Chapter 33: A Royal Union
Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi Visit no(v)eLb(i)n.com for the best novel reading experience
As the sun went up in the sky, its warm rays covered the lively city of Vijayanagara in a shiny, golden embrace. There was excitement in the air because something important was about to happen that day. It was the wedding of the beloved king, King Vijay Deva Raya. The whole city looked beautiful, with lots of colourful flowers, bright banners, and pretty rangoli patterns made on the pathways. All these things made the city look like a happy and festive place.
In the middle of all this beauty, a big line of fancy carriages moved toward the centre of the city. These carriages looked fancy, covered in detailed carvings and shiny gold edges. Inside each carriage were valuable things made of gold and silver. At the front of the line was the most special carriage. In it, a good-looking young man was wearing royal clothes, and next to him was a pretty girl with a round face, chubby cheeks, and cute dimples. She seemed a bit nervous but also excited. She held her smooth saree tightly and looked ahead with her eyes full of excitement.
The young man was Crown Prince Aditya Bhonsle from the Maratha Empire, and the girl next to him was his sister, Kavya Bhonsle, who was going to get married. Kavya felt her heart beating fast, and she couldn't stop thinking about the upcoming wedding. She remembered what her father had told her. He had said that this day was really important, not just for her but because it would bring together the Maratha and Vijayanagara kingdoms as allies.
When they got closer to the palace, Aditya, the Crown Prince, playfully made fun of his sister. He had a mischievous look in his eyes. He said, "Feeling a bit nervous, huh, dear sister? There is no need to fear. You're going to be an amazing queen. And don't forget, no matter where you are, I'll be there to keep you safe."
Kavya blushed at his comments, feeling a bit embarrassed but still thankful for her brother's cheerful nature.
For a moment, Kavya thought about something that had happened before. It was in their home, the Maratha kingdom. Their father, who was the king, came up to her. She was unsure and scared about the wedding, but he smiled kindly to make her feel better. His eyes showed how much he believed in the idea he was suggesting.
Later that day,
The marriage ceremony began with all the main guests arriving, blending tradition and magnificence seamlessly. The air carried the sweet scent of incense, while the echoes of Vedic chants filled the space. The royal couple stood by the sacred fire, exchanging vows that would tie them forever. They walked around the sacred fire as the ceremonies were carried out with elegance and meticulous attention, embodying the Sanatana Dharma deeply rooted in every Bharata's life.
Amid these rituals, Ravichandra, the aged butler and Head of Finance who had devoted decades to the palace couldn't hold back his tears as the knot was tied and the drums rang. He fondly remembered the old king and imagined his delight at witnessing this moment—his beloved son's marriage.
With the divine fire's blessings, the couple turned towards their elders for blessings. They began with Vijay's maternal grandfather (Thatha), Sunil Shetty, whose eyes shimmered with pride. Then, they sought the blessings of his maternal uncle (Cikkappa), Ravi Shetty, who exchanged a happy smile. Lastly, they approached his aunt (Cikkam'ma), who warmly clasped their hands, offering sincere wishes. His niece, who was still a child, was hiding behind her Mother's sari in shyness.
Yet, it wasn't just the royal family who offered their blessings. Vijay brought his newlywed wife to receive blessings from Mina, a devoted and long-serving maid who had raised him since birth in the absence of his mother. Vijay treated her like family, and she was also in their thoughts. Mina's gaze was hesitant; her eyes were filled with heartfelt emotions. She was reluctant to accept Vijay's bows, as she was considered a lowly maid. Kavya, who noticed this, fixed her sincere gaze upon Mina, indicating that her presence was equal to that of the family of the couple. With eyes glistening with tears,
"Live a hundred years and prosper."
Mina gently laid her hands upon their heads, bestowing upon them her heartfelt blessings.
Little did Vijay know that this day would eventually be celebrated as Valentine's Day for generations to come.
As the marriage of the king concluded, the city of Vijayanagara erupted in joy. The streets pulsed with dance, music, and laughter. People from all walks of life joined the festivities as their king's wedding ignited hope and happiness in their hearts.