Two weeks later the calendar turned its pages to mark the arrival of Ganesh Chaturthi a festival that held a special place in Shivaay's heart. As the days drew closer his excitement grew and he eagerly anticipated bringing home Bapa the beloved elephant-headed deity. The festive vibes filled the air and preparations were set in motion.
In the midst of their hectic schedules Annika and Shivaay found themselves in a delicate balancing act juggling work from their home and making visits to his parents' residence for the joyous celebrations. The previous festivals of Raksha Bandhan and Krishna Janmashtami had only been a glimpse into the dynamic festivities that awaited them.
However it was Janmashtami that took Annika by surprise. Being their first festive celebration as a married couple the load of responsibilities on her shoulders was immense. Pinky her mother-in-law instructed her on the intricacies of the rituals and Annika took it to heart determined to make the occasion memorable. With an unwavering dedication she painstakingly prepared fifty-six varieties of dishes with each one crafted to perfection.
Every corner of the house was adorned with fragrant flowers colorful rangoli designs and sacred idols transforming it into a vibrant haven.
The main attraction was the miniature cradle upon which little Lord Kanha sat adorned with peacock feathers and clutching his melodious flute. As Annika and Shivaay gently moved the cradle their eyes met sharing a moment of unspoken understanding.
Amidst the joyful atmosphere Pinky couldn't resist vocalizing her heartfelt desire for a blue-eyed grandson.
"Dono pray karo ke agle saal thak ek potha mere god mein rahe." Pinky laughed seeing their flushed faces. "Grandson would complete our family. Hain na Shakti ji?"
[Trans-Both of you pray that by the next year this time have a grandson in my lap.]
[Trans- Isn't it Shakti ji?]
Her words echoed through the room causing Annika and Shivaay's cheeks to flush with a mixture of shyness and anticipation.
"Ha ha. Potha ya pothi, dono thik hain pariwar pura hone ke liye." Shakti agreed.
[Trans- Grandson or granddaughter, both are this family.]
"What would you say bacchon?" Pinky asked excitedly.
[Trans- Children.]
"Mummy ji!" Annika grasped blushing hard. "Mummy ji apke bete ko biwi ko time Dena nahi aata. Moreover he doesn't have that responsibility yet!"
[Trans- Mummy ji your son doesn't know how to give some time to his wife.]
"And you think you have that?" Shivaay discreetly whispered into her ears and looked around avoiding gazes. That was when he caught his parents looking at him keenly. Shivaay rubbed his nape in embarrassment. "We don't have immediate plans for a baby."
Their glances met once again carrying a silent agreement that spoke volumes about their shared dreams and aspirations.
"Koi baat nahi." Pinky laughed nudging her husband, who instead shrugged and laughed. "By the time you both have a baby my son would learn things and be more responsible. Isn't it beta?"
[Trans- no worries.]
"Maa!" Shivaay whined.
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And then just like a gust of wind the days whisked past leading them to the eve of Ganesh Chaturthi. Shivaay's anticipation reached its pinnacle as he prepared to bring Bapa home.
The entire city was engulfed in an air of festivity with streets adorned with colorful decorations and the sweet fragrance of incense wafting through the air.
Shivaay could hardly contain his excitement as he meticulously arranged a beautiful setup complete with fresh flowers, decorative lights and an intricately designed mandap for Bapa's arrival. Every detail was attended to with utmost care as Shivaay wanted it to be a special affair.
The day finally arrived bringing with it a surge of emotions and an overwhelming feeling of devotion. Shivaay accompanied by Annika embarked on a journey to seek the divine presence of Lord Ganesha and then bring the idol of lord Ganesh home. As they approached the temple their hearts filled with reverence and gratitude. The sound of chants and hymns reverberated through the air blending harmoniously with the beating of their own hearts.
With a sense of awe Shivaay gently lifted the idol of Lord Ganesha feeling the weight of divinity in his hands. The vibrant jewellery colors of the idol adorned with intricate clay captured their attention as they were left mesmerized by Bapa's magnificence.
As they returned home Bapa assumed his rightful place in the beautifully prepared mandap only after aarti by Pinky. The house exuded an ethereal glow illuminated by the flickering light of countless diyas and the iridescent beauty of patience and faith.
The presence of Bapa brought an undeniable sense of completeness spreading a tranquil aura throughout their abode.
Annika and Shivaay couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them. Together they stood in front of Bapa and prayed for strength prosperity and harmony in their lives. Their hearts were aligned their hopes entwined as they embarked on this new chapter filled with devotion and the unyielding belief in the divine.
The next day, the air was filled with anticipation as the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi drew near.
Annika, a vision of grace and elegance adorned herself in a pastel green saree that belonged to her mother-in-law. The intricate embroidery on the fabric depicted stories of their ancestors and tradition symbolizing the deep-rooted heritage of their family.
As Annika carefully draped the saree she couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to her husband's lineage. It was a treasured possession handed down to her by her mother-in-law who believed in preserving the customs and rituals of their ancestors. The delicate pastel hue beautifully complemented Annika's radiant complexion enhancing her natural charm.
To complete her traditional ensemble Annika chose a pair of exquisite jhumka crafted meticulously in white and gold a heartfelt gift from her doting mother-in-law, which was actually gifted by Shivaay unknown to her. As she delicately placed them in her ears Annika couldn't help but smile aware of the sweet gesture behind this token of affection.
Her lustrous locks were gently pinned up in a low bun adorned with vibrant jasmine flowers emitting a captivating fragrance that filled the air around her. The blossoms symbolized purity and grace mirroring Annika's innate beauty both inside and out. Their delicate petals danced in unison with every movement adding an enchanting allure to her appearance.
"Hogaya?" Shivaay rolled his eyes seeing her getting ready from hours and hours.
[Trans-Done?]
"Nope!" Annika giggled.
On the other hand, Shivaay, her dashing and charismatic husband donned his usual attire that exuded an air of poise and elegance.
His midnight blue kurta perfectly accentuated his strong physique while his presence commanded attention and respect.
As they stood side by side their contrasting yet harmonious outfits painted a picture of harmony and unity showcasing the beauty of their bond.
Throughout the sacred rituals Annika and Shivaay shared loving glances a silent language that spoke volumes. Often Shivaay playfully teased Annika causing her cheeks to flush with a rosy hue an endearing reaction that further deepened their connection.
"Chup! Ekdam chup." Annika glared at her playful yet irritating husband. "If you once again pull my leg I will complaint to mummy ji."
"Kya gus pus chal raha hein?" Shakti raised his voice, seeing his son and daughter-in-law whispering during the puja.
[Trans- What whisperings are taking place?]
"Nothing papa." Shivaay smirked and acted as if nothing happened.
"N-othing" Annika shuttered, trying to balance her voice in front of him. "Kuch bhi toh nahi uncle ji."
[Trans- Nothing at all uncle ji]
Shakti nodded.
Annika smiled as she senses Shivaay's familiar hands wrap around her shoulders, whilst she folded her hands and prayed. Their relationship was a beautiful blend of love support and shared laughter creating a memorable and joyous atmosphere during the festivities.
"Chalo puja muhoort se phele karte hain." Pinky said adjusting the plates of different varieties of offerings.
[Trans- let's complete the puja before the auspicious time ends.]
Surprisingly, Annika's mother-in-law Pinky was resolute in imparting the family's values and traditions to her.
She was determined to instill in Annika the profound knowledge of their rich inheritance carefully passed down through generations.
With a mix of strictness and affection Pinky guided Annika through each ritual ensuring she understood the true essence and significance behind every prayer and offering. It was a journey of growth and understanding as Annika embraced her new role and gracefully embraced the responsibilities that came with it.
Pinky though firm in her expectations had a certain endearing charm that none could resist. Her presence evoked a sense of respect and reverence from every member of the family including Shivaay and his father Shakti.
They admired her unwavering dedication to their traditions even as they empathized with the challenges Annika faced in adapting to her new life. Pinky with her warm yet authoritative nature had created an environment where love and tradition intermingled seamlessly fostering unity and happiness within the family.
Thus as the day unfolded Annika's fervent fasting and her tireless efforts to prepare the sumptuous modaks and other traditional sweets were met with admiration and appreciation.
Shivaay and Shakti witnessed her unwavering dedication and a touch of sympathy washed over them realizing the struggles she bravely faced with a smile. Despite the occasional teasing and playful banter they understood that Pinky's guidance was non-negotiable for she was not only a formidable figure but also a guardian of their family's timeless values.
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The day of the visarjan of Lord Ganesh unfolded Annika found herself basking in a rare moment of tranquility. It was a respite she seldom encountered in her twenty-three and a half years of existence on Earth. The weight of managing the household chores during the festive season had been squarely on her shoulders, a responsibility she undertook with unwavering dedication.
With her studies demanding equal attention Annika not only maintained the day-to-day operations of their home but also meticulously oversaw all the offerings made to the deities effortlessly upholding her fast without a hint of fatigue, yet amidstor excitement and her husband of nearly eight blissful months had been devoid of any quality time together.
The entire family had been fully immersed in the preparations leaving Annika and Shivaay yearning for an opportunity to connect on a deeper level.
Finally their much-awaited moment arrived when they decided to venture out for a leisurely walk in search of the perfect ice cream. As they strolled hand-in-hand, her arms wrapped around his biceps, the moonlight casting a gentle glow upon them their conversation flowed freely unrestricted by the chaos of recent days.
Their light-hearted banter gradually evolved into moments of heartfelt intimacy as the weight of their responsibilities melted away.
It was a night that beckoned simplicity and vulnerability providing them with the chance to share their deepest desires dreams and fears. And so as the moon hung low in the sky they found themselves entwined in each other's embrace their bodies curled together in the aftermath of a fiery passion that had ignited their souls.
In the quiet sanctuary of their cocoon, as whispers of affection filled the air the universe seemed to reaffirm the bond between Annika and Shivaay.
In their togetherness they discovered solace and completeness cherishing this intimate moment that felt like a lifetime of love encapsulated in a single breath. And as they drifted off to sleep wrapped in the warmth of their love their hearts beat in unison confident in the knowledge that their journey together had only just begun.
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The day after the visarjan (immersion) of Lord Ganpati the Oberoi family was filled with joy and contentment. They gathered around the dining table eagerly awaiting the delicious meal prepared by Annika Shivaay's wife. Laughter echoed through the room as they cracked jokes and teased Pinky Shivaay's mother playfully.
The dining area was adorned with bright decorations reflecting the festive spirit that still lingered from the previous day's celebrations. The aroma of incense and fresh flowers filled the air adding a touch of spirituality to the family's joyful atmosphere.
The Oberoi family cherished these precious moments where love and togetherness were paramount. They valued their deep-rooted bond and used such occasions to express their affection and appreciation for one another.
As the anticipation grew Annika gracefully entered the room holding a steaming casserole filled with aromatic veg pulao. Her radiant smile complemented the delicious aroma that filled the room causing everyone's mouths to water in anticipation.
Shivaay couldn't help but admire his wife's new and acquired culinary skills – the way she effortlessly combined flavors and presented the dish with perfection. The casserole was adorned with colorful vegetables each cooked to perfection and exuding a tempting appeal.
Everyone's eyes locked on the casserole as Annika with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes placed it at the center of the table. The Shivaay and Pinky eagerly started pouring generous portions of the flavorful rice dish.
As each of them indulged in the flavorful pulao their taste buds came alive with bursts of spices subtly balanced with the freshness of the vegetables. Amidst the joyful banter and laughter the Oberoi family savored every bite relishing not just the delicious food but also the love and warmth shared among them.
Amid the delicious food and laughter, the family members had failed to trace their eldest son, Shubh who seems to be more active and energetic today.
Unfortunately he considered himself as the smart uncle from a TV show, his father regularly watches, who kicks the door open on the instruction of an oldie. Imitating his style and action he reached his brother's bedroom and began his exploration.
After looking every inch of the study table, his attention shifted towards the pillows which was pluggy and jiggly as jiggly puff!
Oh jiggly puff, he loved her.
He Laughed imagining the melodious song she sang and made others asleep. If he was in others (everyone around) shoes he would hear her sing with heart, later grab her in his arms kiss her round forehead like his father rarely does to his mother.
Holding the pillow close to him, Shubh giggled as his pecked on the pillow cover. "Jiggly puff!"
It was minutes later he had his attention to some small and colourful packets with nice fragrance.
As his curiosity grew Shubh picked up one of the packets and inspected it closely. He had never seen anything like it before and his innocent mind couldn't comprehend its purpose. Confusion took over him as he wondered why his brother Shivaay would have such peculiar balloons hidden in his room.
Cheater cock! He pouted.
"Shiv brought balloons for my birthday and didn't even tell me!"
Unaware of the intended use of the thing inside the packets Shubh headed towards the living room with the packet in hand intending to show his discovery to the rest of the family. As he approached the dining table the lively conversation came to a sudden halt and perplexed gazes locked onto him.
"Shubh what is that in your hand?" His mother Pinky asked with a mix of concern and surprise.
Shubh innocently held up the balloon packet and replied "I found these balloons in Shiv's room. Are they a different kind? Can I blow them?"
The room fell into silence as Shubh's innocent question took everyone by surprise.
Confusion quickly transformed into amusement on Shakti's face but Shivaay's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Annika on the other hand cursed Shivaay mentally, and wanted the ground to swallow her.
"Don't keep them there!" She had warned him yesterday night.
"It's handy." Unaware of the consequences of his acts, Shivaay smirked winking his eyes at her flushed and tired face.
Sensing his brother's unease Shubh tilted his head to the side waiting for an answer.
Before anyone could respond Shivaay stood up from his seat and rushed over to Shubh. He gently took the condom packet from his brother's hand, thankful that Shubh hadn't realized the true purpose of the items he had stumbled upon.
"Are they for my birthday?"
"They- Shubh Bhai," Shivaay stuttered trying to find the right words to explain. "Your birthday is six months away. And yes your balloons are orders. It's of every colour. Pink, yellow, grey and what not. And you shouldn't touch anything personal. Got that Bhai?"
Shubh's innocent eyes widened in confusion. "Personal?" he questioned not understanding the significance.
Pinky intervened placing a comforting hand on Shubh's shoulder. "Shubh, bhai ke shadi hoyi hain bhabhi ke saath toh you should not go to their room like that."
[Trans- Your brother is now married with your sister-in-law now so,]
Shubh's innocent face contorted with even more confusion. "But... what is shadi? Mujhe bhi shaadi karne hain. Please mumma! Jiggly puff se shaadi karado. Also aren't balloons for my birthday, for fun and celebration?"
[Trans- Even I want get married.]
[Trans- Mumma please get me married to jiggly puff!]
Annika, despite being hot, sweating and embarrassed to have some one talk about their night activities, couldn't hold back her laughter any longer and the rest of the family joined. Shivaay let out a nervous chuckle appreciating his family's support.
Trying his best to explain in a way that Shubh could understand Shivaay said "Well these are not the same kind of balloons you see at parties Shubh."
Shubh's confusion slowly eased and he nodded accepting his brother's explanation for the time being. "Oh I see. They are balloons but of different kinds. Okay! But why?"
"It's for adults." Shakti answered this time with a poker face trying to scare of his elder son, who was hell bent on making Shivaay and his daughter-in-law, embarrassed.
"But mein toh bas nine saal ka ho!" Shubh grumbled with understanding. "Can I get them when I grow up?"
"But you have to be a good boy." Shivaay sighed in relief, seeing his brother's understanding.
Brother and balloon? What do you all say? I had a good laugh while drafting.
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