Chapter 58 Sacred Rituals
The Ganana Ritual - The First Step Toward Forever
Vanya sat gracefully on a low wooden stool, dressed in a beautiful yellow and red outfit, the colors of prosperity and new beginnings. Around her, women from his family hummed traditional Sindhi wedding songs, their voices filled with joy. The atmosphere was lively, yet sacred-marking the official start of her wedding rituals.
Aaryaant, dressed in a crisp kurta paired with nehru pink printed jacket, watched her from across the room, his gaze never leaving her.
"She looks like she was born for this moment." He leaned towards Ariv and whispered.
"Or maybe this moment was made for her." Ariv smirked.
A priest sat before Vanya and Aaryaant, beginning the Ganana Ritual-a traditional Sindhi ceremony where the couple sought blessings for a smooth and prosperous wedding.
The Ritual Begins!
The priest chanted mantras as vani tied a sacred red thread around her wrist, while Aavyaan did the same for him. The thread symbolized protection, blessings, and the bond they were about to strengthen for life.
The thread should be tied by their parents but in their absence, the siblings can perform the ritual.
"This thread will protect you both from any negativity and keep your bond strong," the priest explained.
Aaryaant glanced at her, a small smile tugging at his lips.
"Looks like you're officially stuck with me now."
She smiled, adjusting the thread on her wrist.
"Or maybe you're the one trapped, My Love."
Next, turmeric and rice were sprinkled over their heads by their elders and friends, showering them with prosperity and happiness. Anyu shivered slightly at the cool touch of the turmeric, making Aaryaant chuckle.
"Too delicate for a little haldi, are we?" he teased.
She narrowed her eyes playfully.
"Just wait till your turn comes. I'll make sure you get a full turmeric bath."
The elders blessed them both, whispering wishes of a happy and prosperous married life. As the ritual concluded, their families and friends cheered, throwing rose petals over them.
"One down, two more to go. Ready, Mrs. Soon-to-be Sindhi?" Aaryaant leaned in and murmured.
"Always." She met his gaze, her heart fluttered.
~·~
The evening of the sangeet ceremony arrived with dazzling lights, infectious energy and the sound of dhol beats echoing through the air. The massive backyard of the Kapoor Paradise was transformed into a grand stage, decorated with cascading fairy lights, vibrant drapes and fresh flowers.
The atmosphere was nothing short of magical!
The music softened as all the eyes turned towards the entrance, the doors swung open and there she stood, stealing everyone's breath away. She wore a stunning emerald green and gold lehenga, the intricate gold and diamond embroidery shimmering under the lights. Her long hair, styled in a ponytail falling like soft waves adorned with delicate jasmine flowers. Her gold jhumkas swayed as she moved gracefully.
Her best friend admired her from afar. She came to her with a smile.
"You're gorgeous, pretty sure someone won't be able to take his eyes off you tonight!" She nudged her. She smiled in reflex.
"I can see that!" She said glancing at him.
Aaryaant had just arrived, looking dashing in an emerald green sherwani with black kurta and gold with diamond embroidery that perfectly complemented her outfit. The moment his eyes landed on her, his teasing smirk flattered, replaced by a silent admiration. He froze for a moment.
"Bhaiyaah you're staring too much!" Ariv teased.
"Can you blame me?" Aaryaant replied still in daze.
She walked in gracefully, swaying to the background beats as her friends and cousins hyped her up. Reaching the stage, she raised a brow at him.
"Admiring the view!" She smirked. He chuckled offering his hand.
"Just appreciating my silly love's dramatic entry!"
"Get ready! Because this night is about to be unforgettable!" She placed her hand on his.
~·~
The Sangeet Performances – A Night of Dance, Fun, and Love
The energy in the venue was infectious as the Sangeet kicked off with a grand opening performance. The stage was set, the beats of the dhol filled the air, and the spotlight turned toward the first performers.
Vanya’s sisters and friends took the stage first, performing a lively Bollywood medley that had everyone clapping along. The mix included:
A fun, energetic dance to "Gallan Goodiyan" to set the celebratory mood.
A playful "London Thumakda", dedicated to Anyu’s journey of her new life as a bride.
A heartfelt performance on "Dil Dhadakne Do", where his younger brothers led the group, expressing the emotions.
As the brothers ended with a beautifully synchronized twirl with their girls, the crowd erupted in cheers. Vanya and Aaryaant howled, laughed and clapped for her family.
Not to be outdone, Aaryaant’s cousins, brothers and friends stormed the stage next, starting with a performance on "Desi boys"
Their performance was filled with playful teasing:
"Tera Hero Idhar Hai" – dedicated to Aaryaant, hyping him up as the star groom.
"Morni Banke" – a full-on battle of the families, as the dance floor turned into a playful war zone of energetic moves.
Aaryaant, laughing at their antics, stole a glance at her, who raised an eyebrow playfully.
It was her time to steal the spotlight! Mhe moment everyone had been waiting for.
As the music started, she stepped onto the stage, the lights dimming around her. The first beats of "Raataan Lambiyan" played, and her graceful Kathak-inspired moves left everyone mesmerized. The crowd fell silent, enchanted by her elegance.
But she wasn’t done yet. With a mischievous smile, the beats changed, and she broke into a power-packed performance of "Sau Aasman", twirling and moving effortlessly.
As she finished with a dramatic spin, the hall erupted in cheers. Aaryaant watched, completely captivated.
He silently accepted the challenge from her as got all set to fire the stage.
Not one to let her steal all the attention, Aaryaant smirked and took the stage next. His performance? A powerful mix of charm and energy.
He started with "Tum Jo Aaye", walking toward Anyu with smooth, romantic moves.
Then, suddenly, the beats changed, and he transitioned into showing off his flawless dance skills that had the crowd cheering.
As the song ended, he extended a hand toward her. "Dance with me?"
And there they start their magical dance!
As "Janam Janam" played, Anyu took Aaryaant’s hand. They danced like they were made for each other. Their chemistry was undeniable—his strong, confident moves perfectly balancing her graceful elegance.
As the song reached its climax, he spun her one last time, pulling her close. "Told you, you’re officially mine now."
The crowd cheered, the night filled with laughter, love, and music—a perfect beginning to their forever.
~·~
At night, their Ghari Puja was performed. The most important ritual in Sindhi weddings. Performed a day before the wedding for prosperity and happiness of the couple. They performed the puja wearing a simple maroon saree and maroon kurta.
The vibe of the ceremony was calm and serene. A deeply emotional and spiritual experience for everyone.
Their day went with playfully banter, laughter, blessings and a lot more mischievous.