The day before Diwali,
ABCD hotel's convention hall.
This hotel has been reserved by Pooja's family for all the guests from both sides. Considering that Ali's family hails from Kanpur, it was the most convenient arrangement. The boys of the Super six, along with Rajveer and Gunny, chose to stay at the hotel, identifying themselves as part of the groom's party. Given that Pooja had numerous cousins, Ali's side of the family appeared a bit sparser. Ali, being naturally reserved, hadn't built a large circle of friends prior to joining the army. This arrangement was thus settled upon.
On the day of the engagement, the hotel's banquet hall came alive with vibrant decorations - an array of colorful flowers and twinkling lights adorned the space. The centerpiece of the hall was a grand stage, elegantly decorated with flowers, chandeliers, and delicate fairy lights. The guests filled the room with their cheerful conversations, immersing themselves in the festive ambiance and enjoying the celebratory atmosphere.
The excitement was palpable as friends and family from both sides mingled, sharing warm greetings and well-wishes. Laughter and smiles echoed through the air, creating a sense of joy and togetherness that enveloped the event. The hall itself seemed to radiate with the happiness of the occasion.
Naina and Pooja were both dressed in breathtaking traditional outfits, fully prepared for the upcoming engagement ceremony. They waited together in the specially reserved room for the bride's preparations. Pooja's attire was a splendid maroon lehenga adorned with vibrant embroidered patterns on both the upper and lower parts of the garment. She adorned herself with an intricate kundan necklace set, including a heavy choker, along with matching bangles that added a touch of elegance.
As Pooja gazed at herself in the mirror, her excitement was palpable. She turned to Naina, who was meticulously perfecting Pooja's hairstyle. In a hushed tone, Pooja shared her disbelief and enthusiasm, "Can you believe this moment is finally here?"
Naina, her reflection mirroring her friend's excitement, offered a reassuring smile. "Believe it, my friend. Because it's actually happening. Pooja, you and Ali make a wonderful couple." Her words were filled with genuine warmth and happiness for her best friend.
Pooja blushed, her happiness evident. "Thank you, Naina."
The evening progressed, and Ali, accompanied by his family and friends, made their entrance into the convention hall. They were all dressed in finely tailored traditional attire, each outfit showcasing the elegance of the occasion. Ali himself wore a coordinated 3-piece kurta set, with a golden inner kurta and pajama, complemented by an outer sherwani in the same rich maroon hue as Pooja's lehenga. The atmosphere was filled with lively conversations, laughter, and the joyful interactions of the arriving guests. Their amiable banter created a warm ambiance as everyone eagerly awaited the arrival of the bride.
Yudi playfully nudged Ali and discreetly motioned towards the grand staircase. Ali shifted his attention and was taken aback by the sight of Pooja gracefully descending the staircase in her dazzling lehenga. Her shy yet joyful smile directed at him sent his heart racing with excitement. The approving grins of Huda, Yudi, Alekh, and Gunny only added to the moment's charm.
Pooja was accompanied down the staircase to the convention hall by Naina and Pooja's cousins. From her vantage point on the stairs, Naina scanned the room filled with guests, her eyes searching for her mate, Rajveer. However, her gaze failed to locate him among the attendees. With a slight pout forming on her face, Naina voiced her query aloud, "Where's Rajveer?" Her disappointment at not finding him was evident in her expression and tone.
Naina's heart was set on witnessing Rajveer's reaction to her attire, as he had never seen her in a lehenga before. Her outfit consisted of a captivating dark orange lehenga paired with a maroon top and a flowing red dupatta. Enhancing her appearance, she adorned herself with an exquisite heavy necklace set and an array of matching bangles. With her enhanced vampiric beauty, Naina exuded an aura akin to that of an Indian princess.
Despite her confidence in her appearance, her ultimate desire was to be perceived as stunning by Rajveer. The red lehenga had been her deliberate choice, intended to express a depth of emotion that eluded verbal articulation. Through her attire, she aimed to convey her unspoken longing – to become his bride and share an eternal bond. This deep sentiment only amplified her disappointment at his absence from the hall, leaving Naina feeling crestfallen.
"Rajveer, huh?" Pooja teased with a playful smile.
Naina playfully huffed and rolled her eyes. "We're not on academy grounds. So, I'll call my boyfriend by his name," she retorted, sticking her tongue out at her best friend.
Pooja chuckled. "I'm just pulling your leg. Call him 'Sweetheart,' 'honey,' or whatever you want. No one will mind. But I'm sure Shahrukh's face might turn as red as a tomato." She made a joking remark.
Naina joined in the laughter, imagining how Rajveer would react if she used such endearing terms for him in front of everyone. However, her smile faded as she sighed, "But he's not here!"
Pooja comfortingly patted Naina's shoulder. "Let's find out where he went," she suggested, taking out her phone. After a short while, Pooja informed Naina, "He's in the kitchen area, assisting my uncle with the chefs. Our Shahrukh is such a thoughtful guy!"
Naina's smile returned, relieved that Rajveer wasn't avoiding her. He was merely helping out to ensure Pooja and Ali's engagement went smoothly. "He truly is amazing," Naina agreed with a proud and affectionate smile.
Ali and Pooja were ushered onto the stage by their elders, drawing attention to the couple. The remaining members of the super six, along with Gunny and a few of Pooja's cousins, gathered around the pair, engaging in light-hearted banter and playful teasing. As the festive atmosphere continued, Naina's heightened senses detected the familiar scent of Rajveer's blood approaching the convention hall. An idea sparked in Naina's mind, prompting her to lean down and whisper something into Pooja's ear. With a mischievous grin, Naina then slipped away from the stage, her plan taking shape.
Rajveer made his way to the convention hall and was greeted by Huda's waving from the stage. Dressed in an outfit personally chosen by Naina, Rajveer donned a striking 3-piece kurta sherwani ensemble. His inner kurta, pajama, and footwear were all in navy blue color. Over this, he wore a resplendent sherwani jacket, an artistic fusion of colors including red, maroon, and dark pink, among others. His appearance was undeniably striking, exuding an air of both elegance and handsomeness. In that moment, he resembled nothing short of a princely figure from a bygone era.
With a smile, he approached to extend his best wishes to Ali and Pooja. "Cadet Ghai, you're absolutely stunning tonight," he complimented, his smile warm and genuine.
"Thank you, Rajveer sir," Pooja replied with evident happiness.
Noticing the color-coordinated outfits of the couple, Rajveer playfully remarked, "Seems like you got hold of Cadet Ali's outfit too."
Ali blushed, and Pooja chuckled in response. Rajveer then scanned the area, turning to Pooja and asking, "Have you seen Naina around?"
"She left. She said she won't approach you tonight. You'll have to find her," Pooja answered with a mischievous grin.
"Is that so?" Rajveer mused thoughtfully, his attention shifting to the guests as he embarked on the quest to find his girlfriend amidst the gathering.
As the moment arrived, Pooja's and Ali's parents stepped onto the stage. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the engagement ceremony was about to begin. A young female cousin from Pooja's family and Huda, representing Ali's side, gracefully carried the rings on intricately adorned plates. A wave of excitement rippled through the attendees, and the air was filled with the gentle hum of chatter and laughter.
With a growing sense of joy, Pooja and Ali stood facing each other, their eyes reflecting their happiness and commitment. As the rings were exchanged, the sound of applause and cheers reverberated in the hall, a chorus of support and celebration for the beginning of their journey together.
Once the engagement ceremony concluded, Pooja's uncle took the initiative to inform her parents that there was a bit of a gap before the dinner would be served. He suggested that they engage the guests with some entertainment in the meantime. Pooja's parents looked appreciative of the idea but also a bit unsure of what to do.
Alekh, Huda, and Yudi quickly stepped forward, offering their assistance and assurance. With genuine warmth, they reassured Pooja's parents that they had the situation under control. Soon, the newly engaged couple, Pooja and Ali, as well as the rest of the guests stepped down from the stage, making way for the upcoming performances.
Rajveer, his curiosity piqued and a hint of frustration evident in his voice, turned to Pooja and inquired once again, "Cadet Ghai, where has your best friend disappeared to? Now that the engagement is done, I still haven't had the chance to see her." His sulking demeanor was unmistakable, a clear reflection of his impatience to catch a glimpse of his girlfriend's attire for the evening that he had been eagerly anticipating.
Pooja's mischievous grin widened, and she playfully pointed towards the stage, directing Rajveer's attention. Intrigued by her gesture, Rajveer turned around, his curiosity piqued. To his delight, he saw a group of girls assembled on the stage, with one particular girl standing front and center, adorned in a resplendent dark orange lehenga. The red dupatta gracefully covered her head, lending an air of bridal elegance to her appearance. In that moment, Rajveer found himself utterly captivated as he instantly recognized his beloved Naina. Her bridal-like attire, accentuating her slender waist and her hands adorned with a symphony of bangles, elicited a rush of emotions within him, akin to a Romeo enthralled by his Juliet.
The music started playing and the girls started dancing to the beat of the song.
Itna makeup lagake kab tak rasta dekhu sajna
Main pagli nai jo saal bitaun piya o tere bina.
[Putting on so much makeup, how long should I wander, my love?
I'm not foolish to spend a year without you, my beloved.]
Naina began to sing, her voice weaving a melodic spell as she took graceful steps forward. Her veil concealed half of her face, adding an air of mystery to her presence. With the conclusion of the first two lines, she dramatically discarded the veil, revealing her radiant countenance. She looked at Rajveer and raised an eyebrow in a playful way, like asking what he thought of her singing and how she looked.
Rajveer was amazed. His heart was beating fast as he watched Naina. He couldn't help but smile at her, and he bit his lip without even realizing it. He couldn't take his eyes off her. He was completely captivated by how she sang and how elegant and lovely she appeared in that moment.
Itna makeup lagake kab tak rasta dekhu sajna
Main pagli nai jo saal bitaun piya o tere bina.
Tere sang kadam bhar ke main
Taron tak sath chalungi
Kuch tare chun lena is baar meri tu maang sajana.
Sabki baratein aayin..
[Putting on so much makeup, how long should I wander, my love?
I'm not foolish to spend a year without you, my beloved.
Walking with you step by step, I'll walk beside the stars.
Choose a few stars this time, my love, and fill my partition with them.
Everyone's wedding processions are coming...]
Naina's voice filled the room as she began to sing, her steps matching the rhythm of the music. It was quite evident that her song was intended for Rajveer, a fact not lost on anyone in the audience. Gunny playfully nudged Rajveer with his elbow, a knowing smile on his lips. Meanwhile, the other members of Super Six beamed with delight at Naina's bold and direct approach.
Caught between surprise and embarrassment, Rajveer's cheeks turned a rosy hue, but his grin was unmistakable. Naina's song seemed like a request, a sweet and public declaration, asking him to take her as his bride. As he watched her perform, he couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions, his heart swelling with love and affection.
Sabki baratein aayin doli tu bhi lana
Dulhan banake hum ko raja ji le Jana
Sabki baratein aayin..
[Everyone's wedding processions are here, you should also bring the palanquin,
Dress up as a bride and take me away, my prince.
Everyone's wedding processions are coming...]
Naina playfully pouted, her hands clasped together in an exaggerated plea directed at Rajveer. However, the mischievous wink she sent his way conveyed her lighthearted teasing.
Responding with an affectionate smile, Rajveer shook his head in good-natured amusement, fully appreciating Naina's playful charm.
kangan mein diamond asli
Har ik ki nazar hai fisli
Ik tu hi missing sight se
Mere lips pe hansi hai nakli .
Aashiq mera jaali nikla
Vaade ka khali nikla
Itna kyun soch raha jaldi
Tu hero ban ke ana.
Sabki baratein aayin...
[Diamonds are real in the bangles,
Everyone's gaze is mischievous.
You're the only one missing from my sight,
A fake smile is on my lips.
My lover turned out to be fake,
Promises turned out to be empty.
Why are you thinking so much and so soon,
Come as a hero.
Everyone's wedding processions are coming...]
Naina's complaints about Rajveer echoed through the hall, eliciting hearty laughter from the gathered guests. Rajveer couldn't help but smirk at her theatrical display, particularly when she playfully labeled him as a "fake" and teased about his empty promises.
Leaving the stage, Naina took a seat beside Pooja, her vibrant spirit undiminished. She motioned to her best friend and, with a smile, began to sing about the wedding processions of others, contrasting it with the fact that her own procession was yet to arrive. The lighthearted lyrics and her animated expression added a joyful atmosphere to the celebration.
Sabki baratein aayin doli tu bhi lana
Dulhan banake hum ko raja ji le Jana
Sabki baratein aayin..
[Everyone's wedding processions are here, you should also bring the palanquin,
Dress up as a bride and take me away, my prince.
Everyone's wedding processions are here...]
Naina playfully pulled Pooja onto the stage, and the two friends began to dance together as Naina's singing continued to fill the air. The crowd's energy matched the lively rhythm, and Pooja gracefully returned to Ali's side as the music swelled. Naina, however, remained on the stage, fully immersed in the music, her movements a joyful expression of the celebratory atmosphere.
vaade poore main karunga
Fere bhi sath hi lunga
Thoda wait tu karle baby
Taaron se maang bharunga.
Doli hai ready Kabse
Toone call kiya tha tabse
Sherwani raste mein hai
Sehra bhi order karwaya
[I'll fulfill all promises, I'll take the wedding rounds with you.
Just wait a bit, baby, I'll fill the maang (parting of hair) with stars.
The palanquin is ready since long,
Since you called.
The wedding outfit is on the way,
I've even ordered the veil.]
Out of the blue, Rajveer's voice filled the air as he ascended the stage. With a playful twinkle in his eyes, he reached for Naina's wrist and drew her nearer, serenading her with lyrics that spoke of adorning their shared path with stars. Their movements synchronized in an impromptu dance, he gracefully circled around her, his voice carrying the promise of their future. In each step and note, he conveyed that he had already set the wheels in motion for their impending wedding, even to the extent of securing his attire for the momentous occasion.
Bashfully, Naina's smile bloomed at his heartfelt proclamation. Overwhelmed by her own emotions, she gracefully retreated from the stage, creating the space for Rajveer to carry on with his captivating performance.
Sabki baratein aayin..
Sabki baratein aayin doli main bhi launga
Dulhan banake tujhko sang apne le jaunga
sabki baratein aayin ..
[Everyone's wedding processions are coming...
Everyone's wedding processions are here, I'll also bring the palanquin,
Dressed as a bride, I'll take you away with me.
Everyone's wedding processions are coming...]
With unwavering pride in his voice, Rajveer serenaded Naina, declaring his intentions to bring a grand wedding procession to her doorstep and sweep her away as his cherished bride. The audience was captivated by his words and the intensity of his emotions. After his powerful proclamation, Rajveer left the stage, only to return moments later, gently pulling Naina back onto the platform. Their eyes locked, and with a shared understanding, they resumed their performance, sharing their joy and love through their dance.
Sabki baaraatein aayi doli tu bhi lana
Dulhan banake humko raja ji le jana
Sabki baaraatein aayi..
[Everyone's wedding processions are here, you should also bring the palanquin,
Dress up as a bride and take me away, my prince.
Everyone's wedding processions are coming...]
[This song inspired this scene. I swear I could totally see Naina and Rajveer doing this. They needed this song.]
As the final chorus of the song flowed from Naina's lips, Rajveer gazed at her with a tender and adoring expression. With a heart full of love, he took a deliberate step back and gracefully descended to one knee right before her. The audience's murmur of anticipation was drowned out by Naina's astonished gasp, as the realization of his intent settled upon her.
From his pocket, Rajveer produced a small box, unveiling a dazzling diamond eternity ring that shimmered under the lights. With the ring glistening in his palm, he looked up at Naina, his eyes shining with unwavering affection and devotion. "Naina Campbell," he began, his voice carrying a blend of unwavering conviction and heartfelt emotion, "from the very moment our paths crossed, my world took on colors I never knew existed. You've illuminated my life, filling it with joy, love, and an unbreakable bond. Through all the challenges we've faced, you've been my rock, inspiring me to become the best version of myself."
Pausing, he allowed a tender smile to grace his lips, his gaze fixed unwaveringly on Naina. "Naina, every day with you is a cherished gift, and I can't imagine a future without you by my side. Your presence has the power to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, and the thought of spending the rest of my life with you fills me with an indescribable happiness." With a gentle sincerity, he continued, "I've come to realize that a lifetime wouldn't be enough to fully express the depth of my love for you. But let's start with forever. Will you grant me the privilege of being your partner, your confidante, and your husband? Will you marry me, Naina, and allow me to embark on this beautiful journey of togetherness?"
The hall was enveloped in a quiet yet electric anticipation as all eyes turned to Naina, awaiting her response with bated breath. Rajveer's expression radiated a delicate blend of hope and vulnerability, his heart hanging suspended on the precipice of her words.
"Yes... YES!" Naina's voice rang out, her affirmation resounding with an exuberant energy. Her eyes shimmered with the overflow of emotions that surged within her.
Rajveer's grin broadened at her resounding response. Gently lifting the ring from its box, he tenderly slipped it onto her left ring finger. Rising to his feet, he enveloped Naina in a tight embrace, the culmination of their love and commitment celebrated by the jubilant applause that cascaded throughout the hall. The room seemed to brim with joy, the fervent blessings of their loved ones weaving a tapestry of warmth and elation.
Among the applauding crowd, Naina's friends clapped with unbridled enthusiasm, their heartfelt support for the couple resonating in the resounding claps. Super Six members, their eyes glistening with tears of happiness, joined the chorus of applause, their emotions overflowing with love for their friends.
As the room filled with the thunderous clapping, Alekh's voice whispered a heartfelt prayer, "May God shower these two souls with boundless happiness and blessings."
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Rajveer's eyes were drawn to the luminous smile that adorned Naina's face as she engaged in conversations with the guests. A profound sense of contentment and joy swelled within him, a feeling he had never experienced so intensely. The anticipation of calling Naina his wife filled him with eagerness, each passing moment strengthening his resolve.
His reverie was interrupted by Gunny's playful nudge, accompanied by a teasing comment. "Stop staring at your fiancée and lend us a hand with serving the guests."
Rajveer shot Gunny a good-natured glance before resuming his role in serving. The dinner was being served, and he, Gunny, the members of Super Six, and Pooja's cousins were actively involved in ensuring that every guest was attended to. With practiced efficiency, they moved among the attendees, offering plates of delectable dishes and ensuring everyone was well taken care of.
After the dinner concluded, the guests engaged in conversations and groupings formed throughout the venue. Naina found a comfortable spot, leaning back against Rajveer's chest, a contented smile gracing her lips as he admired the glimmer of her engagement ring. Rajveer was captivated by her innocent delight in the ring, relieved that she was pleased with his choice. He had been anxious about it.
"I'm really happy you love the ring," Rajveer murmured, his lips pressing a gentle kiss to her ear.
Naina's smile widened as she tilted her head, allowing him better access. "Tell me about it. What inspired you to choose this particular design?" she inquired with curiosity, her eyes locking onto his.
"These are called 'Eternity rings.' The circle symbolizes forever, and the diamonds represent love. So, an eternity ring stands for never-ending love," Rajveer explained, his voice warm with affection. Taking a deep breath, he continued, "And this ring also signifies something more... it means I'm prepared to spend eternity by your side."
Naina's eyes widened at his words, her heart skipping a beat. His declaration took her by surprise. She had always assumed that Rajveer would pursue his military career before considering anything else. Her voice trembled slightly as she asked, her hope mingling with uncertainty, "A-Are you certain about this?"
Rajveer's gaze was unwavering as he nodded, a sincere smile on his face. "Yes, I'm sure. I've come to understand what truly matters. I've realized that our time together is limited in my world. So, the most logical choice is for me to join your world, ensuring we can be together," Rajveer explained with conviction.
Naina's emotions overwhelming her. She reached out and cupped his face with her hands, her eyes searching his for any hint of doubt. Finding none, she whispered, "Rajveer, I... I love you."
Rajveer's smile deepened, his eyes shining with love. "And I love you, Naina. More than anything."
Overwhelmed by her emotions, Naina's lips met Rajveer's in a tender and passionate kiss. Rajveer's smile melted into the kiss, his heart racing as he responded with equal fervor. The kiss was a beautiful symphony of their shared joy, love, and affection, a silent conversation that spoke volumes about their feelings for each other. It was as if through the kiss, they were expressing the depth of their emotions, reassuring each other of their truest intentions and unwavering love. Time seemed to stand still as they embraced, lost in the magical moment they were creating together.
"Mr. Romeo? Ms. Juliet? Ease up a bit. It's time to switch gears to the evening news," Alekh playfully alerted the couple.
Rajveer and Naina, still caught up in their own world, reluctantly pulled away from each other, realizing the moment they were about to witness. The moment they had eagerly been awaiting for their plan's fruition.
"We got lost in the moment," they whispered to each other, their eyes reflecting a mix of disbelief and amusement.
Alekh chimed in, reassuringly, "No worries, you two. But let's refocus now and tune in to the news."
Following Alekh's cue, Naina and Rajveer adjusted their posture, engaging in casual conversations with others in their group. With a touch of humor, Alekh exclaimed, "Romantic atmosphere everywhere! I think I've had my fill of romance for now."
Huda joined in with a chuckle, adding, "Don't worry, Alekh. You can find all the serious or gloomy news on the TV. It's a refreshing change."
"Sounds like a plan," Alekh agreed, reaching for the remote to turn on the television. The group settled in, ready to shift their focus on the TV.
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A/N:::