A few days had passed since Ranvijay's wedding, and the palace was abuzz with everyday activities. Amrita, filled with excitement, woke up ready for a day of mischief and adventure. After freshening up, she joined her family at the breakfast table, where a delightful spread awaited them.
As she savored the delicious flavors, Advaita couldn't contain her mischievous spirit. With a playful grin, she turned to her family.
"Suniye aap sab!" ("Listen everyone") she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Aaj ke liye humne tay kiya hai ki hum aapna purn samay apne kaksh me rahenge, kuch shant akele smay ka anand lenge aur apni pasandida pushtake padenge." ("For today, I've decided to stay in my room, have some peaceful alone time, and read my favorite books")
Padmavati, her mother, looked at her with surprise and amusement."Achha ji?"("Oh, really?") she replied, a twinkle in her eyes. "Aisa kya karan hai jo aapko is shant samay hitu prepit kar raha hai?" ("What's making you want to enjoy some quiet time")
Advaita leaned in, a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "Well, Maasa, I've been craving a little escapade. I want to explore the palace from a different perspective, dive into thrilling tales, and let my imagination run wild."
Meera, chuckled softly. "Ah, the joy of solitary adventures and the power of a captivating story. I totally get it, my dear. Just make sure to join us for meals. We don't want you missing out on all the family fun."
Advaita nodded, her smile widening. "Don't worry, Meera Bhabhisa. I'll make sure to refuel and recharge whenever my tummy starts growling."
With the family's understanding and playful blessings, Advaita excused herself, ready to retreat to her room and immerse herself in the captivating tales. The anticipation of the adventures that lay ahead brought a playful skip to her step as she made her way down the corridor, ready to embark on her own little journey.
Amrita returned to her room, her excitement palpable as she approached Reva, her loyal companion and confidante. "Reva kya sab taiyaar hai?" ("Reva, are the preparations done?") she inquired eagerly.
Reva, with a concerned expression, replied, "Rajkumari, Hum aapko yaad dilade mahal se bina sainiko ke aur kisi ko batae akele jaana uchit nhi hai. Aapki suraksha sanse ahem hai." "Rajkumari, I must remind you to not go outside the palace without informing anyone or taking any guards. Your safety is of utmost importance."
Amrita's eyes twinkled mischievously as she replied, "Parantu Reva, humne apni sakhiyo ko vachan dia hai. Hum kanhaji ke mandir me milenge. Ek rajkumari kabhi apne vaade se nhi mularti, toh hum kause ye reet todd de? Aur vaise bhi hume koi nhi pehchanga, humara mukh chipa hoga. Chalo ab humari sahayata karo kuch halke kapde pahenne me." ("But Reva, I've already made a promise to Kritika, Vishaka, and Preeti. We planned to meet at Lord Krishna's temple. A Royal never backs out from her word, and I cannot break that tradition. Besides, I will cover myself with a veil, ensuring no one can identify me. Now, come on, help me change into simpler clothes.")
With Reva's assistance, Advaita quickly transformed into an elegant ensemble—a beautiful blue lehenga choli with a golden dupatta. She adorned herself with dark blue bangles, a mangtika, her favorite jhumkas, and her beloved payal gifted by her babasa. The final touch of a veil added an air of mystery to her appearance.
Advaita and Reva stealthily made their way to the balcony and skillfully climbed down, using a secret passage discovered during her playful adventures with Yuvaan. Their hearts filled with anticipation, they set off towards the temple, where their friends eagerly awaited their arrival.
Advaita beamed with delight as she spotted her friends waiting for her inside the temple.
"Kritika, Vishaka, Preeti! You all are already here. Did we make you wait long?"
"Not at all, Rajkumari. We just arrived a few moments ago. We were eagerly looking forward to this day with you."
"Great! I'm glad we could meet up. But today, please don't address me as 'Rajkumari.' I am in disguise and want to enjoy this day like any ordinary person."
Kritika, Vishaka, and Preeti nodded, understanding Advaita's desire for anonymity.
"Alright, we'll keep your secret, Advaita. So, shall we proceed to the temple and offer our prayers?"
"Exactly! It's been too long since we all gathered here. Let's seek blessings together, and afterwards, I have something important to share with all of you."said vishakha with a shy face.
As they entered the temple, Advaita and her friends greeted everyone with smiles. They felt a sense of peace enveloping them as they stepped into the sacred space. They closed their eyes, focusing their thoughts and sending their heartfelt wishes to the gods. Advaita's melodious voice filled the temple as she sang a bhajan, her voice carrying the emotions of her prayer.
O Kaanha Ab To Murli Ki
Madhur Suna Do Taan
O Kaanha Ab To Murli Ki
Madhur Suna Do Taan
Main Hu Teri Prem Deewani
Mujhko Tum Pehchaan
Madhur Suna Do Taan
O Kaanha Ab To Murli Ki
Madhur Suna Do Taan
Jabse Tum Sang Maine Apne
Naina Jod Liye Hai
Kya Maiya Kya Babul Sabse
Rishte Thod Liye Hai
Tere Milan Ko Vyakul Hai Ye
Kabse Mere Praan
Madhur Suna Do Taan
O Kaanha Ab To Murli Ki
Madhur Suna Do Taan
Saagar Se Bhi Gehari Mere
Prem Ki Geheraai
Lok Laaj Kul Ki Mariyada
Saj Kar Main Toh Aayee
Meri Preeti Se O Nirmohi
Ab Na Bano Anjaan
Madhur Suna Do Taan
O Kaanha Ab To Murli Ki
Madhur Suna Do Taan
Madhur Suna Do Taan
Madhur Suna Do Taan
As Advaita finished singing the bhajan, a sense of tranquility washed over her. She whispered softly, her voice filled with devotion. "Hey Kanha, bless our kingdom with joy and abundance. May your grace bring peace and prosperity to our people."
Vishaka, standing beside Advaita, couldn't help but be moved by her soulful rendition. She turned to her with admiration. "Advaita, it's been so long since I heard you singing. Your voice is truly a blessing to the ears. Your devotion touches the hearts of everyone who listens."
Advaita blushed, humbled by Vishaka's words of praise. The friends shared a moment of silence, their hearts filled with reverence and gratitude.
Just as they were about to leave the temple, a distressing sight caught Advaita's attention. She noticed an old couple, their faces lined with wrinkles, being mercilessly bullied by a man who sought to exploit their humble business of selling flowers for worship. The man's harsh words and aggressive demeanor were a stark contrast to the peaceful surroundings of the temple.
Unable to tolerate the injustice unfolding before her eyes, Advaita's compassionate heart urged her to take a stand. She stepped forward, her voice filled with authority. "Stop! That's enough!"
The man turned to face her, his eyes filled with arrogance and contempt.
"And who are you to interfere in my business? Mind your own affairs!"
Advaita, undeterred, held her ground. She picked up a fallen branch nearby, clutching it firmly in her hand.
"I may not have any authority over your business, but I do have the power to stand up against injustice. Leave this couple alone, or you will face the consequences."
The man scoffed, underestimating Advaita's resolve. He took a step forward, ready to confront her. "You think you can scare me with that stick? I won't back down!"
Advaita's eyes sparkled with determination. Without hesitation, she raised the branch, using it as a symbolic sword against the oppressor. "It's not about scaring you. It's about protecting the vulnerable and standing up for what is right. Leave now, or face the consequences of your actions."
As the man realized Advaita's unwavering determination, a flicker of fear crossed his face. He hesitated for a moment before deciding it was wiser to retreat. He backed away, leaving the old couple in peace.
The old couple, grateful for Advaita's intervention, expressed their heartfelt gratitude. "Bless you, dear child! You saved us from his cruelty. May the gods always watch over you."
Advaita smiled warmly at the couple, her heart filled with satisfaction and contentment.
"It was my duty to help. I'm glad I could be of assistance. Take care, and may you both be blessed with happiness and prosperity."
As Advaita turned to leave, her friends approached her, their faces filled with admiration and pride.
"Advaita, that was incredible! You showed such courage and compassion. I'm in awe of your bravery."
"You truly are a beacon of light, Advaita. Your actions inspire us all to stand up against injustice."
However, amidst the praises, Reva, who had been observing the incident from a distance, approached Advaita with a reproachful expression. "Advaita, that could have been so dangerous. You should have been more careful! If something happened to you, what would we do?"
Advaita sighed, understanding Reva's concern, but remaining firm in her convictions.
"Reva, hume aapki chinta ka aabhas hai, parantu ye humara rajya hai, humare log ha. Hum kaise inki peeda ko undekha krde? Kabhi-kabhi, hume nyay sunishchit karne hetu jokhim uthana padta hai. Hum apni aakon ke samksh anyay hote nhi dekh skte." ("Reva, I appreciate your worry for me, but this is my kingdom, and these are my people. How could I have turned a blind eye to their suffering? Sometimes, we have to take risks to ensure justice prevails. I couldn't stand by and watch that injustice unfold.")
Reva softened her expression, realizing the strength of Advaita's convictions.
"I understand your perspective, Advaita, and I admire your determination to protect and fight for the people you care about. Just promise me that you will be more cautious next time, and consider the potential risks."
Advaita nodded, acknowledging Revati's concern.
"You have my word, Reva. I will be more mindful of my safety. But I won't let fear stop me from standing up for what is right. "
With a renewed sense of unity and determination, Advaita and her friends left the temple, their hearts filled with a shared purpose and the desire to create a more just and compassionate kingdom.