-|| Stars Aligned ||-
stars aligned, whispered the celestial script of our hearts.
◊◊◊
The air, heavy with anticipation, suddenly shimmered with the presence of love as Pradyumna subtly directed the gaze of the assembled families towards Suthanu and Bhanu, who strolled hand in hand. In that moment, smiles blossomed like a field of flowers, spreading joy to every corner of the gathering.
As Suthanu and Bhanu let go of each other's hands almost without realization, their eyes instinctively sought out their in-laws.
Amidst the crowd, a divine figure stood, a lotus-eyed lord who stood with a heart-melting smile . Suthanu's gaze went to him, and a flood of memories surged forth. The days of yore, when she scaled palace walls to surrender her life at his feet, played like a vivid tapestry in her mind. He, the celestial promise keeper, had stood by her through every twist of fate.
Walking towards him, Suthanu pondered the significance of seven steps, a sacred covenant that reminded her of seven doors of Vaikuntha. There he stood, with a heart-melting smile, a beacon of unwavering support. Tears welled up in Suthanu's eyes, and a gentle breeze delivered a morpankh to her hands. Closing her eyes, she recognized it as a divine offering – her god's, her uncle's, her father's. "Your father, Lily, then and forever," resonated in her heart, his voice echoing through the chambers of her soul.
"Pita," she whispered, collapsing onto the ground as she touched his feet, warm tears streaming down. Krishna, with infinite compassion, lifted Suthanu and wiped away her tears. "Did I not say I detest tears in your eyes?" he spoke, and Suthanu, her eyes meeting his for the first time, whispered softly, "You do?" .
A mysterious connection tugged at her heart, an unreadable emotion that mirrored a father's joy at reuniting with his daughter after an age, tinged with a pearl of angst.
In Krishna's paternal embrace, Suthanu wept tears of gratitude, pondering if this was the reward for every battle she had fought and if that is going to be the case - she is going to risk her life every single time. "How many stars adorn the sky, Lily?" Krishna asked, breaking the embrace. Confusion filled Suthanu's tear-glistened eyes. "I asked, little one, how many stars does the sky above you hold?" he repeated.
"Infinite, Pita."
"May you receive the same infinite happiness in your life, Lily. It's your Pita's blessing," Krishna declared, placing his palm on Suthanu's head. He gestured for her to smile, and as she wiped away her tears, a radiant smile lit up her face.
"I didn't expect you to look ten years younger than the last time I saw you, Pitashri," Suthanu remarked, evoking laughter from Krishna.
"Can I consider this as my daughter returning home?" Krishna playfully inquired, and Suthanu nodded joyfully. Dwarka, her home – the very word resonated with ethereal beauty.
"I brought a present, but I am thinking of delaying it now," Krishna's words snapped Suthanu out of her reverie.
"A present?" Suthanu's eyes twinkled, and she pouted, "Why delay, Pitashri?"
"If I spend another minute talking to you, I had it from my wives," Krishna urgently whispered, only for Suthanu, who stifled her laughter.
"And I heard that," Rukmini interjected, arms crossed, fixing a pointed gaze on Krishna.
"Maa, Pita was just teasing me – you know that," Suthanu tried to reason.
"I don't understand why everyone keeps rescuing him," Rukmini mock-glared at Krishna, who responded with a sweet smile, melting her heart.
"I think it's because everyone loves me," Krishna innocently remarked, eliciting smiles from the gathering.
"But it's time to shower love on Thanu now," Rukmini turned to Suthanu, while Krishna, feigning hurt, placed a hand over his heart. Rukmini shook her head, and Suthanu burst into giggles.
"Maa," Suthanu embraced Rukmini with a radiant smile, then bowed to receive her blessings.
Rukmini gently whispered to Suthanu, revealing the clandestine essence of Krishna's present. A smile graced Suthanu's lips, a knowing acknowledgment of the secret shared between the women.
"I heard that, my queen," Krishna chimed in, his eyes sparkling like a child caught in the act of hiding a secret. "I wanted that to be a surprise."
"And it shall be," Mitravinda intervened, swiftly covering Suthanu's eyes, while Kalindi and Bhadra adorned her with the precious morpankh pendant. As Suthanu opened her eyes, she was greeted by a vision of astonishment. Adorning her neck was a golden peacock feather pendant, a celestial masterpiece that seemed to bear the touch of Krishna himself.
The pendant, suspended in divine grace, evoked a sense of cosmic poetry. Each filament, delicately crafted, whispered tales of celestial dances, weaving together the mortal and the divine in a breathtaking harmony. The gemstone at its heart radiated with the hues of devotion, mirroring the divine gaze. Around her neck, it formed an exquisite tapestry where the golden plume intertwined with mortal elegance – a testament to Krishna's immortal essence captured in the exquisite artistry of adornment.
As the pendant swayed gently, it invoked the mystical dance of Krishna beneath the sacred Kadamba tree. The golden hues cascaded like a celestial waterfall, reminiscent of Krishna's playful earthly sojourn. The pendant's luminous aura encapsulated the essence of the sacred Radha-Krishna union, where love transcends mortal realms. To Suthanu, at the threshold of her union, this was a dream manifested in the form of a divine blessing.
"This is the most extraordinary gift I could have received upon my homecoming," Suthanu spoke with quivering lips, her gaze fixed on Krishna and the Astabharyas. "I shall treasure it for as long as I exist."
Krishna, with a playful smile, shared a delightful revelation. "Do you recall, as a child during your Namakaarana, you desired my morpankh as a gift?" A memory unfurled – the image of a baby Suthanu reaching for Krishna's morpankh.
"Even then, Sakha granted your wish, and today, he does the same," Draupadi acknowledged, gratitude evident in her words. Suthanu, gently caressing the pendant, knew it would become her favored adornment henceforth. Her eyes shifted to Satyabhama, who stood with a joyful smile.
Approaching Satyabhama, Suthanu felt a surge of emotions, akin to a victorious shishya meeting her guru after triumphing in a war but the overwhelming support that was her rock. Satyabhama's teachings had transcended mere martial skills, delving into mental strength, diplomacy, and politics. Today's victory owed much to Satyabhama, who stood by her and shaped her into the woman she had become.
"Guru Mata," Suthanu bowed, and Satyabhama, with a warm smile, pulled her into a tender embrace stopping her midway. "Vaidooryam, are you forgetting that I am now your mother-in-law?" she teased, a playful wink accompanying her words. Suthanu blinked back tears, acknowledging the new role Satyabhama would play in her life.
"I thought that had happened years ago," Suthanu's response surprised Satyabhama.
"Did you all hear her?" Satyabhama playfully pinched Suthanu's cheeks. "Perhaps I went a bit overboard with your bravery sessions?".
"A little too much for everyone's liking, unfortunately, Maa," Suthanu replied, a small smile adorning her face.
"That sounds like Satya's shishya," Draupadi chimed in, and Satyabhama mock-glared at her.
"Bravo, Lal!" Krishna broke into a wide smile, addressing Bhanu. "Your love has the exemplary speech of the two most wise women in our time ."
"Yes, that lucky man happens to be Pita," Bhanu remarked, wiping away unshed tears. "To be the sole heart that lures such an exceptional woman is an honor indeed."
"I wonder if this is your perception when you've hardly glimpsed this facet of mine. I plan to showcase it in leaps and bounds throughout our entire life," Suthanu retorted sweetly, reserving a playful glare for Bhanu. "Sounds perfect!" , she stressed.
"Look at her," Bhanu feigned astonishment. "You're threatening me in front of my parents, PandavaNandini."
"You mocked me in front of my parents, MadhavaSudhan," Suthanu responded in a similar tone.
The two stood, heads held high, exchanging childhood endearments with mock fury – Vanar and Junglee billi – before erupting into laughter. Their gaze locked even as they conversed silently , Are we ever going to get tired of these banters?
"What was that?" Nakula voiced the confusion shared by others in the room.
"That's how our children are – they call these time-out fights, apparently, extending from facets of their early love," Karenumati explained, shaking her head.
"Are they old now?" Bhima's serious expression elicited laughter from everyone.
"No, Pita, absolutely not," Suthanu spoke. "We used to call each other such names in our teenage years, and nothing has changed much."
Suthanu whispered the last four words almost inaudibly, but Bhanu's eyes went warm as he smiled at her.
Bhanu, brimming with anticipation, stepped forth beside Yudhishthira to seek blessings. Yet, the benevolent gaze of Yudhishthira halted him midway, a gentle smile gracing the wise king's countenance who gestured in denial and took him into an embrace.Both their eyes closing momentarily as a smile graced their lips.
"In my stead, you made a choice. Yet, when I stand in your shoes, the weight of the decision dawns upon me. It was catastropic Bhanu and I couldn't be in Hastinapura swiftly starting to Dwarka.How did you manage, my child?" Yudhishthira queried softly, his voice echoing with paternal concern.
"Does life readily fulfill everyone's wishes, Pita?" Bhanu responded with softness. "From my childhood, I've observed the dance of wishes and adjustments, finding solace in the ebb and flow of life's currents.
" And , I challenge that truth of your life " , Yudhisthira placed his palm on Bhanu's head before he spoke giving a moment of contemplation.
Draupadi interjected, "We, too, are your family now, child." Bhanu, overwhelmed by the unexpected warmth in her words for it was the first time she had addressed him such making him smile widely. He recognized the significance of Draupadi addressing him as 'child,' it was never easy for the latter.
"Why do you smile so?" Draupadi inquired, her brows arched with curiosity.
"Nothing, Maa," Bhanu's smile softened quickly, yet there was a playful gleam in his eyes. Draupadi, undeterred, fixed him with an expectant gaze.
"I never knew I would be bestowed with a shower of fire," Bhanu continued, his smile deepening, "that Agni is now my shield as well." In that moment, Draupadi realized that Bhanu had been keenly aware of her inner battles, and his words served as a balm, igniting a radiant smile that mirrored the happiness shared among the families. Why wouldn't she love to have such a thoughtful and affectionate son-in-law?
Soon, Bhanu sought blessings from every member of the Pandavaparivaar, a ritual of love and acceptance that transcended mere formality.
Yudhishthira initiated a conversation with Krishna about the impending Vivaham. Krishna, mischievous twinkle in his eyes, feigned surprise. "Vivaha? I thought they wanted more time, Jyeshtha."
"Absolutely not," Suthanu interjected, her eyes locking with Bhanu's. Unbeknownst to her, the impulsive confession of her heart's desires escaped, and a sudden realization swept across her features. She took a step back, standing beside Draupadi, as the intensity of stares from all present bore upon her.
"But I thought Bhanu had different plans, and I was not considering such arrangements," Krishna responded further, a shared smile exchanged with Satyabhama, who wore a mock glare understanding that her lord was just teasing around.
"If I could, I would have had her as my wife long ago," Bhanu blurted urgently, almost reflexively, a mix of urgency and partly worry flashing across his expressive face. The worry fearing other parting by time. Suthanu, caught in the moment, looked at him with a blend of confusion and amusement, unsure whether to be embarrassed or amused at his spontaneous outpouring.
Everyone broke into laughter as Pradyumna came to stand beside Bhanu who was trying in vain to take back his words.
Laughter, like the sweet melody of celestial laughter, resonated through the chamber as Pradyumna gracefully approached Bhanu, who futilely attempted to retract his words. A whispered counsel from Pradyumna, delivered with a knowing smile, gently urged Bhanu to release the embarrassment that adorned him like a cloak.
Despite his valiant efforts to suppress the burgeoning blush, Bhanu unwittingly painted a portrait of sheer adorableness, a rare sight that bewitched both families. The miniature representation of Krishna and Satyabhama, manifested in Bhanu's embarrassed charm, exuded an ethereal allure.
"Nothing will make up for it," Pradyumna whispered with an understanding gleam in his eyes. "Let it go, Lal." Bhanu, standing in the spotlight of embarrassment, struggled to stifle his blushing, rendering an image of captivating innocence that transcended the mundane.
Krishna, the orchestrator of hearts, spoke with an eloquence that touched the soul. "Jyeshtha, let's expedite the union, for our children brim with impatience." His words resonated with the desires nestled within every heart present, invoking a spirit of jubilation that enveloped the atmosphere.
A symphony of smiles and shared embraces followed, as Yudhishthira exchanged warm embrace with Krishna announcing , " The dates of the Vivaha will be fixed soon". The air was now infused with the spirit of festivity, families exchanging heartfelt wishes, and the very essence of love manifesting in the form of hugs.
"Congratulations, Lal and Bangaram," Pradyumna's infectious joy illuminated the room as he twirled Bhanu lifting him up, whose smile radiated unparalleled happiness. Suthanu mirrored the joy, her wide smile capturing the warmth of Rukmavati's embrace.
Subsequently, Samba and the other sons of Krishna joined the festivities, lifting Bhanu onto their shoulders. His exuberance, palpable and contagious, reverberated through the room, filling every corner with the infectious spirit of celebration.
"Heavens, Kailasha, Satyaloka, and Vaikuntha, bear witness!" the brothers joyously exclaimed. "Our brother is getting married!" .The pomp and revelry carried the entire gathering into a realm of pure joy, each heart dancing to the rhythm of anticipation.
Suthanu, amidst the jubilation, smiled in quiet contemplation, her thoughts briefly wandering to her own siblings. The echoes of familial bonds, reminiscent of her past, lingered in the recesses of her mind.
Bhanu, turning his gaze toward Pradyumna, observed the seamless transition as Prabal assumed his place. A smile of self-assurance graced Bhanu's countenance, as unspoken acknowledgment conveyed that no words were needed between his Jyeshtha and Suthanu who naturally had a loving sibling bond.
Pradyumna, addressing Suthanu, went to stand in front of her.
"Bangaram," Pradyumna spoke with a tenderness that transcended words, "Your Bhrata is always with you. I apologize for not being with you in the times after the war."
"No, Bhrata," Suthanu's brows curved with affection. "You call yourself my elder brother and apologize?" She gently shook her head, and Pradyumna, enchanted by the endearing sight of her moving her fingers to gesture 'no', smiled in response.
"Bhrata, my brothers hold irreplaceable positions in my life. Yet, when you came to Hastinapura, I realized that you were among them. In that moment, I felt loved as a sister once more," Suthanu expressed her heartfelt sentiments, drawn into a sibling hug by Pradyumna, who affectionately caressed her head. "Thank you, Bhrata, for granting me a place as your sister too."
A twinkle glistened in Pradyumna's eyes as he blinked back tears, and he playfully warned, "One more expression of gratitude, my Bangaram, and you won't have your brother speaking with you." Turning to Rukmavati, he added with mock severity, "Inform your dulhari, Priye."
Suthanu, standing beside Rukmavati, silently held her ears, a wordless gesture of apology. Pradyumna, smiling, gently removed her hands from her ears, offering reassurance. "I think no brother appreciates the sight of his sister apologizing too," he remarked, his words eliciting a warm smile from Suthanu.
Amidst the joyful tumult, Suthanu found herself engulfed in a vyuha of affection by the daughters of Yadavas, their camaraderie and laughter echoing the jubilation within her heart.
In the midst of this jubilation, Bhanu and Suthanu, their eyes locking in a silent covenant, recognized that this moment wasn't solely a celebration for them. Instead, it was a grand symphony of joy that resonated through the hearts of their families and echoed in the very essence of their cities.
Few days later,
In the ethereal moments that followed, a jubilant Neerja, like a harbinger of joy, burst into the room, her eyes dancing with the excitement of divulging the intricacies of the impending wedding day fixed by Maharishi Vyasa and Acharya Garga.
Suthanu's countenance transformed into a canvas of pure bliss, a radiant smile illuminating her face as the details of her impending union were laid before her. In that moment, the love that adorned his heart painted her entire being, as though the very essence of her happiness had woven a tapestry of enchantment.
As the tidings of the fixed wedding day cascaded over her like a gentle waterfall, Suthanu's smile broadened, her eyes aglow with the brilliance of an ignited flame. The hue of dusk adorned her cheeks, a delicate blush reminiscent of the sun's farewell caress upon the horizon. In that fleeting moment, she found herself contemplating what enchanting transformation would befall her when she beheld him, pondering whether she would embody the very image of a blushing damsel with just the mere announcement.
Seeking solace in the open expanse, she yearned for the chill winds to assuage the fervor of her racing heart, only to find that, instead, they fanned the flames of anticipation.
As she gazed downward, there he stood, a vision of mirrored delight, a reflection of her own joy captured in the contours of his smile. His fingers, like poetic verses, pointed toward her, only to return tenderly to rest upon his heart, an intimate gesture that set her cheeks ablaze in a crimson hue reminiscent of the setting sun.
Then, in a gentle stroke of whimsy, he reclined gracefully on the grass falling back as he stood, his eyes fixed on her with an expression mirroring the rapture of their shared joy. In response, her hands instinctively raised in concern, yet a moment later, she surrendered herself to the same exultation, closing her eyes as if to revel in the euphoria alongside him.
When she unveiled her eyes once more, the tableau had shifted. He had vanished, leaving behind only the echo of his presence and the lingering tendrils of their shared delight. In a playful reprimand, she chided the invisible force that seemed to have spirited him away, her words dancing on the edge of affectionate teasing and tender reproach.
"Vanar," she whispered, the term a gentle rebuke for both the imagined escapade and the whimsical nature of her own wild musings.
Bhanu wore an uninterrupted smile that adorned his countenance like the iridescent glow of the moon on a tranquil night. Within the opulent confines of the palace, his presence had become synonymous with laughter he was sure, earning him the transition from the endearing title of Satyabhamanandan to the 'smiling' prince, a name whispered with fondness throughout the royal corridors.
As he attempted to regain a semblance of composure, his fingers glided through his hair in a futile effort to tame the unruly strands. In the quiet recesses of his thoughts, he couldn't help but reminisce about his teenage self, realizing that even then, the mischievous grin on his face was nowhere near as persistent as the one he now wore. Blame, he mused inwardly, rested squarely on the shoulders of the princess who had claimed his heart, 'his' girl, as he affectionately thought of her.
Amidst the radiant celebration, Bhanu's eyes sparkled in astonishment when Suthanu, a living embodiment of exuberance, showered flowers upon the two of them, her form twirling in joyous abandon around him as he joined in. In that moment, she resembled a vibrant rainbow, each hue representing the myriad colors that had filled and enriched his life.
A sudden crash disrupted the harmonious scene, drawing his attention to a fallen vase. As he turned back to investigate, however, there was no trace of the source of the disturbance. Playfully, he attributed the incident to the whims of his imagination, affectionately referring to Suthanu as his 'Junglee Bili,' his endearing wild cat, his jaan.
The palace itself seemed to shimmer in radiant delight, mirroring the happiness that had become an inseparable part of their shared journey. The air resonated with the unspoken melodies of their love, a harmonious symphony that echoed through the grand halls of Dwarka.
Stars aligned to a date , all in finally.
To be continued...
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