[KRISHNA'S POV]
As Raji and I stepped out of the house, the cool night air greeted us. The sky above was an endless stretch of dark, dotted with faint stars peeking through the clouds. Not far from the house, I noticed a small campfire burning peacefully, its warm orange glow reflecting on the faces of everyone seated around it. The soft light from the house behind us added a gentle shimmer to the scene, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere.
My gaze swept over the group—there they were: my girls, Renuka, Raju, Bhanumati, Varun, little Bujji, and a few other relatives I hadn't yet met properly. Everyone seemed relaxed, chatting softly, the fire casting flickering shadows over their smiling faces. They were all around our age or maybe a little older, but the way they sat together made it feel like they'd known each other for years. There was a quiet comfort in the air.
Raji and I exchanged a glance, then began walking toward them, the soft crunch of gravel under our feet the only sound as we approached. As we drew closer, I couldn't help but smile, taking in the peaceful scene. "It looks like everyone's enjoying themselves out here," I said, raising my voice just enough to catch their attention.
Heads turned toward us, and Bhanumati, sitting cross-legged near the fire, smiled and responded, "Yes, it's peaceful... and beautiful at the same time." Her words held a kind of simplicity that made the moment feel even more special, like this gathering was something worth holding onto.
I nodded, smiling as I looked around the circle. "Yeah, whose idea was this?" I asked, genuinely curious about how this perfect little moment had come to be.
Bhanumati grinned, glancing at Varun, who was poking the fire with a stick, the flames crackling gently under his care. "It was Varun's idea," she said, her voice full of warmth.
I turned to Varun, giving him an appreciative smile. "Nice idea, bro."
Varun looked up, meeting my gaze with a modest smile of his own. "Thanks, bro," he replied, the glow of the fire dancing in his eyes.
Anu smiled warmly as she patted the spot next to her and said, "Come, Raji, Krishna, sit with us." I nodded, taking the seat between Anu and Ammu, while Raji settled next to Ammu. Aamukta was sitting comfortably beside Anu, the firelight dancing on her face as she glanced over and smiled softly at me.
As we got comfortable around the campfire, Raju caught my attention with a grin, "Krishna, where were you? I didn't see you at the mehendi function."
I chuckled and replied, "Well, it's mostly for the girls, right? I went back to the room to get some work done. You know how it is."
Raju sighed, shaking his head in a mock serious tone, "Ah, work... I understand your pain, my friend." His tone earned a round of light laughter from everyone around the fire, the atmosphere growing even more relaxed as we chatted and enjoyed the warmth of the campfire.
As the conversation naturally flowed, I glanced at Varun, curious to know more about him. "Varun," I began, "are you studying or working right now?"
Varun looked up from the fire, his face illuminated by the soft glow, and replied with a smile, "I'm studying medicine, actually. Aiming to become a neurosurgeon."
I raised my eyebrows, impressed. "That's amazing, man. So, what's the plan once you're done with your studies? Are you thinking of coming back to India, or staying in the U.S.? I mean, from what I've seen, it looks like you're enjoying India quite a bit so far."
Varun leaned back slightly, his face illuminated by the flickering firelight, and responded thoughtfully, "I think staying in the U.S. would be better. Don't get me wrong—I love it here. The people, the environment—it's all beautiful. But when it comes to opportunities, I feel like I wouldn't progress as much if I settled here. India just doesn't seem to offer the same chances."
As soon as he finished speaking, I noticed Bhanumati's expression shift, a shadow of sadness and concern crossing her face. Her posture stiffened slightly, and I could sense that Varun's words had touched something deeper within her, perhaps a worry she'd carried about the country or the future she imagined.
I glanced at Varun and smiled, trying to keep the mood light but also feeling a need to correct the misconception. "Well, Varun, I have to disagree with you on that. There are plenty of opportunities here—you just have to look in the right places. India's changing, and there's so much potential waiting to be tapped into. And hey, even if you don't find something that fits, you can always work for me."
Varun's eyebrows shot up in surprise, clearly not expecting my response. "What do you mean?" he asked, curiosity piqued, as he leaned slightly forward.
I smiled warmly and said, "What I mean is, I own hospitals, Varun. You could work there if you ever decide to come back. But don't worry about all that right now. You've got time, so think carefully about what's best for you and the people you care about."
Varun looked down, his expression softening as he mulled over my words. After a moment, he nodded, "Yeah, you're right. I'll think about it."
I gave him a reassuring smile, hoping to lighten the mood, "Good, good. Now, on to more important matters—any love interests? I mean, your brother's already settling down, so do you have any plans for the future?"
I teased him with a grin, watching as Varun quickly waved his hands in protest. "No, no, not at all! I'm a medical student, remember? If I even get time away from studying, then maybe I could think about it. But for now? No chance."
His quick, flustered response had everyone around the fire laughing, the tension lifting as we all shared in the moment. I leaned back, laughing along, "Hahaha, well, that's true. Medical students barely get any time to breathe, let alone date!"
The warmth of the fire flickered between us as the conversation carried on, the night air cool but the atmosphere filled with lightheartedness and camaraderie. Everyone's faces glowed, illuminated by the campfire and the shared laughter, making the moment feel timeless. It was as if, in that small circle of friends and family, time had slowed down, and all that mattered was the simple joy of being together.
As we continued chatting and laughing around the campfire, the warmth of the evening blending with our joy, Renuka suddenly turned to me, her eyes twinkling as she smiled. "Krishna, I heard your songs. Can you sing for us, please?"
Caught off guard, I chuckled and started to reply, "But—" Before I could finish, Varun jumped in, eyes wide with surprise. "Really, Krishna? You're a singer?"
Then, Bhanumati chimed in with a mischievous grin, "Oh, Krishna's one of the best singers."
I raised an eyebrow, thinking to myself 'And when did that happen?' But before I could even react, everyone else nodded in agreement, their curiosity and excitement bubbling over. Renuka, with a playful nudge, leaned in, "Please, Krishna. We'd all love to hear you sing."
Her plea caught the attention of Anu, who was sitting quietly beside me. She turned, her gaze soft yet persuasive, "Krishna…"
I met her eyes, feeling that familiar tug. Anu's gentle smile always had a way of melting any reluctance I had. She clasped her hands together, leaning closer, "Please?"
At that, my other girls joined in, their collective chorus impossible to resist. It was like I had no choice but to give in, their eager faces making it clear they wouldn't let me off the hook. Letting out a small sigh of defeat, I smiled back at them. "Alright, alright. I guess I've been a little quiet on YouTube lately anyway."
As soon as I agreed, the air around the campfire shifted. Everyone perked up, excitement spreading like wildfire.
I looked around at everyone, my smile widening as I asked, "Does anyone have a guitar or something?"
For a second, there was silence, and then Varun's cousin—what was her name again? Ah, yes, Shailu—spoke up, smiling brightly. "Yes, I have one!"
A wave of excitement rippled through the group as they all nodded. Shailu, with her mehndi-covered hands, glanced over at Bujji and said playfully, "Bujji, come with me. I need your help."
Bujji stood up without hesitation, the playful banter continuing as they left to grab the guitar. I watched them disappear into the house, and after a moment, I stood up too. "I'll grab my camera," I said casually, making my way inside.
When I came back, Shailu and Bujji had returned with the guitar. I walked over to Varun, who was still sitting by the fire, and said with a grin, "Hey Varun, could you record my video while I sing?"
Varun's eyes lit up as he nodded. I handed him my camera, trusting him to capture the moment. Taking the guitar from Bujji, I sat back down between Anu and Ammu, their expectant faces making me smile even wider.
I glanced at everyone, the firelight flickering across their eager expressions. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation, like we were about to create a memory that would last forever.
Ammu glanced at me, her eyes curious and filled with excitement. "So, Krishna, are you going to sing one of the songs you wrote tha other day?" she asked sweetly.
I shook my head with a smile, gently strumming the strings of the guitar. "No, those songs are for the studio. Tonight, I'm going to sing something new."
Hearing that, my girls nodded, their expressions shifting to quiet anticipation. I turned toward Renuka and Raju, who were sitting together by the fire, their faces bathed in the soft glow of the flames. With a warm smile, I said, "Consider this song a little gift from me and my girls—a congratulatory present for both of you."
They exchanged glances and smiled back, clearly touched by the gesture. Their warmth made the night feel even more intimate. I could feel the weight of the moment settling around us, something personal and shared.
I glanced over at Varun, who was holding the camera steady. "Ready?" I asked.
Varun nodded, a grin spreading across his face as he adjusted the focus on me. "Ready," he said, and hit record.
Turning to face the camera, I smiled, my heart racing just a little as I said, "This song is called 'Ek Din Aap'."
With that, I let my fingers move gently across the guitar strings, creating a soft, melodic intro. The night was still, only the crackling of the fire and the faint sound of the guitar filling the air. The stars overhead seemed to listen in, as if they too were waiting for the song.
I closed my eyes briefly, allowing myself to sink into the music, and then began to sing.
"Ek din aap yu hamako mil jaaege
Phul hi phul raaho me khil jaaege
Maine sochaa na thaa
Ek din aap yu hamako mil jaaege
Phul hi phul raaho me khil jaaege
Maine sochaa na thaa..."
The words came out effortlessly, filling the cool night air with warmth. As I sang, I noticed Renuka leaning into Raju, her face soft with emotion. The others were quiet, lost in the melody, their expressions touched by the song's sincerity.
"Ek din zindagi itani hogi hasi
Jhumegaa aasamaa gaaegi ye zami
Ek din zindagi itani hogi hasi
Jhumegaa aasamaa gaaegi ye zami
Maine sochaa na thaa..."
I saw Anu glance at Ammu, a shared smile passing between them as they swayed gently to the rhythm. It wasn't just a song anymore—it felt like a shared moment of happiness, something deeper than words. The lyrics flowed naturally, each word filled with meaning and affection. The song was about love, hope, and the beauty of unexpected moments—the kind of moments that made life feel like a dream. As I sang, I could feel the emotion rising within me, the firelight dancing on my skin, the presence of everyone around me anchoring me in that perfect moment.
"Dil ki daali me kaliyaa khilane lagi
Jab nigaahe nigaaho se milane lagi
Dil ki daali me kaliyaa khilane lagi
Jab nigaahe nigaaho se milane lagi..."
I sang, letting the emotion swell in my voice, my fingers dancing over the strings with a light, graceful touch. It felt like the stars above were twinkling just a little brighter, as if even the universe was listening in on this special night.
"Ek din is tarah hosh kho jaaege
Paas aaege madahosh ho jaaege
Maine sochaa na thaa..."
I caught Varun's gaze through the camera lens—he was smiling, clearly enjoying his role as the cameraman, but also deeply moved by the song. The campfire flickered between us, adding a gentle flicker to the scene. With each line, I could see everyone sink a little deeper into the moment, the night wrapping around us like a soft blanket.
"Jagamagaati chandani raat hai
Raat hai yaa sitaaro ki baaraat hai
Jagamagaati chandani raat hai
Raat hai yaa sitaaro ki baaraat hai..."
As the song continued, the lyrics carried a sense of wonder and love, a promise of something beautiful and pure. It wasn't just a song anymore—it was the feeling of being together, of sharing something special.
"Ek din dil ki raaho me apane lie
Jal uthege mohabbat ke itane die
Maine sochaa na thaa..."
The fire crackled softly as the song reached its final verse. My voice softened, slowing down, as I let the words linger in the air. As my voice carried through the night, I could see the smiles on their faces, the way Renuka leaned against Raju, Bhanumati's soft gaze.
"Ek din zindagi itani hogi hasi
Jhumegaa aasamaa gaaegi ye zami
Maine sochaa na thaa..."
With the last strum of the guitar, I let the final note hang in the air, the stillness that followed thick with emotion. I looked around at everyone, their faces glowing with the firelight, their smiles wide and full of warmth.
"Maine sochaa na thaa...
Maine sochaa na thaa...
Maine sochaa na thaa..."
The song ended, and for a moment, there was a beautiful silence—no words were needed. Then, as if on cue, the group broke into soft applause, their eyes reflecting the same joy I felt inside.
Renuka wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, and even Raju seemed to be moved. The air felt lighter after the song, and for a brief moment, everything was still. My girls—Anu, Ammu, Raji, and Aamukta—wrapped their arms around me, their warmth comforting as we shared the afterglow of the performance. The world seemed to pause as we enjoyed the closeness, a moment that felt eternal, until the sound of applause broke the quiet.
"That was beautiful," Anu whispered, her voice barely audible, but I could hear the emotion behind it.
Everyone had come back to their senses, clapping their hands, smiling from ear to ear. Renuka and Raju, still glowing from the song's emotion, looked at me with heartfelt smiles.
"Krishna, this song is so beautiful. We really loved your gift," Renuka said, her eyes shining with appreciation. Raju nodded in agreement beside her.
I waved my hand dismissively, offering them a soft smile. "Don't mention it," I said, trying to downplay the joy their words gave me. But I couldn't hide the happiness bubbling inside me, knowing the song had touched them.
As the others chimed in, sharing how much they enjoyed the song, I handed the guitar back to Bujji, who took it with a smile, and retrieved the camera from Varun. My mind was already turning, thinking about editing the video and getting it ready to post on my YouTube channel, MusicMelody. But for now, the conversation flowed around me, warm and easy, like the night itself.
Just then, Renuka's aunt and a few other relatives approached, gently pulling her and Raju away to continue with the next round of wedding rituals. Their departure marked a shift in the energy—though not a bad one. It was just time to move inside.
"Looks like the night's far from over," Ammu remarked, watching Renuka and Raju disappear into the house. Girls exchanged glances before deciding to join the rituals, excitement in their steps.
"No one's sleeping tonight," I said with a chuckle, watching them head off into the crowd. The wedding wasn't winding down; if anything, it was just getting started.
With the girls off to enjoy the ceremony, the boys and I made our way inside, away from the crisp night air, into the warmth of the house. We found a spot to settle, cups of steaming tea in hand, the perfect companion to our conversation. The tea tasted like comfort—rich, earthy, and a little sweet, exactly what we needed as we continued talking.
I excused myself for a moment and headed to the room to grab my laptop. The song was still fresh in my mind, and I wanted to capture it while the energy was still alive. Opening my laptop, I quickly transferred the video file, eager to edit and post it on my YouTube channel, MusicMelody. The excitement of sharing the song with a wider audience gave me an extra rush of adrenaline.
But for now, I rejoined the boys, laptop tucked under my arm. The conversation picked up right where we left off, laughter filling the room, mingling with the clinking of tea cups. It felt like the night could stretch on forever—none of us were in any rush to let it end.
The rituals continued in the background, faint sounds of laughter coming from the other side of the house. There was something magical about nights like this, where time felt fluid, stretching and expanding with every shared story, every cup of tea, and every easy laugh.
As I settled back into the conversation, I glanced at my laptop. The night was still young, and there was plenty of time to edit later. For now, I wanted to be in the moment, soaking it all in. After all, nights like these—the laughter, the music, the camaraderie—were the ones you remembered long after they were over.
(A/N: If you'd like to support me, please use this UPI: omgadekar29@oksbi "Om Gadekar". If you do, please let me know your webnovel name so I can recognize you.)
(Word's Count:-3095)