22 Marriage Rites - I (2/2)

Akash removed his footwear at one side and is seated into the canopy prepared into the middle of the courtyard after washing his feet. There is an empty seat beside him for the bride to sit. In front, there is a place to install the god's statue to venerate and other objects of worship. Another side of the veneration objects the seat of the priest is made. All other people are seated surrounding the canopy. One side of the courtyard is for gents and another side is for ladies.

Ladies are singing the songs in the folk language of the village and its words are very abusive toward the groom. Songs mean that groom is such a low class and does not even compare to the dust under the feet of the bride and suddenly he became so lucky. Words are also there which mean that the groom is no match for the bride and everyone hopes that he will not make her unhappy due to jealousy. Song also mentions that groom is very bad looking and mannerless and hopefully he will learn something from the girl in the future.

Akash looked around and felt embarrassed on such type of songs. He saw people talking among themselves not paying attention and also few people are laughing on the song and muttered ”These peasants really need to learn manners. Such type of language calls for a harassment lawsuit. Oh God! Let it be over soon.”

Suddenly Kripa laughed from behind and Akash turned startled and found him recording and it seems he heard what Akash murmured. Kripa is still recording the things and he was a bit away to record what is happening around and just came back. There are other photographers arranged by boy and girl families but Kripa is preparing his own personal recording.

Kripa burst out laughing while aiming his camera on the face of Akash and said ”Ha ha ha. I liked that part about harassment lawsuit. That was really funny.” Then he said calmly ”You see, I talked with a person and asked the reason for these songs and they told me because you are going to take away the beloved girl of their family. So, they are showing their bitterness and discontent toward you through these songs. But I really admire this. If we understand the meaning and heart of the people of girl's family, these songs really feel justifiable.”

Akash fell silent and thought ”I hope they could just break the marriage and spare me this abuse.”

After some time there is a sound from the women side and Akash turned his head to see and found that the bride is being brought toward the canopy. Few ladies are supporting the bride and bring her forward.

Varsha is wearing red Saree and is also wearing jewelry in nose, ears, neck, wrist, waist, and ankles. Anklets are making soft chimes. She is moving ahead while lowering her head while lapel on her head gives her the look of a shy and gentle girl.

Kripa squatted beside Akash and whispered ”Friend! Let me tell you that this girl is better looking than many city girls. Look at her, she looks like some gentle goddess. I really wish that you both work things out and be happy.” and he stood and moved toward girl to record.

Akash looked toward the girl and met her eyes and she smiled and lowered her head shyly. Akash felt like he got caught in some bad act. For a moment he also felt like she looked good.

Akash reprimanded himself for acting like some frivolous person. ”Even if she looks good due to cosmetics and jewelry, but behind it all, she is still the same uneducated and dumb village girl.” Her smile which startled him a few moments ago suddenly made him extremely annoyed.