Unbinding Tradition

54. Marriage ceremony 😓

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The Jeon Haveli was abuzz with activity the next morning. The scent of marigold garlands filled the air as relatives and neighbors gathered in the living room for the haldi ceremony.

In the center of the room, Jung-guk sat shirtless, clad only in a simple dhoti, his skin glowing under the soft light. Women giggled and sang traditional songs as the ceremony began.

Tae entered the room quietly, her eyes involuntarily seeking Jungkook, who stood at the far end, engrossed in a conversation with some men. The coldness between them from the previous night lingered heavily in the air. Their eyes meet briefly, but Jungkook quickly looked away, making Tae’s heart sink further.

Dadi-sa, seated in a position of authority, clapped her hands to gather attention.

Dadi-sa- Pota Banno (grand daughter-in-law), come here. As the elder daughter-in-law of the Jeon family, you must lead the ceremony. Remove Jung-guk’s nazar first, and then apply haldi to him first along with your Bind (husband).

Tae nodded dutifully and stepped forward, the weight of her responsibilities pressing down on her. She picked up the small plate of red chili and mustard seeds, performing the ritual to ward off evil eyes from Jung-guk. Then, with a gentle hand, she placed a tilak on his forehead.

Dadi-sa smiled approvingly.

Dadi-sa- Jung-guk, touch your Bhabhi-sa’s feet. It’s a tradition.

Jung-guk’s face darkened with annoyance.

Guk- Why should I, Dadi-sa? (he asked curtly)

Dadi-sa leaned closer, whispering with a knowing smile.

Dadi-sa- Don’t create a scene in front of the relatives. She is your Bhabhi-sa, and respecting her is a mark of your upbringing.

Reluctantly, Jung-guk frowned but bent slightly to touch Tae’s feet. Tae, caught in the awkwardness of the moment, gave a small, uncomfortable smile.

Dadi-sa- Now, Jungkook.. (he said, turning to her eldest grandson) Stand beside your Gharwali (wife) and both of you apply haldi to Jung-guk. It is your duty to begin this ritual together.

Jungkook’s jaw clenched, and without even looking at Tae, he said,

Jk- Let her do it. I’ll apply haldi later.

The murmur of relatives grew louder at his refusal. Tae stiffened, feeling the sting of his rejection in front of everyone. Why couldn’t he just go along with the ceremony, at least for appearances?

Dadi-sa’s face hardened.

Dadi-sa- Jungkook, what kind of behavior is this? You should be happy for your brother and join in the festivities, not act like this. What will people think?

A muscle twitched in Jungkook’s jaw, but he stepped forward reluctantly, his face a mask of irritation. Without a word, he stood beside Tae. Together, they applied haldi to Jung-guk’s arms and face, the awkwardness between them was clear.

As soon as Jungkook was done, he stepped back, leaving Tae to complete the ritual.

The rest of the family joined in enthusiastically, applying haldi to Jung-guk and smearing it playfully on each other. Laughter and joy filled the air, but Tae and Jungkook remained distant, their tension evident to everyone.

Hetal, standing on the sidelines, noticed the rift between the couple and saw her chance. Smirking, she picked up some haldi and walked confidently toward Jungkook.

Hetal- Jungkook.. (she called sweetly) you’ve been avoiding all the fun. Let me apply some haldi to you.

Jungkook frowned.