Pradyuman had always known that his life was not entirely his own. Born into a conservative household, the expectations placed on him were suffocating. His father, Raghav, was a man of unyielding principles, someone who believed that tradition was the backbone of life. His mother, Kamla, though more gentle, was still deeply committed to these old ways.
From a young age, Pradyuman had been taught to respect authority, especially his father's word. So, at the age of 16, when Raghav announced that he would be getting married to a girl chosen by the family, Pradyuman felt the familiar weight of tradition settle on his shoulders.
He wasn't ready. He hadn't even finished his education, hadn't had time to dream of a future beyond what was laid out for him. But in his house, there was no room for rebellion.
"You'll grow into it, beta," his mother had said, stroking his cheek in an attempt to reassure him. But her words felt hollow.
The wedding took place quickly, following the customs of their small town. Meera, his bride, was only 15. Like him, she had no say in the matter. As they sat through the rituals, dressed in clothes that didn't feel like their own, Pradyuman felt like he was watching his life unfold from the outside.
That night, as they stood alone in the small room that was now their shared home, Pradyuman glanced at Meera, who looked just as frightened as he felt. Neither of them knew what to say, or how to begin this new life together. They were children, trapped in the roles of adults.
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Burden of Tradition
FanfictionSummary: ACP Pradyuman, trapped in the traditions of his youth, is forced into a marriage at 16, leading to his wife Meera's tragic death during childbirth. Haunted by guilt, he raises their daughter Naina with overbearing control. As Naina grows, P...
