Chapter 20 - ch 20 Farewell

The morning sun bathed the grand city of Hastinapur in a golden glow, a bittersweet reminder that it was time for the newlywed couples to leave their familial home and begin their new lives together. The palace courtyard was filled with the sounds of preparation as the carriages awaited the departure of the three newly married couples. A solemn yet joyful mood hung over the air as they prepared for the Vidaai ceremony, a tradition steeped in love, farewells, and new beginnings.

The families had gathered to say their goodbyes, standing together as a united force. Queen Gandhari and Dhritarashtra, their hearts heavy yet proud, stood first in line to bid farewell to their beloved daughter Budhl-Padma and their niece Ashvi-Aparuja.

Gandhari took a deep breath, her voice filled with emotion as she addressed her daughter. "Budhl-Padma, my child, as you leave today, know that this home is always yours. You go now to create your own family, to step into the future with strength and love. I have every faith that you will be a guiding light in your new home, just as you were here."

Dhritarashtra, standing by his wife's side, placed a comforting hand on his daughter's head, offering a blessing. "May your journey ahead be filled with happiness and harmony. You and Ashvi-Aparuja have honored this family with your strength, and now, it is time to carry that into your new homes."

Ashvi-Aparuja stood beside her cousin, her eyes glistening with unshed tears as she looked at her aunt and uncle. Gandhari embraced her tightly. "Ashvi-Aparuja, you are more than just a niece—you are a daughter to us. You go to Ayodhya now, to fulfill your destiny, but remember that love and unity are the pillars that will hold your new family together. We are proud of you."

Kunti stepped forward, her eyes filled with love as she addressed both Budhl-Padma and Ashvi-Aparuja. "My dear daughters, as you step into this new chapter, remember that the strength of a family lies in unity, in love, and in trust. You have all of that within you, and your husbands are fortunate to have you by their side. May your homes be filled with laughter and joy. And though you leave this palace today, know that I will always be here for you."

She kissed their foreheads gently, offering a mother's blessing. "You go to build your own homes, to create families that will shape the future, but never forget where you come from. Your roots are strong, and they will support you always."

The Kauravas and Pandavas stood in silence, their eyes reflecting the mix of joy and sorrow they felt. The sisters who had been their pillars of strength and wisdom were now leaving to embark on their own journeys as wives, to build families of their own.

Suyodhana stepping forward as the eldest, spoke on behalf of his brothers.

"We are sad to see you go," he began, his voice thick with emotion. "But we understand that your lives are now tied to your husbands. Know that you will always be a part of this family, no matter where you go. We will miss you, but we will visit soon."

The Pandavas, especially Yudhishthira and Arjuna, nodded in agreement, their expressions soft with pride. "You will always have a home here," Arjuna added, his voice barely above a whisper. "May your new lives be filled with joy."

The sisters exchanged heartfelt goodbyes with their brothers, knowing that while this was a farewell, it was not an end. They promised to visit often, to keep their bonds strong despite the distance.

Finally, it was time for the couples to depart. The group began to split off, each heading to their new destinations.

Aja-akshar and Budhl-Padma were bound for the sacred city of Kashi, where their new life awaited. Their chariot, adorned with flowers, was ready to take them on their journey, symbolizing the new path they would walk together as husband and wife.

Ananta-hara and Ashvi-Aparuja would journey to Ayodhya, where their responsibilities awaited them as leaders and protectors of the kingdom. The city would welcome them as its new rulers, but for now, they cherished these last moments with their family.

Karna, along with Vrushali, Supriya, and Uruvi, prepared to return to Anga, where Karna's destiny awaited him as a ruler. His wives stood by his side, their hearts filled with love and hope as they looked forward to building a future together.

As the couples stepped into their respective carriages, the families gathered one last time to offer blessings. The parents placed garlands around their children's necks, whispering prayers for their future, for prosperity, and for a life filled with love and harmony.

The sound of the horses' hooves echoed through the courtyard as the carriages began to roll forward. Gandhari, Dhritarashtra, and Kunti stood at the gates of the palace, watching as their daughters and nieces left to begin their new lives. There was sadness in their hearts, but also immense pride.

And as the carriages disappeared over the horizon, the families knew that while this was a farewell, it was not goodbye. The bonds of love and family would always keep them connected, no matter where their paths took them.