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The grand royal palace of Panchal was adorned in resplendent hues of gold, crimson, and ivory, exuding an air of regal festivity. The wedding hall was an architectural marvel, with high arched ceilings painted with scenes of celestial weddings from ancient lore. Rows of oil lamps and intricate chandeliers bathed the hall in a warm, golden glow, while fragrant garlands of jasmine, marigold, and roses hung from every corner. Ornate silk drapes shimmered as the soft evening breeze filtered through, and the air was alive with the sound of musicians playing veenas and mridangas in perfect harmony.

Kings and nobles from across Bharatvarsha filled the hall, dressed in their finest regalia. Among the notable guests were Shri Balram and Shri Krishna. Yadav kumar Balram with his imposing yet genial demeanor, engaging in lighthearted banter with his younger brother, Krishna. The supreme godhead, his appearance ever-serene yet mirthful, kept watched the proceedings, his divine presence lending the occasion an ethereal touch.

As the eldest Pandava, Yudhishthir embodied dignity and wisdom, and his attire reflected these qualities. He wore a pristine dhoti and an uttariya of ivory silk, embroidered with delicate gold patterns symbolizing dharma and justice. A regal crown adorned his head, studded with rubies and emeralds, while a pearl-studded necklace rested on his broad chest. His calm demeanor and gentle smile made him appear every bit the righteous monarch he was destined to become.

Bheem, ever the mighty one, wore a deep crimson dhoti paired with a golden angavastram, which accentuated his powerful frame. His wrists were adorned with thick kadas (bracelets), and a bold, gem-encrusted kirit sat atop his head, reflecting his robust and valiant personality. As expected from Bheem he was engaged in a conversation with the royal cook and occasionally filling his mouth with different varieties of sweets.

Arjun, the warrior prince, was a vision of elegance in a royal blue dhoti with silver zari work. A finely crafted silver crown with a sapphire centerpiece rested on his head, and a bow-shaped pendant hung around his neck, a subtle homage to his identity as a master archer. He sat with his mother kunti who had sat with her hands folded together praying for a successful wedding and blessings.

Sahadev chose emerald green attire, symbolizing his youthful charm and wisdom. His dhoti was embroidered with intricate patterns of vines and leaves, and a simple yet elegant gold chain complemented his modest yet princely look. Stood beside Nakul discussing about the rituals and things needed for the ritual with ved vyasji.

And about Nakul, as always The most youthfully, charming and Handsome, exuded unmatched grace. He wore a golden-yellow dhoti with intricate zari work and a peacock-blue shawl that shimmered as he moved. His crown was slender and studded with diamonds, while a thin gold waistband added to his Royal and princely appearance. His twinkling eyes often darted toward stairs from where Nisha would come accompanying Draupadi, betraying his inability to look away for too long.

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In Draupadi's chamber, Draupadi stood before an ornate mirror, looking every bit the celestial bride she was destined to be. Her Saree, a masterpiece of deep crimson and gold, was woven with intricate patterns of lotuses and swans. The pallu, sheer and studded with pearls, was pinned gracefully over her shoulder, framing her radiant appearance.

Her jewelry was a testament to her royal lineage: a choker of uncut diamonds rested on her neck, with layers of necklaces cascading down to her waist. Heavy gold jhumkas swayed with every movement, and her wrists were adorned with bangles that jingled softly. A mathapatti and a delicate nath (nose ring) added to her allure, making her look like a goddess descended to earth.

Draupadi closed her eyes, her hands folded in prayer. Her serene face reflected a mix of anticipation and nervousness. Nisha, standing nearby, could sense the weight of the moment. Clad in a pastel pink Saree embroidered with silver and pearls, Nisha looked more than a princess; she looked like the epitome of grace and elegance. Her diamond-studded earrings sparkled under the light, and her delicate anklets chimed as she moved closer to Draupadi.

Nisha embraced Draupadi warmly, whispering, "Apka vivaah safal ho aur apka jeevan sukhmay rahe.(Iss Brahmad main)" ("May your wedding be successful and your married life full of happiness.(In this universe)")

Soon, Shikhandi entered, followed by Drishtadhyumn. Both hugged Draupadi, their faces filled with a mix of pride and emotion.

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When the time came, Draupadi descended the grand staircase, flanked by Nisha on her right and Shikhandi on her left. The soft rustle of her attire and the jingling of her anklets announced her arrival. The guests rose in awe, marveling at her divine beauty. The glow of the ceremonial fire reflected on her face, enhancing her ethereal appearance.

Yudhishthir, standing near the sacred fire, turned to look at his bride. His normally expression softened as he took in the majestic sight of Draupadi. The flickering flames seemed to dance in her eyes, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still.

As Nakul watched Nisha walk alongside Draupadi, his thoughts wandered. "Agar Nisha dulhan ki saheli hokar itni sundar lag rahi hai, toh mere vivaah ke din main to jeevit nahi rahunga," he thought with a smile. ("If she looks this beautiful as a bridesmaid, she'll be the death of me on our wedding day.")

Sahadev, ever observant, caught Nakul's expression and whispered teasingly, "Bhratashree, apna muh band kijiye aur swayam ko sambhaliyr, Nisha hand rahi hai" ("Brother, control the expression on your face, Nisha is laughing .")

Nakul's face flushed as Sahadev's words struck him. He quickly composed himself, only to find Nisha chuckling softly beside draupadi. Her laughter wasn't coy or shy-it carried a playful confidence, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint that seemed to say, "Caught you." Nakul looked away briefly with a smile dancing on his lips , scratching his neck, trying to mask his expression.

Nakul smirked but didn't reply, his eyes fixed on Nisha as she gracefully assisted Draupadi toward the mandap.

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The mandap itself was an ornate structure, built from sandalwood and decorated with marigolds, roses, and mango leaves. Priests chanted Vedic hymns, their voices resonating in the vast hall. The sacred fire burned brightly in the center infront of it sat the royal priest Dhaumya chanting mantras and pouring ghee in the sacred fire seeking blessings from the agni dev and the celestial beings , its smoke carrying the fragrance of ghee and herbs.

Balram, The divine serpent of Mahavishnu watched the proceedings and blessing the royal bride and groom. Krishna smiled knowingly, his gaze shifting between Draupadi-Nisha and the Pandavas. He smiled brightly when Nisha looked at him her bestfriend and smiled folding her hands in a namaste.

As the ceremony proceeded, Nisha and Nakul exchanged playful glances, while Sahadev occasionally whispered witty comments to Nakul teasing him. The atmosphere was a perfect blend of solemnity and joy, a celebration of love, unity, and destiny.

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Author :-Though this chapter is brief, I feel my skills in writing wedding scenes are not that good and need some refinement. The next chapter will dive into Nisha and Nakul's wedding-and I will definitely try to match your excitement level. Stay tuned!!!