THE RULERS OF KHANSAAR ( PART 1 COMPLETED, PART 2 IS LOADING )

35

Saying that she left. She is visibly pissed of because of Varadha's way of ruling in the last few days. She tried to talk with him but felt like it won't be appropriate as the wedding preparations are going on.

..........

Varadha and Aarathrika made their entrance from the grand staircase with their puja attire setting the tone for the grand celebration.

The man who wears black all the time  wore an elegant white silk robe, which gleamed in the sunlight. The robe was adorned with delicate gold embroidery along the edges and neckline, giving it a regal touch. He wore a matching white sash around his waist, and his silvery accessories added royal accent. The simplicity of the white fabric highlighted his dignified presence.

Aarathrika was  resplendent in a rich maroon saree. It is flowing gracefully as she walked. The fabric shimmered with intricate gold thread patterns and a wide, ornate gold border. Her blouse matched the maroon saree and featured delicate gold embellishments. Her jewelry included a stunning silver necklace, matching earrings, and a maang tikka. Aarathrika's long dark hair was elegantly styled with ornaments, completing her regal appearance.

As they reached the bottom of the staircase, the palace's festive atmosphere enveloped them. The air was filled with the sounds of music and the fragrance of flowers.

Aarathrika : Varadha ! everything looks perfect! 

Varadha : Hmm.

Aarathrika's gaze fell on Mythili, her cousin, arriving at the garden entrance. She hurried over to greet her. She is Aarathrika's maternal aunt's daughter. Aarathrika's mother and mythili's mother are sisters.

Aarathrika : Mythili ! You're just in time. I'm so happy you could make it for puja at least. You were absent for the wedding.

Mythili : Aarathrika akka ! you look stunning ! The palace is absolutely breathtaking. I am sorry for my absence in your wedding celebrations. Where is adinath uncle ? 

Aarathrika : Thank you !  Come with me.  I want you to meet some important people."

Aarathrika led Mythili towards the temple. When she is talking to Mythili , deva and varadha left to the temple.

King Varadha and Deva are standing near the entrance to the mandir.  The vibrant colors and joyful sounds of the festival surrounded them.

Aarathrika : Varadha ! Deva !  this is my cousin. Her name is mythili.

Mythili : Hello kartha ! She always speaks about you when she calls me.

Varadha : Hello Mythili !  It's a pleasure to meet you. I've heard wonderful things about you too.

Mythili gave a warm smile.

Aarathrika : Deva ! 

Aarathrika called Deva to gain his attention. 

Aarathrika : Mythili !  this is Deva. He's been a great friend and support to both Varadha and me. He is a brother for whom i have never asked but got as a blessing.

Aarathrika told and deva smiled.

Mythili : I heard a lot of things about you too. 

Deva : Hello ! Nice to meet you, Mythili. I hope you're enjoying the celebration.

Aarathrika and Varadha looked at each other by listening to deva's words.

Mythili : Yes ! it's wonderful. Everything is so beautifully arranged.

As the conversation continued, the priests inside the mandir began setting up for the puja. The scent of incense started to fill the air, and the soft sound of chanting began.

Aarathrika : We're about to start the puja. Would you like to come inside and join us?"

Mythili : I'd love to. What's involved in the ceremony ?

Aarathrika : First, we'll offer flowers and fruits to the goddess. Then, we'll light the sacred fire and make offerings of ghee and rice."

Deva : And the priests will chant mantras to invoke the goddess's blessings. It's a very beautiful and meaningful ritual.

The group entered the mandir , where the priests had prepared the altar. The idol of Kali Mata stood majestically, adorned with flowers and jewelry.

Aarathrika : We start by lighting the oil lamps. It symbolizes bringing light and positivity."

Mythili : That sounds lovely.

The priests lit the lamps and began their chanting. King Varadha stepped forward with a basket of flowers and fruits.

Varadha : We offer these to Kali Mata, asking for her blessings.

Mythili : ok ! 

Deva : Didn't you perform puja anytime before ? 

Mythili : No ! I have been living in USA since i was a little kid in disguise. That's a big story. I'll tell you later.

Varadha placed  the offerings on the altar, and Aarathrika followed, adding ghee and rice to the sacred fire.

Aarathrika : Now we perform aarti, circling the flame in front of the goddess's idol."

Aarathrika took a plate with a small flame and moved it in a circular motion.

Deva : This part is meant to bring us closer to the divine."

As the puja continued, the air was filled with soothing chants and the fragrance of incense. Mythili stood beside Deva, feeling a deep sense of peace and connection.

Mythili : This is truly beautiful. I've never experienced anything like it.

Varadha : I'm glad you're here to share it with us.

When the ceremony concluded, they returned to the garden, where the evening festivities were in full swing. Deva and Mythili continued their conversation, finding a natural rhythm between them. The woman started smearing kumkum on each other. It all started when surabhi smeared kumkum on Aarathrika. Every citizen of khansaar is allowed to participate in the puja. No boundaries and differences are stopping them. They are united by a feeling called the citizens of khansaar. 

The night sky, dotted with stars, reflected the new bond forming between them. The festival was not only a celebration of the divine but also of the unexpected magic that had brought two souls together.

..........

How's the chapter ? 

New character is introduced. What do you think about her ? 

She have a past ! Any guess on that ?