After personally supervising every arrangement in the palace, Kranti and Sumitra finally walked into the pandal. They immediately caught Dashrath's attention. He smiled with quiet pride looking at Kranti.
DASHRATH- Aakhir ghar ki grihalakshmi bhi aa gayi.
Kranti smile to hear him and folded her hands before Lord Ganesha and bowed her head in prayer. Only after offering flowers at the deity's feet did she turned towards Dashrath.
KRANTI- you only keep on praising. Help to zara bhi hoti nahi hai aap se.
Dashrath laughs at Kranti's complaints meanwhile Sumitra took the blessings from the lord and turned towards Dashrath and Kranti. Looking at the beautifully decorated mandap, Dashrath said.
DASHRATH- you again did a great job Kranti. Har saal lagta hai isse zyada khoobsurat kuch ho hi nahi sakta, aur har saal tum galat sabit kar deti ho.
Kranti smiled modestly. While Sumitra have nodded her head in agreement.
DASHRATH- waise sab dekh liya na tum dono ne.? Anything left.?
Asked Dashrath turning towards Kranti and Sumitra one by one. Kranti stood confidently while Sumitra have already shook her head sideways.
SUMITRA- anything left.? If you are talking about arrangements bhaiya, then to find any 'kami' we have to keep a separate committee.
Dashrath laughs at her words while Kranti rolled her eyes smiling in disbelief.
DASHRATH- that is why I do not worry much. Mujhe pata hai tum dono behene jo iss ghar ki bahuye bhi ho, will handle everything appropriately.
Dashrath's praises made Kranti and Sumitra to smile at him. The three shared a light moment before the sound of footsteps drew their attention.
SHANTA- bade papa... badi maa...
All three turned to find Rishi and Shanta walking towards them. Shanta immediately hugs Dashrath and he affectionately placed his hand on her head.
DASHRATH- how are you.?
Shanta smile happily and turned towards Kranti to hug her.
SHANTA- me bilkul theek hu. But I want to say ki badi maa har saal kamal kar deti hai.
Kranti smiled at her and placed her hand on Shanta's head.
KRANTI- Tum log aa jao, ghar waise hi roshan ho jaata hai.
Shanta then embraced Sumitra happily.
SHANTA- aap sab kaise hai choti maa.?
Sumitra gently caressed her face.
SUMITRA- all well. Tum batao.
Shanta nodded her head happily. Meanwhile, Rishi stepped forward with folded hands.
RISHI- namaste.!
Dashrath nodded politely.
DASHRATH- Khush raho.
There was respect between them, but not much familiarity. Their conversations had always remained formal and brief. Kranti smile looking at both of them and to brighten the mood she said.
KRANTI- Reema bhabhi nahi aayi beta.?
Shanta's smile immediately reduced to hear about her mother-in-law while she looked at Rishi who was finding words to say. Sumitra understanding that eye exchange, interrupted.
SUMITRA- unse yeh lights, camera, securities se head ache hojati hai na.
Rishi smile at her and Shanta nodded to agree.
SHANTA- isliye mummy ji nahi aa payi.
Dashrath nodded softly while Kranti smile at her. Trying to brighten the mood, Shanta looked around the pandal. Then she asked excitedly.
SHANTA- by the way, where are my brothers.?
The three elders smiled at her question while Rishi too turned his eyes to find the Raghuvanshi boys.
RISHI- Haa, charo me se koi dikh nahi raha.?
Kranti nodded her head lightly.
KRANTI- they are at Raghuvanshi Enterprises.
Shanta looked surprised and she folded her hands.
SHANTA- office.? Kyu.?
Sumitra nodded in agreement before she answers.
SUMITRA- waha workers, guards, helpers aur staffs ko gifts dene gaye hai. Those who will not be able to come at present.
Dashrath smiled proudly to hear that and Shanta too nodded her head happily.
RISHI- I must say, itna naam kamane ke baad bhi, iss ghar ke sanskaro me koi kami nahi hai.
Kranti and Sumitra have felt proud to hear that while Dashrath smile lightly at Rishi.
DASHRATH- our upbringings are our identities. Mere charo bete samajhte hai iss baat ko.
Rishi smile at him lightly and nodded his head to agree while Dashrath holds his hands at his back and continues.
DASHRATH- I never taught them to become mere owners. I taught them to shoulder responsibility. To be responsible so that our family sees happy days.
Dashrath's words for Rishi made him to look at Shanta while she actioned him to stay quiet. Rishi took a deep breath and Dashrath continues.
DASHRATH- they are bosses, they could have directly come here in limelight. But they chose to share this happiness with the people who works for us. The people because of whom we are here.
Kranti smile proudly and so as Sumitra while Shanta too got a smile hearing praises for her brothers. Rishi nodded happily agreeing to everything Dashrath said.
DASHRATH- Woh charo bhale hi business me abhi abhi join kar rahe ho, but hamesha se wo factory floor par jaakar workers se haath milate hain, employees ki baat sunte hain aur har choti-badi baat khud dekhte hain.
Kranti looked at Dashrath with quiet pride. She had heard these words before, yet every time they reflected the values on which the family stood.
SHANTA- bas bas bade papa. If those four heard you praising them, they will not be able to believe and will fall down behosh.!
Shanta's joke made everyone to laugh while Rishi to got a smile crept on his face.
KRANTI- charon hai hi aise. No one could deny or point out any flaws in my sons.
Sumitra and Shanta sighed dramatically while Kranti turned around her.
KRANTI- bas thodi der aur. Mere charo bete aate hi honge.
Said Kranti turning towards the main gate as in waiting for her sons. Shanta's face brightened looking at her. Everyone too turned towards the gate waiting for the four people who have kept almost everyone in the palace to wait.!
**********
A luxurious car came to a halt at the entrance. A staff member hurried forward and opened the door. Stepping out with elegance and confidence was Mandira Maheshwari. Draped in a rich maroon Kanjeevaram saree with exquisite gold jewelry, she carried herself with the dignity of a woman who had seen generations grow before her. There was an unmistakable sense of pride in her personality, though it was softened by her affection for her nieces.
The moment Kranti noticed her, she smiled.
KRANTI- Maasi!
She and Sumitra walked forward together to welcome her. Mandira lovingly placed her hands on their heads.
MANDIRA- God bless both of you. May you always remain happy and prosperous.
Sumitra smile at her. While Kranti held her hand affectionately.
KRANTI- We have been waiting for you. Hume to laga aap aayengi hi nahi.
Mandira laughed softly.
MANDIRA- How could I miss such an important day? I returned from Banaras only yesterday, but there was no question of staying away from my daughters' home.
Sumitra smiled at her with a nod.
SUMITRA- Then you must tell us about your trip. Kaisa raha Banaras.?
Mandira's face brightened instantly.
MANDIRA- Beautiful. Peaceful. The Ganga Aarti was mesmerizing, and the darshan at Kashi Vishwanath filled my heart with peace.
Kranti folded her hands gratefully.
KRANTI- wonderful.
As they walked toward the mandap, Mandira looked around the palace.
MANDIRA- mene sabke liye prashad bhi laya hai.
Kranti and Sumitra smile at her. While Mandira's eyes wandered across the magnificent floral decorations, the crystal chandeliers, the bustling staff, and the perfectly coordinated arrangements. A proud smile appeared on her face. She looked at Kranti and Sumitra and said.
MANDIRA- Looking at all this fills my heart with pride. My daughters are ruling the Raghuvanshi family today.
Kranti and Sumitra became happy, just then Kranti saw Dashrath walking towards the entrance, he must be welcoming a guest there.
MANDIRA- The entire palace moves according to your word. Everyone listens to you two. What greater happiness could a mother ask for?
Kranti smiled politely, but before she could respond, Sumitra's expression changed ever so slightly. She lowered her eyes. She loved and respected her Maasi deeply, yet she could not agree with few of Mandira's thoughts. Kranti noticed it immediately. With a gentle smile, she turned toward Mandira.
KRANTI- Maasi, aisa kuch nahi hai.
Mandira looked surprised.
MANDIRA- Why? Did I say something wrong? Kya yeh sach nahi hai ki meri dono betiya Raghuvanshi khandan par raaj karti hai.
Kranti shook her head to deny.
KRANTI- No, we don't rule this family. We are simply blessed to be a part of it.
She glanced toward Dashrath again who is seen waiting for the black car to get parked.
KRANTI- This home belongs to everyone. No one stands above another here. The strength of the Raghuvanshi family has never been authority- it has always been togetherness.
Mandira chose to listened quietly. While Sumitra smile and continued.
SUMITRA- If people value my opinion or listen to me or didi, it is not because we hold a position in this family. It is because they have given us their love and trust.
Mandira rolled her eyes for once while Kranti nodded to agree.
KRANTI- In this house, no one rules. Love rules. Trust rules. And above everything else, responsibility rules.
Sumitra nodded to agree when Mandira's eyes caught Dashrath. She got a smirky smile on her face.
MANDIRA- yes, love rules ofcourse. Isliye to tumhara pati abb bhi uski peheli biwi se baat karta hai.
Kranti and Sumitra looks at each other and then immediately turned towards Dashrath who is ready to welcome Kaushalya Sharma.
She was dressed in an elegant ivory silk saree with a deep crimson border, her appearance simple yet graceful. A small bindi adorned her forehead, and years had added dignity rather than age to her personality. There was a calm confidence in the way she walked-one that came from accepting life's twists with maturity. A few guests recognized her and quietly exchanged glances.
GUEST 1- Kaushalya kabhi kisi occasion par yaha aana nahi bhulti.
Whispered one of the guest to the other who smile nodding in agreement.
GUEST 2- Kranti bhi to use iss family ka hissa hi manti hai.
Both of them turned to look at Dashrath and Kaushalya greeting.
GUEST 1- Dashrath aur Kaushalya abb ek ache dost hai. They are well wishers. It really is strange.!
The guests smile feeling wondered while they continued looking at the both.
Dashrath walked towards Kaushalya to receive her.
DASHRATH- Welcome, Kaushalya. I am glad you came.
Kaushalya smiled warmly at him.
KAUSHALYA- How could I stay away? Thirty years is not just a milestone for Raghuvanshi Enterprises, it is a part of all our journeys.
Dashrath nodded in agreement.
DASHRATH- Thank you for being here.
There was no awkwardness between them, no bitterness hidden beneath formal words. Time had changed many things, but it had also taught them maturity. They had learned to respect the chapters they had shared and the lives they had built afterward.
Dashrath gestured toward the mandap.
DASHRATH- come, Kranti is waiting for you.
Kaushalya smile at him. Meanwhile Kranti turned to look at Mandira.
KRANTI- Kaushalya didi hamesha se iss ghar ke har function me participate karti hai. She still has a connection with all of us.
Kranti said in a firm voice and started walking towards Dashrath and Kaushalya before Mandira says anything.
SUMITRA- Wealth can build a palace. Success can build an empire. But only values can build a family.
Sumitra said looking at Mandira while she rolled her eyes in disbelief and keep on staring at Kranti meeting Kaushalya.
Kranti smile warmly at Kaushalya and embrace her to meet.
KRANTI- welcome Kaushalya didi.
Kaushalya smile back at her and nodded her head.
KAUSHALYA- I am so proud of you Kranti. You have taken such a wonderful care of everything.
Kaushalya said turning her gaze around while Dashrath have felt proud for Kranti.
KRANTI- I have only tried to fulfill my responsibilities.
Kaushalya looked around at the beautifully decorated palace once again. The floral arrangements, the perfectly organized staff, the welcoming atmosphere-everything reflected careful planning. She smiled appreciatively.
KAUSHALYA- It shows. Every corner of this home speaks of your dedication.
Kranti lowered her eyes modestly.
KRANTI- You are very kind to me.
Kaushalya shook her head sideways while Dashrath smile looking at Kranti.
KAUSHALYA- no, I am simply being honest. A house becomes beautiful because of its walls, but a home becomes beautiful because of the people who nurture it.
Kranti felt happy somewhere. Just then Sumitra enters and greeted Kaushalya respectfully.
SUMITRA- Namaste, Kaushalya ji.
Kaushalya returned the greeting with warmth.
KAUSHLYA- How are you, Sumitra?
Sumitra nodded her head positively.
SUMITRA- I am all well. It's wonderful to have you here.
She smiled back.
KAUSHLYA- And it's wonderful to see all of you together.
Dashrath watched the exchange quietly. There was a sense of ease in the conversation, born from mutual respect rather than obligation. Looking at Kranti, Kaushalya said with genuine admiration.
KAUSHLYA- I have always believed that relationships are not strengthened by titles but by conduct. You have earned everyone's affection through yours.
Kranti smiled gently at her.
KRANTI- The affection of this family is my greatest blessing.
Kaushalya nodded to agree.
KAUSHALYA- Then treasure it.
Both the ladies smile at each other. At that moment, the temple bells rang once again. The priests announced that the auspicious rituals were about to begin.
SUMITRA- lo, Puja ka time hogaya but yeh charon abb tak aaye nahi.
Said Sumitra in disbelief while Dashrath checks his watch for the time. Kranti too nodded in agreement and turned towards the gate again.
DASHRATH- first aarti should be performed by the future of Raghuvanshi family.
Kaushalya immediately looks at Kranti and found her nodding her head positively.
KRANTI- aap call kijiye na. Dekhiye to kaha reh gaye charon.
Dashrath nodded in agreement and takes his cellphone to call his sons.
SUMITRA- come, we will go.
Sumitra politely asks Kaushalya to move towards the pandal and she smile at her. All three ladies started walking towards the pandal where everyone were waiting for them.
**********
Everyone, including Guruji Vashisht, Mandira, Kaushalya, Dashrath, Kranti, Sumitra, Rishi and Shanta, had gathered around the mandap along with relatives, friends, family. While outside the gates, the city's biggest celebration had drawn media houses, industrialists, and distinguished guests.
Standing before the idol, Dashrath looked toward the entrance every few moments. Though he maintained his composure, a father could never hide the eagerness in his eyes.
Just then, a familiar voice came from behind.
SUMANT- Sir...
Dashrath turned towards Sumant Tyagi. Dressed in a neatly pressed suit, he carried a folder in one hand and a wireless set in the other, evidence that he had been coordinating the event since dawn.
He walked up to Dashrath and folded his hands at back respectfully.
SUMANT- Everything is under control.
Dashrath nodded happily and he placed his hand on Sumant's shoulder for once.
DASHRATH- jab tum ho, to mujhe aur kuch dekhne ki zarurat kya hai Sumant.
Sumant smile proudly. They definitely have that friendly relationship other than work. Dashrath continued looking at the entrance and Sumant watches him. A smile appeared on Sumant's face.
SUMANT- They have crossed the Altamount road and are just a few minutes away.
The lines on Dashrath's forehead softened. And he immediately turned to look at Sumant.
SUMANT- aap kabse unn charon ka wait kar rahe hai. Aur wo unki responsibilities puri kar rahe hai.
Dashrath got an increase in his smile and he nodded happily. He looked toward Lord Ganesha and murmured.
DASHRATH- They never leave their responsibilities unfinished.
Kranti, standing nearby, smiled knowingly.
KRANTI- You raised them that way.
Before the conversation could continue, hurried footsteps echoed through the corridor.
Aman Joshi entered the pandal, slightly out of breath but maintaining his composure. He is dressed in gray color three piece suit, exactly looking at the one who is arranging all arrangements. He greeted the elders respectfully. Then turning to Dashrath, he said.
AMAN- Sir, the media representatives are requesting a statement.
Dashrath listening to that while Sumant watches turning towards the gate and then at Aman.
AMAN- All the major news channels are waiting outside. They would like a few words before the ceremony begins.
Everyone looked toward Dashrath, expecting his response. Before Dashrath could speak, Sumant stepped forward with calm authority. He smiled politely at Aman and said.
SUMANT- No, Aman. First, the aarti will be performed.
Dashrath glanced toward the beautifully adorned idol of Lord Ganesha.
DASHRATH- Business can wait a few minutes. Tradition cannot.
Everyone smile at Dashrath's words. Aman immediately nodded.
AMAN- Understood. I will inform the media that the family will address them after the Ganesh Aarti.
Suman nodded in reply. As Aman walked away to relay the message, the sound of temple bells filled the courtyard once again. The priests signaled that the auspicious moment had arrived. Dashrath looked toward the palace entrance one more time, a proud smile forming on his face.
DASHRATH- They are coming...
And somehow, everyone around him felt it too- the celebration was complete only when the next generation of the Raghuvanshi family walked through those doors.
**********
Outside Raghuvanshi Palace, the excitement had reached its peak. The media stood behind barricades with cameras raised. Reporters adjusted their microphones, photographers positioned themselves for the perfect shot, and security personnel formed a disciplined corridor leading to the main entrance.
Inside the mandap, the family could hear the commotion outside. Someone whispered,
"They have arrived."
Almost instantly, every eye turned toward the palace gates. A sleek black car slowly entered the driveway and came to a halt. The cameras flashed continuously. The rear door opened.
The first to step out was Shatrughan Raghuvanshi, the youngest heir.!
Dressed in a perfectly tailored charcoal bandhgala with subtle embroidery, he carried himself with effortless style. His confident smile, neatly styled hair, and easy charm made him look more like a celebrity.
Ainna Dapper... Heart Throb...
The moment he stepped out, a few reporters murmured-
"That's the youngest Raghuvanshi."
Shatrughan glanced at the media, smiled casually, adjusted his watch, and buttoned his coat.
Gabbru Kiddan... Heart Throb...
He looked toward the palace and said with his trademark confidence,
SHATRUGHAN- Looks like we are already late enough to make an entrance.
The security staff could not hide their smiles and Shatrughan stood waiting for his other brothers.
Main Casanova Gurgaon Da Gora Chitta... Heart Throb...
The same car's other door opened. Out stepped Lakshman Raghuvanshi, the third son of Raghuvanshi family. He removed his black glares and gave a wave at everyone.
Swag Toh Dekho... Heart Throb...
He wore a deep navy blue bandhagala, his posture straight and his expression firm. His sharp eyes instinctively scanned the surroundings.
Lagta Hai Jaise... Heart Throb...
He briefly looked at the security arrangements. Satisfied, he nodded. His gaze then shifted toward the palace. Without saying much, he simply said,
LAKSHMAN- Let's go.!
His calm authority made even the security personnel stand a little straighter.
Prada Gucci Ne Milke Puttar Paida Kitta...
A second car entered behind them. The photographers immediately rushed to capture the moment. The door opened, and Bharat Raghuvanshi, Raghuvanshis second son, stepped out.
Kad Chheh Foot Ji...
Dressed in an elegant cream kurta, he carried an air of quiet dignity. His face reflected calmness rather than excitement, and his gentle smile instantly put people at ease.
Look Too Good Ji...
He folded his hands toward the media in greeting.
BHARAT- hello.!
Several photographers lowered their cameras just long enough to return the gesture.
Oye Iss Package Pe Ho Jaandi Ae
Kudiyon Ki Niyatein Kharab Ji...
Standing together now, the three brothers looked toward the palace. The cameras flashed relentlessly.
Inside the Pandal, the family watched from a distance. Dashrath's face glowed with pride. Sumitra smiled affectionately. Shanta waved excitedly. Rishi just keep on smiling at them. Kaushalya looks happy. But among everyone present, one pair of eyes searched beyond the three young men. Kranti's gaze remained fixed on the entrance. She smiled at her sons, yet her eyes continued looking past them.
Standing beside her, Mandira noticed. She gently nudged Kranti.
MANDIRA- Kranti, look at them.
Her words falls on Kranti's ears she still looks waiting for someone.
MANDIRA- Your three sons are standing there like princes, and you are still searching for someone else.
Kranti smiled but did not take her eyes away from the entrance.
KRANTI- I am looking at them, Maasi.
Mandira shook her head in disbelief.
MANDIRA- to tum yeh baar baar kaha dekh rahi ho.?
Kranti softly shook her head. There was a mother's certainty in her voice.
KRANTI- I am waiting for my eldest son.
Mandira looked at her with amusement. She shook her head smiling at Kranti.
Just then, the other side of door of the car from which Bharat got down opened slowly. The entire atmosphere changed. The media instinctively turned toward the new arrival. For a brief second there was a complete silence.
A polished black shoe touched the ground. Then Ram Raghuvanshi stepped out. The eldest of them, the eldest son of Dashrath and of Kranti too.!
Such A Heart Throb Ji...
Dressed in a perfectly tailored ivory achkan with a deep maroon work, he carried neither haste nor showmanship. His presence was quiet, yet commanding. His confident stride, composed expression, and dignified personality drew attention without demanding it.
Such A Heart Throb Ji...
He looked toward the palace. Then toward the waiting media. Instead of posing, he simply folded his hands.
RAM- Namaste.!
The gesture was simple. Yet it earned immediate respect. The murmurs among the reporters ceased. One senior journalist whispered.
JOURNALIST- Now that's the eldest Raghuvanshi.
Another nodded in agreement.
Gawandi Munda Lajawab Ji...
Oh Such A Heart Throb Ji...
Inside the pandal, Kranti's eyes softened with relief. A gentle smile spread across her face.
KRANTI- aagaya... Mera bada beta.
Mandira looked at her and smile mockingly.
MANDIRA- a mother is always a mother.!
Without taking her eyes off Ram, Kranti replied quietly.
KRANTI- Now my family is complete.
Dashrath stood with folded hands before Lord Ganesha, watching his four sons. Shatrughan with his charm. Lakshman with his resolve. Bharat with his serenity. And Ram with his quiet strength.
Sarkaar Ne Mujhko Lady Killer Ka
De Rakha Hai Khitaab Jii...
Ram stood in between Bharat and Lakshman and Shatrughan stood beside Lakshman. All four of them smile looking at each other and they started walking inside the gate.
Such A Heart Throb Ji
Such A Heart Throb Ji Yey....!
A father's chest swelled with pride. In a low voice, almost as a prayer, Dashrath said.
DASHRATH- This is my greatest wealth- not the empire we built, but the sons who will carry it forward.
Everyone smile at Dashrath's words. While he keep on looking at his four sons with pride. Kranti's eyes never left them too. Sumitra became all happy looking at them. Rishi and Shanta have already exchanged happy glances. While Kaushalya too smile affectionately at the four.
And as the temple bells rang once again, the Raghuvanshi family knew that the celebration of thirty years had truly begun.
Far beyond the palace gates, more cars continued to arrive. The crowd waiting outside grew larger. People stood on footpaths hoping to catch a glimpse of the family whose name had become synonymous with success. Some admired their achievements. Some envied their influence. Some came for business. Some came for blessings. And some came simply because stories were always born wherever the Raghuvanshis gathered.
Inside the palace, the sacred conch shell was lifted. Its deep, resonant sound echoed across the sprawling mansion. The murmurs faded. The priests took their places. The cameras turned toward the pandal. Every eye waited. Because the celebration of thirty years was about to begin. And with the arrival of the Raghuvanshi boys, so would a story where love, laughter, pride, and destiny would all find a place under one roof.
**********
**********
Thank you.!
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