Arshi Love Saga: The Journey of Two Hearts

Chapter 1 - The Silent Mansion

The Raizada Mansion's Legacy
The Raizada Mansion, now known as Shantivan, stood as a testament to the history and power of one of Delhi's most influential families. Originally purchased by Rudra Pratap Singh Raizada's Grandfather, the mansion had been the cornerstone of the Raizada family for generations. Years after Rudra and his wife, Devyani Singh Raizada, built more than just a home—they established a legacy.

For five generations, the Raizada's had lived here, each leaving their mark on the mansion. However, the connection to the mansion ran even deeper for Ratna Raizada, Rudra's only daughter 1 year elder to their son Manohar Singh Raizada. She spent her childhood playing in its sprawling halls, finding comfort in its sturdy walls. Later, when she married Arvind Malik, the heir to the Maliks' -Grand Sheesh Mahal, she balanced her life between two influential homes—one where she was a Raizada daughter, and another where she was a Malik daughter-in-law.

The Transformation Under Arnav Singh Raizada
Years later, the responsibility of maintaining this historic home fell into the hands of Arnav Singh Raizada, the youngest scion of the family. Arnav was known for his unyielding discipline and sharp focus—traits that had helped him build a business empire. But behind the successful facade lay a man who valued solitude and sought control over his life's unpredictable elements. For him, Shantivan wasn't just a family home; it needed to be a space that reflected his need for order and calm.

As the demands of his work grew, so did his desire for a personal sanctuary. He began envisioning a separate section within Shantivan, a private space that could become his escape. This was not about isolating himself from the family, but about creating an environment where he could work late into the night without disrupting others, while finding the quiet he desperately needed.

Arnav's changes were meticulous. He directed the transformation with precision, ensuring that each alteration stayed true to the mansion's timeless appeal while accommodating his personal style. The result was a careful blend of the mansion's historic elegance and Arnav's contemporary needs.

The Ground Floor
The ground floor of Shantivan, or the Raizada Mansion as it was more commonly known, was where the family's everyday life unfolded. It was a space designed not just for functionality but for connection—a blend of elegance and warmth that reflected the values of the Raizada family. The heart of this level was the spacious living room, where family gatherings took place amidst plush sofas and soft lighting. This room wasn't just a place to sit; it was a place where memories were made and stories were shared.

To the side was a cozier family room, a smaller but equally inviting space where close conversations often took place. It was a room designed for laughter, comfort, and moments of intimacy, a quiet corner where bonds were deepened.

The kitchen stood at the back, large and well-equipped with all the modern conveniences, yet somehow maintaining a sense of tradition. The room was often filled with the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals, echoing with laughter and conversations between family members as they prepared food together. The adjoining dining area opened out onto a view of the garden and pool, allowing the family to enjoy their meals while taking in the serene surroundings. This connection to nature brought a feeling of openness to the house, as if the outside world was always within reach.

Three bedrooms occupied this floor, each with its own story. The matriarch, Devyani Singh Raizada, resided in one of these rooms—a space that reflected her grace and wisdom. The other two were reserved for guests, though they were often occupied by visiting family members, offering them a sense of belonging.

The Staircases and the Division of the First Floor
A unique feature of the mansion's architecture was its dual staircases, each leading to different parts of the first floor. One staircase connected to the family section, where Devyani's room was situated, ensuring her convenience and closeness to the main living areas. This part of the house was a blend of privacy and communal space, designed for the Raizada family to continue their traditions while embracing modernity.