Chapter 25 – Planning the Wedding

That afternoon, Richard's parents and extended family arrived at the Rajawat residence.

The house buzzed with excitement as everyone gathered in the large living room.

Tea, snacks, and sweets were served while the elders greeted one another warmly.

Richard's father, Daniel: "We're very happy to be here. This marriage is not just the union of Richard and Aradhya, but of our two families."

Rajendra: "We feel the same."

Everyone smiled.

After some casual conversation, Daniel spoke again.

Daniel: "Since our family follows Christian traditions and your family follows Hindu traditions, we were wondering how you would like the wedding ceremonies to be."

Raghav nodded.

Raghav: "We've been discussing that too."

Richard looked at Aradhya.

She smiled, knowing this conversation was important.

Poornima quietly served tea while Veeresh sat beside her.

Daniel continued.

Daniel: "We would love Richard and Aradhya to have a traditional white wedding in the church."

His wife, Maria, added,

Maria: "Our entire family has always celebrated marriages that way."

Ritika smiled warmly.

Ritika: "And we would also like our daughter to experience a traditional Hindu wedding."

Rajendra nodded.

Rajendra: "The blessings of the sacred fire and the seven vows are very important to us."

Richard looked at Aradhya.

Richard: "I'm happy with both."

Aradhya smiled.

Aradhya: "So am I."

The elders exchanged approving glances.

Poornima finally spoke.

Poornima: "Why should they choose one tradition over the other?"

Everyone turned towards her.

She continued gently.

Poornima: "Both families have beautiful customs."

She looked at Daniel and Maria.

Poornima: "Let's celebrate both."

She then looked at Rajendra and Ritika.

Poornima: "A traditional Hindu wedding first, with all the rituals—haldi, mehendi, sangeet, the wedding ceremony, and blessings."

She smiled.

Poornima: "Then, the next day, a beautiful white wedding in the church where they exchange vows and rings."

The room fell silent for a moment.

Then Maria smiled brightly.

Maria: "That's a wonderful idea."

Daniel nodded.

Daniel: "Both families will feel respected."

Rajendra laughed happily.

Rajendra: "Perfect!"

Raghav agreed.

Raghav: "Our children will begin their new life with blessings from both traditions."

Richard looked at Aradhya and squeezed her hand.

Richard: "Two weddings."

Aradhya laughed.

Aradhya: "Twice the celebrations."

Everyone joined in the laughter.

Soon the discussion became lively.

Dates for the haldi, mehendi, and sangeet were finalized.

The Hindu wedding would take place at a beautifully decorated temple venue with family and friends.

The following day, the white wedding would be held in a historic church adorned with white lilies and roses.

Richard's cousins excitedly discussed tuxedos and bridesmaids' dresses.

Aradhya's cousins talked about colourful lehengas, dance performances, and wedding songs.

Maria and Ritika began discussing jewellery and bridal attire together, while Daniel and Rajendra planned the guest list and reception.

Watching both families laughing together, Veeresh quietly leaned toward Poornima.

Veeresh: "Looks like we're going to attend the same wedding twice."

Poornima smiled.

Poornima: "And feed guests for two days instead of one."

Veeresh laughed softly.

As the room filled with happiness and wedding plans, everyone felt that the coming days would not only celebrate Aradhya and Richard's love but also bring two families, two traditions, and many hearts together.