The evening was as beautiful as Diwali, adorned with lights, decorations, and Rangoli. The aroma of food mingling with the breeze added to the festive air. A small stage had been set up, featuring chairs akin to those for a king and queen, where Dolly and I would soon be seated. Today, my Dad took extra care to ensure I looked my best. I donned a golden kurta and pajama, edged with intricate red designs, handpicked by my father. We then proceeded outside, where I was ushered to sit on the chair placed prominently on the stage. Soon, I saw Dolly arriving with her family of four, she was dressed in a red salwar suit adorned with golden designs.

  The Pandit arrived and began the ritual. Everything proceeded smoothly amidst loud cheers from the guests. The guests, consisting of only close family members and neighbours, were few. The ceremony concluded around 9 pm, and afterward, we all gathered near the Pandit.

  In an excited tone, my father Mahesh and Aarti's mom asked the Pandit, “Panditji, please select a date for the marriage and engagement.” Panditji, after consulting his astronomical chart and chuckling, declared, “Yajman, the first week of next month is auspicious for all the marriage rituals.” With urgency in her voice, Mrs. Aruna exclaimed, “This is too soon; there’s not enough time for preparation.” My mother interjected, reassuringly, “Don’t worry, Aru sis. I will cover the expenses for the entire marriage ceremony; you just focus on your family’s arrangements.”

  Mr. Alok was about to speak when Aruna discreetly grabbed his hand, a gesture I noticed. I understood that Mr. Alok, being a respectable man, didn't want my mother to shoulder all the responsibilities. I chose not to intervene, as everyone around was chatting happily. Suddenly, the sharp sound of cars arriving captured our attention, and we all looked in that direction. My paternal family arrived, anger evident on their faces. The arrival of my paternal family cut through the evening’s cheer like a cold gust, their faces stormy with unspoken accusations. My dad rushed to them, attempting to whisper, but the voices of my relatives grew louder.

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  While my mom and grandparents remained calm, Mr. and Mrs. Dokphode appeared anxious. The most peculiar reaction came from Dolly and her younger brother Yogesh, the biological son of Aruna and Alok Dokphode. Her eyes sparkled with an excitement reminiscent of a child watching a show, a stark contrast to her brother Yogesh’s apprehensive demeanour. My dad urged our relatives to come inside, while my mom persuaded the Dokphode family to return home, reassuring them that everything would be sorted out. The Dokphode family left, visibly shaken but hopeful.

  My dad guided my paternal grandmother, elder uncle, and cousin to take seats in the chairs. Then, my grandmother began angrily, “What did you people think, that we wouldn't find out? That you could arrange my grandson's marriage behind our backs?”

  My dad, visibly frustrated, raised his voice, “Ma, please don’t start again. I have already made a promise to the girl’s family, so let’s not create a ruckus.” In an annoyed tone, my elder uncle Suresh retorted, “You always take your ex-wife’s side, but she is not our family anymore. Had I not accidentally overheard Ankit and Radha's phone conversation, we would have remained in the dark.”

  My mom remained quiet, holding my hand tightly to prevent me from intervening, as I felt my eyes growing red with frustration. A storm of emotions raged within me – a mix of protectiveness for my mother and a longing for familial harmony. My grandmother, Kamla Devi, stood up, took a box of sweets from nearby, and with a smile, approached my paternal grandmother, Iravat. She gently placed a motichur laddu into her mouth and sweetly said, “Iravati sis, why to be so angry on such a joyous occasion? Let’s celebrate and bless our grandson.” Her simple, sweet act seemed to momentarily soften the hardened lines of tension in the room, reminding us all of the joyous reason we had gathered.

  

  
1. **Yajman**: Traditionally, a "Yajman" refers to the worshipper or host in a religious context, particularly during rituals or ceremonies. In broader terms, it can denote a layman – a person who is not an expert or professional in a specific field. In your story, "Yajman" is used respectfully to address the host of the ceremony, highlighting their role and importance in the ritual.


  

  

  
2. **Pandit**: In India, a "Pandit" is an individual well-versed in Sanskrit, philosophy, and Hindu law. Often, Pandits are scholars or teachers with extensive knowledge in these areas. In the context of your story, the Pandit is a priest who performs religious rituals and ceremonies, playing a crucial role in traditional Hindu events.


  

  

  
3. **Motichur Laddu**: A popular Indian sweet, Motichur Laddus are small, round-shaped sweets made primarily from gram flour (besan), sugar, and a mix of aromatic spices. These sweets are known for their soft texture and rich, melt-in-the-mouth quality, making them a favourite at celebrations and festive occasions.