Krishna, Revati, and young Subhadra were gathered around the ornately carved wooden table for their evening meal. The atmosphere was cozy, a pleasant end to another day in the vibrant city of Dwarka.

Revati served the dishes with a gentle hand, ensuring that each plate was artfully arranged.

Little Subhadra chattered about her day, filling the room with her youthful exuberance her eyes wide with the excitement of sharing a meal with her beloved bhrata and bhabhishree,.

"Devarji," Revati began, her voice laced with a teasing tone, "the halls of Dwarka are full with tales of your wisdom and bravery. Yet, I find myself wondering, when will you decide to bring a companion home for me? The palace could surely benefit from another lady's touch."

Krishna met her question with a knowing smile. "Ah, bhabhi," he replied, his tone light yet thoughtful, "the universe moves in mysterious ways, and the heart even more so. But fear not, for when the time is right, and the stars align, Dwarka shall welcome a companion worthy of your friendship and our family's legacy."

"But Bhratashree, how will you know when the time is right? What if you miss it while busy with your duties?"Subhadra piped up, ever curious and not wanting to be left out of the conversation. Her earnest question, posed with the innocence of youth, drew gentle laughter from both Krishna and Revati.

 "Subhadra,let me tell you, there's already someone who has claimed a special place in our dear Kanha's heart," Balram announced as she came, throwing a playful glance toward Krishna.

"Oh? And who might this special someone be, Balram? Have we met her?" Vasudev raised an eyebrow in interest.

"Leave it to Balram to stir the pot. And here we were, thinking you'd remain Dwarka's most elusive bachelor." Rohini chimed in with a laugh.

"Yes, Putra, do tell us. After all, it's not every day that Balram hints at such matters. And we, your family, ought to be the first to know."Devkiadded as she joined the playful inquisition with a mother's keen interest.

Vasudev chuckled "Indeed, Krishna. Is there a special someone who has captured the heart of Dwarka's most eligible bachelor? Your mother and I would love to know."

"Yes, Krishna. It's rare to see you at a loss for words. Could it be that love has finally found our son?"

Caught in a delightful ambush of familial curiosity, Krishna met their gazes. "My dear family," he began, his voice calm yet full of warmth, "the universe has its own timing, and the matters of the heart follow their own course."

"But Bhratashree, can't you give us a hint? Is she brave? Is she beautiful? Does she know how to chase away the darkness with her light, just like you do?" Subhadra's youthful exuberance was unable to be contained.

The questions hung in the air, leaving everyone in a momentary pause, their expressions a mix of anticipation and amusement.

 "Oh, there is someone indeed! A priye, a beloved, who rules over Kanha's heart," Balram declared with a booming laugh. "He, who has faced demons and kings, is utterly smitten.Our Kanha here might just have his sights set on someone as fierce and captivating as Devi Durga herself.""

The sudden revelation caused a ripple of surprise among the assembled family members. Revati's eyes widened in genuine intrigue, while Subhadra leaned in closer, her curiosity piqued by the mention of a potential match for her beloved brother.

Vasudev raised an eyebrow, his interest now fully piqued. "Is that so, Balram?" he inquired "And pray tell, who might this formidable lady be?"

Balram leaned back with a knowing smile. "None other than the illustrous Devendraputri Rajkumari Devashree of Dharmasamrajya Kripalakshaya ,"

The revelation was met with a chorus of surprised gasps and excited murmurs from the family.

  "Rajkumari Devashree? I've heard tales of her beauty and grace. Could she truly be the one who has captured your heart, devarji?" Revati's eyes sparkled with interest as she turned to Krishna, her curiosity now fully piqued.

"Oh! Of course, how could I forget?" Rohini said with a chuckle.

"Devashree? The same one who had ventured into Kamsa's palace to save her friend?" Vasudev questioned in delight.

"Yes Pitashree!" Balrama answered with a smug smile.

" Like Devi Durga, indeed." Devaki smiled.

"Ah, but you should have seen our Kanha when he first laid eyes on the Rajkumari Devashree," Balram added further, his voice tinged with mischief and glee. 

 "Oh, tell me, Bhrata Krishn! How did you meet? Was it a tale of heroic deeds and grand gestures?"  Subhadra asked clapping her hands in excitement.

"Yes Devarji, do tell. Leave it , you will just talk in circles. You tell me arya. What had happened, Arya? Do tell us!" Revati, eager for more details, prompted.

"Well, our brave and unparalleled Krishna, who has faced down demons and armies without batting an eye, found himself quite... overwhelmed upon seeing Devashree." Balram continued after thoroughly savouring the pause.

"Dau....no...Krishna began.

"Overwhelmed?" Vasudev echoed, his interest clearly piqued. "How so?"

"Yes overwhelmed." Balram began, struggling to contain his laughter. "It was indeed memorable. "Our Kanha, the vanquisher of demons and conqueror of armies, had an interesting encounter when he first laid eyes on Rajkumari Devashree."

"Dau, really—" Krishna tried to protest, ,looking slightly embarrassed.

But Balram was on a roll. "Picture this, everyone. It was a beautiful day, and Krishna had just finished his dance upon the serpent Kaaliya. With the serpent subdued and the Yamuna waters cleansed, our Krishna took out his flute and started to play it with his eyes closed."

Subhadra clapped her hands in excitement, her eyes wide. "Oh, this is going to be good!"

Revati leaned in closer, her curiosity piqued. "Yes, yes, tell us more!"

Balram continued, savoring the moment. "As Krishna landed gracefully on the riverbank, amidst the cheering of the Gopis and the jubilant villagers, his eyes fell upon a figure standing a little apart from the crowd. It was Rajkumari Devashree, her beauty glowing like a divine aura."

Krishna, blushing slightly, muttered, "Dau, you're exaggerating."

Balram ignored him and went on, "The moment he opened his eyes and their eyes met, Krishna froze. His mind became blank. The mighty Dwarikadhish, overwhelmed by the sight of her, forgot to keep his balance and—"

"Alright, that's enough—" Krishna tried to cut in.

"And fell flat on his back straight into the river! Right there, from the height of the snake's head, he toppled over, completely stunned."

The room erupted in laughter. Subhadra's giggles were the loudest, and even Devaki couldn't suppress her smile. Revati's eyes twinkled with amusement as she imagined the scene.

"Alright, alright, you've had your fun, Dau." Krishna shook his head, trying to join in the laughter despite his embarrassment.

"But it's true, isn't it?" Balram teased, his grin wide. "You were completely taken by her."

Krishna's eyes softened as he looked at his family. "Yes, I was. From that moment, she held a special place in my heart."

Devaki smiled warmly, her eyes glistening with pride and affection. "Like Devi Durga indeed," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "A love that conquers even the most invincible hearts."

Krishna  found himself blushing, a rare sight that only added to the family's amusement.

 "Really, bhratashree? You fainted? Oh, this must be a love story for the ages!" Subhadra looked at Krishna with newfound awe, her eyes wide with wonder.

"Yes, bhadre. Meeting Shree was a moment that changed everything, a moment where time stood still, and my heart found its counterpart."

The hall, warmed by Krishna's words, fell into a contented silence, the family members exchanging looks of affection and understanding.

Devki reached across the table to grasp Krishna's hand. "You have brought us immeasurable joy, Putra," she said. "To see you embark on this journey of love fills my heart with peace."

"Will she teach me to play the veena? Does she love to dance in the rain as much as you do, Bhrata.?" Subhadra bubbled with questions about, the meeting, and, most of all, about Devashree her excitement uncontainable. 

"Just remember, Kanha, should you feel faint again, I'll be there to catch you." Balram couldn't help himself saying. The hall erupted into laughter once more, the bonds of family and love intertwining with the joy.

As the laughter and jovial atmosphere began to settle, Krishna, seizing a moment addressed Vasudev and Devaki with a sense of purpose. His demeanor subtly shifted from the playful brother to that of the more somber and determined Dwarikadhish. Balram, standing beside him, nodded in agreement, showing his support for the decision they had made together.

"Mata, Pitahshree," Krishna began,"Dau and I have decided that it is time for us to visit Hastinapur. We wish to meet with our cousins, the Pandavas, and their mother, Aunt Kunti. It has been too long since we have seen them."

Vasudev and Devaki exchanged a glance, understanding the importance of this journey not just for Krishna and Balram but for the deep familial bonds that tied the Yadavas to the Pandavas. 

 "Krishna, putra, your heart always knows where it is needed most. Your connection with the Pandavas is not just one of blood but of spirit." Devaki said.

"The ties between our families have always been one of mutual respect and love. Your visit to Hastinapur will strengthen these bonds further. Yet, be mindful, my sons, for the palace of Hastinapur is also a place of political intrigue." Vasudev warned them.

"We understand, Pitashree. We shall be cautious. Our aim is to offer our support and reassurance to our cousins and Aunt Kunti now that they have completed their education. The times are uncertain, and it is in moments like these that family must stand united." Balram assured.

"Oh, how I wish I could accompany you and meet everyone! Aunt Kunti's tales have always fascinated me, and the Pandavas sound so heroic!"Subhadra, who had been listening intently, piped up with youthful optimism.

Krishna smiled gently at his sister, ruffling her hair affectionately. "Your time will come, Subhadre. For now, your brother and I must make this journey to ensure the welfare of our family in Hastinapur."

"Please convey my regards to Maharani Kunti and the Pandavas. Tell them they are always in our thoughts and prayers."Revati also spoke up.

With the family's blessings and well-wishes, Krishna and Balram finalized their plans to depart for Hastinapur. 

********

The topic of Devashree's potential marriage hung in the air.

In the lush, verdant gardens of the Kripalakshaya kingdom, Devashree's parents, Maharaj Devendra and Maharani Madhulika, walked side by side, their faces etched with lines of concern.

The topic of their daughter's marriage, weighed heavily on their hearts. Despite the myriad suitors from esteemed kingdoms, Devashree had gently but firmly declined each proposal, leaving her parents puzzled and increasingly anxious about her future.

It was during this evening stroll, that their son, Yuvraj Dharmendra, approached them with a matter .

"Pitashree, Ranimaa," Dharmendra began. "I believe it's time we addressed the matter of Devashree's marriage from a different perspective. There is someone she holds in high regard, someone who could be the key to her happiness."

The king and queen exchanged a look of surprise and curiosity. "And who might this be, Dharmendra?" Madhulika asked, her interest piqued.

Dharmendra took a deep breath before revealing, "It's none other than Dwarikadhish Shri Krishna of Dwarka. I have seen the way sister's eyes light up at the mention of his name, the way her spirits lift when she speaks of him. There is a bond there, deeper than what we have understood so far."

The revelation brought a moment of silence, as both pondered the implications. 

Dwarka, under Krishna's leadership, had indeed risen to prominence, becoming a centre of prosperity and righteousness in Aryavarta. Yet, it was not just Krishna's accomplishments that needed consideration, but the depth their daaughter's opinion.

"Shri Krishna is indeed a man of great virtue and wisdom," Devendra finally said, weighing his words carefully. "But this is a matter of the heart. We must speak to Deva, understand her feelings fully before we proceed."

"Yes, her happiness is paramount. If her heart leans towards Shri Krishna, we shall support her. Let us talk to her, understand her wishes." Madhulika added, agreeing with her husband,

As the royal family gathered in the opulent chambers of their palace, Devendra and Madhulika exchanged knowing glances. With a tender smile, Madhulika turned her attention to her beloved daughter, Devashree, whose cheeks were tinged with a rosy hue, betraying the emotions bubbling beneath the surface.

"Devashree, my dear," she began, her voice soft and gentle, "we have noticed a certain light in your eyes whenever Shri Krishna's name is mentioned. Is there something you wish to share with us?"

Devashree's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Krishna's name, her blush deepening as she cast her gaze downward, unable to meet her parents' probing gazes directly. Why were they asking about him? Has Bhratashree blabbled behind her back? She would expose him back! Oh NO! He is married now! Her backmail subscription is over now.

Devashree shot an annoyed look at her brother.

Sensing her daughter's hesitation, Madhulika reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Devashree's trembling fingers.

"There is no need to be shy, my child," she continued, her voice a soothing melody in the otherwise quiet chamber. "We only wish to understand your feelings, to ensure your happiness above all else."

Dharmendra, observing his sister's reaction, couldn't help but smile.

Caught in the gentle scrutiny of her family, Devashree found herself at a crossroads of emotions.  "Yes, it is Krishna," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper, her gaze lowering in a mix of shyness and joy. "His virtues, his wisdom, the compassion in his heart... I admire him deeply. But more than that, I feel a connection with him, a bond that's hard to articulate."

A tender smile graced Madhulika's lips as she listened to her daughter's heartfelt confession, while Devendra's eyes twinkled with understanding. With a gentle nod, he gestured for Devashree to continue, his expression encouraging.

"I cannot deny the feelings that stir within me whenever I think of him," Devashree admitted, her cheeks flushing a deeper shade of pink. "If it is your wish to explore the possibility of a union with Lord Krishna, then I trust your judgment and will abide by your decision."

The King, reassured by his daughter's resolve, enveloped her in a warm embrace. "Then it's settled. We will send a marriage proposal to Dwarka, for you and Krishna. May this union bring joy and prosperity to both our families."

For Devashree, the blush on her cheeks spoke volumes of the love and hope she harbored for the future, a future she dared to dream of with Krishna by her side. Her family's understanding and blessing were the wind beneath her wings, propelling her towards a destiny intertwined with the Lord of Dwarka.

*******

After the joyful reunion iwith their cousins and the shared moments of laughter in Hastinapur, Balram observed a change in Krishna. 

Beyond the camaraderie and the usual calm that Krishna exuded, there was a subtle but unmistakable aura of longing that seemed to enfold him.

One evening Balram sought out Vasudev and Devaki. He found them in their private chambers, a space filled with the soft glow of oil lamps and the serene silence that often accompanied the end of a day.

"Pita, Mata" Balram began, his voice carrying a gravity that immediately caught the attention of both Vasudev and Devaki. They looked up, sensing the importance of what was about to be shared.

Balram continued, "I have observed Krishna closely, especially after our return from Hastinapur. There's a certain... lightness in his step, a look in his eyes that speaks of something more than just the joy of reuniting with our cousins. It's as if his heart has found a direction, a purpose intertwined with someone else's existence."

"You speak of Rajkumari Devashree, do you not?" he inquired, his voice steady.

"Yes, Pitashree," Balram confirmed, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "It's clear that Krishna holds her in high regard, and from what little he's shared, it seems the feeling is mutual. I believe it's time we took a step forward, a step towards ensuring the happiness of our dear Kanha."

"Krishna has always placed the well-being of others before his own. Perhaps it's time we focused on his happiness. What do you have in mind, Balram?" Devaki said.

 "I suggest we send a formal marriage proposal to the kingdom of Kripalakshaya. It's evident that Krishna and Devashree share a bond that goes beyond mere friendship. This could be the beginning of a beautiful union, one that not only unites two hearts but also brings our families closer.Also the kingdom is the most powerful in south, it would be a good match from a strategic point also."

"Your observation is astute, Balram. And your proposal carries the weight of wisdom. Let us then take this step, for Krishna, for his happiness. Devaki, what do you say?" Vasudev asked agreeing with his son.

"Yes, let's do this. For Krishna, who has always been the light of our lives, let us be the architects of his joy."

With the decision made, the atmosphere in the room shifted from thought to action. Plans were discussed, and messages were prepared to be sent to Kripalakshaya, carrying within them the hopes and blessings of Krishna's family.

Balram felt a surge of satisfaction afterwards. He had set in motion what he believed would lead to his brother's happiness and also of that of his dear Devashree's .

******

The grand assembly hall of Dwark were  gathered all the assembly men-wise men and valiant warriors all, who had advised and stood by their lord through times of peace and peril. Today, they were convened not for matters of war or diplomacy.

Krishna stood at the centre, his presence commanding yet serene, engaging in discussions that shaped the decisions of Dwarka.

As the discussion continued, a messenger entered the hall, bowing deeply before Krishna. "My Lord, I bring important news."

Krishna nodded, signaling for the messenger to proceed.

"The marriage proposal is ready to be dispatch to the kingdom of Kripalakshaya, seeking the hand of Princess Devashree for you, my Lord," the messenger announced.

For a moment, the world seemed to pause for Krishna. 

"What? Marrige proposal for Shree..I mean Rajkumari Devashree? Okay..Al..alright...but why are you going? I would have myself gone to propose," he exclaimed, his composure slipping.

A ripple of amusement spread through the assembly, with the courtiers exchanging glances and chuckles. It was not often that they witnessed their lord, the one who was master of diplomacy and strategy, express a spontaneous burst of personal sentiment.

"Ah, my dear Kanha," Balram began, "It seems your heart has finally made its choice loud and clear, even if your words have not."

"Dau, now is hardly the time for your jests," he admonished gently, although a smile threatened to break through his composed exterior.

"Oh, but I disagree, dear anuj," Balram countered, unfurling the scroll with a flourish. "For if you're so eager to take matters into your own hands, who am I to stand in the way of true love's course?"

The assembly watched in amused silence as Balram handed Krishna the scroll, which bore the official seal of Dwarka.

"Here," Balram said, pushing the scroll into Krishna's hands, "a marriage proposal for Rajkumari Devashree, straight for her kingdom. Since you've made it abundantly clear that subtlety isn't your forte today, why not go yourself? Deliver this proposal and win the heart of your beloved with the same fervor you've shown here."

The hall erupted in laughter, the tension dissipating like mist under the morning sun.

Krishna couldn't help but join in the laughter. "Very well,Dau. If my journey to claim my heart's desire begins with this scroll, then so be it.But you will have to come with me. I will go to Kripalakshaya, and I will bring back Devashree as my bride." Krishna replied accepting the scroll.

"And I suppose I'll have to prepare the chariot then," Balram quipped, feigning resignation. "After all, what are elder brothers for, if not to aid in their younger siblings' quests for love?"

As Krishna prepared to depart for Kripalakshaya with the proposal, the people of Dwarka buzzed with excitement and well-wishes. The story of their beloved Krishna's bold declaration and the impending journey of love would be told and retold.

******

 "Did you hear about the assembly today?" Revati asked, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Devarji, it seems, were taken by surprise at the announcement of his own marriage proposal to Princess Devashree."

Devki let out a soft chuckle. "Krishna has always been one to master any situation. Yet, it appears matters of the heart can stir even the calmest of waters," she remarked.

Rohini nodded in agreement. "True. It's a joy to see him embrace this journey of love. Princess Devashree is really quite special to have captured our Krishna's heart so," she mused, her thoughts reflecting the protective and caring nature of a mother, as she tought back her days in Vrindavan.

 "But how did Bhrata Krishn react? I can't imagine him being at a loss for words," Subhadra questioned, her youthful exuberance making the others smile.

 "Oh, Subhadra, you should have seen it. The moment the messenger announced the proposal had been sent, Devarji blurted out that he would have gone himself to propose. The assembly was amused, and Arya couldn't help but tease him further."

The imagery Revati painted brought a collective smile to their faces, a shared moment of joy imagining Krishna, the wise and mighty, in a rare moment of spontaneity.

"It's moments like these that remind us of Krishna's human side. His divine nature is beyond question, but his willingness to show vulnerability, to express love so openly... it fills my heart with pride and joy."

 "And now, we prepare to welcome Devashree into our family. She will find here not just a husband in Krishna but mothers, a sister, and a friend in us all. It's a bond that will strengthen not just their lives but all of Dwarka." Rohini added.

 "I can't wait to meet her. To think, I'll have a sister to share stories with, to learn from... and to witness love that has the power to unite kingdoms." Subhadra exclaimed.

"Bhratashree!" she called out to her brother after finind him in the garden.

"Tell me everything about bhabhishree. What is she like? Is she kind? Does she love to read? Will she teach me to dance? Does she know about the time you-"

Krishna raised a hand, his laughter interrupting her rapid-fire interrogation. "Slow down,Subhadre," he teased gently, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "One question at a time, lest you exhaust all the mysteries of the universe in one evening."

 "Alright, but you must promise to answer everything. I want to know about my sister-in-law. The court talks of her beauty and wisdom, but what is she truly like, through your eyes?"

Krishna, taking a seat on a stone bench beneath a flowering tree, patted the space beside him, inviting Subhadra to join. "Devashree," he began, his voice softening as he spoke her name, "is like the first light of dawn that promises a new day. She is wise, beyond her years, carrying within her a strength and grace that shines through in her every action."

"She is kind, with a heart that sees the good in all. Her laughter is like music, capable of lightening the heaviest of hearts. And yes, she loves to read, to dance, to celebrate the beauty of life in all its forms."

Subhadra listened, her eyes wide with fascination, hanging on to every word that painted a picture of her soon to be sister in law. "And does she know of your adventures? Of the times you've saved Dwarka, of your battles and your victories?"

Krishna nodded. "She does. And she sees beyond them, to the person I am when I lay down the weapons, when the crown rests aside. She sees me, bhadre, not just the leader or the warrior, but your brother, Krishna."

Subhadra's heart swelled with affection and anticipation. "I can't wait to meet her, to learn from her, to share stories and dreams. She sounds like the sister I've always wished for."

"And she will be, Subhadra. Just as you will be the sister she cherishes." Krishna said placing an arm around Subhadra, drawing her into a gentle side hug.

********

"I never thought I'd see the day when our Krishna would be at a loss for words. And in the assembly of all places!" Revati began.

Balram, who was lounging on a divan, couldn't help but chuckle. "Ah, Revati, it was a sight to see indeed! Our Kanha, who faces demons without a flinch, undone by the mere mention of a marriage proposal!" His laughter filled the room, a deep and hearty sound that spoke of his love and affection for his brother.

Revati joined in, her laughter mingling with his. "And did you see the courtiers? I thought a few of them would fall off their seats, trying to hold back their laughter. Even the solemn faces couldn't resist the humor of the moment."

"True, true. But you know, it's moments like these that remind us that beneath the facade, Krishna is also human, touched by the same emotions that sway us all. Though I must admit, teasing him in the assembly was a pleasure unlike any other."

 "And what about you, my mighty Arya? When was the last time you found yourself at a loss for words? "

"Ah, priye, even I have my moments. But a wise man keeps such tales locked away, far from the light of day and the ears of his mischievous wife."

"You know, Arya amidst all the laughter, I can't help but feel joy for Krishna. To see him embark on this journey of love and companionship with Devashree... it's a new beginning for him."

"Yes, it is. And I believe Devashree will bring out the best in him, just as he will in her. Together, they will navigate the challenges and joys that life throws their way." Balram's expression softened, his voice tinged with sincerity.

The couple shared a look, one that spoke of deep understanding and mutual respect.

"Speaking of wisdom and strength," Revati mused, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, "I recall a certain someone vowing never to be swayed by love and yet, here you are, the very picture of domestic bliss."

Balram raised an eyebrow, a mock frown forming on his face. "Are you suggesting, my dear wife, that love has made me soft?" he asked, his tone feigning offense but his eyes betraying the joy he found in their exchange.

"Soft? Never," Revati retorted with a laugh, her hand reaching out to gently tap his arm, "Let's say... more pleasant. Like a fierce warrior tamed by the gentle touch of love."

Balram couldn't help but laugh, the sound resonant and joyful. "Ah, then I am tamed indeed, and happily so," he conceded, his gaze softening as he looked at Revati. "For in your love, I've found a strength unparalleled, a haven amidst the storms of life."

 "And in your love, I've found courage and a light that guides me," she responded, her hand finding his, their fingers intertwining naturally.

*******

A/N

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KRISHNA: MEHENDI LAGAA KE RAKHNA, DOLI SAJAKE RAKHNA HEHE

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