Welcome back!!
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As the night deepened, Dwarka gleamed in delight and celebration. Sacred chants echoed from the temples, their mantras rising into the dark sky. Musical instruments filled the streets with cheerful notes, while the moon bathed the palace in a soft silver glow, making its marble walls shimmer like quiet water.
"Have they arrived?" Rohini asked sharply as she walked across the grand hall.
"Not yet, Maharani" her personal maid replied softly.
Rohini stopped mid-step and looked at her in disbelief.
"Not yet?" she repeated, letting out a tired sigh.
Behind her, a group of attendants followed, carrying trays filled with fresh flowers and garlands.
Rohini turned and glared at them.
"Why are you all following me? Go and finish the remaining work. The hallways are yet to be decorated, and the stairs near the lotus pond still look bare."
The attendants hurried away at once.
"Jiji, why are you tiring yourself like this and them as well? Everything will be finished on time."
Devaki entered the hall with calm grace, Vasudev walking beside her.
Rohini looked relieved for a moment, but when her eyes fell on Vasudev, her brows knit together.
"Should you not be at the Sudharma Palace overseeing the mandap arrangements?" she asked, her voice hoarse with exhaustion.
"I was," Vasudev replied with an amused sigh. "But the boys interrupted me… and practically threw me out."
He rolled his eyes lightly.
Devaki suppressed a smile.
"They said the mandap is under their command tonight" she added.
Rohini blinked in disbelief.
"Under their command?" she muttered. "Heavens protect us."
Vasudev laughed softly.
"Move aside, move…" a maid hurried through the crowd.
"Greetings, Your Highness."
Vasudeva acknowledged her with a gentle nod.
"Oh Kamala, why did you take so long?" Rohini asked.
"My forgiveness, Devi. The pooja took longer than expected," Kamala replied, bowing her head. She stepped forward and offered the golden plate covered with red silk to Rohini.
Rohini lifted the silk cloth.
Beneath it lay a crimson red embroidered saree, adorned with delicate patterns of gold thread.
Rohini smiled softly.
"It is beautiful. Just as we had hoped."
Devaki gently touched the silk. Rohini nodded, though tears gathered unknowingly at the corners of her eyes.
Vasudeva placed his arm around Rohini's shoulder.
"She shall be the most radiant bride ever."
Rohini let out a soft chuckle.
"Indeed. Soon my little one steps into a new life. How swiftly children grow."
Vasudeva smiled faintly.
"And yet, to me she remains as my little kitten."
"Always," Devaki said with a tearful giggle.
"Always," Rohini echoed, wiping her tears away.
Then she looked at them both.
"Now, will you two please go and wake her?"
They nodded and walked away, carrying the golden plate with them.
"I hope everything goes well," Rohini whispered.
Her personal maid, Malati, stepped closer and smiled reassuringly.
"It shall, Devi. In truth, it shall be even better than we hope."
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~
"Vahindra's body has reached Kalinga. Since then, we have received nothing but a suspicious silence from the king," the man cloaked in black whispered from the shadows.
Arjun narrowed his eyes.
"Watch him closely. Do not mistake his silence for weakness."
The man nodded. "Of course."
A smirk slowly appeared on his lips.
"Our men were quite eager to welcome our nanad rani."
Arjun raised an eyebrow.
"She shall be Arjun's wife."
"But it was Rudra who fell for her first," the man replied casually.
Arjun's gaze hardened.
"Leave. Before circumstances compel me to send word to Niyati."
The man only smirked.
"As you wish."
" We will meet soon. "He winked.
With that, he stepped back into the darkness and disappeared.
"Stupids…" Arjun sighed, letting out a faint laugh.
Then he turned and walked down the long palace corridors.
Heavy breathing echoed in the stillness of the night.
Arjuna halted in his steps and looked toward the silent training arena. Slowly, he walked closer.
"Trying to impress the moon… or perhaps the stars?" he remarked.
Kritavarma stopped mid-duel. Lowering his sword, he spoke without turning.
"Go."
The soldier sparring with him bowed and quickly left the arena.
Kritivarma turned, a faint mocking smile on his lips.
"It seems the moon is truly impressed tonight… blessing us with the great archer's darshan."
Arjun chuckled softly, crossing his arms and leaning against a nearby tree.
"It seems my dear friend is not pleased with my arrival."
"Friend?" Kritivarma scoffed.
"Were we friends…? Ah yes, I remember now. Once, we were."
Arjun's gaze softened with a quiet sigh.
"I know many things happened between us… and—"
"And we never resolved them," Arjun continued, stepping forward.
"Because we never wished to," Kritivarma cut in coldly.
Arjun looked away.
"Leave it," Kritivarma said, sheathing his sword. "Tomorrow is your wedding. Go and prepare yourself."
His voice turned sharper.
"You are about to gain another trophy to add to your glory."
Arjun's eyes flashed.
"What?" Kritivarma continued mockingly.
"Did I say something wrong? She is your trophy for friendship, is she not?"
He turned away, his knuckles tightening.
"Just like you won Draupadi by triumphing in the contest."
Arjun stepped forward, his voice firm.
"There are many things between us that remain misunderstood. We must resolve them... "
"I do not wish to," Kritivarma declared, his voice hoarse.
A tense silence followed.
"I love her," Arjun said quietly.
"I do not care."
With that, Kritivarma walked out of the arena without another glance.
Arjun ran a frustrated hand through his hair and kicked a fallen tree branch.
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~
A soft peck made her eyelashes flutter open.
"Pitashree…" Subhadra whispered softly.
Vasudeva was seated beside her on the bed. Behind him stood Devaki, holding a golden plate with the bridal offerings.
Subhadra slowly sat up.
"We came to wake you for your special day," Vasudev said gently, cupping her face.
She gazed at him for a moment before leaning forward and hugging him.
Vasudev chuckled softly.
"May the gods bless you with all the love in the world."
She hugged him tightly.
A gentle hand caressed her head. Subhadra looked up.
Devaki had sat beside them. She placed a soft kiss on Subhadra's forehead.
"May your smile remain forever."
Subhadra wrapped her arms around both of them, holding them tightly.
"Alright," Devaki said with a playful sigh, "we must hurry before Jiji breaks the walls out of worry."
Subhadra giggled.
Devaki stood and clapped her hands.
Within moments, the maids entered the chamber.
Subhadra looked toward Vasudev again.
He smiled softly and nodded, cupping her cheek once more.
The chamber slowly filled with the quiet movement of maids.
Outside, the palace rested beneath the pale glow of the moon. Oil lamps flickered along the walls, their light swaying gently in the midnight stillness.
Subhadra was guided toward the inner bathing chamber.
Large bronze vessels had already been filled with warm water scented with sandalwood and jasmine. Rose petals floated upon the surface.
The maids helped her step into the shallow marble pool.
Soft hands poured the fragrant water over her hair and shoulders while another maid gently applied sandalwood paste along her arms. The quiet splashing of water and the faint chiming of bangles filled the chamber.
After the ritual bath was complete, Subhadra was wrapped in a soft white cloth and led back to her chamber.
The golden plate rested nearby.
Devaki lifted the crimson embroidered saree from it. The gold threads shimmered softly in the lamplight.
The maids carefully draped the saree around Subhadra, pleating the silk with practiced grace and arranging the pallu over her shoulder.
The last pleat of the crimson saree was carefully arranged.
Subhadra sat quietly as the maids adjusted the silk over her shoulder. The deep red fabric shimmered softly beneath the flickering oil lamps.
"Bring the jewel caskets," Devaki said gently.
One of the maids stepped forward to obey.
Before she could reach the chest, a soft knock echoed at the chamber door.
"My apologies for the interruption, my Queen. The elders have arrived and await your permission to enter."
Devaki turned toward it.
"At this hour?" she murmured.
She walked to the door and opened it slightly.
Standing outside were Ugrasena and Vasudeva. Behind them stood two elderly nobles, their attendants carrying ornate chests.
Devaki's eyes widened with pleasant surprise
"Maharaj…?"
Ugrasena chuckled softly.
"Would a grandfather miss the moment his granddaughter is adorned as a bride?"
Devaki stepped aside to let them enter.
The chamber immediately fell silent as the elders walked in.
Subhadra quickly rose to her feet and bowed respectfully.
"Sit, child," Ugrasena said warmly. "Tonight you are the bride of the house."
Subhadra smiled shyly and sat again.
An attendant stepped forward and opened a sandalwood chest.
Inside rested a magnificent navaratna haar, the nine sacred gemstones shining softly under the lamplight.
Ugrasena lifted it carefully, his old eyes filled with pride.
"This necklace has adorned the queens of our house for generations," he said warmly. "Tonight it belongs to you."
She accepted it reverently, her fingers lingering over the shining gems.
Vasudev stepped forward next.
His attendants opened another chest revealing delicate gold bangles and a slender armlet set with rubies.
"I had these prepared long ago," Vasudev said with a quiet smile.
"I suppose a father always dreams of this day… even before his daughter grows old enough to understand it."
Subhadra's eyes softened as she looked at him.
He placed his hand gently upon her head.
"As long as breath remains within me, you shall never stand alone."
She placed her hand over his with a trembling smile.
"I will always be grateful… for everything."
Another elder then stepped forward. Maharaj Shurasena.
He opened a small velvet-lined casket.
Inside rested a rare pendant — the Chandrakanta Mani, a luminous moonstone that glowed with a pale silvery light.
"This gem," Shurasena said gently, "is believed to carry the calm blessing of the moon."
He looked at Subhadra fondly.
"May it guide your steps and protect your heart in the life ahead."
Subhadra bowed her head respectfully.
Before the moment settled, another voice spoke from the doorway.
"Then I fear I have arrived a little late to compete with such splendid gifts."
Everyone turned.
Standing there was Bahlika, Rohini's father. Dust from travel still rested upon his cloak.
"You arrived only hours ago!" Subhadra exclaimed warmly.
Bahlika chuckled softly.
"A grandfather would cross kingdoms rather than miss such a night."
He gestured for the chest to be opened.
Inside lay a pair of exquisite lotus-shaped kundala earrings, studded with pearls and blue sapphires, along with a delicate gold kamarbandh that shimmered like woven sunlight.
"From Rohini's family," Bahlika said gently.
"For our princess."
Subhadra looked around the chamber at the elders who had gathered only to bless her.
Her eyes glistened.
For a moment, the quiet midnight chamber felt filled with warmth , not of lamps, but of family.
Just then, the chamber door opened quietly.
A familiar figure stepped inside.
Krishna.
For a moment he did not speak.
He simply stood there, leaning slightly against the doorway, his eyes resting upon his sister.
The lamplight shimmered on the crimson silk as Subhadra sat surrounded by elders and jewels. For the first time that night, Krishna's playful smile softened into something quieter… almost tender.
"Ah," he finally said with a faint chuckle, stepping inside, "so this is where everyone has gathered."
The elders smiled knowingly.
Krishna walked closer, his gaze still fixed on Subhadra. She lowered her eyes shyly under his attention.
"My little one…" he murmured softly.
He gently lifted her chin with his fingers, studying her face as though memorizing it.
"When did you grow up so quickly?"
Subhadra laughed faintly, though her eyes glistened.
"You were the one who refused to notice," she said softly.
Krishna shook his head with an amused sigh.
"Perhaps."
Then he glanced at the jewel caskets around her.
"So many treasures…" he said lightly. "And yet none of them know how to sit properly."
The elders chuckled.
Krishna turned to Devaki.
"May I?"
Devaki smiled warmly and stepped aside.
Krishna picked up the navaratna necklace and carefully fastened it around Subhadra's neck. His fingers worked gently, making sure the clasp rested comfortably.
"There," he said softly.
Next he slid the bangles onto her wrists one by one. The gold chimed faintly as they touched.
Subhadra watched him quietly.
Krishna paused for a moment, then lightly tapped one of the bangles.
"If that husband of yours ever troubles you," he said casually, "these should make a fine weapon."
Subhadra gasped in laughter.
The room filled with amused chuckles.
Krishna grinned innocently.
"What? A brother must ensure his sister remains well defended."
Then he reached into a small silk pouch.
"And this," he said softly, "comes from someone who would never forgive me if I forgot."
He held up a delicate silver anklet.
"From Bhrata Balaram."
Krishna knelt before her and gently lifted her foot. Carefully he fastened the anklet around her ankle.
The tiny bells chimed softly in the quiet chamber.
He looked up at her with a small smile.
"He said if you refuse to visit us often, these bells will remind us where to find you."
Subhadra's eyes shimmered with emotion.
Krishna rose slowly and moved behind her.
Her long dark hair fell freely down her back.
He gently ran his fingers through the strands, combing them slowly and carefully as though she were still a child sitting before him.
"You used to complain when I braided your hair," he murmured with a soft laugh.
"Because you would pull it too tight," Subhadra replied.
Krishna smiled.
"And yet you would still come running to me every morning."
He began to braid her hair slowly and carefully, dividing the thick strands with surprising gentleness. The maids watched silently as he worked with steady hands.
When the braid was complete, a maid stepped forward with a small velvet tray of hair ornaments.
Krishna picked up a delicate chandra-suryan hair pin, its tiny sun and moon motifs glimmering in the lamplight, and secured it near the crown of her braid.
Next he placed a slender jada billai - a traditional braid ornament of small golden discs , along the length of her plait so that they shimmered softly as she moved.
Finally he fastened a small rakodi, a circular gold ornament studded with pearls, at the beginning of the braid.
"There," he murmured.
He then tucked fresh mogra blossoms gently along the braid, their white petals glowing against her dark hair.
The sweet fragrance filled the chamber.
Krishna stepped back slightly and tilted his head, studying his work with mock seriousness.
"Hmm… acceptable."
Subhadra laughed softly.
Krishna smiled, then carefully tucked a single peacock feather beside the flowers.
"Now," he said warmly, "it is perfect."
The tiny bells of her anklet chimed as she shifted slightly, and the chamber once again filled with quiet affection.
For a moment he simply rested his hand upon her head, gently smoothing her hair.
Then he leaned down and placed a soft kiss upon her crown.
"My brave little sister," he whispered.
Krishna remained beside his sister, leaning casually against the carved pillar, occasionally teasing her while the others smiled.
"You look like a divine blossom," Bahlika said, his voice filled with admiration.
"Of course she is divine," Ugrasena added proudly.
"She is the very jewel of Dwaraka."
A soft, warm laughter followed, easing the solemnity of the moment.
Devaki stepped forward slowly, her eyes fixed on Subhadra with quiet affection.
For a moment, she simply looked at her , as though trying to take in every detail.
Then she gently circled her hand before Subhadra’s face, performing the ritual of drishti to ward off any evil eye.
She lightly touched a bit of kohl and placed it behind Subhadra’s ear.
Her fingers lingered there for a brief second.
"May no evil glance ever touch you… not even your shadow," Devaki whispered softly.
Subhadra’s eyes softened.
She leaned slightly toward her.
Devaki cupped her face gently.
"You were born into my arms… and today you stand before me as a bride," she said, her voice trembling faintly.
Then she placed a tender kiss on Subhadra’s forehead.
"Be blessed, child."
The chamber fell into a quiet, emotional stillness filled not with ceremony, but with love.
Outside, the long night was slowly fading.
Beyond the palace windows, the sky had begun to change. The deep darkness of midnight softened into a pale shade of blue.
The oil lamps inside the chamber flickered gently as a cool breeze drifted through the curtains.
A temple conch sounded faintly in the distance.
The first call of dawn.
Subhadra turned slightly toward the window.
A thin line of golden light appeared along the horizon.
Morning had arrived.
Krishna followed her gaze and smiled quietly.
"So," he said softly, "the sun has decided not to miss your wedding either."
Subhadra laughed faintly.
Just then the sound of hurried footsteps approached the chamber.
The door opened, and a maid entered, bowing respectfully.
"Devi.." she said gently, looking toward Devaki,
"the priests requested your presence"
The room fell into a brief silence.
The moment everyone had been waiting for had arrived.
Krishna looked at his sister again.
For a heartbeat, neither of them spoke.
Then he gently extended his hand toward her.
"Come," he said with a warm smile.
"It is time."
Subhadra placed her hand in his.
The tiny bells of her anklet chimed softly as she stood , ready to step into the next chapter of her life.
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~
"Remind Satyaki to check the feast preparations. The food must be served as soon as the wedding rites are completed," Balaram said hurriedly to a soldier.
The soldier bowed and hurried away.
Balaram turned to walk down the corridor, his steps quick with responsibility.
But suddenly...
A soft sound of anklets chimed through the hall.
He stopped mid-step.
The sound echoed gently against the palace walls.
Balaram froze.
Slowly… very slowly… he turned.
At the far end of the corridor, Subhadra was descending the steps.
On either side of her walked Devaki and Rukmini. Behind her followed Krishna, unusually silent.
The crimson silk shimmered with each step she took. The anklets chimed softly, announcing the bride.
Balaram stood rooted.
His eyes slowly filled with tears.
"Arya… did you.. "
Revati stopped mid-sentence as she noticed his expression.
She stepped beside him and followed his gaze.
When she saw Subhadra approaching, her own face softened.
"My child…" she whispered.
"She is beautiful."
The two of them stood there silently as Subhadra slowly walked toward them.
Just then, a loud ceremonial trumpet echoed through the palace.
Balarama flinched slightly, quickly turning his face away as he wiped his eyes.
"The… the priests must be calling me," he muttered hurriedly.
"I should go."
He tried to step away.
Revati gently caught his wrist.
"Arya…"
"Revati, Krishna must be looking for me," he stammered.
"I should.."
"Arya," Revati repeated softly, shaking her head.
Her eyes glistened as she nodded toward Subhadra, who had now reached them.
Balaram took a slow breath and turned back.
Subhadra stood before him, smiling softly.
For a moment he simply looked at her , the little girl he had once carried on his shoulders, now standing before him as a woman.
He raised his hand and gently cupped her face.
"You look… gorgeous, dear."
Subhadra's eyes shimmered.
"Bhrata," she said softly,
"bless me."
She began to bend to touch his feet.
But Balaram quickly stopped her midway.
"No."
His voice broke slightly.
Instead, he pulled her into a gentle embrace.
"May Lord Shiva bless me with the strength to break every obstacle that stands between you and your happiness."
Subhadra wrapped her arms around him tightly.
Krishna stepped forward quietly and joined the embrace, resting a hand on both of them.
None of them spoke.
Only the faint sound of bells echoed in the quiet corridor.
Finally they slowly pulled apart.
Devaki stepped forward.
"Subhadra," she said gently, "before going to the mandap, you must visit the temple of Lord Ganesh."
Subhadra nodded respectfully.
Balaram cleared his throat.
"Then… shall I accompany you to the temple?"
Subhadra smiled.
"Of course, Bhrata."
Revati raised an eyebrow teasingly.
"Oh? And what about the priests who were supposedly waiting for you?"
Balaram waved his hand dismissively.
"They can wait."
He gently took Subhadra's hand.
"May I join you both?" Krishna asked, already stepping into pace beside them.
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~
The palace courtyard had begun to fill with the soft glow of dawn.
Golden rays of the rising sun touched the tops of the palace domes while the wedding mandap stood magnificently decorated with fresh flowers, silk banners, and sacred lamps.
Priests moved around the altar, preparing the sacred fire.
Warriors, elders, and nobles had gathered, their voices low with anticipation.
At the grand entrance, the sound of trumpet echoed through the courtyard.
All eyes turned.
Arjun had arrived.
Dressed in royal wedding attire, his armor replaced by silk and ornaments, he stepped down gracefully. The morning light caught the jewels on his crown as he looked toward the mandap.
Rohini walked forward with a golden aarti plate in her hands, its lamp flame dancing softly.
She stood before Arjun and studied him for a moment with warm eyes.
"So," she said gently,
"the great archer has come to take away our daughter."
Arjun smiled respectfully and bowed slightly.
"I hope I prove worthy of the trust you place in me, Mata."
Rohini's expression softened.
She circled the aarti flame before him slowly, performing the sacred welcome ritual. The soft ringing of the small bell on the plate echoed through the courtyard.
When she finished, she placed a small tilak on his forehead.
"May your path be blessed," she said warmly.
Arjun bowed again.
"Your blessings mean more than any victory."
Rohini stepped aside and gestured toward the mandap.
"Come, then."
Arjun took a slow breath and began walking toward the mandap.
(Sudharma Palace - Mandap)
The priests raised their conch shells, and the sacred sound echoed across the courtyard as the groom arrived.
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~
Arjun's POV,
As I stepped toward the mandap, my heart fluttered with restless emotion.
In a few moments, she would be mine… completely mine.
The great hall was filled with kings, warriors, sages, and honored guests. Their voices hummed like distant waves, yet none of it truly reached me.
My mind was fixed only on the sacred fire waiting beneath the mandap.
A sudden urge rushed through me , to sit beside her, to circle the fire together, to receive the blessings of the elders.
I sighed quietly.
How I wished my Mata were present to see this day.
Just then the priest's voice rang through the hall.
"The groom must receive the tilak from his own household before stepping into the mandap."
I stopped mid-step.
Only a few steps remained between me and the sacred altar.
Across the mandap, Mata Rohini and Maharaj Vasudeva looked toward me expectantly.
My brother Yudhishthira had informed me that the ceremonial tilak from our household would arrive by midnight.
But amidst the earlier commotion caused by Kritavarma, I had nearly forgotten about it.
Why had it not arrived yet?
"Pragala," I called softly to my attendant.
He stepped closer immediately.
"Rajkumar," he whispered nervously, "I too cannot understand why it has not arrived."
Before I could respond, a young voice spoke from the side.
Gada stepped forward.
"Pitashree… I heard that a robbery occurred near the west gate during the night."
The words spread tension through the hall.
The gathered nobles began whispering among themselves, curious about the sudden discussion interrupting the sacred rituals.
"Robbery?" Vasudeva exclaimed in surprise.
Devaki looked troubled.
"What shall we do now? The groom must not step into the mandap without the tilak."
"Do not worry," said Ugrasena calmly.
"We can prepare tilak from our own kumkum and sandal paste."
"But it must come from the groom's side," Rohini replied, concern clear on her face.
"What is all this, Gada?" Maharaj Vasudeva asked, his voice firm.
Gada looked visibly tense, taking a moment before he spoke.
"Pitashree…"
He hesitated, then drew a breath.
"Do you wish to say something further?"Pitamah Ugrasena asked, his gaze sharp.
Gada bowed his head slightly.
"Pitamah… some travelers have gathered near the main gates. They created a small commotion, insisting they must be allowed inside to witness the wedding."
Everyone frowned.
"It will only cause unnecessary disturbance," he said firmly.
"Do not permit them. Send word that I shall meet them after the wedding."
Gada shifted uneasily.
"Pitashree… that is not all."
The elders exchanged glances.
Gada continued, his voice lower now.
"They have… overpowered the gate soldiers."
A sudden silence fell.
"I have already sent additional guards," he added quickly,
"but… we have received no message from them since."
"I believe you should go and meet them," Maharaj Bahlika said thoughtfully.
"In the middle of the wedding?" Maharaj Vasudeva sighed, concern evident in his voice.
"He is right," Pitamah added firmly.
"If they have gone so far as to overpower the guards, this is no small matter. It must be attended to at once."
"I shall come with you," I said, stepping forward without hesitation.
Before I could move, mata Rohini raised her hand, stopping me.
"No, Putra," she said gently but firmly.
"You must not leave the hall now."
Her eyes softened, though her voice held resolve.
"This is your moment. The sacred rituals must not be interrupted."
She placed her hand lightly on my shoulder.
"Trust us. We shall handle what lies outside… you remain where you are meant to be."
Maharaj Vasudeva nodded and left the hall.
A robbery in the night. Villagers arriving suddenly at dawn.
Despite the heavy security surrounding the palace.
Something about this felt strange.
"Rohini, do not let this disturb the gathering. Continue with the rituals," Maharaj shurasena said calmly.
Mata Rohini took a steady breath and nodded, composing herself before stepping back into her duties.
The priest raised his voice, drawing everyone’s attention once more.
"The groom shall now be seated for the Pada Prakshalana.
I stepped forward and sat upon the low wooden seat near the mandap.
A silver vessel filled with milk, water, and fragrant herbs was brought forward.
Satyaki stepped ahead, his expression composed yet still carrying the weight of earlier emotions.
He knelt before me.
The hall grew quiet.
Slowly, he poured the sacred mixture over my feet.
The cool liquid flowed across my skin, carrying with it the symbolism of humility and acceptance.
The priest spoke alongside the ritual.
"In this act, the bride’s family honors the groom, welcoming him not as an outsider, but as one who now becomes part of their own lineage."
He gently wiped my feet with a clean cloth.
Then he placed his hand briefly over them , a gesture not of submission, but of solemn acceptance.
I instinctively reached forward and touched his shoulder.
"Do not," I said softly.
He looked up.
There was a faint firmness in my voice.
"I stand not above you… but beside you."
For a moment, something softened in his eyes.
He gave a slight nod.
The ritual was complete.
The priest gestured for me to rise
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~
After several tense moments, Maharaj Vasudeva returned.
Behind him walked a small group of villagers.
My eyes scanned them.
And then—
Kaali!!
I nearly groaned aloud.
What in the world was he doing here?
He noticed my expression immediately and grinned shamelessly.
Vasudeva spoke to the assembly.
"These people live in the hills near Panchala. They say that Arjun once saved their village from a forest demon."
The villagers nodded respectfully.
"They came to celebrate his wedding," Vasudeva continued.
"They also brought sacred tilak from their temple."
Kaali stepped forward and bowed respectfully.
"Greetings, Maharaj."
He then glanced briefly at me before continuing.
"We heard that the groom's tilak has been delayed. Our village temple , Mahadeva of Trikuta Hill, is a powerful shrine of Lord Shiva."
From a small copper vessel he revealed bright red kumkum mixed with sacred ash.
"If you permit," he said humbly, "it would be our honor to perform the tilak."
"That will be auspicious."
"Indeed."
All eyes turned toward me.
I stared at him for a moment.
The thief!!
My mind sighed in resignation.
Of all the times to appear…
Finally, I nodded.
"Very well."
Kaali's grin widened ever so slightly.
And the priest stepped forward once more.
The wedding rituals could finally continue.
Kaali stepped forward.
Beside him stood Niyati.
She folded her hands politely.
"Pranam, Rajkumar."
I nodded slightly.
So this was his plan.
When he had said 'we will meet soon', I should have known better than to dismiss it.
I rolled my eyes.
Leaning slightly closer, I whispered, my voice low so the priests would not hear.
"What are you all doing here? Do you realize how dangerous it is to wander around the palace at this hour?Before the gathered assembly!?."
The priest continued chanting mantras beside us, his voice rising and falling like a steady river.
Kaali grinned shamelessly.
"Do not worry about us," he whispered back.
"Nothing in this world could stop us from witnessing your wedding with our Nanad Rani."
I exhaled slowly.
"You are unbelievable."
He shrugged lightly.
"True."
Then I narrowed my eyes at him.
"And what was that robbery at the west gate?"
Kaali scratched the back of his head, trying and failing , to look innocent.
"A small distraction."
My brows lifted.
"You robbed the palace gate?"
"Not robbed," he corrected quickly.
"Borrowed their attention."
I stared at him.
"So the guards would chase you… while you walked inside as travellers?"
Kaali's grin widened.
"You see? You understand perfectly."
I rubbed my forehead.
"You staged a robbery at the royal palace… on the morning of a wedding… just to put tilak on my head."
"Exactly."
I shook my head in disbelief.
"If anyone catches you," I muttered, "I will personally throw you out of the palace."
He chuckled quietly.
"Then we shall try not to get caught."
My gaze shifted to Niyati.
"You are risking her life too," I whispered.
"Why bring her here?"
Kaali sighed softly.
"I told her to stay home."
He glanced at her helplessly.
"But even I cannot win an argument against her."
Niyati smiled gently.
She placed one hand over her stomach, caressing it protectively.
For a moment, my irritation faded.
I looked at her belly with a quiet smile.
"So the little warrior insisted on attending as well."
Niyati laughed softly.
"She wished to see their mama shree's wedding."
Kaali leaned closer and whispered teasingly.
"Your first blessing should go to my child."
I scoffed quietly.
"You should first survive this madness."
Kaali finally grew serious.
From a small copper container, he lifted sacred tilak paste , vermilion mixed with ash from a Shiva temple.
His voice softened.
"This came from our village shrine , Mahadeva of Trikuta Hill"
He dipped his fingers into the paste.
"For protection… and victory."
Then he placed the tilak on my forehead.
For a brief moment, our eyes met.
"Now," he said quietly,
"you may go, win your bride."
I exhaled slowly.
Then I turned toward the mandap.
The sacred fire crackled gently beneath the decorated canopy.
With steady steps, I walked forward and finally entered the mandap.
I stepped into the mandap.
The sacred fire burned steadily at the center, its golden flames dancing as the priest continued the mantras. The fragrance of sandalwood and incense filled the air, mingling with the soft sound of conch shells and temple bells.
My gaze remained fixed on the entrance.
My heart was beating far louder than the drums outside.
She will walk through that doorway.
The thought alone sent a strange flutter through my chest.
I folded my hands respectfully before the sacred fire and sat beside it as the priest instructed. Still, my eyes drifted again and again toward the entrance corridor.
Kaali, standing nearby, noticed.
Of course he did.
A faint smile curved on his lips.
"You may burn the doorway with your gaze," he murmured quietly, leaning slightly closer, "but she will not appear any faster."
I shot him a look.
"You speak as if you are not responsible for half the chaos that delayed this moment."
Kaali chuckled softly.
"Perhaps."
Then his expression softened slightly.
"But some moments deserve anticipation."
Before I could respond, the conch suddenly echoed through the hall.
The conch echoed long and deep through the grand hall.
Every voice fell silent.
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~
Author's POV,
At the entrance, Subhadra appeared.
She stepped forward slowly, the soft chime of her anklets marking each careful step. Her crimson silk shimmered beneath the warm glow of hundreds of oil lamps. Gold ornaments rested upon her braid, woven with jasmine and pearl strings that swayed gently with her movement.
On either side of her walked her brothers.
Krishna on her right.
Sriman Balaram on her left.
Balaram’s posture was tall and protective, his gaze sweeping across the assembly like a guardian ensuring no harm would ever reach his sister. Krishna, however, watched her with quiet affection, a faint knowing smile playing on his lips.
Behind them came Rukmini and Devaki.
When they reached the steps of the mandap, Rohini suddenly stepped.
She simply looked at Subhadra.
Her eyes softened, filled with tears.
She lifted her hand and gently cupped Subhadra’s cheek.
"My child…" she whispered.
Subhadra looked up.
Rohini smiled through the tears forming in her eyes.
"You once held my sari and followed me through these palace halls," she said softly. "And today you walk toward your own home."
Subhadra’s throat tightened.
She leaned forward slightly, resting her forehead briefly against Rohini’s hand.
Krishna cleared his throat softly beside them.
"If Mata continues like this," he said lightly, "Arjuna might age before the wedding even begins."
Soft laughter rippled through the gathering.
Rohini wiped her eyes and nodded.
"Yes… yes. Let us not keep destiny waiting."
They guided Subhadra forward.
Inside the mandap, Arjuna stood near the sacred fire.
The flames flickered, casting golden reflections across his armor and ornaments.
When Subhadra stepped onto the platform, their eyes met.
For a moment the entire hall faded.
Arjun had faced kings, warriors, and countless battlefields without hesitation.
Yet now, seeing her walk toward him as his bride, his heart trembled quietly.
Subhadra lowered her gaze, but not before he saw the same nervous warmth reflected in her eyes.
The priest raised his hand.
"The bride and groom shall exchange garlands."
Satyabhama brought forward fragrant flower garlands.
"You look beautiful… my blue lotus," Arjuna whispered softly.
Subhadra lowered her gaze, a soft blush spreading across her cheeks.
"Ah… yes…" came a teasing voice.
Satyabhama shifted the garlands in her hands dramatically.
"You have an entire lifetime to make your blue lotus blush," she said with a playful sigh,
"but for now, kindly take these. My hands are suffering under their weight."
A few soft chuckles rose around them.
Arjun blinked, momentarily pulled out of the moment.
"Oh....yes…" he said quickly, a faint blush touching his own face as he nodded and reached for the garlands.
Subhadra’s smile deepened slightly, her eyes still lowered, while Satyabhama smirked in satisfaction.
Subhadra lifted the garland first.
Her fingers trembled slightly.
She looked up at Arjun for a brief second.
Their eyes met again.
Arjun noticed her hesitation.
Very subtly, he inclined his head a little closer, easing the distance.
A small reassurance.
You need not fear.
Subhadra breathed softly and placed the garland around his neck.
Applause filled the hall.
Arjun then lifted his garland.
For a moment he paused.
He did not rush.
Instead, he looked at her properly , the shy bride before him, the woman who had trusted him enough to leave her world and step into his.
His voice was barely a whisper.
" I love you "
Subhadra’s cheeks warmed.
Then he gently placed the garland around her neck.
Flower petals rained down from above.
The priest then announced the next sacred rite.
"Kanyadaan."
The hall grew solemn.
Vasudev stepped forward beside Subhadra.
The priest spoke clearly.
"Kanyadaan is the sacred act where the family entrusts their daughter to a worthy groom. It is not a giving away of a possession, but a blessing , a prayer that the groom will cherish, protect, and honor her all his life."
He took Subhadra’s hands.
He looked at her , as the daughter he had protected since childhood. Rohini joined him along with Devaki.
Then he placed her hands slowly into Arjuna’s waiting palms.
Arjun felt the slight tremble in her fingers.
He closed his hands gently around hers.
Not tightly.
Just enough for her to feel the warmth of his hold.
Sacred water was poured over their joined hands.
The priest chanted the mantras.
Arjun glanced at her again.
Subhadra lifted her gaze slightly.
For a brief moment their eyes held.
No words were spoken.
But something quiet passed between them.
Trust.
The priest then brought forward a jeweled ornament.
"The groom shall now place the chudamani, honoring the bride as the lady of his household.'
Krishna handed the ornament to Arjuna.
Arjuna stepped closer.
Subhadra stood still, her breath steady but soft.
He carefully lifted the ornament and placed it along the parting of her hair.
His fingers brushed her hair lightly.
She felt it.
A shimmer of tears touched her eyes.
Arjun’s fingers rose to her cheek, wiping them away with quiet tenderness.
A small warmth spread across her face.
Then the priest tied the end of their garments together.
"This sacred knot represents the union of two lives," he explained. "From this moment forward, their paths are bound together."
The priest gestured toward the sacred fire.
"Now comes the Saptapadi, the seven sacred steps."
Arjun and Subhadra stood.
Their garments tied together.
Hand in hand.
The fire crackled gently before them.
"First step " the priest declared.
"For nourishment and prosperity."
They took the first step together.
Arjuna slightly slowed his pace so she could walk comfortably beside him.
"Second step , for strength."
Subhadra felt his hand tighten slightly in reassurance.
" Third step ,for prosperity."
She glanced up briefly.
He nodded gently.
"Fourth step , for love and harmony."
"Fifth step , for the blessing of children."
A shy warmth touched her face.
"Sixth step ,for health and long life."
"Seventh step , for eternal friendship."
When the final step was completed, the priest raised his voice.
"With these seven steps, your bond becomes sacred and eternal."
The fire crackled brighter as offerings were poured into it.
Arjuna looked at Subhadra again.
Not as a bride now.
But as his wife.
Subhadra slowly lifted her gaze.
And for the first time since entering the mandap, she smiled openly at him.
A quiet smile.
But full of trust.
"May bride and groom shall now offer the sacred Ahuti to Agni," the priest announced.
(Ahuti – the offering of ghee, grains, or sacred herbs into the fire, symbolizing surrender, prayer, and devotion to the divine witness of the marriage.)
Arjuna stepped closer behind Subhadra.
He gently reached forward, enclosing her hands within his.
Subhadra flinched softly at the sudden warmth of his touch.
A faint smile touched Arjun’s lips.
He leaned slightly closer, his voice low and gentle.
"Do not be startled…"
His fingers adjusted over hers, steadying them.
"From now on, every offering… we make it together. I promise you, all that I have , every wealth, every honor, is yours to share."
Subhadra’s breath softened.
Her initial hesitation melted into a quiet calm.
Together, guided by the priest’s chant, they tilted their joined hands and let the sacred offering fall into the fire.
The flames rose briefly, glowing brighter , as if blessing their union.
Subhadra glanced back for a fleeting moment.
Arjun met her gaze.
And in that silent exchange, something settled between them.
Not just ritual.
But togetherness.
The sacred vows had bound them.
Two lives.
One path forward.
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STAY TUNED...