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"Vadhu ko bulaiye"

 (Translation - "Call the bride" )

The priest's booming voice echoed through the opulent hall of the Suryawanshi estate. Crystal chandeliers swayed slightly as the sound waves reverberated, their prisms scattering rainbows across the meticulously arranged floral displays. Servants, dressed in crisp white uniforms, stood at attention, their faces betraying no emotion as they witnessed the unfolding drama.

Ruhanika Singh stood before an elaborate, antique mirror, its gilded frame reflecting not only her image but also the weight of generations of tradition. Her reflection was almost unrecognizable beneath layers of silk and intricate zardozi embroidery. The vibrant reds and golds of her bridal lehenga shimmered in the golden light cast by strategically placed spotlights, yet the weight of the impending ceremony pressed heavily upon her, a physical manifestation of the emotional burden she carried.

“Ruhi, are you ready?”

Her mother Aarti Singh’s , sharp, anxious voice cut through the stillness like a shard of glass. It bounced off the imported Italian marble walls, causing the ornate chandeliers to tremble slightly, as if sensing the approaching turmoil. Aarti, a woman known for her impeccable social graces and iron will, appeared unusually flustered, her perfectly coiffed hair slightly askew.

“Do I even have a choice?”

Ruhanika muttered, her words lost in the surrounding cacophony of distant laughter and chatter emanating from the banquet hall below. The sounds of sitars and tablas, part of the pre-wedding festivities, seemed to mock her internal struggle.

“Don’t be silly! This is your special day!”

Her mother chirped, her voice filled with an excitement that felt utterly alien to Ruhanika. "Just imagine how stunning you'll look walking down the aisle. Kritarth will be so proud of his choice." Aarti adjusted the heavy dupatta draped across Ruhanika's shoulders, her touch surprisingly gentle.

Her mother chirped, her voice laced with an excitement that felt foreign to Ruhanika.

“Just think of how beautiful you’ll look walking down the aisle. Kritarth is going to be so proud of his choice ”

Kritarth Suryawanshi. The mere thought of him sent a shiver down her spine, a chilling premonition of a life she hadn't chosen. He was undeniably handsome, with a chiseled jaw that spoke of privilege and determination, and deep-set, enigmatic eyes that seemed to hold secrets she couldn't decipher. However, he remained a stranger—a stranger thrust into her life by her parents' relentless ambition for social advancement, a pawn in their carefully orchestrated game of power and prestige. The Suryawanshis were one of the most influential families in the country, and this union would solidify the Singhs' position in the upper echelons of society.

“Proud? Or just relieved?”

Ruhanika retorted, turning to face her mother, her eyes flashing with defiance.

“Proud of what? Marrying a girl he barely knows?”A girl chosen for him based on her family's connections and social standing?"

Her mother's smile faltered, a fleeting flicker of concern replacing it. For a moment, Ruhanika saw a glimpse of the woman beneath the socialite, the mother who had once nurtured her dreams.

“Ruhanika, you must understand, this is not just about you. It’s about our family’s name, our reputation—”

Aarti's voice trailed off, the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air: the family business, the political connections, the carefully cultivated image that could all crumble with a single misstep.

“Reputation?”

Ruhanika interrupted, her voice rising in pitch, the carefully constructed facade of composure beginning to crack.

“What about my happiness ? What about what I want ?What about what I desire? Do I even have a voice in this? Or am I simply a commodity to be traded for social capital?"

Silence descended, as heavy as the velvet drapes adorning the windows, suffocating the room. Her mother's eyes darted away, seeking solace in the lavish surroundings, the expensive artwork, the symbols of their carefully constructed world. She avoided Ruhanika's gaze, unable to meet the raw pain and anger reflected there.

Ruhanika caught her breath, frustration simmering just beneath the surface, threatening to boil over. She felt like a caged bird, trapped in a gilded cage of expectations and obligations.

“Ruhi mera beta”

(Translation -Ruhi my child )

Her mother finally said, her voice softening, a desperate attempt to regain control of the situation.

Her mother finally said, voice softening,

"This is simply the way things are done. It has been this way for generations. You will grow to love him. He is a good man, a kind man. You'll see…”

“Learn to love him?”

Ruhanika echoed, incredulity dripping from her tone. "You can't force love, Mother.

Ruhanika echoed, incredulity spilling from her lips.

“You can’t force love, Mother. It's not a switch you can simply flick on. You simply can't…"

A sharp knock interrupted her protest, and before she could respond, the heavy, intricately carved door swung open to reveal her father, Raunak Singh, regal in his traditional sherwani, his expression somber, unreadable. He was a man of few words, his authority absolute.

“Ruhi, it’s time,”

He announced, his voice deep and resolute, brooking no argument.

“The guests are waiting. The ceremony is about to begin."

“Guests? Or vultures?”

Ruhanika whispered under her breath, the bitterness rising in her throat. She imagined them, the assembled dignitaries and socialites, their eyes gleaming with anticipation, eager to witness the spectacle, to dissect every detail, to judge and criticize. But her father's unwavering gaze, cold and implacable, was a silent command that quelled her rebellion, at least for now.

"Let's go," he said, stepping back to allow her passage, his hand hovering near her elbow, a gesture that was both supportive and controlling. The weight of tradition, of family duty, pressed down on her, crushing her spirit as she prepared to walk into a future not of her own making.

With a resigned sigh, Ruhanika turned back to the ornate mirror, adjusting her shimmering dupatta one last time. The heavy silk, embroidered with intricate gold threads, felt like a costume, not clothing. She didn’t recognize the girl staring back at her—the radiant bride, adorned with jewels and henna, a picture of supposed happiness. Was this really her? Or just a carefully constructed facade? The dutiful daughter, fulfilling her family's expectations, even at the expense of her own desires.

As she stepped away from the mirror, the cold marble floor chilling her bare feet, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was walking towards her own execution. It wasn't a physical death, but the death of her dreams, her aspirations, the life she had envisioned for herself.

The air in the grand hall was thick with the scent of marigold and sandalwood, a mix so intoxicating it could almost mask the tension that hummed beneath the surface. The fragrant flowers, woven into elaborate garlands, and the rich aroma of burning sandalwood incense created a sensory overload, a deliberate attempt to overwhelm any dissenting thoughts or feelings.

The hall was a spectacle of extravagance, a testament to the wealth and status of both families. Guests were draped in finery—silk sarees shimmering with gemstones, tailored suits exuding power—their laughter ringing out like music, a carefully orchestrated symphony of celebration. The clinking of champagne glasses and the murmur of polite conversation filled the vast space, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within Ruhanika.

Yet, as Ruhanika stepped into the hall, her heart pounded in her ears, drowning out the merriment. The vibrant colors blurred, the sounds faded into a dull roar. All she could hear was the frantic rhythm of her own heartbeat, a desperate drumbeat against the impending doom.

The long aisle stretched before her like an endless abyss; a path lined with flowers that felt more like chains than petals. Each step felt heavy, weighted down by the expectations of her family, her community, her culture. The vibrant blooms seemed to mock her, their beauty a cruel reminder of what she was giving up.

Kritarth stood at the altar, a figure of quiet strength amidst the chaos. His expression was calm and composed, the picture of a confident groom, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes as they met hers, a question unspoken. Did he share her doubts? Did he understand the sacrifice she was making?

She felt a mixture of resentment and a weird feeling for him. He was just as a stranger for her. Their families had arranged this marriage, their lives intertwined without their consent. She barely knew him, his hopes, his dreams, his fears. Yet, she was about to commit herself to him for life.

“Breathe,” She whispered to herself, her voice barely audible above the din. Forcing a smile, she plastered it on her face as she made her way toward him, each step a monumental effort.

“Just breathe.” The mantra echoed in her mind, a desperate attempt to regain control, to calm the storm raging within.

The sound of a conch shell echoed through the hall, its resonant tone pulling her from her thoughts. The ceremony had begun. Ruhanika’s heart raced, the rhythmic chanting of the priests almost a mantra against the rising tide of her trepidation. The ancient Sanskrit verses, filled with promises of love and commitment, felt hollow, meaningless in her current state.

It's the time for Kanya Daan (Giving Away of the Bride), a sacred ritual which is performed where the bride's family formally acknowledges the groom's family and symbolizes the bride's transition from her father's care to her husband's. Ruhanika's father, his eyes brimming with tears of joy and perhaps a hint of sadness, came forward to do the ritual. He placed her hand in Kritarth's, a symbolic gesture of entrusting her future to him.

“Are you both ready to take your vows?”

The priest’s voice boomed, amplified by the microphones, filling the space with an air of gravity. The weight of the moment settled upon her, crushing her beneath its immense pressure.

She glanced at Kritarth Suryavanshi her would be husband, who had stepped closer, his hand reaching out almost instinctively, offering her a silent reassurance. His touch was warm, comforting, yet it couldn't dispel the chill that had settled in her heart.

“I—” She began, her voice a mere whisper, almost lost in the chanting.

“Do it!” A voice in her head screamed, a desperate plea for her to conform, to fulfill her duty. The weight of her parents’ expectations bore down on her, suffocating her, but nestled within was a simmering resolve, a flicker of defiance. With each step closer to the holy fire, a thought crystallized in her mind. This wasn’t the end; it was just the beginning. A new chapter, perhaps not the one she had envisioned, but one she could still shape, still define.

As they circled the sacred flame, the agni devta, each step felt like a declaration, an oath not just to a man she barely knew, but to herself. She would not be a passive victim, a mere pawn in her family's game. With each vow exchanged, Ruhanika felt the chains of her heart tightening, binding her to this new life, but at the same time, she began to envision a new kind of rebellion, a subtle resistance, a quiet revolution within the confines of her marriage. She would find her own path, her own voice, even within the gilded cage of her new reality.

SEVENS VOWS AROUND HOLY FIRE-(you can skip this part if you want )

First Vow: Nourishment and Togetherness

KRITARTH : I Promise to provide her food, shelter, and emotional support.

RUHANIKA : I Commit to fulfilling my responsibilities towards the family and partner.

This vow emphasizes the fundamental needs of a marriage: providing for each other's physical and emotional well-being. It's about creating a stable and supportive foundation. For example, Kritarth promising food and shelter signifies his commitment to providing basic security, while emotional support highlights the importance of being there for Ruhanika during challenging times. Ruhanika's commitment to fulfilling her responsibilities towards the family and partner shows her dedication to contributing to the household and sharing the burdens and joys of married life.

Second Vow: Health and Well-being

KRITARTH : I vow to ensure a healthy lifestyle for both.

RUHANIKA: I promise to care of my husband's physical and mental health.

This vow focuses on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and caring for each other's physical and mental health. It goes beyond just physical health and includes mental and emotional well-being. For instance, Kritarth's vow to ensure a healthy lifestyle could involve encouraging regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques for both of them. Ruhanika's promise to care for Kritarth's physical and mental health highlights her commitment to being attentive to his needs and providing support when he's facing health challenges.

Third Vow: Prosperity and Security

KRITARTH : I commit to protect my family and home.

RUHANIKA: I agree to support my husband in achieving prosperity.

This vow underscores the importance of financial stability and security in a marriage. It's about working together to build a prosperous future and protecting the family from harm. Kritarth's commitment to protect his family and home signifies his role as a provider and protector, ensuring their safety and well-being. Ruhanika's agreement to support her husband in achieving prosperity shows her willingness to contribute to their financial goals and work together to build a secure future.

Fourth Vow: Love and Companionship

KRITARTH : I vow to love and cherish my wife.

RUHANIKA: I promise to love my husband in every possible way.

This vow is the heart of the marriage, emphasizing the importance of love, affection, and companionship. It's about cherishing each other and building a deep and meaningful connection. Kritarth's vow to love and cherish his wife signifies his commitment to showing her love and affection throughout their lives. Ruhanika's promise to love her husband in every possible way highlights her dedication to nurturing their relationship and making him feel loved and appreciated.

Fifth Vow: Family and Children

KRITARTH : I ask for blessings for healthy children.

RUHANIKA: I commit to nurturing and caring for the family.

This vow focuses on the importance of family and the desire for healthy children. It's about creating a loving and nurturing environment for their offspring. Kritarth asking for blessings for healthy children signifies his desire to start a family and raise children together. Ruhanika's commitment to nurturing and caring for the family highlights her willingness to be a loving and supportive mother and wife, creating a strong and stable family unit.

Sixth Vow: Joy and Happiness

KRITARTH : I vow to share joy and happiness in life.

RUHANIKA: I promise to create a joyful environment for my family.

This vow emphasizes the importance of sharing joy and happiness in life. It's about creating a positive and fulfilling life together. Kritarth's vow to share joy and happiness in life signifies his commitment to being a positive and supportive partner, sharing both the good times and the bad. Ruhanika's promise to create a joyful environment for her family highlights her dedication to making their home a happy and welcoming place.

Seventh Vow: Spiritual Growth

KRITARTH :  I commit to spiritual evolution and higher consciousness.

RUHANIKA: I agree to walk the spiritual path together with my partner, fostering a sacred life.

This vow focuses on the importance of spiritual growth and higher consciousness. It's about supporting each other's spiritual journeys and building a sacred life together. Kritarth's commitment to spiritual evolution and higher consciousness signifies his desire to grow spiritually and deepen his understanding of himself and the world around him. Ruhanika's agreement to walk the spiritual path together with her partner fosters a sacred life, highlighting her willingness to support him on his spiritual journey and create a spiritually fulfilling life together.

Each vow reflects the importance of mutual respect, support, and partnership in building a successful marriage.

“I vow to stand by you,”

With a Final declaration Kritarth’s voice resonated through the space, but Ruhanika’s mind raced with her own internal vows.

" I vow to take back my life. I vow to be more than just a pawn. "

As she spoke her own vows in her mind , her voice steady despite the chaos within, she felt a spark ignite—a fire that mirrored the one they circled.

“I vow to challenge the world that confines us.”

Kritarth ties the mangal sutra (sacred necklace) around the Ruhanika's neck and applies sindoor (vermilion) on her forehead, signifying her married status. The mangal sutra, typically made of gold and black beads, symbolizes the bond of marriage and is believed to protect the husband's life. The sindoor, a red powder, is a traditional symbol of a married woman and is applied along the parting of her hair.

The guests erupted in applause, but Ruhanika barely heard them. The flames flickered, their warmth wrapping around her like a shield. This was her moment—a moment to rise, to reclaim her narrative amidst the expectations that threatened to drown her.

“Now, you are one, I announce you both as Husband And Wife ”

The priest declared, but in the depths of her heart, Ruhanika knew the truth. She was still herself, still whole, and this marriage would not bind her; it would set her free.

The elders of the family blessed the newlyweds, wishing them happiness, prosperity, and a harmonious life together. These blessings often involve touching the feet of the elders as a sign of respect and receiving their blessings in return, a tradition believed to bring good fortune and guidance to the couple.

As the wedding ceremony concluded, the last notes of the shehnai fading into the background chatter, Ruhanika caught Kritarth’s gaze. His eyes, a deep, thoughtful brown, held a mixture of confusion and intrigue, like a puzzle he couldn't quite solve. She smiled, a genuine one this time, not the practiced smiles she'd been offering all day. This smile was different, a promise of the delightful chaos that lay ahead, a secret understanding passing between them.

“I'll make your life hell,” she whispered, her voice barely audible above the celebratory music, her heart pounding with a strange mix of adrenaline and excitement. It wasn't a threat, not really. It was more of a challenge, a dare, a promise of a life less ordinary.

“What?” Kritarth asked, his brow arching in curiosity, a playful glint entering his eyes. He seemed more amused than concerned, as if he suspected she was joking, or perhaps, just being herself.

“Just wait and see.” She replied, a mischievous sparkle in her eyes. She wouldn't reveal her plans just yet; the element of surprise was crucial. Let him wonder, let him anticipate the storm she was about to unleash.

And as they turned to face their guests, a sea of smiling faces and well-wishers, Ruhanika felt the weight of their expectations shift. This was not just a marriage, a joining of two families; it was the beginning of a rebellion, a chance to rewrite the rules of their carefully constructed world. She was tired of playing the dutiful daughter, She wanted more, and she was determined to get it, even if it meant turning everything upside down.

As the laughter and cheers swelled around them, a cacophony of blessings and congratulations, she took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the scent of jasmine and anticipation, ready to embrace the chaos of her new life. She was no longer just Ruhanika, the bride; she was Ruhanika, the architect of her own destiny, and she was just getting started.

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TO BE CONTINUED......

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I hope you liked the First chapter I want to know what you think.

Did you like the speed of the story?

Did you connect with the characters?

Any feedback is welcome! It helps me make the story better for you.

If you liked it, please Like it! Your support helps me keep writing. It means a lot to know you're enjoying the story.

Please share the story with friends and family who might like it. Also, please comment! I love reading your thoughts and talking about the story.

Take care!

Sending love and good vibes 💕

I need help naming the beautiful pair Kritarth and Ruhanika . Any ideas?

Can you suggest a name for this ?

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