Mere Apne4(AR) - Epi71-88 - Note on Pg147 - Page 50

Originally posted by: Wild.Aimee

Hmm, I will look forward to it... Waise, do comment soon, coz then you will have to comment for another upcoming episode, which I am going to post within next hour or so... Right now, I am just rechecking a few things...

Originally posted by: Wild.Aimee

Prerna1; manalovekash; smileever; blue_lotus22; araja1234; spvd; -prithi-; qt4ever; aar123; Ksg_farhan; teenorchid; wajoha-1; jiyaa_m; mijanur; suruchivohra; riarai2346; sweetnandu; riddss; pragatisk - Welcome to my new readers. I hope to see atleast a few of you back with your comments.

Originally posted by: Riddss

i am not new reader😭
i am old reader😛
waiting for update
TC

Originally posted by: Surya.Ravi

well here are my comments..i hope you like them aimee dear..😊hmm... so aimee what can i say about the part you have updated..it is as usual, sweet, good, different, nice, cool, fantastic, superb, interesting, entertaining like always...me seriously hooked to your stylle of writing...whenever i read the updates you post i'am seriously on the edge of my seat...i'am always curious to know kii agge kya hoga...yeh fic, yeh kahani agge kaise badhegi...i always think on these lines & keep biting my nails...i simply love the way you write yaar... you know your writing is very different & unique...the way you write, i mean in the sense of the treatment you give to your characters is very different.. the treatment you give is alag from the usual way..there is always a twist & i love this completely..waise i'am very glad that armaan, ridhimma's wedding has been fixed...yaayyy...so am'i invited to the wedding... waise bechara armaan wants to know ridhimma's reaction to their wedding being fixed, he is so excited..but ridhimma is so naive & aloof..lagtha hai armaan kii excitement kii baand baja rahi hai ridhimma with her naivety...sometimes reading about ridhimma i think koi itna innocent kaise ho saktha hai..but then i think that, that is the way ridhimma is innocent & pure...waise i'am thinking, kii after shaadi during the wedding night how will ridhimma react...she will be like ohhh...God, humari shaadi hogayi, then she may ask armaan why are you in my room...hehe..jokes apart..agar aise hua na tho armaan kii tho watt laggne waali hai..hehahaha...i liked the way muskaan, padma tackled ridhimma.. ridhimma & atul's scene was very sweet...anyway a very enjoyable part..loved the way armaan was longing for his lady love, to be wife's attention, while ridhimma was being aloof...this adds to the pyaar kii bechaini..& i love it...like the way the story is shaping up..keep up the good work going..👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏please do continue soon...😊& i have a request please armaan ridhimma kii shaadi jaldi se karwa do..i'am eager to see their interactions post wedding..i'am sure they will be hilarious, funny, enjoyable & last but not the least romantic too..ahem..ahem...😉😉😉😉

Originally posted by: Wild.Aimee

O-M-G... This is a record-breaking length of a comment made by you so far... Loved reading it. More than just glad that you liked my story. Of course you are invited to AR's wedding. I dont think AR cum KaSh fans need any sort of invitation to attend anything related to our favorite on-screen couple. So dont even ask.

Band to bajega hi, aur kuchh nahi to, AR ki shaadi ka to bajega hi. Waise dekhte jao bas ab kiska aur kaise band bajta hai. Aur haan, Armaan ki waatt to lagne waali hai, thats for sure. You know what, one of the thing you mentioned in your comment, is going to become, no actually as per the next few episodes I have outlined, it has already become a part of the AR issue in coming future.

I promise that within next few episodes AR will get married for sure and the very proof of it will be the next episode I am gonna be posting in next half an hour.

See you later...

Episode 77 - Thread 4 - Page 67 - https://india-forums.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1379093&TPN=67�

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EPISODE SEVENTY-EIGHT

For some reason or the other Armaan never got a chance to see Riddhima once again. First he arrived late at the office, then till lunch time Atul kept her occupied, and after that Armaan had to leave for some meeting for which Rahul accompanied him. Riddhima was oblivious of the feeling he was going through and behaved in her usual way.

Later that evening, Riddhima called Anjali to congratulate her. Anjali tried to tease her with reference to Armaan, but failed miserably due to Riddhima's lack of understanding. Muskaan was there with Riddhima at that time. She had an extra gala time on hearing Anjali's groans on the other end when her plan to tease her innocent Nanad failed.

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Next day, Armaan made sure to reach office on time. As soon as he entered his cabin he glanced around. The clean and organized surrounding told him that she has arrived. He smiled in the pretext of her being around. And why wouldn't he, he was waiting so much to see her.

He picked intercom to call her, but stopped when he heard a knock. "Come in."

"Goodmorning Sir." she wished walking towards his table.

"Good-Goodmorning..." he looked up at her as she shuffled a few papers in her hands.

"Sir, your days' schedule includes..." she narrated his schedule while he looked surprised.

Armaan has spent his previous night thinking about her casual behavior towards him. He had a strange feeling about Riddhima's attitude. They were to get married soon, and if it was another girl, she would have reacted to his presence in some or the other way. But Riddhima, she still seems the same, acting as if nothing special has happened... completely unfazed.

"...that's all for the day. And..." she took out some papers from a file she had with her, "...this is the synopsis of the next product-line of our textile company."

He glanced down at the papers and then her, "Synopsis?"

"Yes sir, last week you wanted to have a look on this. However, it wasn't ready at that time. Remember? Mr. Goswami has sent it first thing in the morning."

Armaan nodded silently. She turned around to go when he called, "Riddhima..."

On hearing her name, surprised she turned around, "Yes Sir?"

He was quite for another moment to see how she reacts, but apart from a questioning look, he couldn't trace another expression, "You are ok, right?"

"Ji?" she squinted, then added smiling, "Oh, yes sir, of course I am fine."

"You mean you don't have a problem?" he asked.

"Not at all, why would I have a problem? I took a complete rest." she replied casually.

"Rest?" he was confused.

"Yes, rest. That day, I was a little worked up due to something, but I am feeling very good today. Thanks for the half-day leave Sir." she thought he is talking about her health.

"Half-day leave?" he rubbed the corner of his eyes.

"Yes, did you forget that you gave me a half-leave, the day before yesterday?" she reminded.

It hit him now, "Oh, yeah-yeah... that's all right." he shifted on his chair. She smiled and turned again. He called once again, "Riddhima..." She tilted her head surprised again. Generally, he never calls her by her name in office, especially for the past few weeks he preferred to refer her as 'Miss. Gupta'. A minute back, she thought maybe he called her with her name in office only accidently. But now as he repeated, she knew that it wasn't just an accident. She twirled towards him. He fumbled, "Don't you have anything to say about... ahem... about our, I mean..."

"What sir?" she urged.

"Muskaan must have spoken to you, havent she?" he indicated indirectly.

She paused for a moment in surprise, "Aapko kaise pata chala us baare mein?" she thought he was referring to the conversation she had with Muskaan and Padma and it didn't click her that she and Atul have talked about it in front of Armaan previous day.

"Huh? Mujhe kaise pata chala matlab?"

"Wo baat to Muskaan Bhabhi, Mumma aur mere beech hui thi, phir aapko kaise pata chala?"

"Tum kis baare mein soch rahi ho?" he was getting more and more confused.

"Wohi jis baare mein Muskaan Bhabhi ne mujhse baat ki thi." she replied.

"Tch..." he rolled his eyes, "That's what I am asking. Muskaan ne tumse kis baare mein baat ki?" He wanted to avoid any confusions and make sure they were on the same page.

"Aur kis baare mein, Shaadi ke baare mein. She spoke to me about Shaadi." She said wryly.

He looked amazed, it mean she is talking about the same thing that's on his mind. There is no misunderstanding here, "So... A-and you don't have an objection with that?"

"Tch, nahi to. Why would I have any?" she nodded.

"Tumhe shaadi se... ahem... koi problem nahi hai?"

"Nahi to... Sab ladkiyon ki shaadi ek na ek din hoti hi hai, isliye meri bhi ho rahi hai. Yehi to zindagi ka rule hota hai." She blabbed Muskaan's theory.

Armaan was now flabbergasted with the way she said it. It was so... cool and casual. He never expected her to be this casual, "Tumhe pata hai tumhaari shaadi kiske saath hone waali hai?" he glanced at her suspiciously.

"Aapke saath, aur kiske." She shrugged even more casually.

"Aur tumhe mujhse shaadi karne mein koi problem nahi hai?" he probed further.

"Offo, aap itne sawaal kyun kar rahe ho? Maine kaha na ki mujhe koi objection, koi problem nahi hai. Balki main to bhot khush hu."

"Tum Khush ho?" he stressed.

"Haan, Muskaan Bhabhi kah rahi thi ki aapse shaadi karne se mera faayeda hi hoga. Shaadi ke baad main..." she started counting on her fingers, "...Atul Bhaiya, Anjali Bhabhi, Omang Uncle, Aarti Aunty, Dadi aur Vaibhav ke saath aapke ghar mein hi rahungi. Aapko pata hai, wo sab mujhse bhot pyaar karte hain. Aur isliye shaadi ke baad bhi main jab chaahu apne ghar bhi jaa sakungi, koi mujhe mana nahi karega, aap bhi nahi. Warna dusre log to apni bahu ko apne mayke jaane bhi nahi dete jaldi se." she explained innocently.

Armaan stared at her listening to her simple and cute blabbering. If it was other time, he had loved to see her yapping things. But instead of that it was confusing him today.

What is she saying? She is behaving as if it's a normal thing.

Of course it's a normal thing you idiot, he thought.

Oh I mean not that normal. I meant the other type of normal... abnormal sort of normal, you know what I mean... he argued with himself.

"Ohh..." is all he could mutter.

"Ab main jaun Sir? Next meeting ke liye papers complete karne hain." she questioned when he didn't say anything else. Her answers left him dazed. He didn't know what to say or ask further, so he nodded permitting her to go. She smiled walking away.

He sat there confused about her reactions as well as with her explanation. Her little narration about what-are-the-benefits-to-marry-him didn't include his name.

Why is she behaving so laid-back? She didn't blush even once. Why she isn't giving him any attention? He thought again.

Yes, its true that she will live with his family after marriage, and they all love her too much. He wasn't complaining about it. But didn't she forget to mention the biggest of all facts... that she will be living with HIM...? She will not only be sharing his house, but his room and his life as well? He needed to find out.

He wanted to talk to somebody regarding this. He wanted to know why was she behaving like this. He wished to know if she was doing all this under some pressure or maybe mistaking it of something else. Riddhima was obviously not the one who could help him with this confusion. But the question is... who else can?

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Next day onwards things were to become more difficult for Armaan. Since the marriage preparations have already started, he was going to get least possible time to spend with Riddhima. He himself was willing to finish some of his important work-related issues soon before he steps into a marital-relationship, so that he can spend some quality time with his family and his going-to-be-wife.

Whenever possible, Atul-Rahul tried to use their time to help their family in marriage preparations. Anjali-Muskaan were excited as always. They have started making plans about what to buy and what to wear on wedding. Minnie who was out with Harsh for a while, was also back in the town. She was not only happy but excited with the news of Armaan-Riddhima getting married soon. Both families have started their wedding related shopping as well.

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Here, even between his works, Armaan kept his eyes on Riddhima. Instead of speaking to her, he preferred to observe her, coz whenever he tried to do so, she replied about things very casually. Also, he was not getting too much time to spend with her. But, he wanted to find out what is going on with her. Is she marrying him for some specific reason or for her own happiness? Whatever he gathered from his observations brought surprise after surprise for him. His already confused state turned even more confusing.

Riddhima behaved as always, as if things havent changed and wont change in future as well. She looked extremely excited whenever she was with Atul and Omang as always. Anjali has also started dropping by sometimes to share a lunch with her. Both girls look so much at ease and happy that nobody could even imagine anything wrong between them... And there wasn't actually anything wrong. The only thing that could be called wrong was, Armaan and his confused mind. Instead of wrong, we should actually call it troubled... confused sort of troubled.

Riddhima became a regular visitor of their house. Anjali-Atul would never leave a chance of bringing her home. Initially they tried making excuses to bring her to Ashiyana. But then one day Shashank laughed telling them that they don't have to do that. Riddhima is to become a part of their family and they have all rights to take her anywhere they want, at anytime. What else they wanted.

Apart from the above things, the behavior of his whole family's behavior irked him. Knowing them too well, he has expected Atul-Anjali to continue pushing him closer to Riddhima in some or the other way. (Well, he would never admit that, but his heart somewhere was hoping they do that.) But they weren't doing anything like that. Instead of using tricks and ploying to push Riddhima and Armaan closer, they were now not at all bothered about them being close.

Instead they were too busy discussing things with Riddhima and kept her busy with different sort of wedding preparations.

And THIS is something, that made Armaan bleat from time to time.

His family that used to pamper him with all sort of attention, has started forgetting him just like that. The only person who was now center of their attraction, is Riddhima. Not that he did not like all this... He was more than happy seeing that his family loves Riddhima to the core and she returns the same feeling with equal fervor.

But hey, its not only Riddhima, he was also getting married... that too, at the same day, same time, same place, and obviously in the same mundap... and of course with the same girl they are now hovering over all the time, like honey bees. He also needed some attention... if not from all of them, then atleast some from his going-to-be... wife. That's the least he was asking for.

Anjali, Aarti, Padma has started shopping for the wedding. Since Riddhima couldn't come with them everyday due to her work, Anjali took complete liberty to choose and buy new clothes from latest and most sumptuous collection for Riddhima. Muskaan also helped her with it.

Anjali-Muskaan took that responsibility on themselves, firstly due to their passion for shopping and secondly due to the fact that if it was left on Riddhima, either their shopping will take another 5 years (coz she will keep refusing to buy new things, arguing that she already has too many cloths, most of which are still untouched)... or she will choose to buy the same old jhola type baggy cloths for herself, that hides her beautiful self in every possible way.

However there was one problem with their shopping spree and it was Muskaan's condition. They couldn't stay out for long due to her pregnancy. Besides Anjali was also strictly instructed by everyone not to stress herself too much.

So, to help them with the shopping, Atul instructed his PA to contact a few agents from big Malls and showrooms to bring at their home, everything the ladies demand for. This made it easy for the ladies to do their shopping from home itself. Anjali even appointed a few designers to design some special outfits for Riddhima as well as for others from both the families, including herself and of course, Muskaan as well.

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A week passed with everyone busy in initial preparations of Armaan-Riddhima's marriage. On one side, it was the fastest fleeting week for both the families; while at the same time it was the laziest one for Armaan. With every passing day his confusion about Riddhima's unchanging behavior towards himself, was bothering him.

Is she ignoring me? He scratched his head for the umpteenth time. But why is she ignoring me? Is there something wrong with her or has he done something that is prompting her behave like this with him? Is she marrying me only to appease her family? Is she behaving this way coz she still likes her boyfriend and her family is not ready to accept him? Thousands of logical as well as illogical questions kept grueling his mind.

The thought that maybe Rahul and others in her family did force her to step into this relationship also crossed his mind a several times. Then, he himself defended them, thinking that - Naah, why will her family do so?

He knew that Guptas are not one those families who will force their daughter to marry someone of their choice, just for the sake of their honor or satisfaction. They love her too much to do anything like that. Besides, Riddhima herself doesn't look like she is under any kind of stress or turmoil. Her face is a little too notably exhibiting to hide her feelings. If not her thoughts, one can easily figure out what sort of emotional state she is in, by just looking at her face.

Armaan knew that there wasn't anything off beam with anyone. If anything was wrong, it was actually with him. He wished for her attention, he needed her attention, which he was getting as always, but only on the professional front. But what about personal level? They were going to get married in a week and he didn't know what he should be doing sort this mess his mind was in.

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It was Saturday and today Armaan's family was going to come to Riddhima's house for her Godh-Bharaayi Ceremony. Everyone in the house was busy with their respective work. Riddhima got up at her routine time at around 06:45am.

She was surprised to see that all her family members were already up before her. She saw Muskaan instructing something to Shaguna, while Rahul was helping Padma with a few things. Shashank was busy with some hired helpers in their lawn. What is everyone doing so early in the morning? She thought. Only Yash is the one still sleeping.

"Ye aap log kya kar rahe ho Bhabhi? Aaj sab kaam mein itna busy kyun hain, wo bhi itni subah-subah?" Riddhima asked as she settled on the couch beside Muskaan.

"Baby, tu bhul gayi, kal tujhe bataya to tha. Arey aaj teri Godh-bharaayi ki rasm hai." Muskaan replied, "Ek-do-teen-chaar' Shaguna ye sab packets bhi theek se side mein rakhwa de." she counted the packets on the table and instructed Shaguna in between her conversation.

"Ji Bhabhi." Shaguna nodded and walked away with the packets.

Muskaan turned to see Riddhima thinking about something, "Ab tu kya soch rahi hai?"

"Kuchh nahi." She was still standing near the stairs.

"Theek hai ab tu jaag hi gayi hai, to yahaan aake thodi si help kar meri." Muskaan called.

Riddhima nodded and started helping Muskaan in wrapping gifts in bags. After that, she also helped Padma in a few things she was busy with.

Around two and a half hours later, Padma's eyes fell on the wall clock, "Hey bhagwaan, das bajne waale hain, Muskaan, Riddhima ko bol ki wo tayyar ho jaaye jaldi se."

"Theek hai Mummyji." Muskaan shook. Riddhima was helping Rahul arranging something at that time. She called her, "Baby... yahaan aa to."

"Ji Bhabhi..." Riddhima entered the room.

"Jaa zara jaake Yash ko utha kar tayyar kar de, aur haan tu bhi tayyar ho jaa. Aur wohi dress pahan na jo maine kaha tha." Riddhima nodded, "Khadi-khadi sir mat hila, jaa jaldi jaa... Anjali, Dadi Auntyji, sab log aate hi honge."

"Ok, main abhi jaati hu." She went to Yash's room with that.

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Riddhima awaken Yash and got him ready. Yash asked her why was she getting him ready in such trendy clothes. Since even she had no idea what was going to happen, she said that some guests are going to visit them today. Once ready, Yash ran downstairs to see what is going on. Riddhima yelled at his back telling him not to spoil his clothes.

Then, as she was going to her room, Rahul called her to take out his clothes so that he can also get ready. After that she went to her room and took a bath. When she came out, she looked at the chair in front. Muskaan has instructed her to wear a Pink suit for the day, which was now lying on the chair. She picked the suit and went back to the bathroom to change into it.

At around 10:30 am Dadi arrived with Aarti and Anjali. Omang was the only accompanying male with them as men are generally not allowed in the ceremony. Vaibhav wanted to come with them when he got to know that they are visiting Yash's house, but on Anjali's request, Armaan managed to hold him back at home.

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When Yash came down, seeing Anjali, he ran to her. "Hello Anjali aunty." he greeted.

"Hello Yash." Anjali smiled.

"Vibhi nahi aya aapke saath?" he asked.

"Nahi bete, humein kaam tha na bhot sara, isliye hum use saath nahi la paaye." She replied.

"Ohh..." His face fell.

Omang was sitting a little away saw his disappointed face. He called Yash, "Yash bete yahaan ana to..." Yash ran to him and greeted him. "Kya hua, tum udaas kyun ho gaye, hmm?" he asked.

"Mujhe Vibhi ke saath khelna tha..." Yash replied disappointedly.

Just then, Aarti came there, "Suniye, galti se Riddhima ki Jewelry wala packet to ghar pe hi rah gaya. Please kisi ko bhej ke mangwa dijiye na."

"Aarti, maine tumhe pahle hi kaha tha, ki Riddhima ka sab samaan theek se check kar lo ek baar phir. Ab dekho, rah gaya na jewelry ka packet ghar pe." Omang said unhappily. Aarti bowed her head guiltily. He sighed, "Achchha theek hai, main khud Shambhu ke saath jaake le ata hu... jewelry ka mamla hai, aise kisi ko nahi bhej sakta. Kahaan rakkhe hain wo packets?"

"Ji wo humaare room mein hi hain. Almiraah ke upar waale shelf mein." She replied.

"Uncle, main bhi saath chal sakta hu kya aapke saath? Mujhe Vibhi aur Superman ke saath khelna hai..." Yash asked expectantly.

"Kyun nahi, zaroor chal sakte ho bete." Omang smiled.

Yash smiled back widely, but then his face fell, "Par Mumma nahi jaane degi."

"Arey zaroor jaane dengi wo. Ek kaam karte hain, hum tumhaare Dadaji se permission le lete hain. Chalo, chal ke unse baat karte hain." He held his hand and went to ask Shashank.

Shashank allowed him to go with Omang. Omang went back to Ashiyana with Yash to bring Riddhima's Jewelry. He returned a little later, but Yash chose to stay back at Ashiyana.

Muskaan in a way was relieved that Yash wasn't around. She was neither in a mood nor did she have any strength left to answer Yash's questions, that he was bound to ask on seeing the ceremony taking place. Though Riddhima and Padma never allowed her to do anything that included any sort of physical effort, but due to her pregnancy she gets tired very easily. Riddhima being the center of attraction had no time to handle Yash today.

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In the lawn of Riddhima's home, the guests were served snacks, starters and drinks. After Punditji finished his Puja preparations, he asked them to call Riddhima so that they can start the rituals. Soon, Riddhima was called to meet everyone. Punditji did some associated Puja and left after accepting his share of gifts as he had to attend another Puja somewhere else. Then the main thing started where the ladies took over the ceremony.

Omang and his family have brought gifts of sugar, coconut, rice, clothes, jewelry and henna for Riddhima. They also offered a few gifts for her family members. Now as the entire ceremony was going to be conducted by females and male members were not allowed to attend it, so Omang, Shashank and Rahul went outside in the Shaamiyana they have set in the lawn. All the ladies went to the terrace where the arrangement for the ceremony was made.

Aarti gave a beautiful heavy wine and golden saree with zardori work to Riddhima, "Riddhima bete, ye lo, ye saree pahan ke aa jao..." Riddhima looked at Padma to ask what should she do who blinked back to tell her to do as told.

Riddhima took the saree and went to her room to change. She very well knew how to wear a saree. Muskaan has taught her to wear a saree when she was a teenager, so she didn't need any help in that. She came back to the terrace in 20 minutes wearing that saree only to shock to everyone present there.

"Hey Ram, kitni pyaari lag rahi hai. Padma zara iski nazar bhi utaar de saath-saath. Kahin kisiki nazar na lag jaaye." Dadi exclaimed and put a black kajal mark behind her ear.

Aarti added, "Maaji theek kah rahi hain Bhabhiji, kisi dusre ki nazar to baadmein lagegi, kahin humaari nazar hi na lag jaaye ise aaj."

"Apno ki nazar nahi laga karti Bhabhiji'" Padma smiled looking at her daughter, "Unka to bas aashirwaad lagta hai."

"Phir bhi humaari tasalli ke liye iski nazar zaroor utaar dena baadmein." Dadi instructed.

"Ji zaroor..." Padma shook her head. With that they started with other rites.

Riddhima was not supposed to wear any sort of ornaments in advance. She was then asked to sit on a small stool with the sari's 'palla' in her godh (lap). The next part was to be done by the mother, sister and sisters-in-law of the groom. So Aarti and Anjali got up from their places. Aarti made her wear one of the neckless that once belonged to Armaan's mother, Radhika. Then Anjali took over. She dressed up Riddhima, with other jewelry, bangles, cosmetics, etc.

Then, along with all the other female members of the family, they applied tikka on her forehead and placed gifts in the godh (lap) of the would-be-bride, Riddhima, on top of her pallu. While presenting gifts, they blessed her, asking God to bless the couple with a long and happy married life. After receiving the gifts, Riddhima touched the feet of all the elder females. They also feed her sweets while blessing her.

The ceremony finished with women singing traditional marriage songs. The guest from Armaan's family and other people had their lunch in the Shaamiyana in the lawn. Riddhima also took blessing of Omang and Shashank a little later.

By evening time they all went back. But, before they leave, Dadi told Shashank and Padma about next days' mahurat and other details of the next ritual to be performed. It was going to be Armaan's Tilak ceremony next day. Since there were very less days left for the marriage, they have thought of doing both the ceremonies back-to-back on consecutive days.

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Next day, it was Armaan's Tilak. It is a similar pre-marital affair like Godh-Bharaayi, that is performed by Bride's family with the Groom. Just the way it was in Riddhima's house previous day, today everyone in Ashiyana was busy with their respective work. Vaibhav knew that something special is going to happen, but what, he didn't know.

"Chachu ye sab kya ho raha hai?" Vaibhav asked as he settled on a chair beside Armaan.

"Kya sab, kya ho raha hai Champ?" Armaan asked casually busy working on his laptop in his room. Other were downstairs busy with preparations.

"Neeche, sab log kis cheez ke liye itni tayyariyaan kar rahe hain?" He pointed towards the door.

Armaan paused for a moment, then pursing his lips he said casually, "I don't know yaar. Pata nahi ye bade log kya kuchh karte rahte hain... Phrrr..."

"Haan, main bhi wohi soch raha hu." With that Vaibhav ran downstairs.

Armaan glanced at the door as Vaibhav left. He very well knew what was happening in his house. He was just acting ignorant in front of the kid. No matter how big of businessmen he is, no matter how fulsome personality he carried and no matter how captivating his aura is, but today he felt cautious talking about his own marriage.

Atul have been watching this, standing on his door. He has come to take Vaibhav to get him ready before their guests arrive, when he heard his son and brother busy with their brief conversation. Instead of going inside, he decided to stand at the door and listen quietly. He has been doing that a lot these days, especially when it come to Armaan. This is how he has been able to find out about Armaan's feelings for Riddhima.

As Vaibhav ran out, he hid standing beside the wall. When he glanced back in the room, he noticed the slight blush on Armaan's lost face. Wow, Armaan Malik blushes too, he laughed inwardly. His Tycoon brother is such a teenager, so much in love. Shaking his head he walked away leaving Armaan with his thoughts.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Arey yaar, araam se khada rah na." Atul held Vaibhav by his shoulder as he kept fidgeting. He has been able to catch his naughty son somehow and was now getting him ready.

"Dad, ye sab kya ho raha hai aaj ghar mein?" Vaibhav asked taking a bite from his chocolate bar.

"Tere Chachu ke Tilak ki tayyari ho rahi hai." Atul inserted Vaibhav's hand into his Kurta.

"Chachu ka Tilak? Tilak matlab?"

"Tilak matlab..." Atul scratched his head for a moment, then added, "...tere chachu ki shaadi hone waali hai na, us se pehle ek rasm hoti hai ye."

"Ohh..." Vaibhav shook, then widened his eyes, "Chachu ki shaadi hone waali hai?"

"Haan." he straightened his Kurta.

"Kiske saath?" Vaibhav looked excited as well as confused.

Atul grinned, "Teri Angel ke saath."

"Angel ke saath? KYUN?" Vaibhav yelled.

"Kyun matlab?"

"Angel to meri Girl Friend hai na, to phir uski shaadi Chachu ke saath kyun ho rahi hai?" Vaibhav looked troubled. Atul didn't know what to say and before he could, Vaibhav freed himself from his arms, and jumping from the bed, he ran out of the room.

~~~~~~~~~

"Dadi, Dadi..." Vaibhav came down running where rest of the family was getting things ready for the ceremony, "Dadi..." Aarti was instructing Anjali about something. Vaibhav pulled her saari, "Dadi suno na... Dadi..."

"Kya baat hai Vibhi?" Aarti asked as he pulled her saari again.

"Dadi mujhe aapse baat karni hai."

"Baad mein Vibhi beta, abhi main thoda busy hu. Ghar pe guests aane waale hai na."

"Nahi Dadi, mujhe abhi baat karni hai..." He stomped.

"Vibhi, bete zid nahi karte, maine kaha na baad mein baat karenge." Aarti glared and walked towards a table to check items placed on it.

"Mumma, suno na..." Vaibhav tried to talk to Anjali, but she also shoved him.

"Vibhi, Dadi ne abhi bataya na ki hum busy hain. Bete kaam karne do." Anjali replied.

Vaibhav ran to Omang, but to his dismay Omang also walked out of the living room as a servant asked him about something. He looked around to see if someone is free. And atlast at one corner of the living room he found one such person.

"Badi Dadi..." he ran to Shobha. Shobha smiled at him as he settled on sofa beside her. "Badi Dadi, mujhe bhot zaroori baat karni hai. Lekin dekho na koi meri baat nahi sun raha."

"Vibhi bete, ghar pe guest aane waale hain, isliye sab thoda busy hain na." she smiled.

"Par mujhe bhot-bhot important baat karni hai." he stressed.

"Bhot-bhot important baat karni hai?" she repeated in kiddish voice as he shook his head, "Achchha bata, mujhe bata kya baat hai?" she caressed his head.

"Ye sab kya ho raha hai badi Dadi?"

"Ye sab tere Chachu ke Tilak ki tayyari ho rahi hai... Uski shaadi hai na thode din baad."

"Chachu ki shaadi kiske saath ho rahi hai?" he wanted to re-confirm it again.

"Tere dost Yash ki bua, Riddhima se." she replied casually.

"Riddhima yaani Angel?" Dadi nodded in agreement, but he wasn't pleased, "Lekin Angel to MERI girl friend hai," he pointed towards himself, "...phir unki shaadi Chachu ke saath kyun ho rahi hai?" he threw his hand in air.

Shobha laughed, "Achchha, to Chachu se nahi to kya tujhse shaadi honi chaahiye thi teri Angel ki?" Shobha asked amusingly.

"Aur nahi to kya, mujhse hi honi chaahiye. Minnie bua kahti hai ki Girl-Friend ki shaadi apne Boy-Friend se hi hoti hai. Aur Angel ka Boy-Friend to main hu na? Angel se main shaadi karunga. Please Badi Dadi." he pleaded sulking and stomping his feet.

By now, all others (Aarti, Omang, Anjali) were also present in the living room. They heard his comment and started laughing. Shobha pulled him on her lap.

"Ohho, to ye zaroori baat karni thi tujhe?" Aarti asked as she came near them.

"Haan'" He nodded.

Anjali sighed asking Shobha to handle him through her eyes. Shobha blinked back assuringly.

"Is hisaab se to tere Chachu se meri shaadi honi chaahiye..." Shobha tapped her chin.

"Aapki kyun?" Vaibhav was puzzled.

"Kyunki tera Chachu bhi to mujhe Girl-Friend kahta hai kabhi-kabhi." Shobha replied.

"Aise thode hi hota hai. Aap to Chachu ki Dadi ho na, aur unse kitni badi bhi ho..." Vaibhav reasoned smartly.

"Achchha? Phir wo mujhe Girl-Friend kahta hi kyun hai?" Shobha thought loudly.

"Chachu to pyaar se aapko Girl-Friend kahte hain, warna wo koi apni Dadi se shaadi thode hi kar sakte hain." He was very confident about his answer.

"Hmm, ye bhi sahi hai. Lekin is hisaab se to teri shaadi bhi Angel se nahi ho sakti." She said.

"Kyun?" Vaibhav turned to her.

"Kyunki wo tujhse badi hai, aur teri Chachi ban ne waali hai. Tu kya apni Chachi se shaadi karega?" Anjali butted in trying to make him understand.

"Lekin wo to mujhe Boy-Friend kahti hai." Vaibhav looked at her.

"Haan kahti hai, lekin jaise tera Chachu teri Badi Dadi ko pyaar se Girl-Friend kahta hai, wo bhi pyaar se tujhe Boy-friend kahti hai bete." Aarti added.

"Achchha?" Vaibhav thought for a moment. A thought came into his mind, "Agar Angel ki shaadi Chachu se ho jaayegi, to kya wo gandi waali Aunty jo Yash ke ghar aake unhe pareshaan karti hain, wo bhaag jaayegi?"

Anjali laughed, while other looked at him confused. Anjali blinked at them signaling that she will explain it later and added, "Haan, tune hi to us din Yash ko bataya tha na ki Angel ko hum yahaan le aayenge. Tu un gandi waali Aunty ko bol dega ki Angel ke shaadi tere Chachu se hogi, aur Armaan aur humaare guards phir Angel ko bacha lenge un Aunty se?"

"Haan, Yash bhot pareshaan tha Angel ke liye, isliye to maine use kaha tha aise. Wo mera best friend hai na, aur Chachu kahte hain ki humein apni family aur friends ki humesha help karni chaahiye." Vaibhav recalled attentively. He paused for a moment. Others passed a glance at each other. Suddenly his eyes lightened brightly, "To kya Angel meri Chachi ban ne waali hai?"

"Haan." Anjali nodded with a raised brow.

"Tab to wo humaare saath rahegi na ab se humesha?" he asked while others nodded again, "Yayyy... Angel humaare saath rahegi." he jumped from Shobha's lap shouting in joy. Rest of the people along with some house-maids laughed at his antics.

"Le, tu yahaan naach raha hai, aur main tujhe poore ghar mein dhundh raha hu..." they were interrupted by Atul who came there searching for Vaibhav with his Payjama in his hands.

"Atul, tum Vibhi ka Payjama leke kyun ghum rahe ho?" Anjali looked at his hand.

"Aur kya karun phir? Main ise ye Payjama pahna raha tha, aur ye janaab haath chhuda ke aise bhaag aaye jaise maine iski pants mein ants chhod diye ho. Kitni der se main ise poore ghar mein dhundh raha tha aur ye yahaan Hrithik Roshan bana phir raha hai." he informed with his hands on his hips.

Anjali, Aarti, Omang, Dadi, all of them glanced at Vaibhav who stood there only in his Kurta and NO payjama and exploded out laughing again.

Vaibhav looked down at his exposed legs, then up glaring at Atul, "Dad..." he ran to Atul, "...do mera payjama, main khud pahan lunga." snatching his Payjama from his hand he ran upstairs to Armaan's room leaving rest of the family amused.

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A few minutes later, Rahul arrived with Shashank, Yash and Padma. Riddhima was at home with Muskaan as in Tilak mostly men go to the groom's house. However since there weren't too many people in Riddhima's family, Dadi had asked Padma to come along.

Apart from this, Padma accompanied them as Rahul and Shashank didn't know how to do the associated rites. A priest was also called to guide them further. Not to mention that Yash was also in tow. How could he miss a chance to be with his best friend Vaibhav and also meet his favorite person on earth, Armaan.

A warm welcome and exchange of pleasantries following which all of them settled in the garden. Yash as usual went inside to see Vaibhav. He didn't need permission. After a brief chat, ladies went inside to start the preparation while men continued their conversation on various topics.

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Lets see what was going on inside all this while.

Yash ran in the house as soon as Rahul opened the door of his car.

"Vibhi... Vibhi..." he called running towards the living room. He saw a few servants working around and setting up things properly. He looked around strangely as he saw them putting up last minute touches to the very simple, yet beautiful decoration that has been done.

"Vibhi kahaan hai Chatur Uncle?" he asked when he saw Chatur passing by him with a tray of Juice and some snacks in his hands.

"Arey Yash Baba, Vibhi Baba oopar hain... apne ya phir Armaan Bhaiya ke kamre mein honge." he pointed up, "Aap oopar..." before he could finish, he saw Yash run upstairs.

~~~~~~~~~

"Vibhi..." he slammed the door open calling Vaibhav.

"Hi Yash, Tu aa gaya..." Vaibhav waved with a small hair-brush in his hand as he stood in front of a mirror in his room, combing his already combed hair.

Yash smiled at him and went to sit on his bed, "Tu abhi tak tayyar nahi hua, dekh main to itni jaldi tayyar ho kar aa bhi gaya." He held his shirt to show him.

"Bas Dad ki wajah se thodi der ho gayi yaar." Vaibhav crinkled his brow looking unpleased.

Yash chuckled, "Ye sab neeche kya ho raha hai? Sab tera ghar kyun saja rahe hain?"

Vaibhav twisted on his toe as Yash glanced at him, "Arey aaj Chachu ka Tilak hai na, isliye."

"Tilak? Wo kya hota hai?" Yash asked.

"Tujhe itna bhi nahi pata..." Yash nodded again as he continued, "Arey, Shaadi se pahle ki ek rasm hoti hai wo. Mujhe sab pata hai." He fixed collar of his kurta again.

"Oh..." Yash blinked. Looking up at him, he asked, "Shaadi? Kiski shaadi?"

"Offo, Yash yaar tu bhi ekdum bachcha hai. Chachu ka Tilak hai, to unhi ki shaadi hogi na." he came and joined Yash on his bed.

"Superman ki Shaadi..." Yash exclaimed. Vaibhav nodded, "Par kiske saath? Tune to kaha tha ki unki shaadi meri bua se karwa denge. Phir wo gandi aunty meri bua ko kahin nahi le jaa sakengi." he said almost tearfully.

"Yash, bilkul buddhu hai tu bhi... maine kabhi bhi aaj tak apna promise toda hai?" He asked.

Yash looked at him confused. "Matlab?"

Vaibhav got up from his bed and folding his arms over his chest, he started walking from one corner on his room to the other, while telling Yash his adventure tale, "Wo kya hai na, mere ghar mein sab Chachu ki shaadi ke liye pareshaan the, aur phir us din tu bhi kaafi pareshaan lag raha tha, to maine socha ki sabki problem solve ho jaayegi agar mere Chachu ki shaadi main teri Bua yaani Angel se karwa du..." stopping in his track he turned to Yash and added, "To bas, ab Chachu ki shaadi teri Bua se ho rahi hai."

"Kya?" Yash looked pleased as well as amazed at his smart friend.

"Haan, ab itna to main apni family aur apne best friend ke liye kar hi sakta hu na." Vaibhav tried to behave maturely and copied one of the dialogues he had heard said by either Atul or Armaan.

"Sachchi?" Vaibhav nodded in yes. Yash was obviously elated with the news, "Yayy, tu mera sabse Bestest wala Best friend hai." Yash jumped from his bed and hugged him. Vaibhav hugged him back smiling proudly. Parting from hug, Yash asked, "Phir to Superman mere Phuphadji ho jaayenge." He grinned.

"Phuphadji kya hota hai?" Viabhav asked as they walked towards the door.

"Mumma bol rahi thi ki jiski shaadi Riddhima bua se hogi, wo mere Phuphadji ban jaayenge... To iska matlab Superman hote hain Phuphadiji." he explained.

Vaibhav laughed, "Kaisa ajeeb sa word hai na... Phuphadji."

"Haan, mujhe bhi nahi achchha laga." Yash made a face.

Walking through the corridor Vaibhav said, "To tu unhe phir Superman hi bulaaiyo."

"Haan, par Superman ko agar bura laga to?" Yash asked.

Vaibhav thought for a moment then said, "Na, unhe bura nahi lagega."

"Achchha? Par wo hai kahaan abhi?" Yash questioned back.

"Chachu apne room mein kaam kar rahe hain. Chal chalte hain unke paas."

The boys ran to Armaan's room. Without knocking or taking permission, they barged into his room. They never needed anyone's permission to enter Armaan's room, not even Armaan's.

"Chachu?" Vaibhav ran inside calling Armaan. Armaan looked up from his laptop, "Chachu..."

Vaibhav almost stumbled when Armaan caught his hand, "Oye Champ, sambhal ke yaar."

"Chachu, dekho kaun aya hai..." he pointed towards Yash who panted stopping near his chair.

"Arey waah, Hi Lil Champ." Armaan hi-fived with Yash.

"Chachu, aap Yash ko Lil Champ kyun bulaate ho?" Vaibhav asked standing on the other side.

"Champ to tera naam hai, to use wo to nahi bula sakta na main..." Armaan replied as Yash settled on his settee in front.

"Par Lil Champ hi kyun?" Vaibhav probed again.

Armaan left his Laptop and got up. He went to the settee and sat beside Yash. Vaibhav too came and settled on his lap, "Wo kya hai na yaar, tu aur Yash dono ek jaise ho, tum dono hi to Champ ho. Lekin tum dono ko ek naam to nahi de sakta na. Phir maine socha ki Yash tujhse age mein thoda chhota bhi hai..." he patted Vaibhav's hair, "Isliye, tu Champ, aur ye Lil Champ."

"Aur aap Superman." Yash added grinning widely.

Armaan laughed shaking his head. Vaibhav smiled at him and said, "Chachu, actually na mujhe aur Yash ko aapse ek bhot jaruri baat karni thi."

Armaan encouraged the boys, "Haan bol na yaar."

"Yash agar aapko Phuphadji na bulaaye, to aapko kuchh objection to nahi?" he asked on Yash's behalf who looked at Armaan curiously.

Armaan narrowed his eyes, "Phuphadji?"

"Haan aaj apka Tilak hai na, aur phir aapki shaadi Bua se ho jaayegi, to Mumma bol rahi thi ki aap mere Phuphadji ban jaaoge." Yash replied innocently.

Armaan now understood what they meant and smiled at him, "Hmm..."

"Kya main aapko Superman bula sakta hu baad mein bhi?" Yash questioned again.

"Of course Lil Champ. Tumhe jo achchha lage wo kahke bulana mujhe. No obligations for you two." Armaan replied pinching his cheeks lovably.

"Thank you Superman." Yash grinned.

"Armaan Bhaiya..." they looked at the door to see Chatur standing, "Neeche sab aapko bula rahe hain. Aapke Tilak ki tayyari ho gayi hai."

"Theek hai, tu chal hum aate hain 2 minute mein..." Armaan replied. "Chalo doston, chalein neeche ab?" he placed Vaibhav on his feet. With Vaibhav and Yash on his either side, he walked downstairs for his Tilak ceremony.

The Tilak ceremony began with pooja/havan where the both the families pray for a happy and auspicious future of the would-be couple. After the pooja rituals the Shashank offered gifts to Armaan and his family members. The gifts included clothes, sweets and fruits and other items for Armaan (his Shagun) and his family members.

Armaan's Tilak finished smoothly as expected. Most of the rituals were performed between Rahul (being Bride's brother) and Armaan. The elders watched them intently as they finished with their work with Punditji instructing them accordingly. Once done, Armaan hugged Rahul and took blessing from all the elders. A little later they had lunch together and then Joshis and Malik bid byes to their guests.

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Note :

GODH-BHARAAYI - I know many of my friends here must be thinking why I used the word Godh-bharaayi. Well, most of the people think that this word only meant for the ceremony performed for a Pregnant woman to bless her and her going-to-be-born-child. But that's not completely true. In reality, it is a tradition to hold a Godh Bharai ceremony in Hindus, basically, on two occasions. One is before a wedding and the second is in the seventh month of pregnancy of an expectant lady.

So here in case of Armaan and Riddhima, the Godh Bharai marks the ceremony is associated with the wedding function. During this ceremony, the family members of the groom officially accept a girl as the daughter of their family. And I think I have already explained the rites performed during this ceremony.

TILAK - I guess my readers know what Tilak is. Among the pre-wedding functions, the ceremony of Tilak holds an important position. This ceremony is performed in most of the family according to their personal family tradition and culture. The ceremony is held in different styles according to different culture and caste. Mostly the ceremony is held at the groom's residence or at any temple. In some caste it is called the Chenkai or Tikka or Bharikhsha Ceremony.

Traditionally, the bride and her mother do not attend this ceremony; mostly the male family members and relatives of the bride attend the function. In many families, the tilak and engagement ceremony is celebrated together. The bride's father looks after all the ceremonial activities, while in most of the communities of Hindu religion, the Tilak is applied by the bride's brother on the groom's forehead (In Sikh weddings, it's a preacher from Gurudwara who performs this ritual). The ceremony of tilak brings together both the families where the elders of both the families. The actual motive behind its celebration is to enhance the bonding between the two families.

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Hi Friends, thanks a lot for such nice comments. I am sure, if not fully satisfied, but you all must be a little pleased with the progress in AR relationship. They are to get married soon and promise that I am not going to take too many episodes to do so.

In every episode I am including a few things that were mentioned in the past and needed to be cleared... for instance, Vaibhav's reaction on knowing that Armaan is getting married to HIS Girl-Friend... also Yash's worry over his Bua to be taken away by that gandi-waali aunty. I guess the people who were waiting for these things are now getting their answers. I will be taking care of rest of such things in the coming episodes.

I realized that this particular episode stretched a little too much, but I wanted to finish those pre-marital rituals at the earliest along with Vaibhav and Yash related issues.

AR wedding is surely on the cards... and I mean literally. So friends, keep reading and commenting and be ready for the most awaited wedding of this story.

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Episode 78 has been updated...