The first rays of the sun bathed Dwarka in a golden hue, signaling the beginning of an auspicious day. Inside the grand bathing chambers, a marble platform was set in the center, surrounded by vessels of sacred water, fragrant oils, and herbal pastes. The scent of sandalwood and rose petals filled the air, mingling with the soft hum of mantras chanted by the priestesses.

Vaidehi sat gracefully on the low marble stool, draped in a simple saffron saree. Around her, the royal women of Dwarka—Rukmini, Revati, Kunti, Devaki, and Rohini—gathered, their faces glowing with anticipation. Subhadra, her ever-energetic younger sister, knelt beside her, her hands already smeared with turmeric.

"Jiji," Subhadra teased, dipping her fingers into the bowl of turmeric paste. "I think we should cover you from head to toe so that Yudhishthir Maharaj doesn't recognize you at the mandap!"

Vaidehi chuckled, shaking her head. "Subhadra, stop conspiring against me. I am already nervous enough."

Rohini, her mother, smiled as she gently applied a mixture of sandalwood and turmeric to Vaidehi's arms. "Nervousness is natural, child. But remember, this isn't just a union between two individuals—it is the coming together of two great families."

Devaki placed a tender hand on her daughter's head. "And of two souls bound by destiny."

Kunti, standing beside them, nodded approvingly. "Vaidehi, you are not only becoming my daughter-in-law but also a guiding light for Hastinapur. The Kuru family is lucky to have you."

Vaidehi lowered her gaze, overwhelmed by their words. She closed her eyes as the women anointed her with turmeric, their laughter and teasing making the atmosphere light. Warm water infused with rose petals and basil leaves was poured over her, the droplets trickling down her skin like liquid gold.

Subhadra clapped her hands in delight. "Jiji, you look like a Devi herself!"

Vaidehi smiled, feeling both humbled and honored.

Dressed in a fresh red saree with golden borders, Vaidehi was led to the temple of Mata Parvati within the palace. The scent of incense filled the air as she stepped onto the cool marble floor, her anklets chiming softly with each step. She knelt before the grand idol, her hands folded in deep reverence.

"Mata, bless me with the strength to be a devoted wife. May I always stand by my husband through every challenge, guide him when needed, and support him with unwavering faith. May I bring peace to Hastinapur and reunite the Kuru lineage, ensuring harmony among all."

She placed a garland of fresh jasmine at the feet of the goddess and lit a diya, watching the flame flicker as if acknowledging her prayers.

Meanwhile, in the Mahadev temple, Yudhishthir stood before the grand Shivling, clad in a simple yet regal dhoti, his head bowed in solemn prayer. He poured sacred water over the deity, offering bilva leaves with utmost devotion.

"Mahadev, bless me with the wisdom to honor my responsibilities as a husband. May I protect Vaidehi, safeguard her dignity, and uphold the respect she places in me. Let me always be worthy of the vows I take today."

The temple priest placed his hand over Yudhishthir's head in blessing. "May your marriage be strong as dharma itself, Rajkumar."

Back in her chambers, Vaidehi sat before an ornate mirror, her reflection bathed in the warm glow of oil lamps. Palace maidens busied themselves around her, bringing trays of jewelry and cosmetics. Rukmini and Revati oversaw her final preparations, ensuring every detail was perfect.

Her hair was gently dried and perfumed with jasmine oil before being braided into a long, elegant plait adorned with gold pins. A delicate maang tikka was placed at the center of her forehead, its golden chain resting along her hairline.

Kohl lined her eyes, making them appear even more expressive, while a soft red tint was brushed onto her lips. The deep red wedding saree, embroidered with gold, draped over her gracefully, completing her transformation.

As she stood, Kunti, Devaki, and Rohini entered, their eyes misty with emotion.

"My daughter," Rohini whispered, cupping Vaidehi's face. "You maybe a bride now, but you will always be my little girl."

Devaki placed a gentle hand on her cheek. "It feels like yesterday you were a little girl running through these halls... and today, you are a bride."

Vaidehi smiled, holding their hands. "I will always be your daughter, no matter where I go."

Gandhari, her blindfold as ever a symbol of strength, added, "And you will always have a place in our hearts, child."

As Vaidehi stood, ready to be taken to the mandap, Krishna appeared, his eyes twinkling. "Are you ready, Vaidehi?"

She took a deep breath. "I am."

He smiled, stepping closer. "Marriage is a journey full of trials, but I believe you can make it work. Do not fear the challenges ahead."

She nodded, his words sinking into her heart as the wedding procession began.

The palace courtyard of Dwarka had transformed into a divine spectacle. The mandap, adorned with fragrant marigolds, jasmine, and lotus flowers, stood under a vast canopy of golden silk. Sacred fire crackled at its center, casting an ethereal glow upon the ceremonial space. Oil lamps lined the edges, their flickering flames illuminating the assembled guests. The air was filled with the sacred hum of Vedic chants, mingling with the faint scent of sandalwood and rose.

Yudhishthir stood at the mandap, draped in an ivory dhoti with a golden angavastram draped over his shoulder. His forehead bore a sacred tilak, and his posture was calm and dignified. The faintest hint of anticipation flickered in his eyes as he awaited his bride.

A soft murmur spread through the crowd as the women of Dwarka entered, leading Vaidehi. The golden glow of the torches reflected upon her bridal attire—a deep red saree embroidered with gold, draped gracefully over her shoulder. A heavy matha-patti adorned her forehead, and her long braid was decorated with fragrant jasmine flowers. Her kohl-lined eyes were lowered, her every step measured, radiating both elegance and nervous excitement.

The palace musicians played a soft, melodious tune as she walked toward the mandap. Kunti and Devaki walked beside her, their faces glowing with pride and emotion. Rohini whispered words of reassurance, gently squeezing her hand.

From the mandap, Yudhishthir's gaze lingered on her—just for a moment. She was breathtaking, but more than that, she carried herself with the dignity of a queen. He exhaled slowly, steadying himself for what lay ahead.

Vaidehi's eyes briefly lifted, meeting his. A small, nervous smile played on her lips before she lowered her gaze once more.

Subhadra, walking beside her sister, leaned in and whispered mischievously, "Jiji, don't be so shy. Jijashree Yudhishthir is looking at you as if he's already taken the vows."

Vaidehi shot her a warning glance, but a small blush crept up her cheeks.

Krishna, watching from the side, smirked knowingly. "A match blessed by fate itself," he murmured under his breath.

As Vaidehi stepped into the mandap, Yudhishthir folded his hands in greeting. She mirrored his gesture before they turned to face each other, floral garlands in hand.

Before Vaidehi could place her garland around Yudhishthir's neck, Bheem and Nakul sprang into action, lifting their jyesth high into the air.

"Bhabhishree, if you want to put the garland on our Bharatshree, you'll have to work for it!" Nakul teased.

Vaidehi sighed, shaking her head, but Subhadra and Rukmini quickly came to her aid, boosting her up slightly.

"Bharatshree Bheem, don't test my jiji's patience," Subhadra warned, arching a brow. "You do realize she has your mother on her side?"

Bheem laughed heartily. "Alright, alright. We surrender." He and Nakul finally lowered Yudhishthir, allowing Vaidehi to place the garland around his neck.

Yudhishthir, smiling, lifted his own garland and gently placed it around Vaidehi's shoulders. The moment felt sacred, binding them together in the eyes of the gods and their loved ones.

Kanyadaan

As per tradition, Vasudev stepped forward, standing between the bride and groom. His face was solemn yet filled with deep emotion. Taking Vaidehi's hands, he placed them in Yudhishthir's palms, his voice steady yet heavy with emotion.

"I, Vasudev, offer my beloved daughter, Vaidehi, to you, Yudhishthir. She has been raised in love, wisdom, and virtue. As she crosses the threshold into your family, I ask that you cherish, honor, and protect her, for she is the soul of our home, the light of our lineage."

Yudhishthir, looking into Vasudev's eyes, tightened his grip around Vaidehi's hands. His voice, though soft, carried strength.

"I, Yudhishthir, son of Kunti and Pandu, accept Vaidehi as my wife, my equal, and my companion. I vow to uphold her dignity, to protect her through all storms, and to be worthy of her trust and respect. As long as I breathe, I shall never fail her."

Tears glistened in Devaki's eyes as she watched her daughter's transition into her new life.

Vivah Homa
The priest lit the sacred fire, invoking Agni Dev as a witness to the union. The couple sat side by side, offering ghee and samagri into the flames as the priest chanted mantras. The crackling fire seemed to echo the gravity of the moment, binding them in a sacred covenant.

Pani Grahan
Yudhishthir held Vaidehi's right hand in his, their fingers interlocked. The priest recited mantras as Yudhishthir vowed: "I take your hand in mine to walk the path of life together. I vow to honor and protect you." Vaidehi smiled slightly as she whispered her response: "I offer my hand to you, to walk beside you in dharma, in joy, and in sorrow."

Yudhishthir smiled at her which made her cheeks turn red.

Shilarohanam
Subhadra, standing behind Vaidehi, guided her as she stepped onto a stone placed near the sacred fire. The ritual symbolized her strength and resolve to face the challenges of married life. Yudhishthir extended his hand to support her, and she did not hesitated for a moment before accepting it.

Laja Homah
Vaidehi's brothers approached with puffed rice in their hands. With her brothers' assistance, Vaidehi offered the rice into the sacred fire, symbolizing her prayers for her husband's prosperity. Yudhishthir silently acknowledged the gesture, a faint smile gracing his lips.

The time had come for the Gathbandhan, the sacred tying of the knot that symbolized the eternal bond between husband and wife. Subhadra, brimming with excitement, stepped forward, a long silken cloth in her hands.

"Jiji, Jijashree," she said, addressing both Vaidehi and Yudhishthir, "this bond is unbreakable. From this moment forward, whatever joys or sorrows you face, you will face them together."

Carefully, she tied one end of Vaidehi's pallu to Yudhishthir's angavastram, securing the knot with practiced hands. She paused for a moment and looked up, mischief twinkling in her eyes.

"Jijashree," she whispered to Yudhishthir, "you better take good care of my Jiji. If I hear even a single complaint, I will come to Hastinapur and trouble you endlessly."

Yudhishthir, who had been solemn until now, let out a soft chuckle. "Then I shall ensure Vaidehi never has a reason to complain."

Subhadra grinned and took a step back as the priest blessed the Gathbandhan, sealing the promise of togetherness.

Saptapadi

As the priest chanted the sacred mantras, Yudhishthir and Vaidehi stepped forward for the Saptapadi, the seven sacred steps that would bind them as husband and wife for eternity. Each step represented a sacred vow, a promise they made to each other in the presence of Agni, the divine witness.

Nourishment – "We shall always share responsibilities, ensuring our family's prosperity."Strength – "We shall stand by each other in joy and sorrow, unwavering and resolute."Prosperity – "We shall work together to build a life of righteousness and abundance."Happiness – "We shall create a home filled with love, warmth, and devotion."Progeny – "We shall raise noble and virtuous children, guiding them with wisdom."Health – "We shall care for each other's well-being, in sickness and in health."Friendship – "We shall not only be husband and wife but lifelong companions."

The mandap was silent, save for the steady crackling of the sacred fire at its center. The warm glow of the flames reflected in Vaidehi's kohl-lined eyes as she stood beside Yudhishthir, their hands still joined through the Gathbandhan. The priest's voice resonated through the air, guiding them through the most sacred part of the wedding—the Saat Pheras, the seven vows that would bind them for eternity.

"Agni sakshi hai," the priest declared, his voice deep and authoritative. "As you take each step around this fire, you vow to uphold your duties to one another, to your family, and to dharma itself. These seven steps will define your journey as husband and wife."

Vaidehi looked up at Yudhishthir, her heart steady despite the gravity of the moment. He gave her a small nod—an unspoken reassurance that they were in this together.

First Phera – The Vow of Nourishment

Yudhishthir held Vaidehi's hand firmly, his voice steady as he spoke, "Vaidehi, I promise to always provide for you and our family, ensuring that no hunger or need touches our home."

Vaidehi nodded, stepping with him, her voice equally resolute. "And I vow to stand beside you, ensuring our home is always a place of warmth and fulfillment."

They completed the first round around the fire, the sound of her anklets echoing softly.

Second Phera – The Vow of Strength

Yudhishthir glanced at Vaidehi as they took the step together. "I promise to shield you from harm, to be your strength in all hardships."

Vaidehi looked ahead, her voice unwavering. "And I promise to stand by your side, to be the pillar that holds you steady in times of trial."

Third Phera – The Vow of Prosperity

"I vow to rule with justice and fairness," Yudhishthir said solemnly, leading the step.

"And I vow to ensure our home remains blessed with abundance and peace," Vaidehi responded, stepping beside him.

Fourth Phera – The Vow of Love and Harmony

Yudhishthir's voice was softer this time. "I vow to always respect and cherish you, to listen with patience and understanding."

Vaidehi smiled slightly, stepping with him. "And I vow to always stand beside you with love, ensuring that our home is filled with warmth."

With this, the fourth phera ended, and now, tradition dictated that Vaidehi take the lead for the final three.

Fifth Phera – The Vow of Family and Progeny

Vaidehi stepped forward first this time, her voice carrying newfound strength. "I vow to raise our children with wisdom and virtue, ensuring they grow to honor our legacy."

Yudhishthir followed, his voice equally firm. "And I vow to be their guide, teaching them the values of dharma and righteousness."

Sixth Phera – The Vow of Health and Well-being

Vaidehi's fingers tightened slightly around Yudhishthir's. "I vow to care for you in sickness and in health, to stand by you in all moments of weakness."

Yudhishthir nodded. "And I vow to do the same, to ensure that you are always protected and safe."

Seventh Phera – The Vow of Eternal Companionship

Vaidehi led the final round, her voice filled with quiet emotion. "I vow to walk beside you for all my life, to be your partner in every joy and sorrow."

Yudhishthir followed, his gaze steady on her. "And I vow to always hold your hand, to never let distance or time break our bond."

As they completed the final circle, the priest smiled and raised his hands in benediction. "From this moment forth, you are bound as husband and wife. You have walked together, taken your vows, and your destinies are now intertwined."

A shower of rose petals fell over them as the guests cheered, their voices full of joy.

Vaidehi looked at Yudhishthir, and for the first time, she felt the full weight of the moment settle in her heart.

As the final sacred chants echoed through the mandap, the priest presented a beautifully crafted chudamani—a delicate yet regal head ornament that symbolized a queen's honor and a wife's new identity.

Yudhishthir took the ornament with both hands, his fingers steady as he moved toward Vaidehi. Their gazes met for a fleeting moment, and then, with utmost reverence, he gently placed the chudamani atop her head, securing it within her intricately braided hair.

As he did, the priest recited a blessing:

"May this sacred ornament be a mark of your husband's protection, his love, and his vow to uphold your honor. From this moment forth, you are bound not just by duty, but by destiny itself."

Yudhishthir's hands lingered for a second, ensuring the chudamani sat perfectly on her crown. His touch was light, yet there was an unspoken promise in his actions.

The priest turned to Yudhishthir once more. He held out a small gold container filled with sindoor, the sacred vermillion powder that symbolized a woman's marital status.

Yudhishthir took the sindoor in his fingers, his movements deliberate. Vaidehi, as per tradition, lowered her gaze, tilting her head forward slightly.

A hush fell over the mandap as he gently filled the parting of her hair with the sindoor. The deep red contrasted sharply against the dark strands of her hair, standing out like a divine blessing.

"With this mark, I proclaim you as my wife," Yudhishthir said softly, his voice carrying across the mandap. "As long as this sindoor adorns your forehead, you shall be my honor, my strength, and my greatest duty."

Vaidehi's fingers instinctively brushed against the sindoor, feeling its presence. A warmth spread in her chest—not just from the ritual, but from the sincerity in Yudhishthir's words.

The priest smiled, raising his hands in benediction. "With the Chudamani Dharan and Sindoor Dharan, this sacred union is complete. May the gods bless this marriage with prosperity, love, and unwavering dharma."

A shower of rose petals fell over them, sealing the moment as husband and wife.

Vaidehi closed her eyes momentarily, letting the weight of the ornament settle—not just on her head, but in her heart. She was no longer just Vaidehi, daughter of Vasudev. She was now Vaidehi, wife of Yudhishthir, the yuvrani of Hastinapur.

The assembled guests, witnessing the sacred moment, whispered prayers and blessings. The women of Dwarka smiled through their tears, knowing that their princess was stepping into a new life filled with responsibility and honor.

The joyous celebration gradually gave way to the bittersweet reality of vidaai—the moment where Vaidehi would leave her home, her family, and her childhood behind to begin her new life in Hastinapur.

The courtyard was filled with family members, each holding back tears as they gathered around the newlywed bride. The women carried small trays of rice, turmeric, and flowers—symbols of prosperity and well-wishes for her new home.

Rohini cupped Vaidehi's face, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "No matter where you go, my child, you will always be our Vaidehi."

Devaki pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. "A daughter may leave her parents' home, but she never leaves their hearts."

Vaidehi held both their hands tightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Mata, I will always be your daughter. This will always be my home."

Krishna stepped forward, his ever-playful demeanor softened by emotion. "Vaidehi," he said, his voice carrying a knowing weight, "life will test you in ways you cannot foresee. But you are stronger than you know. You carry the wisdom of Dwarka and the grace of our ancestors. You will shape your own destiny."

Vaidehi inhaled sharply, nodding. "I will remember, Kanha."

Finally, she turned to Balram. Her Dau. The brother who had always shielded her from harm, who had taught her how to be fearless.

Balram had been silent throughout the vidaai, his lips pressed into a thin line, his fists clenched at his sides. He was trying—desperately—to remain composed. But the moment Vaidehi stepped forward, his resolve broke.

He pulled her into a fierce embrace, his large hands cradling the back of her head. "Go, my little sister," he whispered hoarsely. "May your new home be as kind to you as you have been to us."

Vaidehi clutched his arms, her own tears finally spilling over. "Dau..." she choked.

Balram exhaled sharply and stepped back. Without another word, he placed a trembling hand on her head in blessing.

The time had come.

Vaidehi took slow steps toward the palguin, her feet pressing lightly against the flower-strewn ground. The royal women threw handfuls of rice behind her, symbolizing her prosperity and blessings as she left her childhood home.

As per tradition, Krishna and Balram stepped forward to push the palguin—a symbolic gesture of sending their beloved sister to her new home.

As the palguin moved, Krishna's expression remained unreadable, though his hands were steady. But Balram...

The moment the palguin crossed the palace gates, Balram's knees buckled beneath him. A deep, raw sob tore from his throat as he fell forward, his hands digging into the earth.

"She's gone," he whispered brokenly.

Krishna knelt beside him, his own eyes shimmering with emotion, but his voice was steady.

"She's not gone, Dau," he murmured. "She's just begun a new chapter."

But Balram didn't reply. He remained on his knees, shoulders shaking as the mighty warrior of Dwarka—Balram, the son of Rohini, the protector of his siblings—wept like a child.

The air was heavy, as if even the gods themselves mourned the departure of their beloved princess.

Inside the palguin, Vaidehi wiped her tears and sat tall. She was no longer just a bride—she was now a queen.

And her journey had only just begun