The day of the weddings dawned bright and clear in Hastinapura. Excitement filled the air as the royal families gathered, each with a sense of anticipation. Aja-akshar and Ananta-hara stood tall, their hearts filled with joy and pride as they awaited the arrival of their brides.
Queen Dharani and Parashurama, Aja-akshar's parents, arrived first, their presence commanding respect and admiration. The air crackled with energy as they stepped into the palace, dressed in regal attire adorned with symbols of their divine lineage.
"Today is a momentous day," Parashurama declared, his voice resonating with authority. "Let us ensure our sons and their brides receive the blessings they deserve."
Following them were King Dirghayaghna and his wife, who arrived with Ananta-hara's family. Their regal bearing and joyful demeanor set a celebratory tone for the day.
As the families mingled, whispers of excitement spread through the crowd. Suddenly, a group of figures clad in elegant but simple attire entered the hall—Tridevi and Trimurti, in disguise, along with other gods and goddesses. Their presence was a hidden blessing, watching over the union.
"May this day bring about the fulfillment of destinies," said Goddess Saraswati, her voice melodic. "These weddings are long overdue, and love must prevail."
The ceremonies began with the Baraat, a grand procession celebrating the grooms. Musicians played joyous tunes, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and cheer as Aja-akshar and Ananta-hara rode in, adorned with flower garlands and radiant smiles.
Next came the Pokwanu, where the families welcomed the grooms with open arms, showering them with flowers and blessings. Queen Gandhari stood at the forefront, beaming with pride.
"May you both find happiness and prosperity in your new lives," she said, her voice warm with affection.
After the Ganesh Puja to invoke blessings for a successful union, the Vaarpooja followed, honoring the grooms and ensuring that no obstacles lay ahead.
The moment everyone had been eagerly waiting for finally arrived—the Kanya Aagman, the entrance of the brides. Budhl-Padma and Ashvi-Aparuja entered, radiant and adorned in stunning bridal attire that shimmered under the sunlight. The sight left everyone in awe.
"Look at them," whispered Vrushali to Supriya and Uruvi, all three watching with admiration. "They are beautiful."
As the ceremony progressed to the Granthibandan and Varmala, Budhl-Padma and Ashvi-Aparuja exchanged garlands with their grooms, sealing their commitment in front of their families and the divine assembly.
Dhritarashtra, father of Budhl-Padma, stepped forward for the Kanyadan. "Today, I give away my daughter, not just as a father, but as a proud protector of her future," he said, his voice full of emotion.
Kunti, who stood beside him, placed a hand on Ashvi-Aparuja's shoulder. "And I give you my daughter as well, with all the love and blessings I possess," she added, tears glistening in her eyes.
The Havans followed, where Budhl-Padma and Aja-akshar, along with Ashvi-Aparuja and Ananta-hara, lit the sacred fire together, invoking the blessings of the universe. The flames danced, illuminating their faces and symbolizing their new beginnings.
As they completed the Mangal Fera, the four of them walked around the sacred fire, binding themselves to one another in love and respect.
"May we always walk together in harmony," Aja-akshar spoke, leading the vows.
"May our lives be filled with laughter and joy," Ananta-hara added, his voice steady.
The Saptapadi, the seven steps, followed, each step representing a sacred vow.
"With this step, I promise to nourish our love," said Budhl-Padma.
"With this step, I promise to support you in all endeavors," Ashvi-Aparuja vowed.
"As we take these steps, we grow stronger together," Aja-akshar declared.
"With each step, I promise to cherish and protect you," Ananta-hara affirmed.
As the final part of the ceremony approached, the Sindurs and Mangal Sutras were exchanged. Aja-akshar gently applied the sindur on Budhl-Padma's forehead, and Ananta-hara followed suit with Ashvi-Aparuja.
"From this day forth, you are my forever," Aja-akshar whispered, gazing into Budhl-Padma's eyes.
"Always," Ashvi-Aparuja replied, her heart swelling with love.
As the Akhand Saubhagyavati ceremony concluded, blessings from the married women, including Queen Gandhari and the mothers of the grooms, enveloped the brides.
Finally, the Vidaai ceremony came, filled with bittersweet emotions as both brides prepared to leave their childhood homes.
"May your new lives be filled with happiness and love," Dhritarashtra said, his voice heavy with emotion.
"Remember, you will always be a part of this family," Kunti added, embracing Ashvi-Aparuja tightly.
That night, after the celebrations, the couples retreated to their respective chambers, filled with a mix of excitement and nerves. The atmosphere was charged with passion and anticipation.
As the moonlight filtered through the windows, Budhl-Padma and Ashvi-Aparuja drifted into a deep sleep, only to find themselves transported to visions of their past lives.
In their dreams, they saw glimpses of their ancient selves breaking the curse, surrounded by their true loves, Karna and his consorts, Vrushali, Supriya, and Uruvi. The urgency of their shared destinies pressed down upon them.
"We must get Karna married to his soulmates within two months of our wedding," Budhl-Padma murmured in her sleep, "Or else the curse will remain unbroken."
Ashvi-Aparuja nodded, her brow furrowing. "And we must do it together. It's our duty to ensure that love triumphs over fate."
As dawn broke, they awoke, hearts united in purpose. They knew their journey was only beginning, and together, they would forge a path toward fulfilling their destinies, not just for themselves, but for Karna and his beloved consorts as well.