Saturday, September 23, 2023

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 19 : Pre-wedding Chronicles

Ilakiya woke up early on the day of her nalungu ceremony, her heart filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. This was the final pre-wedding ritual before her wedding ceremony the next morning and it was an important tradition in her culture.
As Ilakiya got ready for her nalungu ceremony, she couldn't help but think about the memories of Anbu, her ex-lover. She knew that the relationship was short-lived, but the memories of it will last her lifetime. She regrets that the sweet time had come to an end, but she knew that she had to move on and focus on the present.
Ilakiya was getting married to Suresh, the groom chosen by her parents and whom she had loved before she met Anbu. She realized that life does not always end up like we desire it to be. Sometimes, we have to accept the reality and move on from there. It was a difficult decision for her to make, but she knew it was for the best.
As she sat down on the wooden plank for the nalungu ceremony, Ilakiya took a deep breath and pushed the thoughts of Anbu to the back of her mind. She focused on the present, on the love and support of her family and friends, and on the future she would be building with Suresh.
The nalungu ceremony was an important tradition in her culture and she wanted to fully embrace it. As her maternal uncles, aunts, and close family friends smeared her face with turmeric and sandal paste, Ilakiya couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the new chapter in her life that was about to begin. Ilakiya thanked each of them with a smile and gave away 'kaalaanji' as a token of appreciation.
One of her favorite aunts, Mrs. Kavya, sat beside her and held her hand. "I can't believe my favorite niece is all grown up and ready to enter marital bliss," she said, tears welling up in her eyes. Ilakiya couldn't help but cry a little too, feeling the overwhelming emotions of the day.
Mrs. Kavya hugged her tightly and said, "Ilakiya, my dear, you have a huge responsibility and pride of our family on your shoulders. You are not just representing yourself, but you are representing the entire family. As a bride, it's important to maintain the family's honor and respect. Make sure to be good to your in-laws, respect them and their customs. Also, make sure to gain a good reputation among them. Remember, any bad reputation will tarnish the pride of our family."
Ilakiya could feel her heart heavy with the weight of the responsibility that she was taking on. She knew that maintaining the family's honor and respect was of utmost importance. She didn't want to disappoint her family or tarnish their reputation.
"I understand, athé. I will make sure to be good to my in-laws, respect them and their customs, and maintain a good reputation among them," Ilakiya replied in a choked voice, wiping her tears.
Mrs. Kavya smiled and hugged Ilakiya again, "I know you will, my dear. You are a strong and responsible girl. But remember, If you ever need anything or have any problems, don't hesitate to come to me. I will always be here for you."
Ilakiya hugged her aunt back, feeling grateful for her love and support. She took a deep breath and prepared herself for the journey ahead, ready to take on the responsibility and pride of her family

She resolved to leave memories of Anbu behind. She had loved him deeply, and the thought of him still pained her. She had seen him at places, but avoided making any eye contact, she knew that it was best for both of them if they moved on. Ilakiya even went as far as to threaten Anbu through messages, asking him not to contact her or attend her wedding. Though her actions may have seemed cruel, she knew it was for his own good. He deserved to move on and find happiness, just as she was doing with Suresh.

Ilakiya couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness as she thought about the memories of Anbu. But she knew that it was time to close that chapter of her life and move forward with Suresh. 

She closed her eyes and prayed that Anbu finds a better soulmate and is blessed with all the happiness in the world. Without her realizing, tears started flowing from her eyes.

Mrs. Kavya, who was sitting beside her, noticed her tears and embraced her. "Don't worry dear," she said, "Everything will be fine."

 Ilakiya nodded, feeling comforted by her aunt's words. She took a deep breath and wiped her tears. She knew she had to be strong for herself and for her family. She would make sure to build a strong and loving relationship with Suresh, and make her family proud.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 28 : The Rescue

The somber mood that had settled over the house after the Varalakshmi Pooja was palpable. The guests had departed, leaving behind a heavy si...