Hi everyone,

I just want to clarify that I don’t know much about real wedding rituals and traditions. So, if the rituals or customs in this story are different from reality, please don’t take it in the wrong way.

Everything here is created purely for the sake of my story and imagination. My intention is never to hurt anyone’s religion, culture, or sentiments

✿════════════✿═════════✿═

Rajeshwari’s grip on Ashish’s hand only tightened, her knuckles pale against his skin. Her eyes were locked on an elderly woman—easily in her eighties—draped in a heavy Rajasthani lehenga, face veiled under a ghoonghat, a massive nose ring glinting beneath the sunlight. The woman’s gaze didn’t waver. It was fixed solely on Rajeshwari… and her eyes shimmered with unshed tears.

Ashish followed Rajeshwari’s line of sight, then looked back at his wife. He gently pried his hand free.

“I think… you two should talk alone,” he said softly. “I’ll leave you to it.”

But Rajeshwari’s fingers dug back into his wrist in panic.

“Ashish…” her voice trembled, half-pleading, half-fearing.

Ashish’s throat tightened, but he forced a smile.

“I’m right here, with you. I’m not going anywhere. I just need to check on Riddhima for the puja. Don’t worry. Breathe. Talk to her.”

And with that, he walked away, his steps slower than usual.

✦•┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈•✦

✦•┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈•✦

The night before, after dinner, while everyone was busy chatting, Ashish had quietly approached the Zamindar’s wife.

“I’ve always wanted to see your home,” he admitted with genuine curiosity. “The way you’ve preserved every artifact, every little detail—it’s beautiful. Would you show me around?”

The woman smiled warmly. “Of course. Come this way.”

As she guided him through the haveli, narrating histories of each relic, Ashish suddenly paused. His tone dropped, more personal this time.

“Tomorrow is my daughter’s Gauri Pooja. It would mean a lot if you came. My wife hasn’t had the chance to meet you yet either. And of course… we’d love for you and your family to join us for the wedding functions. You’re elder to us—your blessings would mean the world. And… there’s someone who would be very happy to see you. It will be worth it, I promise.”

The woman hesitated, then smiled again, touched by his sincerity.

“You insist with such affection, how can I refuse? We’ll be there.”

✦•┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈•✦

The haveli buzzed with guests. The Singhanias mingled, greeting arrivals.

At one corner, Shaili was fidgeting, looking restless. Suddenly, a familiar voice teased,

“Looking for me, are you?”

Her eyes lit up. “Aryan! I thought you wouldn’t come.”

He flashed a grin. “How could I not? You invited me, didn’t you? And honestly—you’re looking so breathtaking right now that traveling all this way feels more than worth it.”

Shaili flushed, biting back a smile. Aryan leaned in, lowering his voice.

“Now, aren’t you going to introduce me to your family?”

Panic flickered across her face. “Not now! Everyone’s caught up in the wedding chaos. I’ll invite you home later. Then I’ll introduce you properly, promise.”

Aryan chuckled. “As you wish, madam.”

Meanwhile, Vansh stepped into the courtyard—dressed in a crisp white kurta paired with matching trousers, his wrist adorned with a sleek black watch. His sharp, effortless presence drew a few lingering stares.

Mamta spotted him. “Beta, ask when Rajveer is arriving, will you?”

Vansh shrugged. “I wouldn’t know, Dadi. If you’re curious, you should ask him yourself.”

Right on cue, Rajveer appeared behind them. “Mom, I’m here.”

Vansh threw him a fleeting glance and walked away without a word.

Back infront of Rajeshwari  the old woman finally broke down, flinging her frail arms around Rajeshwari.

“Masa!” Rajeshwari gasped, hugging her tight.

“My child,” the woman sobbed, “I had lost all hope of seeing you again. Twenty-five years, Rajeshwari. Do you know how I’ve survived those years? Today, just seeing you alive, safe—it feels as though God himself has rewarded me for a lifetime of prayers.”

She pulled back to cup Rajeshwari’s face, kissing her hands again and again.

“Tell me, are you happy? Are they treating you well here? You’re married into such a grand family now—may God keep your fate blessed forever.”

Rajeshwari’s eyes stung with tears. “Masa, I’m fine. Truly. Ashish loves me dearly. But… tell me, how is everyone at home? How is Babasa? Is he… still angry?”

Masa’s shoulders slumped, her voice heavy. “I won’t lie, child. For your Babasa, you are… dead. Your name is forbidden in that house. His pride—his gurur—was shattered because of you. And his anger hasn’t healed since.”

Rajeshwari’s lips trembled. “I understand. That’s why I didn’t come last night. I don’t want my daughter’s wedding to suffer because of me.

Her voice broke as she pleaded, “But, Masa, I have only one request. Let me see him once. I won’t meet him, won’t speak to him. Just… just one glimpse, please.” “I just want to ask Baba Sa for forgiveness once… because I never even got that chance. And maybe… maybe when he sees me, his heart will melt. Who knows? Maybe seeing Riddhima will soften him.” Rajeshwari’s voice cracked as her throat tightened with emotions.

Masa nodded, tears in her eyes. “I’ll try, beti. I’ll try.”

She then asked softly, “And that girl I saw last night… she’s your daughter?”

Rajeshwari smiled through her tears. “Yes. Her name is Riddhima. She’s a businesswoman, running a huge empire now. She makes me proud every day. And the boy she’s marrying—he’s also a businessman, son of Ashish’s friend.”

Masa’s lips curved in relief. “You’ve done well, beti. I’m happy.”

❀────────❀

The pandit called Vansh forward. Guests gathered as conch shells echoed in the hall.

Riddhima entered the courtyard at that exact moment.

She wore a stunning deep-red anarkali suit, its upper bodice embroidered in intricate golden zari while the flared skirt flowed with a thick gold border that caught the light at every step. A sheer dupatta, delicately studded with sequins, was draped loosely over her shoulder, trailing behind her as she walked. Her hair fell open in soft waves, brushing against her back, and her large golden chandbalis glittered every time she turned her head.

The air stilled. Even Vansh, mid-prayer, looked up—and forgot to breathe for a second. His mind whispered, So this is why they call her beauty with brains. In traditional attire, she’s an entirely different vision. Maybe that’s why she avoids it—because the world wouldn’t be able to look away.

The pandit’s voice broke his trance. “Sit on the left side of Vansh.”

Riddhima obeyed gracefully, lowering herself beside him. Their eyes met, and a faint, sarcastic smile flickered between them.

The pandit handed Vansh a betel leaf, a flower, and a supari.

“Offer these to Lord Shiva, and say, ‘As Parvati sits by Your side, so may my wife always remain by mine. Speak your wife’s name clearly.’”

Vansh’s lips twitched. “Panditji, I can’t say her name aloud. I… I feel shy.”

The courtyard erupted in laughter. Riddhima glared at him, muttering under her breath, Drama king.

Still, Vansh placed the offerings before the deity, his voice steady.

“Mahadev,  as Parvati sits beside You, may my pranpriye sit beside me forever.”

Then it was Riddhima’s turn. She smiled sweetly at him before speaking, her tone laced with equality

“Maa parvati as You sit with Mahadev, so do I sit with my… prannaath.”

Their eyes  met again—playful, sarcastic,

Nearby, Rajeshwari leaned against Ashish, whispering, “Thank you for surprising me like this. You always know what my heart needs without me saying a word.”

Ashish leaned to her ear, his voice warm. “That’s because I love you enough to understand every silence.”

And the two smiled at each-other

As soon as Maasa arrived with Rajeshwari, she caught sight of Riddhima and Vansh sitting together, and a proud smile blossomed on her face. Tears of joy glistened in her eyes because her grand daughter, now all grown up and about to get married, was finally fulfilling a dream she had almost given up on. The mother reached into her bag and pulled out a beautiful, intricately embroidered dupatta with golden borders. She lovingly draped it over both Riddhima and Vansh, saying, “This dupatta is very special, my dear. It belongs to our family and is tied to our ancient temple. It symbolizes a bond that lasts through lifetimes.”

The priest glanced toward the Singhania family and said,

“May I request Vansh’s mother to step forward now and present Riddhima with a family heirloom, so that she too becomes a part of this house’s traditions.”

Everyone exchanged curious glances, but Vansh’s reaction was unreadable

Then Mamta asked, “Can this ritual be done by someone else, like me as dadi because his mother is no more into this world

The priest replied, “It’s usually the mother’s privilege, but we can make an exception.”

Just then, a voice came from behind, “No mother? So what. I’ll be the one to fulfill this ritual.”

and everyone turned to see Prerna stepping forward with a box, pulling out a ring and a bangle, and said, “I may not be Vansh’s biological mother, but he’s like a son to me.” And with that, she placed the jewelry on Riddhima, kissed her on the forehead

Prerna sat down beside Soumya after completing the ritual. Soumya smirked, her eyes glinting with mischief as she leaned in.

“So, Prerna ji… you handed over the family bangles and that heirloom ring to Vansh’s wife. What’s left for Kartik’s wife then? Or have you already given up on him? I mean, what does Kartik even do? Half the time he’s just running behind Vansh. Sometimes, I honestly forget that Kartik belongs to Dixit House, not Singhania Mansion.”

She chuckled at her own remark, but Prerna didn’t so much as blink. Her eyes locked on Soumya’s with quiet steel, her voice calm yet cutting.

“For you, maybe Vansh and Aditya are different. But for me… Vansh and Kartik hold no difference. Whoever steps in first as a daughter-in-law naturally holds the first right. And as for Kartik… My everything is for him

Soumya’s smug smile faltered, but before she could respond, Prerna tilted her head slightly, her tone sharp

“By the way, where is Aditya these days? He doesn’t call, he doesn’t show up. Seems like he doesn’t need me anymore. Or…” her gaze sharpened, “did you send him off to Dubai again? To cover up your own mess?”

The words hit like a whip. Soumya’s face instantly stiffened. The laughter drained off her lips, leaving her expression sour and tight.

Before the tension could spill further, the priest’s voice echoed through the hall, breaking the moment.

“The puja is complete. Please, both of you, step forward and take the blessings of the God

Vansh and Riddhima rose together, stepping forward in perfect sync. They bent down, touching the deity’s feet with folded hands.

In their hearts, a silent prayer echoed—

“Dear Lord, please don’t take that ‘pranpriye–prannath’ thing too seriously. Honestly, I can’t survive a whole lifetime… not even a single day under that burden.

Riddhima squeezed her eyes shut, her lips barely hiding a twitch of a smile as another thought slipped in.

“And yes, about that ‘Dadi’s chunni’ means please don't make that ture  I swear, only You can handle that drama.”

They lifted their heads together, still folded in prayer

Once the puja was over, everyone began mingling, greeting each other warmly. Vansh, with Riddhima at his side, walked straight toward Prerna. He bent down to touch her feet, and Riddhima followed suit, bowing respectfully.

Prerna instantly stopped them. “Arrey, not my feet—come here, both of you. Give me a hug instead.”

Pulling them into a tight embrace, she whispered with moist eyes, “I’m so happy with you both… and so happy for you both.”

When she finally let go, her gaze lingered on Riddhima, her tone tender yet firm. “Vansh, you’re truly lucky. To have found a girl so educated, so graceful, so wise… treasure her. Understand her worth.”

Vansh only nodded, his head while Riddhima gave him a smirk and proud smile

Just then, Kartik appeared, flashing his easy grin. “Hey, guys!” He slipped an arm around Prerna for a side hug. “Hi Mom, how are you?”

Prerna cupped his face and kissed his cheek. “I’m good. But tell me—how are you?  whenever you miss your mother, just come visit me, okay?”

Kartik chuckled. “Okay, Mom.”

Then he turned to Vansh. “Bro, I’ve been looking for you everywhere, and here you are!”

But Vansh cut him off coldly. “Forget it, Kartik. I’m not in the mood to talk to you right now.”

Kartik frowned, catching his wrist. “What’s wrong? At least tell me that. Come on.” And before Vansh could resist, he dragged him away toward a quiet corner.

Riddhima stayed back, exchanging pleasantries with the rest of the guests.

Away from the crowd, Kartik studied Vansh carefully. “So this is about that thing at Riddhima’s house, huh? That’s why you’re mad?”

Vansh’s jaw tightened. “Why the hell did you and shaili  have to go there? And you all—pushing me into this marriage forcefully When you already know—I don’t like her one bit.”

Saying that, Vansh turned on his heel, ready to walk away. But he didn’t even get a single step when Kartik’s hand clamped down on his wrist. The grip was iron-strong, so tight that Kartik’s knuckles turned bone-white… and deep red marks began to form on Vansh’s skin where those fingers dug in.

Neither of them spoke. Both stared stubbornly in opposite directions, the air between them taut like a bowstring ready to snap.

Finally, Vansh whipped his head toward him, his voice sharp with irritation. “Kartik!”

But Kartik didn’t even flinch. It was as though he hadn’t heard a word. He stood ramrod straight, his eyes fixed ahead, his face locked and unreadable.

For a second, Vansh faltered—because Kartik looked like a man turned to stone, as if something had struck him so hard it robbed him of breath. As if he’d been… snake-bitten.

✿════════════✿═════════✿═

Thank you ♡

The woman smiled warmly. “Of course. Come this way.”

As she guided him through the haveli, narrating histories of each relic, Ashish suddenly paused. His tone dropped, more personal this time.

“Tomorrow is my daughter’s Gauri Pooja. It would mean a lot if you came. My wife hasn’t had the chance to meet you yet either. And of course… we’d love for you and your family to join us for the wedding functions. You’re elder to us—your blessings would mean the world. And… there’s someone who would be very happy to see you. It will be worth it, I promise.”

The woman hesitated, then smiled again, touched by his sincerity.

“You insist with such affection, how can I refuse? We’ll be there.”

✦•┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈•✦

The haveli buzzed with guests. The Singhanias mingled, greeting arrivals.

At one corner, Shaili was fidgeting, looking restless. Suddenly, a familiar voice teased,

“Looking for me, are you?”

Her eyes lit up. “Aryan! I thought you wouldn’t come.”

He flashed a grin. “How could I not? You invited me, didn’t you? And honestly—you’re looking so breathtaking right now that traveling all this way feels more than worth it.”

Shaili flushed, biting back a smile. Aryan leaned in, lowering his voice.

“Now, aren’t you going to introduce me to your family?”

Panic flickered across her face. “Not now! Everyone’s caught up in the wedding chaos. I’ll invite you home later. Then I’ll introduce you properly, promise.”

Aryan chuckled. “As you wish, madam.”

Meanwhile, Vansh stepped into the courtyard—dressed in a crisp white kurta paired with matching trousers, his wrist adorned with a sleek black watch. His sharp, effortless presence drew a few lingering stares.

Mamta spotted him. “Beta, ask when Rajveer is arriving, will you?”

Vansh shrugged. “I wouldn’t know, Dadi. If you’re curious, you should ask him yourself.”

Right on cue, Rajveer appeared behind them. “Mom, I’m here.”

Vansh threw him a fleeting glance and walked away without a word.

Back infront of Rajeshwari  the old woman finally broke down, flinging her frail arms around Rajeshwari.

“Masa!” Rajeshwari gasped, hugging her tight.

“My child,” the woman sobbed, “I had lost all hope of seeing you again. Twenty-five years, Rajeshwari. Do you know how I’ve survived those years? Today, just seeing you alive, safe—it feels as though God himself has rewarded me for a lifetime of prayers.”

She pulled back to cup Rajeshwari’s face, kissing her hands again and again.

“Tell me, are you happy? Are they treating you well here? You’re married into such a grand family now—may God keep your fate blessed forever.”

Rajeshwari’s eyes stung with tears. “Masa, I’m fine. Truly. Ashish loves me dearly. But… tell me, how is everyone at home? How is Babasa? Is he… still angry?”

Masa’s shoulders slumped, her voice heavy. “I won’t lie, child. For your Babasa, you are… dead. Your name is forbidden in that house. His pride—his gurur—was shattered because of you. And his anger hasn’t healed since.”

Rajeshwari’s lips trembled. “I understand. That’s why I didn’t come last night. I don’t want my daughter’s wedding to suffer because of me.

Her voice broke as she pleaded, “But, Masa, I have only one request. Let me see him once. I won’t meet him, won’t speak to him. Just… just one glimpse, please.” “I just want to ask Baba Sa for forgiveness once… because I never even got that chance. And maybe… maybe when he sees me, his heart will melt. Who knows? Maybe seeing Riddhima will soften him.” Rajeshwari’s voice cracked as her throat tightened with emotions.

Masa nodded, tears in her eyes. “I’ll try, beti. I’ll try.”

She then asked softly, “And that girl I saw last night… she’s your daughter?”

Rajeshwari smiled through her tears. “Yes. Her name is Riddhima. She’s a businesswoman, running a huge empire now. She makes me proud every day. And the boy she’s marrying—he’s also a businessman, son of Ashish’s friend.”

Masa’s lips curved in relief. “You’ve done well, beti. I’m happy.”

❀────────❀

The pandit called Vansh forward. Guests gathered as conch shells echoed in the hall.

Riddhima entered the courtyard at that exact moment.

She wore a stunning deep-red anarkali suit, its upper bodice embroidered in intricate golden zari while the flared skirt flowed with a thick gold border that caught the light at every step. A sheer dupatta, delicately studded with sequins, was draped loosely over her shoulder, trailing behind her as she walked. Her hair fell open in soft waves, brushing against her back, and her large golden chandbalis glittered every time she turned her head.

The air stilled. Even Vansh, mid-prayer, looked up—and forgot to breathe for a second. His mind whispered, So this is why they call her beauty with brains. In traditional attire, she’s an entirely different vision. Maybe that’s why she avoids it—because the world wouldn’t be able to look away.

The pandit’s voice broke his trance. “Sit on the left side of Vansh.”

Riddhima obeyed gracefully, lowering herself beside him. Their eyes met, and a faint, sarcastic smile flickered between them.

The pandit handed Vansh a betel leaf, a flower, and a supari.

“Offer these to Lord Shiva, and say, ‘As Parvati sits by Your side, so may my wife always remain by mine. Speak your wife’s name clearly.’”

Vansh’s lips twitched. “Panditji, I can’t say her name aloud. I… I feel shy.”

The courtyard erupted in laughter. Riddhima glared at him, muttering under her breath, Drama king.

Still, Vansh placed the offerings before the deity, his voice steady.

“Mahadev,  as Parvati sits beside You, may my pranpriye sit beside me forever.”

Then it was Riddhima’s turn. She smiled sweetly at him before speaking, her tone laced with equality

“Maa parvati as You sit with Mahadev, so do I sit with my… prannaath.”

Their eyes  met again—playful, sarcastic,

Nearby, Rajeshwari leaned against Ashish, whispering, “Thank you for surprising me like this. You always know what my heart needs without me saying a word.”

Ashish leaned to her ear, his voice warm. “That’s because I love you enough to understand every silence.”

And the two smiled at each-other

As soon as Maasa arrived with Rajeshwari, she caught sight of Riddhima and Vansh sitting together, and a proud smile blossomed on her face. Tears of joy glistened in her eyes because her grand daughter, now all grown up and about to get married, was finally fulfilling a dream she had almost given up on. The mother reached into her bag and pulled out a beautiful, intricately embroidered dupatta with golden borders. She lovingly draped it over both Riddhima and Vansh, saying, “This dupatta is very special, my dear. It belongs to our family and is tied to our ancient temple. It symbolizes a bond that lasts through lifetimes.”

The priest glanced toward the Singhania family and said,

“May I request Vansh’s mother to step forward now and present Riddhima with a family heirloom, so that she too becomes a part of this house’s traditions.”

Everyone exchanged curious glances, but Vansh’s reaction was unreadable

Then Mamta asked, “Can this ritual be done by someone else, like me as dadi because his mother is no more into this world

The priest replied, “It’s usually the mother’s privilege, but we can make an exception.”

Just then, a voice came from behind, “No mother? So what. I’ll be the one to fulfill this ritual.”

and everyone turned to see Prerna stepping forward with a box, pulling out a ring and a bangle, and said, “I may not be Vansh’s biological mother, but he’s like a son to me.” And with that, she placed the jewelry on Riddhima, kissed her on the forehead

Prerna sat down beside Soumya after completing the ritual. Soumya smirked, her eyes glinting with mischief as she leaned in.

“So, Prerna ji… you handed over the family bangles and that heirloom ring to Vansh’s wife. What’s left for Kartik’s wife then? Or have you already given up on him? I mean, what does Kartik even do? Half the time he’s just running behind Vansh. Sometimes, I honestly forget that Kartik belongs to Dixit House, not Singhania Mansion.”

She chuckled at her own remark, but Prerna didn’t so much as blink. Her eyes locked on Soumya’s with quiet steel, her voice calm yet cutting.

“For you, maybe Vansh and Aditya are different. But for me… Vansh and Kartik hold no difference. Whoever steps in first as a daughter-in-law naturally holds the first right. And as for Kartik… My everything is for him

Soumya’s smug smile faltered, but before she could respond, Prerna tilted her head slightly, her tone sharp

“By the way, where is Aditya these days? He doesn’t call, he doesn’t show up. Seems like he doesn’t need me anymore. Or…” her gaze sharpened, “did you send him off to Dubai again? To cover up your own mess?”

The words hit like a whip. Soumya’s face instantly stiffened. The laughter drained off her lips, leaving her expression sour and tight.

Before the tension could spill further, the priest’s voice echoed through the hall, breaking the moment.

“The puja is complete. Please, both of you, step forward and take the blessings of the God

Vansh and Riddhima rose together, stepping forward in perfect sync. They bent down, touching the deity’s feet with folded hands.

In their hearts, a silent prayer echoed—

“Dear Lord, please don’t take that ‘pranpriye–prannath’ thing too seriously. Honestly, I can’t survive a whole lifetime… not even a single day under that burden.

Riddhima squeezed her eyes shut, her lips barely hiding a twitch of a smile as another thought slipped in.

“And yes, about that ‘Dadi’s chunni’ means please don't make that ture  I swear, only You can handle that drama.”

They lifted their heads together, still folded in prayer

Once the puja was over, everyone began mingling, greeting each other warmly. Vansh, with Riddhima at his side, walked straight toward Prerna. He bent down to touch her feet, and Riddhima followed suit, bowing respectfully.

Prerna instantly stopped them. “Arrey, not my feet—come here, both of you. Give me a hug instead.”

Pulling them into a tight embrace, she whispered with moist eyes, “I’m so happy with you both… and so happy for you both.”

When she finally let go, her gaze lingered on Riddhima, her tone tender yet firm. “Vansh, you’re truly lucky. To have found a girl so educated, so graceful, so wise… treasure her. Understand her worth.”

Vansh only nodded, his head while Riddhima gave him a smirk and proud smile

Just then, Kartik appeared, flashing his easy grin. “Hey, guys!” He slipped an arm around Prerna for a side hug. “Hi Mom, how are you?”

Prerna cupped his face and kissed his cheek. “I’m good. But tell me—how are you?  whenever you miss your mother, just come visit me, okay?”

Kartik chuckled. “Okay, Mom.”

Then he turned to Vansh. “Bro, I’ve been looking for you everywhere, and here you are!”

But Vansh cut him off coldly. “Forget it, Kartik. I’m not in the mood to talk to you right now.”

Kartik frowned, catching his wrist. “What’s wrong? At least tell me that. Come on.” And before Vansh could resist, he dragged him away toward a quiet corner.

Riddhima stayed back, exchanging pleasantries with the rest of the guests.

Away from the crowd, Kartik studied Vansh carefully. “So this is about that thing at Riddhima’s house, huh? That’s why you’re mad?”

Vansh’s jaw tightened. “Why the hell did you and shaili  have to go there? And you all—pushing me into this marriage forcefully When you already know—I don’t like her one bit.”

Saying that, Vansh turned on his heel, ready to walk away. But he didn’t even get a single step when Kartik’s hand clamped down on his wrist. The grip was iron-strong, so tight that Kartik’s knuckles turned bone-white… and deep red marks began to form on Vansh’s skin where those fingers dug in.

Neither of them spoke. Both stared stubbornly in opposite directions, the air between them taut like a bowstring ready to snap.

Finally, Vansh whipped his head toward him, his voice sharp with irritation. “Kartik!”

But Kartik didn’t even flinch. It was as though he hadn’t heard a word. He stood ramrod straight, his eyes fixed ahead, his face locked and unreadable.

For a second, Vansh faltered—because Kartik looked like a man turned to stone, as if something had struck him so hard it robbed him of breath. As if he’d been… snake-bitten.

✿════════════✿═════════✿═

Thank you ♡