hand. “The party was a huge success. I think everyone really enjoyed it.”

I leaned my head on his shoulder, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. “Thank you for suggesting it. It made this season feel a lot more like home.”

The holiday season continued with a newfound sense of joy and connection. Devansh and I took time to explore the city’s festive offerings, visiting Christmas markets and enjoying the seasonal lights. We also made it a point to spend quality time together, finding small moments of joy amidst our busy lives.

One afternoon, as we walked through Hyde Park, enjoying the crisp winter air and the festive decorations, I felt a sense of contentment I hadn’t experienced in a long time.

“London isn’t Jodhpur,” I said thoughtfully, “but it’s starting to feel like home in its own way.”

Devansh smiled, squeezing my hand. “And that’s because we’re building something together here. It’s not about where we are, but about what we create.”

As the year drew to a close, I reflected on the journey I had been on since moving to London. It had been a year of adjustments, challenges, and growth. I had faced moments of doubt and loneliness, but I had also found new friends, new opportunities, and a deeper connection with Devansh.

The New Year’s Eve party we attended with friends was a celebration of not just the passing year but of our journey together. Surrounded by laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses, I felt a sense of hope and optimism for the future.

As the clock struck midnight and fireworks illuminated the sky, Devansh pulled me into a warm embrace. “Here’s to new beginnings and the adventures ahead.”

I looked up at him, my heart full. “And to us, finding our way together.”

In that moment, amidst the celebrations and the promise of a new year, I realized that while London was still uncharted territory, it was a place where Devansh and I were forging a path of our own—one filled with love, resilience, and the excitement of a shared future.