Wise men say
Only fools rush in
But I can't help falling in love with you
Shall I stay?
Would it be a sin
If I can't help falling in love with you?
Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things are meant to be
Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can't help falling in love with you
Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things are meant to be
Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can't help falling in love with you
For I can't help falling in love with you
——————————————————————

Marriage is a sacred institution in India. In India, marriage is not only a two soul affair but it is the marriage between two families. This sacred thread binds two person together and the families of the duo unite together to be a part of the family. These days, there are several matrimonial sites to search bride and groom for your child, sibling or a friend. The concept of matrimony is same across the world but the culture, rituals and traditions differ from place to place and what I believe that the Hindu marriage follows extensive rituals and customs to solemnise the marriage.
——————————————————————

Some time ago
Yuvraj's POV

09:12AM IST, June 17th
ITC Grand Central
287, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Rd, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400012

Finally the day is here, when I and Mia will be accepting each other officially in front of the world with the blessings from our loved ones.

I was seated down on an ottoman wearing my bridal sherwani and churidar pants. My outfit was a red sherwani with floral embroidered motifs all over which matched with Mia's bridal lehenga. The outfit was paired with churidar pants & embroidered pink shawl. The sherwani was a full sleeved cloth with mandarin neckline. There were embroideries of floral motifs and thread work covering the whole body of the sherwani. The churidar pants were of beige colour. Then came the shawl which I had draped on my shoulder and coming across my back it's other end was wrapped around my other hand. The dupatta was made from raw silk with a border of similar red floral motif embroideries as in my sherwani.

Inside the sherwani, I was wearing a classic maroon kurta. Alongside the outfit, I had a blush pink pocket square tucked inside the breast pocket of my sherwani. Completing my wedding look, I had a red & gold stone embroidered silk safa placed on the vanity table beside me which I will wear some time after I am completely ready. The beauty of the safa defines imposing opulence which is curated using red colored chanderi silk fabric has foil printed embellishment which has stone,metal and beads with feathers finish for the monarchical pride.

A simple grace reimagined through a stunning rice grain bracelet and an enamel finish dial watch was tied around my wrist which was the perfect pick for all special occasions. The glass material of the watch was made of sapphire crystal and the dial colour was white.

I was wearing a gold kada on my other wrist which was embedded with diamonds. In my footwear, I was wearing a pair of classic beige mojdis. A dapper pearl necklace set was hanging down from my neck. The 22-carat gold necklace was studded with freshwater white pearls and six ruby stones. The multi-stranded elegant pearl set was complimenting my outfit and was brightening my charisma.

My hair was set perfectly with the help of the gel and then the artists made me wear the safa along with the brooch or kalgi. Sahil, Varun, Veer along with Duggu bhai, chachu, dad were inspecting the last minute preparations with chachi and others. Sid and mum were with me in my suite with the artists helping me with my wedding attire.

Siddharth was wearing a duo toned moss green silk hand embroidered sherwani having dori marori embroideries with classic Mughal patterns at the hem, sleeves and collar. The set was completed with an eclectic pair of cotton pants with buttoned detailing.

Mum was wearing an exquisite detailed gold tissue net saree worked in zarri, teeki, tilla and gota paired with a contrasting firozi blouse with net sleeves for an old world inspired look. She had her hair tied behind in a low updo with some strands freely falling to the sides. A layer of jasmine flower's garland was tied around her hairstyle.

As we were getting married in the hotel and staying at the hotel at the same time, so we skipped the baraat part in this wedding but kept it lavish in the other wedding at Delhi.

Sam was still at Mia's, dolling her up for our wedding. Although Sam is my sister (*cousin but who cares, I love her like my own sis), she wanted to help Mia, her best friend get ready for the big day. And to be honest, I was perfectly okay with that.

The photographers were taking my pictures, some were candid whilst the others were posed.

"Omg!" We heard a squeal and turned to find bhabhi at the doorstep with wide twinkling eyes and a frustrated Duggu bhai holding a glass of juice behind her. I mentally chuckled when I found him cringing at Bhabhi's high-pitched squeal and smirked.

"Looking gorgeous, bhabhi!" I said and winked at bhai's direction who shot me a glare.

Bhai was wearing a classic raw silk bandhgala. It was a grey bandhgala with embedded zari detailing and 3D embroideries on cuffs and collar. Alongside the outfit, he was wearing a pair of floral hand-painted Oxford shoes.

Bhabhi was wearing an embroidered saree with a chikankari blouse. The ivory saree was embellished with all over mukaish work in jaal pattern and bead tassel pallu. Made with georgette and satin lycra fabrics, the saree looked so regal and beautiful. The blouse had a round neck with cap sleeves. Bhabhi had worn a gold toned carved necklace with kundan and polki work which came with a pair of earrings and maangtika. Another sterling silver layered necklace with white, green encrusted Swarovski zirconia stones and tear drops adorned around her neck.

"Why thank you! You too!" Bhabhi said, grinning as she gave me a thumbs up whilst strolling inside the suite.

"If the complement session is over, Priya! Would you drink the damn juice now? It's already past your juice time!" Duggu bhaiya huffed in annoyance.

Bhabhi rolled her eyes at bhai's remark and straightened the turban over my head whilst I kept looking between them amusingly. Mum was shaking her head with an unreadable expression.

"What happened to him? Why is he so grumpy?" I asked as bhabhi sat on the bed.

"Oh, don't even ask! He has been so annoying since the morning! Looks like my mood swings has been transferred to him!" Bhabhi shrugged, whilst bhai gaped at her.

"Annoying?! And me?! Woman! You're the one who has been annoying the shit out of me since the morning with your cravings and now it's me who is annoying?!" Bhai screeched like a girl.

"Duggu, language! And don't talk to my daughter like that!" Mum said to which bhabhi gave her a grin.

Bhai scoffed.

"And Priya! You need to take care of yourself बेटे! Come on, have the juice!" Mum said as she passed the juice to bhabhi.

Bhabhi pouted but nodded before sipping from the juice. I heard bhai muttering thank god under his breath.

"You ready to get hitched, man?" Bhai asked.

"As ready as I will ever be!" I said, nodding.

"Think again! You have two examples of after married life at our own home! Although I know Mia is different! But still, you can't predict it!" He said, receiving two deadly glares from mum and bhabhi.

"Whoa! Calm down ladies! I was just kidding!" Raising his hands, Bhai apologised with a nervous smile.

I shook my head smiling.

11:00AM IST, June 17th
ITC Grand Central
287, Dr, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Rd, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400012

Currently I was waiting for my bride to arrive in the pool area. I've already texted Sam asking whereabouts of them and as per her they'll be here at any moment. Abhimanyu and Varun are taking care of the photo session whilst Sid is beside me. Veer had some other work to finish at the mandap so they must be there but will be here soon.

The entrance gate had a gorgeous sculpture of Lord Ganesha made using yellow marigold flowers and green moss. Ganesha is considered to bring happiness with his presence, so the sculpture at the main entrance will ward-off all the evils and filter negativity. The blood red rose hangings made the entire decor lively, and the coloured hangings on the white background added to the playful vibes. Once the guests pass the entrance, there is a 100-meter walkway leading to the area where the ceremonies take place. Sunny blue sky, white structure, green hangings, and colorful flowers; all these enchanted the venue pathway. The bewitching admixture of flowers and drapes produced astonishing results at the pathway. Multi-colored flower balls, ceiling hangings, and pink-orange drapes made the lounge area welcoming and serene. 

The whole hotel was decorated beautifully. Especially the pool area, because the mandap was set just a little away from this part of the hotel. There were roaming beautiful peacocks around the place giving it a serene yet regal feel. Several floral aisle arches of roses were around the corners with beads and crystals. Melodious wind chimes swayed with the wind. Tiny crystal chandeliers hung down from the floral canopies which had tables and chairs placed under them. The different cascading elements at the entrance to the incorporating offbeat themes, everything looked so magical. Whimsical red rose encrusted floral arches all the way from the hotel towards the pool and the never-ending flower laden walkway surrounded with kissing ball pillars was too pretty to ignore.

The poolside was decorated according to the regal scarlet theme. The whole area was canopied under the floral arches and beautiful drapes of white, red and golden colours, although there were some blanks at some places letting the sunlight in. And when the sunlight fell on the crystal beads and chandeliers, they shone brightly giving the surrounding a fairytale ambience. Around the corner there were some selfie points and photography booths from where the guests took pictures and all. The booths had Mia and my name written over them in bold italic letters of golden glitters. Quirky, funny taglines and hashtags alongside some quotes were written here and there. Like 𝐒𝐚𝐣𝐚𝐧 𝐣𝐢 𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐚𝐲𝐞, 𝐉𝐢𝐬𝐤𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐥 𝐌𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐚 𝐩𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐥𝐚, 𝐘𝐮𝐯𝐫𝐚𝐣 𝐤𝐢 𝐘𝐮𝐯𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐢, 𝐌𝐢𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐚𝐣, #𝐘𝐮𝐯𝐢𝐌𝐢𝐚𝐊𝐢𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐚𝐝𝐢, #𝐌𝐫𝐢𝐑𝐚𝐣 etcetera.

Then came the mandap area, which was just beside the corner. The area around the mandap was decorated with antique regal elements giving the place a royal wedding look. Elephants have been considered to be a sign of royalty since ages. There were beautiful elephant showpieces around the stage with some floral stands beside them. There were a total of two large podiums, one over the other on the grassland. The lower one had a guest's sitting area and some decorating elements on them whilst the upper one held the huge mandap.

The mandap was huge. Like huge, huge! It could sustain at least a hundred people at once. There were six pillars surrounding the huge mandap which were covered with red roses and some crystal balls. Six top fibre arches at the top of the pillars connected them together and their height was almost about twenty feets up from the ground. Silky red and white drapes with crystal bead hangings made the place look so sophisticated and elegant. Floral peacocks and fairy lights were draped around the pillars. A vast crystal chandelier with red roses hung down from the middle of the mandap. The scarlet shades around the place were contrasted by reflective elements. The entrance pathway was replete with red blooms while the lounging areas were decorated with rich red fabrics embroidered with golden zari. There were golden royal looking ottomans placed around the fireplace. Two for Mia and me, one for the priest and some others for our parents and families.

Another stage area which was set up for the photoshoot was just a little away from the mandap. The stage was a simple and elegant piece of art with the hanging tube roses with crystal shimmering beads and more.

"Why isn't she here yet?" I grumbled under my breath but I guess it was loud enough for Sid to hear because he instantly sassed me.

"Damn man! You're so whipped!"

"Look who's talking, the one who never leaves the pallu of his wife!" Trevor smirked as he draped an arm around Sid's neck. Veer too came behind him and stood beside us.

These days, Trevor has been very close to us. He is just like Varun, a nutter!

With an annoyed face, Sid jerked Trevor's hands away.

"I'm not!" Sid hissed.

"Oh you so are! What I wa—!" Trevor was cut off by Veer.

"Shhh! Looks like Mia is here!" Veer said which made me snap my head back towards the entrance.

Din shagna da chadheya
Aao sakhiyon ni vehra sajeya
Haan..

Mera sajna mileya
Sajna milan vadhaiyan
Ni saajan doli leke aauna
Ni vehra sajeya

Mera sajna mileya
Sajna mileya
Sajna mileya haan..

(Listen to the song so you can feel the vibe)

The first one to come out of the entrance was Alia with a wide grin and a board in her hands which had a message written.

♡ 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐂𝐇𝐈 ♡

Then a group of girls entered who seemed like Mia's friends and cousins. Grinning, they raised the boards in their hands.

♡ 𝐉𝐔𝐒𝐓  𝐖𝐀𝐈𝐓  𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐋  𝐘𝐎𝐔  𝐒𝐄𝐄  𝐇𝐄𝐑 ♡

The girls lined up on the sides and then came my bride with her family, friends and bridesmaids. The girls by the sides started to shower petals of red roses on her walking path. She was standing under the flower chadar (bed) which was held in place by four persons. In the front were Sahil and Abhimanyu and Varun with Armaan were at the back. They all are her brothers after all! The flower bed over Mia was beautifully designed with various kinds of flowers but the majority were roses. Red roses! Lilies, orchids, Chrysanthemum and many more as well. Beautiful bleeding heart red flowers alongside baby's breath flowers hung down from the bed. Mia walked down the aisle with her dad by her side who had held her hand in his tightly. With her other hand, Mia held the front side of her lehenga.

Wearing a red zardosi floral bridal lehenga, she looked so beautiful, so exquisite. The ornaments adored her natural beauty to another level and I was speechless. My tongue was tied down. I felt my breath hitching and then without me knowing my eyes teared up. My vision blurred and I quickly wiped my eyes to not miss a second of my bride's grand entrance.

"Raj! Are you crying, man?" Sid asked from my side.

"Yeah! It's just—I'm sorry!" I apologised when I choked on my words.

"Awh! That's so cute!" Trevor gushed, pulling my cheeks.

Making a disgusted face, I jerked his hands away and pointed towards the gold polished 38 inches talwar in my hands.

"Fine, fine!" Trevor said as he took steps back from me with his hands raised in the air.

Tearing my gaze away from him, I focused back on my bride who looked so surreal. I saw her eyes moving around with a wide beautiful smile on her face before it stopped at me. Our gazes collided and I felt like my heart stopped beating. My breathing stopped. My mouth fell ajar as I gawked at her shamelessly. The innocent aura that her smile held looked so serene yet so seductive. I couldn't tear my eyes off her and it's not like I wanted it. It felt like I could stare at her forever. It felt like nothing else mattered to me anymore.

Coming out of my trance, I smiled with my tearful eyes. I saw her smile widening as she took careful yet glorious steps towards me. I too took some steps towards her till she reached just in front of me. Smiling, Papa patted my back as he held my hand and put Mia's hand in mine. The people cheered when I held my bride's hand in mine and escorted her towards the stage with Shanaya and Shree behind her as they helped her with her heavy long lehenga.

"You look like a queen, my love! I don't have any words! This feels so dreamy!" I said, glancing down at her.

She looked up at me and smiled sweetly, taking my breath away like she did when I saw her for the first time.

"You're not looking less than a king! My king!" She said, making me grin.

"Come on!" I said as I led her up the stairs to the stage.

Patiently and carefully, I helped her on to the stage whilst watching every step she took with caution. When we finally reached our place in front of the couch, Sam and Shree helped Mia to tidy her outfit and in no time, Mia was all tidied up and stood beside me like a queen.

"Thank you!" Mia smiled sweetly at Sam and Shree who gave her a smile in return before leaving the stage. Mum, who was smiling at us with tears, came on the stage with Maa. They approached us. Mia and I touched their feet as they blessed us and kissed our foreheads.

"You look so beautiful, beta! My Yuvi is so lucky! In fact we all are, to have you added to our family!" Mum said.

"Thank you maa! I am lucky to have Yuvraj and you all in my life!" Mia gave mum a smile.

"May god bless you both!" They said before leaving the stage.

"Ready sir, ma'am?" The photographer crew asked.

I looked at Mia whilst she looked at me. Giving me a bright smile, she nodded. I smiled before giving my positive response to the crew. They started doing their work by guiding us with the poses and taking pictures.

11:40PM IST, June 17th

We were already done taking pictures and Mia had left for her suite to do the final touch-ups and to use the washroom before the wedding puja starts.

————🌻————

Agwaani and Milni Ceremony

————🌻————

This is the ritual which marks the arrival of the groom on his horse with his procession in tow. They are welcomed at the entrance by the family members of the bride. Punjabis are loquacious and love making new acquaintances. They are generally very warm too. So when the two groups meet, a lot of love and warmth is exuded and exchanged. It is common for the relatives from both sides to hug each other and also shake hands. This ritual is called agwaani.

The groom is specially welcomed by the mother of the bride in a traditional Indian welcome which includes aarti, that is worshiping him with a lighted lamp and is led inside. Each of his relatives meets and is greeted by the corresponding relative from the side of the bride. This means that the maternal uncle of the groom meets the maternal uncle of the bride, the paternal uncles from both sides converge and so on and so forth. This coming together is observed as milni.

And as we have skipped the baraat (procession) part in this wedding, so the bride's family including papa, maa, Abhi, subho maa and the others welcomed me near the mandap. Maa did my aarti as our relatives met and greeted each other. After my welcome process, I was led onto the mandap area by papa and bhai. Giving them a thankful smile, I sat on the right side chair and the priest sat just beside me.

The wedding ritual hasn't started yet as we have Ganesh puja to do before it and currently the priest is getting on that. Mum and dad alongside chachu and chachi sat just behind me whilst bhai and bhabhi sat a little away from us. Bhabhi is pregnant so the heat and smoke from the fire is not good for her that's why. Alia was sitting on dad's lap.

"पूजा की शुरुआत करते हैं। मूहूरत् का वक्त हो गया है।" The priest said.

"जी।" Mum said as she got up from her seat and approached the holy fireplace.

She knelt beside us and took the red silk cloth off from the gold Ganesha idol which was placed in the middle of a spherical brass plate. The idol was so beautiful and looked as if Lord Ganesha was really present in front of us. This Puja, or ceremony, is performed for good luck to be bestowed onto the married couple and their families, so that whatever obstacles they may face will be destroyed. The Ganesha puja usually involves both the Bride and groom’s primary family, those that are sitting on stage with them at the mandap. We all sat with joint palms in front of the idol.

Chanting ॐ गं गणपतये नम:, the priest placed the kalash filled with water and decorated with betel leaves in front of the idol. Then he put a coconut on top of the kalash. Lifting another kalash filled with milk and Rose petals, he took it over the idol and poured the milk slowly whilst chanting some mantras.

After which he tied the janve (sacred thread) on the idol's left shoulder. He decorated the idol with red hibiscus flowers and some beautiful mixed flower garlands. Then he offered durva grass (cynodon) on the feet of the idol. Putting a tilak of sandalwood paste on the idol's forehead, he recited some mantras.

ॐ गणानां त्वा गणपतिं हवामहे कविं कवीनामुपमश्रवस्तमम् ।
ज्येष्ठराजं ब्रह्मणां ब्रह्मणस्पत आ नः षृण्वन्नूतिभिः सीदसादनम् ॥

The priest lit the pure clarified ghee diya and sang the aarti.

जय गणेश जय गणेश,
जय गणेश देवा ।
माता जाकी पार्वती
पिता महादेवा ॥

(I'm not writing the whole aarti here. Sorry :))

After the Ganpati puja was done, tying a red mauli around a brass urn, he dipped some mango leaves inside the water and purified the wedding mandap area. After sprinkling the holy water around, he took his seat back.

The kalash was put back at its place. The kalash symbolises the cosmos. It is placed facing the North, in the centre, near the havan kund. This positioning signifies balance; balance that one needs to achieve in married life for it to be successful. The kalash is filled with water representing Varuna, Lord of the Sea. Lord Vishnu is represented by the five betel or mango leaves placed at its mouth. In some cultures, the kalash is said to represent the body, the leaves, the five senses and water, the life-force.

"कन्या के माता-पिता सामने आ कर, वर पूजा की बिधी सम्पन्न करें।" The priest announced.

Maa and papa came forward and maa brought a flat brass plate near my feet. I had already taken my shoes off before approaching the mandap area. As she put the plate, I placed my feet on it and Duggu bhai helped me in folding the churidar pants so they won't get messy during the ritual. Papa washed my feet with milk and honey. To be honest, it was an embarrassing ritual. I mean, why does he need to do it anyways?! They are my elders for god sake.

So being helpless, I just joined my palms at them as they did the ritual of Var Puja. After the ritual was done, I bowed my head at them with joined palms to which they patted my heads. After they took their respective places, the priest did the mangalashtak ritual, which is done to request blessings from all the planets, Gods and Goddesses to bless Mia and I with a happy and healthy married life.

On the West side of the hearth, there are ancient symbols –  yoni, symbolising the primal female aspect, and lingam, symbolising the primal male aspect. Then the priest performed a puja to the primal energies. On the West side of the hearth, there are also some sacred pictures (murtis) in the place of honour. And to it's right, sat the priest.

Then came the most awaiting part, where the bride will be called to the mandap for further marriage rituals. 

"मूहूरत् हो गया है, दुल्हन को बुलाइए।" The priest said.

Maa nodded before rushing inside the hotel with Shanaya and Rose. Exhaling a breath, I smiled slightly.

Soon enough, the area was filled with a very melodious tune.

Beetein saare mausam
Babul tere ghar mein
Ab chale pav mere
Piya ke shehar mein

I turned my head back to find Mia walking towards the mandap with a small smile on her face. Her one hand held her dada's arm whilst with the other, she held her lehenga. Maa walked beside her. Over her head was a beautifully decorated chadar with kaleerein and flowers, something different from the first one.

Beetein saare mausam
Babul tere ghar mein
Ab chale pav mere
Piya ke shehar mein

There were some children in front of her walking down the aisle with floral tiaras and flower bouquets in their hands. The ornate chandelier styled chadar with beautiful crystals and kaleerein, illuminated Mia's face when they were struck with the sunlight. And everything felt so magical.

Ho tune vidayiyan kaise
Likhi marjaaniyan
Kaise bataye o rabba
Sahi naiyon jaaniyan

Madhaniyan
Haaye o mere babula teriyan
Mithiyan yaadan
Mere peeche peeche auniyan haaye
Haaye o mere babula meriya
Hun gudiyan
Kol tere reh jaaniyan haaye

As she neared by, I got up from my seat along with the others and approached her before she could climb on the stage. I outstretched my hand for her to take. The people surrounding us were cheering and whistling. Abhimanyu put Mia's hand in mine, before kissing her on her forehead. She took her heels off with the help of Shree and then I helped her up to the mandap. We walked hand in hand towards our seats and stood facing the same direction as our seats. East direction!

"वर माला ले आइए।" The priest said.

Soon Sam appeared beside us with two beautiful garlands of red and white roses. Grinning widely, she gave one to her bestie and the other to me. Mia and I faced each other.

"पहले,‌ बेटा आप जयमाला पहनाईए।" The priest told Mia.

Nodding, she lifted her garland but before she could put the garland on my neck, I was lifted off the ground. It made both me and Mia startled. I looked down to find Sid and Duggu bhai who were holding me up on their shoulders whilst Veer and Trevor stood beside them cheering. Hearing their cheers, all the guests started cheering as well, some for Mia and others for me. Our parents laughed seeing this whilst our cousins and friends hooted loudly. Mia pouted cutely looking up at me and I shrugged with a mischievous smile lingering on my face.

"COME ON CHACHI!" Alia squealed as she jumped at her place beside mum and dad.

Mia grinned at her. Out of nowhere, she was picked up which caused her to yelp out loud. The ones who lifted her off were Sahil and Abhimanyu whilst Armaan and Varun stood beside them cheering for Mia. Mia giggled cutely. Sahil and Abhimanyu holding Mia on their shoulders moved a little forward to help Mia in putting the garland but Sid and Duggu bhai didn't gave up and moved a little back. Everyone around us hooted more loudly. The excitement and hoopla were high. Mia made faces as she made puppy eyes at me and damn me if I lied that I didn't melt!

Smiling, I lowered my head a little forward which made her grin wide as she finally put the garland around my neck. The bridal party along with some person from my side cheered and awed whilst some of them booed. Duggu bhai huffed muttering whipped under his breath as he and Sid put me down and got a slap on the back of his head from mum. I rolled my eyes at him.

As if he is not!

Abhi and Sahil put Mia down as well before moving back to their places.

"बेटा अब आपकी बारी है।" The priest said.

Nodding, I lifted the garland up and put it on Mia's neck. After we exchanged our garlands, it was time for the gathbandhan ceremony for which Abhi came forward. Granthi Bandhanam quite literally translates from Sanskrit into ‘tying of the sacred knot'. Taking an end of Mia's velvety red shawl, he took one end of my red silk shawl and tied them together in a tight knot.

Although the knot symbolizes a unification of the two families, it also represents a solid bond between the Bride and Groom. Once the brother of the Bride ties and knots the cloth, the couple is connected – mind, body, and soul. Additionally, it implies that the virtues of the couple become stronger when they are combined.

After the gathbandhan ceremony, the priest asked us to take our seats. We alongside the priest and the others took our seats for the further process. Then came the madhuprek ritual.

This is a very old vedic tradition. After the exchange of the garlands, the bride and the groom sit around the sacred fire. The bride would first give the groom a small bowl of water. He sprinkles some water first on his feet, then his body and eventually drinks the rest. After this, the bride feeds her groom a sherbet called madhuperk, made of clarified butter or ghee, curd, honey and some essence to drink.

Shree came forward with a silver glass and a small silver bowl in her hands which she handed to Mia. Mia gave me the bowl from which I sprinkled some water on my feet and feet before gulping the rest down as per the ritual. Then with a silver spoon, she fed me some sherbet. Then it was time for Kanya Daan ritual (Giving the Bride Away). This ceremony is symbolic and very touching.

"कन्यादान का वक्त हो गया है। दुल्हन के माता-पिता सामने आएं।" The priest announced.

Papa and maa came forward and bent beside Mia. Chanting some mantras, the priest asked me to bring my right hand forward in cupped mode which I obliged. Then he asked papa and maa to proceed. Holding Mia's right hand in his, papa lifted it up with maa touching Papa's arm to participate in the ritual. Then he put Mia's right hand in my palm. Reciting the holy mantras, the priest put some rice, betel nuts, betel leaves and marigold petals on Mia's palm which was above mine. Tying a sacred thread around our hands, he gave a brass urn filled with a mixture of holy Ganga jal and milk to Mia's parents. Her parents poured the liquid on our palms slowly as the priest chanted the Vedic ritual hymns. Then the priest asked papa to repeat after him.

"में अविनाश रय, इस पवित्र गंगा जल को साक्षी मानते हुए, अपनी बेटी, म्रिदुला रय को युवराज सिंहानीया के हाथों सौंपता हूं। इसी क्षण से मेरी बेटी तुम्हारी हुई।" Papa repeated after the priest. I could see Mia's and her parents' eyes watering at this emotional moment.

Now it was my turn to repeat after the priest.

"में युवराज सिंहानीया, इस पवित्र गंगा जल को साक्षी मानते हुए, म्रिदुला रय को अपनाता हूं और वचन लेता हूं कि में जिंदगी भर तुम्हारे भरोसेमंद रहूंगा। हमेशा तुम से प्यार करने के साथ-साथ, तुम्हारी इज्जत और रक्षा करूंगा।"  I repeated looking at Mia.

After the Kanyadaan ritual was done, maa wiped some tears from Mia's cheeks and kissed her forehead. Parting Mia's head, papa turned to me.

"Yuvi! Today I'm handing you my most prized possession, my little daughter! Please take care of her. I've brought her up with so much love and care and I expect you to give her the equal love and respect and take care of her happiness always." He said and his voice cracked a little at the end.

"Don't worry papa! She is my responsibility now and I promise you that I will always respect her and love her. I will always be there to take care of her! I promise!" I said, nodding with a soft smile.

Blinking his tears away, he nodded with his dimply smile and patted my shoulder. He kissed Mia's head once before leading a very emotional maa back to thejr seats. My eyes went to Mia who had lowered her head with tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Mia!" I called out.

She snapped her head towards me. Smiling softly, I wiped her tears away with my thumb and shook my head. She gave me a weak smile before our attention turned to the priest who proceeded forward with the marriage rituals.

The priest lit the sacred fire and worshipped the Lord of fire. As he chanted mantras, lifting the long wooden spoon up, I offered ghee in between when the priest asked me to with Mia's hand touching my arm. Alongside the ghee, I was told to offer some crushed herbs, sandalwood, camphor, sugar and rice in the fire too.

All the ingredients on the mandap area had their certain special significances. The ghee, capoor and chandan offered to the fire God symbolise burning of the ego. Agarbatti is the sweet scents of hope and prosperity and are used for welcoming. The diya represents the goddess Laxmi who blesses the couple with prosperity. The betel leaves and nuts are a sign of purity. Haldi  is used for its healing touch and its association with purity. Vermillion, the symbol of a suhagan, is for her husband's protection. Mauli is also a symbol of safety and protection.

The priest made fourteen parallel lines of flour in front me. Then he placed a flower bud on each of them and asked me to repeat the fourteen vows after him,  which I have to fulfill throughout my life.

After that, it was time for the mangal phere or saat phere.

"अब वर-वधू, सात फेरों के लिए खड़े हो जाएं।" The priest said and alongside him and us, the others got up from their seats as well.

"पहले चार फेरों में वर आगे चलेंगे और आखिरी तीन में बधू उनके सामने। अग्नि देव को साक्षी मानते हुए ,आप दोनों इस पवित्र अग्नि की फेरें लेंगे। और एक दूसरे को वचन देते हुए, मेरे कहे गए वाक्य दोहराएंगे।" The priest said and we nodded.

Holding her right hand in my right hand tightly, I moved ahead of her and took steps around the havan kund for our first phera as I repeated after the priest with my whole heart.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह पहली फेरे के साथ, में तुम्हें वचन देता हूं कि, तुम्हारी और हमारे होने वाले बच्चों के पोषण, संपत्ति और खुशीयों की जिम्मेदारी मेरी,‌ ताकि हम हमेशा आत्मसम्मान और इज्जत से एक दूसरे के साथ रहें।"

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह पहली फेरे को सम्पन्न करते हुए, में आपको वचन देती हूं कि, में हमेशा हमारे परिवार और घर का ख्याल रखूंगी। और आपकी सारी जिम्मेदारी में भागीदार रहूंगी।" Mia said as we completed our first circumstance.

Everyone around us were showering flower petals on us. Then I started to walk around for our second phera and recited after the priest.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह दुसरी फेरे के साथ, में तुम्हें वचन देता हूं कि, में हमेशा तुम्हारे भरोसेमंद रहूंगा और कभी तुम्हारा विश्वास नहीं तोड़ूंगा। में हमेशा सुख-दुख में तुम्हारे साथ खड़ा रहुंगा। में मानसिक, शारीरिक और आर्थिक विकास के साथ तुम्हें और हमारे परिवार को सुरक्षा प्रदान करुंगा।"

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह दुसरी फेरे को सम्पन्न करते हुए, में आपको वचन देती हूं कि, आज से आपकी सारी जिम्मेदारीयों में, में आपके साथ खड़ी रहूंगी और जैसे हो सकें उसमें आपकी मदद करूंगी। और उन सबका धैर्य और साहस के साथ सामना करूंगी।" Mia repeated and her voice was do genuine & sincere.

After the second phera, I walked around the holy fire starting our third phera. The priest signalled me to repeat the third vow after him, which I did from the bottom of my heart.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह तिसरी फेरे के साथ, में तुम्हें वचन देता हूं कि, में जी-जान से कड़ी मेहनत कर के घर में सुख समृद्धि लाऊंगा और हमारे होने वाले बच्चों को उचित शिक्षा प्रदान करूंगा।"

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह तिसरी फेरे को सम्पन्न करते हुए, में आपको वचन देती हूं कि, में हमेशा जिम्मेदारी के साथ घर-परिवार चलाऊंगी और आपको अपना प्रेम दूंगी। आपके अलावा, मेरे जिंदगी में कभी कोई दूसरा पुरुष नहीं आएगा। आप मेरे प्राथमिकता होंगे और बाकी सब पुरुष द्वितीय।" Mia vowed as we completed our third phera.

Starting the fourth phera, I recited my vow after the priest.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, में तुम्हें धन्यवाद् देता हूं। इस पवित्र विवाह के साथ तुमने मेरी जिंदगी को खुशीयों से भर दिया है और मुझे सम्पन्न किया है। इस चौथे फेरे के साथ, में तुम्हें वचन देता हूं कि, में हमेशा हमारे दोनों परिवारों की समान इज्जत करूंगा। में तुम्हारी हर ख्वाहिश को सम्मान दूंगा और तुम मेरी हर जरूरी फैसले में सामिल रहोगी।"

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह चौथी फेरे को सम्पन्न करते हुए, में आपको वचन देती हूं कि, में हर विधी और पारिवारिक, धार्मिक प्रतिबद्धता में आपके साथ खड़ी रहूंगी। आपके हर फैसले को सम्मान देते हुए, में आपके साथ-साथ चलुंगी। मेरे जिंदगी की कोई फैसला लेने से पहले में‌ उसमें आपकी राय लुंगी। अगर कभी कोई विपत्ति आपके तरफ़ आए, तो मैं आपके सामने आपकी ढाल बनकर खड़ी रहूंगी और आपकी रक्षा के लिए में अपनी जान की परवाह नहीं करूंगी।" Mia vowed as we completed our fourth phera.

I clenched my fists and jaw to resist the urge to say something against it. I didn't want to make a fuss right now but no way in hell I'm going to let her sacrifice her life for me. In fact, it would be me who will be her shield, not the other way around. We stopped at our seats as per the priest.

"अब आखिरी तीन फेरों के लिए, कन्या वर के सामने चलेगी।" The priest said.

Nodding, I backed away a little and helped Mia to move ahead of me by holding her hands. When she was finally ahead of me, I held her right hand in mine tightly as she took steps around the havan kund. Mia and I repeated after the priest together as we started our fifth phera.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह पांचवीं फेरे के साथ हम एक-दूसरे को वचन देते हैं कि, हम एक-दूसरे के सुख-दुख में साथ देंगे और एक-दूसरे को समझने के साथ-साथ, एक-दूसरे की ज़रूरतों की ख्याल रखेंगे। हम भगवान से सुस्त बच्चों की कामना करते हुए, समृद्ध मूल्य और उदार जीवन शैली से उनकी पालन-पोषण करने की प्रयास करने की प्रतिज्ञा लेते हैं। "

Taking the sixth round around the holy fire, we promised eachother.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह छठी फेरे के साथ हम दोनों एक दूसरे से प्यार और सम्मान करने का वादा करते हैं। और हम खुशी और दुख के समय में एक साथ खड़े होने का वादा करते हैं। हम दोनों मिलकर ईश्वर का आशीर्वाद प्राप्त करने की प्रार्थना करते हैं कि हमें खुशी, शांति और समृद्धि से भरा स्वस्थ और लंबा जीवन प्रदान करें ताकि हम एक दूसरे के प्रति अपने कर्तव्यों और जिम्मेदारियों को निभा सकें।"

Then it was time for the seventh and last vow and we recited that together as Mia walked ahead of me.

"इस पवित्र अग्नि और भगवान को साक्षी मानते हुए, यह छठी फेरे के साथ, पवित्र सात प्रतिज्ञाओं के इस अनुष्ठान के साथ, हम दोनों पति-पत्नी बन गए हैं। और आज से हम दोनों की आत्मा एक है। हम दोनों एक साथ, एक दिव्य सूत्र के साथ जुड़े हुए हैं और हम दोनों एक-दूसरे से प्यार करेंगे और अनंत काल तक एक-दूसरे के साथ रहेंगे। हम एक जोड़े के रूप में, साथी के रूप में साथ चलेंगे, जीवन की एक-एक चीज को साझा करेंगे, एक-दूसरे का सम्मान करेंगे और बिना शर्त प्यार करेंगे। हम पवित्र और ईमानदार इरादों के साथ सभी पवित्र सात प्रतिज्ञाओं का पालन करने का वादा करते हैं जो हमने शादी की रस्म के दौरान वादा किया है।"

After the mangal phere, it was time for another ritual called lajahom. Puffed rice, a symbol of prosperity and material wealth is sacrificed into the havan. The bride's brother plays a significant role in this ritual. He stands behind the couple as his sister places her hands into the groom's. The brother puts the puffed rice into his sister's hands and then the couple offer it to the fire together. This signifies that the couple is willing to sacrifice all of their worldly possessions because there is not anything greater and more rewarding than receiving God’s blessing.

I stood behind Mia as Abhimanyu put her hands in mine and she was engulfed in my arms from the back as if I was hugging her from behind. As the priest started to chant mantras, Abhi placed some puffed rice in Mia's hands and then we offered it to the fire together. After some more offerings, the ritual was done and we were asked to take our seats back. The others also sat down after us. Now it was time for the next ritual. Mangalsutra! Mangalsutra means lifelong protection to the bride promised by her groom.

"मंगलसूत्र ले आइए।" The priest said to mum who nodded and signalled bhabhi.

Bhabhi took out two round golden antique boxes (one a little bigger from the other) from her purse and handed it to Sam who kept the boxes on a brass plate decorated with red rose petals. Sam walked up to us and forwarded the plate towards me. With the priest's instructions, I opened the big box and took the mangalsutra out which was chosen by me.

The mangalsutra was a yellow gold diamond necklace having fifty diamond encrusted in it's body. It had five beautiful floral designs with a tiny drop from the middle piece.

The priest started chanting mantras and signalled me to tie the sacred thread around Mia's neck. Shree came forward and pushed the bridal veil and shawl a little back. Leaning forward, I put the mangalsutra on her neck and clasped it from the back, with my eyes on her. She stared at me with the equal amount of emotions as me. She even shivered when my cold fingers touched her sensitive nape. After clasping it successfully, I pulled my hands back with a smile as the others cheered for us. Mia gave me a shy smile back.

"अभी वर, वधू के मांग में सिंदूर भर के, शादी सम्पन्न करें।" The priest said.

Flipping the small box open, which had the red vermillion in it, I pinched some in between my right hand's thumb and ring finger and turned to face her. Giving her a warm smile, I leaned forward as I saw her eyes brimming with tears and a smile spreading on her lips. Shree lifted the maangtika up and I savoured the moment of filling my girlfriend/fiancée's hair partition and making her officially my wife.

Mia had her eyes closed when I filled the crown of her head with the sacred vermillion. Some of the vermillion fell on the tip of her nose which caught my attention and then a drop of tear from both of her eyes. My eyes blurred with tears realising that my dream had come true. I cupped her face, which caused her to open her eyes and she looked up at me with a teary smile. I wiped her tears away with my thumbs and shook my head with a small smile.

Leaning down, I dropped a feathery kiss on her forehead mumbling I love you and pulled back to find her eyes closed again with a smile on her lips. She opened her eyes when she felt me pulling away after the kiss and looked up at me.

"I love you too!" She croaked, making my heart burst with happiness and pride.

"विवाह सम्पन्न हुआ। अब आप दोनों पति-पत्नी हुए।‌ अभी आप बड़ों से अपनी सुखी वैवाहिक जीवन के लिए आशीर्वाद लीजिए।" The priest said.

We all got up. I and Mia bowed to the fireplace and the Gods and Goddesses placed beside it before moving towards the priest. We touched his feet for his blessings.

"सदा सुखी रहो। सौभाग्यवती भव। आप दोनों की वैवाहिक जीवन सुखमय हो। कल्याण हो।" The priest prayed petting our heads.

After him, we moved towards our families. To Rani ma, as she is the oldest. We both touched her feet as she placed both of her hands on our heads.

"ख़ुश रहो।" She said and pulled us in a hug. Pulling back, she cupped our cheeks with a beautiful smile on her face.

"सदा सुहागन रहो। दूधो नहाओ पूतों फलों। भगवान तुम दोनों की सारी इच्छाएं पूरी करें।" Rani ma said.

"Thank you, Rani ma!" We thanked her with a smile.

Then we moved towards Subho maa and touched her feet. She kissed our foreheads and blessed us.

"Stay happy! Keep loving and taking care of eachother!" Subho maa said. Thanking her, we moved forward.

To mum and dad. When we were about to touch dad's feet, he didn't let us by holding our shoulders and engulfed us in a hug instead.

"God bless both of you! Welcome to the family beta!" Dad said and kissed Mia's forehead.

"Thank you, papa!" Mia said. Then we moved to mum. We touched her feet and then she hugged the both of us.

"I can't explain how happy I am today! Congratulations bachcho! And Mia, thank you so much for bringing so much happiness in our lives, especially in my Yuvi's!" Mum said and kissed both of our heads.

"Thank you maa! Thank you for accepting me in the family! I am lucky to have all of you as my family!" Mia said, smiling at mum genuinely.

"Trust me, it's the other way around!" Mum said.

Then we moved towards maa and papa who were looking at us with tears filled eyes. When we were about to touch Papa's feet, he stopped us by taking us into a hug.

"Congratulations beta for finding your true love. may this love grow stronger and deeper through each passing day of your married life!” He said to Mia and kissed her forehead.

"Thank you dad!"

Then he turned to me with a wide smile and patted my back.

"I didn't have a son! And it's not like I regret it! Because my daughter was more than enough for me! Abhi was like my son from the beginning! But look at me now, I have so many children!" He said, chuckling and pointing towards my friends, duggu bhaiya who smiled back at papa.

"Thank you papa! I am lucky to have you not as my father-in-law but as a father!" I said and gave him a hug.

We moved towards maa next who had tears running down her cheeks silently.

"Mum!" Mia cried out as she wrapped her arms around her mother who chuckled and wrapped her arms around her daughter protectively.

"Shh sweetheart! Why are you crying?" Maa asked Mia as I stood there looking at them with a smile.

"Because you are crying!" Mia said, making some of us chuckle and it included her parents too.

"Okay okay! Calm down sweetie! See, I'm not crying anymore! Look!" Maa said as she pulled back from Mia.

"Don't cry! I'm just so happy for you beta! I wish you great happiness together! I know that your love will be proof to all who surround you that love is beautiful, kind and enduring. I love you मेरी बेटी and I'm proud of you! Remember that always!" Maa said, wiping Mia's tears away.

"Yeah! I love you too mumma!" Mia nodded cutely.

Maa's gaze fell upon me as she gave me a smile. Giving her a smile back, I touched her feet.

"ख़ुश रहो बेटा। I don't have words! I know you love my daughter and will always take care of her!  I wish you immense success in your life ahead. I got you as my son-in-law but as Avinash said, you're more a son to us!" Maa said.

"Thank you maa! And I promise that I will fulfill all the promises I gave to you, papa and Mia!" I said and kissed her knuckles.

Then we moved towards chachu and chachi. Chachi was grinning at us whilst chachu had his full blown smile on. Before we could've touched their feet, they both took us into a hug.

"Welcome to the family Mia! You were always a part of the family, but today it is official!  And congratulations for your wedding! May your life together be as sweet as your love!" Chachi said.

"Thank you chachi!" Mia said and Chachi grinned at her new name as Mia was calling her aunty from the beginning. Chachi nodded in approval.

"It’s such a lovely feeling to see you get married. I wish you lots of joy, happiness and love on this special occasion. You will always be my sweet little girl. Congrats! And Mia! If Yuvraj bothers you ever, just let me know, yeah? I will gladly do the beating!" Chachu said, smirking at me which made me roll my eyes whilst Mia and chachi giggled along with the others.

"कुछ भी हां चाचु? कभी हाथ उठाया है आपने मुझपे जो अब उठाओगे?" I asked whilst rolling my eyes.

"बेटे! एक complaint तो आने दे, फिर बताता हूं!" Chachu sassed making the people around us chuckle.

Muttering whatever under my breath, I led Mia forward towards Duggu bhaiya and bhabhi who had Alia beside them. They gave us a hug. After pulling back from bhai's hug, I picked Alia up in my arms.

"Hey fairy! Did you enjoy your chachu's wedding?" I asked.

"Yes! I took so many photos!" She squealed in my arms, making me chuckle.

"I'm glad!" I kissed her forehead.

"Welcome welcome welcome to the family Mia! I finally got my devrani! Oh it's so exciting!" Bhabhi giggled, making us laugh.

"Mood swings!" Duggu bhaiya whispered in my ear making me snicker which caught Bhabhi's attention.

"Did you say something?" Bhabhi asked bhai who shrugged it off with a nervous smile.

"Welcome to the family, Mia! I hope that all your dreams turn to reality, I’m happy for you both. Bro, I hope you get all the joy and love you can get." Bhai congratulated us.

After thanking her Mia kissed Alia on her cheek and then we moved ahead towards Rajveer uncle and Twinkle aunty and then went to Prem uncle who congratulated us with big smiles and tight hugs. Then we moved to our friends, cousins and all.

"Welcome to the world of married life, my baby sister. As you begin your life together with your new husband, I want you to know that I am here for you if you ever need anything. You are very important to me, and I love you. I wish both of you the best now and in the future" Abhi said as he hugged his sister and kissed her head before pulling me in for a hug.

"Eeaaaakkkk I'm so happy babe!" Sam gushed as she squeezed the life out of my wife. I scoffed and pulled Mia back from my abnormal sister's death grip.

"Jealous freak!" Varun muttered, making me glare at him.

I hugged Veer and Sahil as they congratulated me. Then we went to Dr. Sridevi and Mia's colleagues hugged her and blessed us for our happy married life. Then we hugged Robert and Nicole, who squealed saying how much she enjoyed the wedding.

And then I hugged the rest of the people around us whilst Mia conversed with the relatives and took their blessings. To meet the business associates and politicians, I needed to walk down the mandap so I went to the place where I've put my shoes.

I frowned when I didn't find my shoes there. Rubbing my nape, I turned around to look for my shoes but was startled when I found Shree, Sam, Shanaya, Pihu, Rose and some cousins of Mia. They were grinning at me widely. My frown deepened but then I realised what actually had happened. Snapping my head towards Varun, I glared at him at which he cowered back gulping. I marched towards him angrily making him squeal like a girl as he hid behind Siddharth.

"What the hell Varun?" I questioned.

"I—It's not m—my fault!" Varun stammered.

"Oh yeah! Then whose fault is it? मेरे ग्रह-नक्षत्रों की?" I asked sarcastically.

"It's not his fault, Yuvi!" I heard Mia from behind and turned to find her walking up to me.

"What does that mean?" I asked.

"It means, Varun bhai is not at fault! Instead it was me!" She said, smiling sheepishly.

"You?" I asked with a frown.

Then she told me the story.

Flashback

Mridula's POV

"क्या?!" Varun bhaiya screamed, making me flinch.

It was the time when Varun bhaiya came to give me the gift from Yuvraj. As he had deceived Yuvraj by peeking into the gift, I threatened him to tell Yuvi everything about it. But he begged me not to. And my mischievous mind worked something out and I asked Varun bhai to help my bridesmaids in stealing Yuvraj's shoes on our wedding day. And that's what brought out the scream from Varun bhaiya.

End of Flashback

"Fucking idiot!" I cursed under my breath whilst glaring at Varun.

After so much fuss with Varun, I signalled Sid to bring the gifts for the girls. The gift bags had different things like branded jewellery and handbags. They gave my shoes back when they were satisfied with their gifts and I wore them on.

After taking blessings from the guests and conversing with some business and political clients, Mia and I were led back inside the hotel to the banquet hall where the lunch preparations were done for everyone. Holding Mia's hand in mine, we got into the VIP elevator. Shree and Sid were there with us in the elevator. As the lift door closed, I wrapped my arm around Mia's waist and she rested her head on my chest. I dropped a feathery kiss on her head.

"Tired?" I asked, looking down at my wife.

My wife! It feels so good to call her my wife! So so good!

She hummed, nodding her head. Sid and Shree were in front of us busy in their conversation which gave us a little privacy after so long.

"Just a little more sweetheart! We will be in the jet soon and then you can rest, yeah?" I said.

"Yeah!" Mia mumbled.

Sighing, I tightened my arms around her as I leaned my head back. Soon the elevator door dinged open and we walked out. We got into the banquet hall which was buzzing with people. The banquet hall had round tables around the place with a long rectangle table at a corner reserved for our families and us.

Soon spotting us, Sam and Shanaya approached us and helped Mia to carry her heavy lehenga. I walked towards the table behind Mia with my friends. Our families were already seated at their places. I pulled a seat for Mia and helped her to sit down on it. After her, I also sat on my seat as the servers served us our food. It will be our first meal together, as husband and wife and this first meal together is called kansar bhojan.

The servers gave us all glasses filled with raspberry coolers having champagne in them. We sipped from it as we conversed among each other. I have taken my turban and talwar off and Mia had her velvet scarf off. Soon we had appetisers poured down on our plate.

Mia and I were given one plate as we will have to share our food which symbolises a loyal and happy marriage life. Our plate had bruschetta, shrimp salad rolls, dahi vada, mini samosa, french fries and aloo katori chaat. After appetisers, main course was served which had fruit salad, pepper mushroom soup, sweet corn soup, hot n sour soup, veg manchurian, chilli potato, paneer tikka, paneer makhni, chicken biryani, daal tadka, naan, kulcha, mushroom tikka, dosa, pulav and etcetera. Dessert was Mia's favourite, pineapple pastries, gulab jamun, different varieties of ice creams, dry fruits and saffron kheer, pistachio parfait, barfi, cakes and more.

After having our food, we were escorted back to the garden where we were supposed to take pictures after a little touch-up. After the photo session, we got into our cars and all of us left for the airport with our luggages.

07:10PM IST, June 17th
9/32A, Singhania Mansion
Jor Bagh, Delhi NCR

I just parked my car in front of my home. I was gone to drop Mia in the hotel where our second marriage is going to take place. The others are already home.

Climbing out of the car, I closed the door and marched inside. I was hella tired and didn't want anything else than sleep. I was about to go upstairs, straight to my room when mum's voice stopped me.

"Yeah mum? What are you doing awake?" I asked as I turned to face her.

"Was waiting for you! Now come on, have your food and then you can go to sleep!" She said.

"Mum! I really don't have an appetite right now!" I whined.

"I know you're tired beta, but you need to have something before you sleep! Okay just wait here, I'll be back!" She said before rushing to the kitchen.

Sighing I leaned back on the railing and raked my fingers through my hair.

"Yuvi! Here! Have this and then you can sleep!" Mum said, handing me a glass of warm milk with turmeric and saffron.

"Fine! Thank you mum!" I said before sipping from my glass.

I finished the milk and kissed on her cheek, wishing her good night before walking up to my room. Kicking the door open of my room, I got in and closed it behind me. I had already changed into a pair of black jeans and white t-shirt in the jet and so did Mia, so taking my clothes off and leaving the boxers on, I hit the bed and slept in no time.

————🌻————

WEDDING DAY II

————🌻————

Next day, June 18th, 06:54AM IST
9/32A, Singhania Mansion
Jor Bagh, Delhi NCR

I was awake for an hour, working out. After my workout session, I went back to my room to get ready. Mia and I along with the other family members are going to pay a visit to the gurdwara for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji's blessings.

I took a bath after which I got changed into my new pair of clothes. My outfit was a pink sherwani with floral embroidered motifs. It came paired with a stitched dhoti & embroidered dupatta. The neckline was mandarin with full sleeves. Siddharth, who came early to our house, helped me with the outfit. I had a silk pink turban and was given a golden kirpan (sword) by dad. I wore a pair of traditional off-white mojri in my feet. After I was ready, I came downstairs to find my family ready.

M

um was wearing an ivory saree in a silk crepe base with floral motif prints including kasab and sequin embroideries. Dad was wearing a salmon pink handcrafted Sherwani in georgette and chanderi jacquard base with chikankari and zardosi work. It was paired with a matching kurta and churidar pants.

I touched their feets and then of chachu and chachi before bhabhi came to me. There is a ritual called Varna. The Varna ritual is carried out by the grooms Bhabi (grooms sister-in-law), and it is said to ward off the evil eye. This is done traditionally using surma (eyeliner) on the grooms eyes. This is a very traditional ritual and in modern times, it seems most grooms don’t comply with this particular tradition but, will happily agree to a black dot marked behind the ear which basically works in the same manner as a surma and is said to keep the evil eye away from the groom.

Smiling she put a tika behind my right ear and I touched her feet.

"May god keep all the evil eyes away from you!" She said.

After the varna ritual, Sam came forward with thea beautiful kalgi made of kundans, feathers and pearls and fixed it on my turban. After the ritual, all walked out of the house except me because I was stopped by Sam as she demanded for a gift before I can go to my wedding. Sighing I took the box out of my sherwani pocket and gave it to her. It was a Swarovski crystal pendant. She thanked me and finally let me through the door. We got into our cars and drove off.

Mridula's POV

07:30AM IST, June 18th
Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib
Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

"Here done!" Pihu exclaimed.

I sighed and looked at the mirror in front of me. I was wearing a pink lehenga with all-over cutdana work in jaal pattern & scallop hem. Accompanied with cutwork hem blouse & embroidered net dupatta. The blouse design was beautiful. It had all net coving with scallop work and pink coloured pads. That's why I have worn a starpless bra. The sleeves of the blouse stopped before my elbows. And it had a rhombic backless part. The upper part was tied up tightly with the help of dori having latkans whilst the lower part had a clasp. About the skirt, I had worn a cancan under it which was giving the outfit a perfect look.

(Just imagine the same jewellery for Mia as well. I am too lazy to decide on jewelleries again! It's tiring!)

Currently we were in the waiting room whilst mum, dad, Abhi dada and Subho maa were outside, preparing for my in-laws and guests welcome. I heard a squeal and turned around to find Shanaya bursting inside the room.

"Mia! They're here!" Shanaya squealed.

A smile appeared on my lips knowing that my husband is here. Husband! It feels so new but so good as well. I can't believe we are married and about to get married again soon with different cultural values.

"Daydreaming about your husband huh? Looks like the kiss last night wasn't enough!" Shree said snapping me out of my reverie. My cheeks turned red remembering last night.

Flashback

Currently I was in the car with Yuvraj after we landed in Delhi. Maa had asked him to drop me off. I could've went with mum and dad but maa was adamant for us to get us some privacy. And at last, she pushed me into Yuvraj's arms who caught me easily.

I thanked God because I had changed my bridal attire or I'd have tripped over my lehenga for sure. I was wearing a gold saree in a tulle base with resham, sequins, zardosi and aari hand embroidery. It is paired with a ¾ sleeved matching blouse having french knot embroidery. Maa was cool to let me wear something western but Subho maa and mum made me wore the saree. It's nothing uncomfortable though. I am wearing the mangalsutra beside Yuvraj's pendant on my neck and my hand had the choora. Bhbahi gifted me a pair of beautiful earrings which I am wearing in my ears now.

Whilst my husband wore a black faded jeans and a white t-shirt that clung to his body like a second skin. With the goggles on his face, he looked dapper. He had his one hnad on the steering and the other on his thigh intertwined with my fingers as he occasionally made talks and kissed my knuckles. He was all adorable and romantic and I am loving every bit of it.

"You hungry?" He asked glancing at my way.

"Not really! I just need some sleep!" I said tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. I had my hair left down because all the rituals which made me do different experiments on my hair has successfully frustrated me and now I wanted them to breath a little.

"You look beautiful! Marriage suits you!" He said with a smile which made me smile in return.

I looked out of the closed window and I knew we had more time before we reached the hotel. Turning back, I plugged my mobile in and scrolled through some songs. When I couldn't choose a song, I huffed out and just played it on shuffle. Yuvraj looked at me amusingly before shaking his head and turning his attention back to the front.

Soon enough the melodious voice of Calvin Harris filled the car making me squeal and I squeezed Yuvi's hand making him frown. The lyrics of I need your love was playing in the background and I started to hum with the tune.

"Fan of Harris?" He asked.

"Yessss! A big, big fan! And actually, I've once met him in Texas during my vacation! And do you know, HE HUGGED MEEE!" I squealed when I remembered the moment with Calvin in Texas.

Calvin was out for some window shopping but he had his masks on so it won't cause a ruckus. But fortunately I recognised him. How?! Because duh I'm a big big fan. I was about to squeal when I clamped a hand on my mouth and sushed me. I told him how much of a big fan I am and he gave me a hug generously which made me faint. Almost!

"Woah! Should I be jealous?" Yuvi asked as he narrowed his eyes at me dangerously.

"What?! No!! I was just nineteen at that time, oh god!" I rolled my eyes.

"Whatever! You're not hugging any strangers again! Heck, you're not even touching them!" Yuvi frowned.

"He ain't no stranger!" I told him in a duh tone.

He threw daggers at me through his eyes.

"Wow! Not even married for 24 hours and you're already defending your crushes instead of me!" He scoffed.

"So? It's not like you have none! Wait—you never told me about your crushes?" I asked.

"Damn! We shouldn't be talking about this just after our marriage Mia! We will get a divorce by tomorrow if this goes on!" Yuvi muttered.

"Fine! Fine! You started it though! Then what should we talk about?" I asked, frowning.

"Like um—about honeymoon!" He suggested, nodding his head in approval.

Blood rushed to my cheeks and I felt my face and neck getting warmer. And next I felt him leaning towards me and dropping a kiss on my cheek before pulling back with a chuckle.

"You look cute when you blush!" He said.

I gave him a stink eye before leaning my head on his shoulder as he drove the car. Yuvraj placed a kiss on my head as we enjoyed our privacy.

After sometime, we reached the hotel and Yuvi parked the car at the front. I unbuckled as Yuvi got out and came to my side, opening my side of door before outstreching his hand towards me. I hold his hand and got out from the car before smoothening my saree. Wrapping his arm around my waist, he led us inside. At the reception, the hotel staff welcomed us with flower garlands and by showering flower petals on us. We thanked them before grabbing my suite's keys and hot into the elevator.

"You look beautiful always, but you look heavenly in saree!" He stated sincerely and kissed my forehead as the elevator door closed.

I smiled sweetly as blush crept onto my cheeks.

"Thank you! You're striking!" I said and kissed his cheek softly.

I snuggled more into him as he tightened his arms around my waist. Pulling back my head, I looked into his eyes as his arms stayed around my waist and mine around his. Pulling one arm back, he wiped some strands of hair from my forehead making me sigh and lean more close towards his touch. From my forehead, his fingers moved to my cheek and his thumb caressed my cheek softly. My lips stretched into a smile automatically. His eyes twinkled watching me smile and his fingers went to my dimple.

"I love your dimple!" He murmured, poking it.

"Me too!" I shrugged making him chuckle.

"My adorable wife!" He pecked my lips.

Hearing the elevator door opening, we pulled back before someone can caught us romancing but sighed when we found none in the hallway. Yuvraj laced our fingers together and led me towards my room.

"Hey newlyweds!" I heard Shree and found her coming out of a room.

"Hey! You guys haven't left yet? Weren't you complaining about your tiredness during flight?" I asked, arching an brow.

"I am! Trust me, I want nothing but to lay on my bed, snuggling with my husband! But I had some of your jewelleries to give to your mum!" She said and I nodded.

"Wait—you're here so I will just hand them back to you! Wait, I'm coming!" Shree said and rushed back inside before I can say something.

I shook my head and Yuvraj opened my suite door before leading me into the room. He closed the door behind us and I plopped down on the bed sighing.

"You need something?" He asked as he sat beside me.

I shook my head.

"I will just change! Stay a little more, I will be back!" I said and he nodded, dropping a kiss on my cheek.

I got up and rummaged through my suitcase before taking out a navy blue night suit containing a solid v-neck top with short sleeves and a full length pyjamas. I walked into the washroom and changed into my PJs. After that I washed my face and grabbed a towel on my way back outside. I dabbed my face dry before putting the towel away and found Yuvraj scrolling through his phone.

"Hey!" I plopped down beside him.

He put his phone away and pulled me onto his lap. I settled down comfortably by wrapping my arms around his neck and my head in the crook of his neck.

"You sure, you are not hungry?" He asked, rubbing my back.

"Yeah, positive! I just need sleep!" I nodded.

"Fine!" He sighed, "Now give me a kiss so I can leave and you can sleep!"

I riaised my head and placed my lips on his leisurely. Our first kiss after our wedding and it felt so surreal. Lacing his fingers into my hair, he pressed my lips tightly to him as our mouth moved in a sync. I moaned when his hands lifted my top up and caressed my skin. We were so immersed in each other that we didn't hear the door being pushed open until a squeal startled us and I scrambled off my husband's lap hurriedly. Grasping for breath, I turned around with a horrified face to find Shree with her back facing us.

Cursing under my breath, I smoothened my outfit before glancing at Yuvraj who got up and cleared his throat.

"Shree! Um you can turn around now! We're decent!" I said as blush crept onto my cheeks.

Huffing out a breath, Shree turned around to face us with a smirk. My eyes widened and I groaned mentally for the upcoming teasings coming for me. I glared at her, mouthing shut up. Yuvraj cleared his throat again making us snap our head to him.

"I will take my leave now! Good night and I love you baby!" Yuvraj said, kissing my forehead.

"Good night and love you too!" I said and kissed his cheek.

Waving at us, he left closing the door behind him. My eyes followed him till he was out of the door. My eyes snapped to Shree who whistled out of blue. I narrowed my eyes at her.

"So?" She smirked, wiggling her brows.

I groaned before plopping down on the bed.

Here it comes!

End of Flashback

"Ugh! Not again!" I groaned making the girls giggle.

Yuvraj's POV

07:18AM IST, June 18th
Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib
Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

As the car stopped a little away from the gurdwara, we got down from the car and I climbed up on the horse decorated with golden ribbons and other accessories for the baraat. Soon the wedding procession including my family, friends and relatives playing music, singing and dancing.

When we reached to the front of the gurdwara, I mounted down from the horse and moved forward towards maa and papa who were waiting at the front for welcoming me. Soon I was welcomed inside by aarti and tika and led inside the gurdwara. After the milni ceremony at the open area in front of the gurdwara with the presence of a priest, we were led into the langar hall where we had our breakfast. After breakfast we were escorted to the main darbar hall.

Bowing respectfully with my palms joined, I sat down in front of the holy book, Shri Guru Granth Sahib. As per rituals, it was time for Anand karaj. 𝐴𝑛𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐾𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑗 means “ceremony of joy”/"blissful union". Anand karaj is the blissful union of the bride and groom with the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (Holy Book) being the witness to this union.

But before that, Mia was escorted to the main darbar hall by Abhi, Sahil & Varun, where we all were seated. I glanced behind me to find her coming towards me. She was looking beautiful in her baby pink lehenga with her hair left down. Bowing at the Guru Granth, she sat down on my left side and gave me her heartwarming smile which I reciprocated back.

An Amritdhari sikh soon came and sat in front of us with the holy books of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in between us. One by one our families, guests and relatives bowed in front of the holy book before taking their seats. As the granthi signalled us, we along with our parents got up for ardaas to waheguru. Joining our palms we sang after the hymns or shabads starting from 𝑊𝑎ℎ𝑒𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑢 𝑗𝑖 𝑘𝑎 𝑘ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑠𝑎, 𝑊𝑎ℎ𝑒𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑢 𝑗𝑖 𝑘𝑖 𝑓𝑎𝑡𝑒ℎ. Then the musicians, called ragis sat on a lower stage than the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the Amritdhari and sang the hymn of "Keeta Loree-ai Kaam", to seek God's blessing and to convey a message that a successful marital union is achieved through grace.

After the hymn was completed, we were singnalled to sit back again as the Amritdhari sikh explained us the significance of the marriage, the duties that each need to perform within the sacred relationship, and the general idea of leading a pious life according to Sikh tenets. Then we got into our knees and bowed in front of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. After we sat back down, papa was called to the front to do the palla rasam where he tied the one end of Mia's dupatta to one end of my shawl. This symbolizes the father giving away his daughter.

Sahil, Abhi and Varun got up and stood around the altar with the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in the middle. As there are four lavan phera and only three brothers of Mia, Duggu bhaiya stood with the boys as Mia's another brother. The raagis started singing the laavans. Mia and I got up and listened to the Amritdhari sikh's hymn before bowing down and starting to walk around the altar clockwise with me at the front. Each of her brother took their turns to hold and guide Mia around the Sri Guru Granth Sahib. This is a symbolic tradition where it shows that her brothers will be there for her whenever she needs them.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑙𝑎𝑎𝑣 𝑒𝑚𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑠𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑑𝑢𝑡𝑦 𝑡𝑜𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑 𝑙𝑎𝑎𝑣 𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑟𝑑 𝑙𝑎𝑎𝑣 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑑𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 & 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑙𝑎𝑎𝑣 𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝑓 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑏𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑠 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝐺𝑜𝑑.

After the fourth laav, another hymn was sung to mark the marital union, and a final ardaas was performed by the priest with the entire congregation, including the Mia and I. Everyone sat down except for us after the ardaas and then Mia and I were given two garlands by our parents. I put the garland in her neck and she put it on mine after which we were given shagun by our parents. The rest of the  congregation also gave us blessings and shagun. The Amritdhari sikh announced for the karah prasad to be distributed for which we all sat back down at our places. The raagis distributed the karah prasad among us served in a leafy plate. After we had our prasad, everyone congratulated us and then we were led to the langar for lunch.

Alongside Mia and I, other guests and our families also arrived at the langar hall for lunch. Mum and dad gave Mia a platter covered with a red silk cloth and some cash and gifts above it. Then Mia and I shared our meal in a plate. After lunch, we did the final ardas before leaving for our home whilst Mia and her family left for the hotel to get ready for another wedding in Bengali culture.

————🌻————

WEDDING DAY III

————🌻————

Mridula's POV

06:34PM IST, June 18th
The Lodhi, Lodhi Rd, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003

"Oh god Mia! Will you stop freaking out? You're going to ruin your makeup for heaven's sake!" Shree hollered at me for freaking out.

But I cannot help it! It's the wedding jitters and I am in deep shit. What happened is, I being the clumsy person, just got up some time ago. Of course, I had the alarm placed, but I guess the tiredness kicked over and I slammed the alarm clock off the bedside table. And after an hour or so of my cruelty with the poor clock, Shree and the girls barged in to do my makeup and hair. Yeah, cause I was the one who assured them that I will take care of my waking up and outfit thing and promised them to be in my outfit when they comes. But I guess all went wrong! And now Shree is freaking out making me nervous as hell!

"Fine! Fine! But do it faster please, I've to wear my outfit as well and there is only thirty minutes left for the holy muhurat!" I groaned checking my wrist watch.

Currently I was sitting on a round tufted black ottoman whilst the make-up artists did their work on my face and the hairstylists did their. I was wearing a pair of shorts and a black cropped camisole.

"Well! For your kind information, it was all your fault! If you wouldn't been sleeping like a horse, you would've been ready by now!" Shree scoffed making me pout.

"That's not fair! I told you, I was tired and it all happened mistakenly! And you can't to scold me like that, I am the bride, for god sake!" I murmured lowering my gaze sadly.

"True!" A voice was heard from the doorstep.

My eyes snapped up and instantly lit up when I saw my saviour. Abhi Dada!

"Dada!" I squealed and was about to jump up from my seat when Shree threw daggers at me with a dirty Move-that-arse-from-the-seat-and-I-will-tell-you look making me gulp.

Resisting the urge to embrace dada, I sulked and stayed at my place. Dada strolled in and knelt down in front of me. He was looking so handsome in his

"What happened little one? Why so sad?" He asked.

"I woke up late and wasn't ready at time! And for that reason, Shree has been scolding me since the moment she stepped into the room!" I said with a dejected face.

"Hm! Shree, no more scolding for my baby sister! And Mia, don't you worry! You will be ready before time! That's what they're here for!" He said pointing at the stylists, "aren't you all?" He asked in a stern voice.

The stylists gulped and nodded frantically. I shook my head in amusement.

(Don't blame me, I was just trying to express his feelings of being protective over his little sister! At fault or not, she will be always right to him! IYKYK)

"Good!" He deadpanned and then turned to face me, "Now, stop worrying, yeah?" He said cupping my one cheek.

I nodded with a smile.

"There it is! हमेशा ऐसे ही smile करते रहना, हां? I don't want you to worry or be upset about anything hm?" He asked.

"Yeah!" I nodded.

He got up from the ground and kissed my forehead before instructing the stylists again. After that he left and the stylists continued their work. I smirked at Shree to which she scoffed making me giggle and then we both burst out laughing.

After some time, my make-up and hair was done. My make-up was simple yet elegant. The gold glitter combo with the cut crease patterns looked fabulous for the special occasion. The makeup was certainly enhancing my eye's beauty to another level. The highly pigmented gold glitter was stealing the show. For hooded eyes, this creates a false crease with elongated almond-shaped eyes. The voluminous false lash looked quite good with the eye makeup. And the winged bigger eye was giving a sultry look to my overall eye make-up.

The peachy coral blush added a natural yet beautiful glow to my cheeks. The muted strawberry red shade was complimenting my heavy eye makeup. The golden highlighter added above the area gave it a shimmery look. My hair was tied into a low bun beautifully accessorised with scattered peach hued roses. The traditional chandan bindi art would've looked messy with my outfit so I opted for a tiny red stone bindi instead.

"Great! You're looking beautiful! Now, go and change your clothes fast! Go, go! We don't have time!" Shree said.

I nodded and got up before rushing into the walk-in closet of my suite. Stripping off my clothes, I wore a new pair of red push up bra and knickers.

After that, I wore the skirt of the lehenga and then wore the blouse. My outfit was a gold tissue lehenga with resham, gota and french knot embroidery. The brocade blouse is teamed with an opulent jacquard dupatta, featuring sequins, kasab and gold embroidered border. The ensemble is complemented with a peach Swarovski embellished veil. Composed of jacquard and tulle, the beautiful lehenga fitted me perfectly, all thanks to Sam! The skirt piece had a cancan with it which I wore before the skirt to give it a voluminous look. The beautiful golden edge of the skirt on my waist with the tassels hanging down from the blouse end and sleeves was a unique addition to my bridal look. The blouse had a plunging neckline with a broader portion showing my bulging collarbones.

A

fter I wore my outfit, I grabbed the dupatta and shawl of the lehenga before walking out of the room. Shree and the others helped me to fix the dupatta on my shoulder and covered my front portion like a saree with it's help. Then they helped me in wearing my jewelry. After which, they pinned the other end of the dupatta in my hair and draped the red matching shawl on my other shoulder.

"Perfect! Now you're all ready to get hitched again!" Shree said, smiling proudly.

I looked at myself in front of the mirror. I had so many jewelleries on and with the heavy piece of lehenga it wasn't helping at all.

There was a bridal polki choker handcrafted in 22KT gold & natural uncut diamonds strung with neat bunches of freshwater pearls and polki studded carved emerald stones at the bottom hugging my neck. Another perfect pick for the bridal trousseau, an exquisite maharani haar, handcrafted in 22KT gold & studded with natural polki diamonds hung down my neck just below the choker. Strung with precious Russian emeralds & bordered with delicate ruby beads, the long haar was an exquisite pick for the big day.

A very long necklace with lavender pearl beads stopped just before my navel region with a big pendant encrusted in It. Several purple kundans and diamonds were embellished in it beautifully. The big floral pendant with an emerald green stone at the very bottom was a perfect addition to my bridal look.

A pair of stunning crescent uncut diamond earrings with a pearl waterfall hung down from my ears.

My wrists were adorned with a pair of delicate pearl bracelets handcrafted in 22KT Gold & studded with natural uncut diamonds in a checkered pattern with the choora and shakha pola of course!

A uber-chic maangtikka finely handcrafted in 22KT gold & natural polki diamonds with a bunch of delicate freshwater pearl drops was hanging down from my hair. And a beautiful large ring of diamonds was on my middle finger. An off-white gold and kundan studded nose ring with a chain was fixed to my hair.

My feet were coloured with alta and I wore a pair of Swarovski pearl anklets. A pair of cream and gold sandals in PU base with brown woven textured wedges, cutwork embroideries with three inch heels were a perfect addition to my overall bridal look!

Overall I looked surreal!

Yuvraj's POV

06:16PM IST, June 18th
9/32A, Singhania Mansion
Jor Bagh, Delhi NCR

I sighed looking at myself in the mirror for the umpteenth time. I was wearing a gold sleeveless sherwani in a katan silk and raw silk base with dori and aari embroideries. It was paired with a golden underneath kurta matching dhoti pants. A silk red pocket square in a cotton base was tucked into my sherwani pockets. A pair of white and tan juttis in leather base with embroidery was adorning my feet.

I had a red and golden shawl draped over my shoulder embroidered with golden zari and tassels detailing.

"You look handsome bro!" Varun said as he draped his one arm around my shoulder.

"Thanks!" I said and moved away to get my watch which caused his hand to fall and he pouted at me.

After we all were ready, we got into our respective cars. I sat in mine which was decorated with beautiful red and white flowers with golden ribbons. Siddharth slid into the passenger seat and Sahil sat with me as we drove off to The Lodhi for my wedding.

06:56PM IST, June 18th
The Lodhi, Lodhi Road, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003

We reached the hotel just before time and the baraat procession was grand. We were welcomed by the bridal party with hugs and greetings. At the doorstep, I was stopped by maa who completed the bor boron ritual by doing my aarti and putting a tilak on my forehead. I touched the elder's feet before walking inside.

The place was decorated beautifully. Red and golden were the theme of the wedding which showed nothing but royalty.

Soon I was led to the stage by Sid and Veer who stayed by my side for sometime before walking back to their wives.

Lovesick puppies!

After some time of greeting the guests and conversing with some business associates, I was led to the mandap area. As per the potto bostro ritual, I was given a crown by maa which I had to wear throughout the wedding. With the help of Sid, I was able to wear it on my head. Soon, in a golden palanquin, held by Varun, Abhi and Sahil, Mia entered the mandap area with her face covered with two big betel leaves. Her brothers holding the palanquin, took seven rounds around me completing the saat paak ritual. Once the saat paak was completed, Mia was in front of me. Then slowly, she lowered the betel leaves, taking my breath away.

Attired in the golden red threaded traditional lehenga with a golden netted dupatta elegantly sat on top of her beautifully designed hair and a red shawl, she looked enigmatic and surreal to me. Some tendrils of her jet black hair fell loosely to the sides of her faces which itched me to tuck them behind her ears. But I resisted myself from doing that. Her cheeks were tinted with crimson hue because of my unwavering gaze I guess.

Giving me a shy smile, she got down from the piri with her brothers' help and stood in front of me. As per the priest's instructions, we stood by each other's side with her being on my left. Sam gave us two garlands which we exchanged. After that we sat down for the further process.

For the sampradan ritual, papa came forward and gave Mia's hand to mine and tied a sacred thread around our joined hands. Then the yagna fire was lit. Mantras were chanted as I placed our tied hand on the top of the brass pitcher as the priest said. The pitcher was filled with water and covered with mango leaves attached to a twig and a green coconut kept on top of it.

After the yagna, we were said to stand up to complete the Saptapadi ritual. Mia and I stood up and took seven rounds of the holy fire solemnising the occasion. After that I stood behind Mia and held her hands at her front by engulfing her body in between in my arms. Abhi gave puffed rice in Mia's hands which we poured into the holy fire, completing the anjali ritual.

We sat down again for the next and last ritual of a typical Bengali wedding. I was given a tiny silver bowl with vermilion in it. Taking the coin, I took some vermilion on top of the coin and applied it on Mia's head at the middle hair partition. Mum came forward with a red banarasi saree and put it on Mia's head to complete the ghomta ritual. And we were married again! Duggu bhai gave us the marriage certificate where we both signed, sealing our fates and lives together!

Mia was finally mine! Traditionally & officially!

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Author's Note

Word count -:

Hey guys! Thank you for waiting so patiently for the update! Browsing everything is a pain in the arse and detailing is another level! So I guess I what took a little extra time! And I (Ishika) and Ayushi were in LA which distracted us a little as well!

So sorry for the delay!

1) How did you like the chapter?

2) How was their marriage?

3) Are you ready for the after-marriage life of Yuvi & Mia?

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