# The Wedding. #
The days and nights leading to the wedding were not so great, every day i would think about my confessions to raj, It was a risky move, I know that raj accepted it, didn't question my character... but still... it was quite a string of emotions until today..... I was reflecting on the conversation we shared, it all just felt so close and exciting for us to share in the future but in the back of my mind I always wondered what if I had hurt raj in someway.
Well wedding night was bright and joyful with 100s of guests.
Day 1: Mehndi Ceremony
The Mehndi ceremony was the first major event. My hands and feet were adorned with intricate henna designs, symbolizing love and prosperity. Friends and family gathered around, laughing and chatting.
Asha (my best friend): "Niddhi, your Mehndi looks amazing! I bet Raj won't be able to find his name hidden in there."
"Asha, you know he's up for the challenge. He's been talking about it for days!"
All of us danced and sang along with the music. My mother Sunita could not stop smiling as she saw me.
Sunita (my mom): "You look so beautiful, beta. This is just the beginning of a wonderful journey."
Day 2: Haldi Ceremony
The turmeric paste had people smoothening it all over my skin because they want me to attain a glowing skin complexion and drive off all evil spirits. Here is my cousin, Akash: "Niddhi, get ready to be covered in yellow! This is just a preview of how colorful your life will be with Raj."
I was smeared from head to toe, laughing because of people playfully doing it for me. Meanwhile, Raj's family had their Haldi ceremony simultaneously, and I could only imagine all the fun they were having.
Day 3: Sangeet Night
This was the Sangeet night-that was all about music and dance. There was some sort of a friendly competition between my family and Raj's on who would come up with the best choreographed dances.
My younger brother, Arjun: "Niddhi, our team will surely win this dance-off! Raj's family cannot compete with us."
"We'll see, Arjun! I just want everyone to have fun. Espicially You. My Sweet little brother.", giving him a small kiss on his cheeks. He is fluffy and looks so cute, He is fluffy and looks so cute. At just nine years old, he is always mischievous and constantly has one complaint or another from school.
When it was my turn to dance, I felt the thrill of excitement. Raj watched me with admiration and I could feel the love in his eyes.
Raj (whispering to me after my performance): "You were amazing, Niddhi. I can't wait to dance with you at our wedding."
Wedding Day: Baraat and Ceremony
Finally, the day of the wedding arrived. I was full of mixed excitement and nervousness. As the baraat, the groom's procession, neared, the lively beats of the dhol drum mingled with the joyous shouts of the guests.
My cousin, Shweta: "Niddhi, look! Raj is on a white horse. He looks like a prince!"
I peeked out and saw Raj, dressed in a stunning sherwani, looking regal and confident. He waved at me, and I felt my heart flutter.
Jaimala and Varmala
The ceremony began with the Jaimala (garland exchange). Raj and I stood on a decorated stage, ready to place garlands around each other's necks.
Raj (smiling): "Are you ready, Niddhi? I hope you're not planning to make it too easy for me."
(both laughing): "Let's see how quick you are, Raj."
We playfully tried to avoid each other's garlands before finally succeeding. The crowd cheered and a sense of bonhomie and happiness washed over us.
Kanyadaan and Saat Phere
The Kanyadaan was an emotional moment. My parents placed my hand in Raj's official entrustment of his care for me.
My father, Ramesh: "Raj, take care of our Niddhi. She is a precious gem for us."
Raj (deadpan): "I promise, Uncle. I will always love and protect her."
We then walked to the Saat Phere or the seven rounds around the holy fire, each step representing a vow we were making to each other.
Panditji (officiant): "With each step, you both promise to hold these promises and forge a life of love, trust, and mutual respect."
Sindhur and Mangalsutra
Raj applied sindoor on my forehead and tied the mangalsutra (sacred necklace) around the neck; that marked me his wife.
Raj (softly): "This is the beginning of our forever, Niddhi."
Bidaai (Farewell)
Bidaai was the emotional part of marriage. Now it was time for me to leave my house and go with Raj's. Tears were burning, how much I was holding my parents and brothers in my arms.
Mom (tearfully): "Niddhi, always be happy and keep smiling. You're starting a new chapter, and we're always here for you."
(crying): "I'll miss you all so much. But I know I'm going to a loving family with Raj."
Raj held my hand, offering comfort and strength.
Raj: "We'll visit often, Niddhi. You'll never be far from your family."
When we had to leave, I felt a few bittersweet moments. I was leaving behind life for something new that held all aspects of love and promise.
Reception and First Night
The reception was beautiful. It was a celebration close to the people's hearts and those who were really important in our lives. Raj and I met all the guests and greeted them, thanking them for being part of our special day.
Asha: "Niddhi, you are so radiant. I am happy for you both!"
"Thanks, Asha. Today was just perfect."
Later, towards the end of the night, and finally when we got some time to ourselves, Raj said,
Raj: "Today was just amazing, Niddhi. I'm really glad we are finally married."
Me: "Me too, Raj. Couldn't have asked for a better day."
While embracing each other, we both felt immense happiness and tranquility. Our journey had just started, and I knew we could conquer anything together. The wedding was not just a ceremony; it was the beginning of our lifetime of love, trust, and adventure.
# My First Night #
As night fell, Raj and I finally found ourselves alone in our room.
I was waiting for this night for such a long time and felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Raj, however had other plans.
Raj (smiling): "Niddhi, I know you're expecting a wild first night, but I want us to take it slow. Let's change into something comfortable and save this beautiful lehenga for our first night in Manali."
I was surprised but also touched by his thoughtfulness. Though I felt a bit sad, the promise of a special night in Manali filled me with excitement. It was like a dream come true, My faviourite travelling destination.
Me (softly): "Okay, Raj. I trust you."
Next Day: The Journey Begins
The next morning, we were all set to move for Manali. A Swift Dzire tourist car belonged to Mr. Malik. Raj introduced Malik uncle as the neighbor uncle who used to live in that society. He stays somewhere else now.
Raj: "Niddhi, this is Malik Uncle. He'll be driving us to Manali."
Malik (smiling): "Hello, beta. Congratulations on your wedding."