The phase : Fate

Vrindavan, 11.3.25 ,

Tuesday

The temple buzzed with devotees echoes of footsteps , voices and a divine mess which only devotion could bring.

The air filled with faint scent of marigold and sandalwood.

Pandit ji wrapped in saffron robes, stood in front of the idol of radha krishna. His rhythmic chants filled the temple like sacred music.

Beautiful garlands dangled from every corner of the temple - red , orange and many more colours. The doorway was decorated with flowers , creating a beautiful atmosphere of serenity.

Each garland holds thousands of hopes and prayers and a happiness which only celebration could bring.

In just three days the sacred celebration of holi would arrive. The whole vrindavan danced with celebration and happiness as it was the day Krishna coloured radha in his eternal love.

Temple bells rang every now and then, their sound echoing through the temple like a scared song.

Outside the temple Drums are beating - wild and loud. Some foreigners wrapped in Indian attire danced happily with others, singing bhajans with them.

Devotees ascend the stairs with thal which was filled with flowers, coconut ,kumkum and sweets.

At the edge of town , the Yamuna river shimmering under the bright sun. Some diyas floating on the surface.

Near the temple steps a group of children gathered . some giggling and some looking around with wide and curious eyes.

In the center of the group a girl stood with arrogance...holding up a new pair of white clothes.

Simran.

The sunlight fell on the fabric, making it sparkle and almost too clean for Holi.

"Eh, dekho!!! Mere liye mere papa naye safed kapde laaye hain," she announced with her sweet voice.

(Look, my father has brought me new white clothes.)

Her friends , mix of boys and girls circled around her . their eyes sparkling with admiration.

"Wah, bahut sundar hai," Radhika whispered as her fingers brushing against the white cloth.

(Wah!! It's so beautiful)

"Mere papa Holi khelne ke liye laaye hain," Simran said proudly as there was a tone filled with the intention to impress her friends.

(My father brought me to play Holi.)

Radhika's eyes widened not with envy but disbelief as it was foreign  to her. a new pair of only for Holi "Sirf Holi khelne ke liye?"

(Just to play Holi?)

She glanced at her twin brother Akash and pouted. "Hamari mummy toh purane kapde pehnayengi," she said softly as if it was nothing new to them.

(Our mother will make us wear old clothes.)

The others nodded and some chuckled, some didn't but the difference between them and their friend was visible.

Just then a hard voice cut through the moment.

"Simran" A deep voice that made all the children freeze for a second and turned towards the source of voice.

Her father

Simran glanced around at her friends and gave them a tight-lipped smile and said, "Main chalti hoon, Papa bula rahe hain."

(I'm going, my father is calling me)

As she turned and walked away. Her friends also began to walk off too but not before Radhika grinned wickedly and mimicked her.

"Hamesha show-off karti hai woh Sim card. 'Mere papa Holi khelne ke liye naye kapde laaye hain...'" she mocked, making the group burst into laughter.

(She always shows off. that SIM card. 'My father bought me new clothes for Holi...)

From behind, Panditji appeared his calm ,soft yet serious voice cutting through the noise.

"Radhika beti, Vrinda kahan hai dekho gi? Maine usse phool aur Yamuna ke paani laane ke liye bheja tha."

(Radhika, daughter, look where Vrinda is? I sent her to bring flowers and water from the Yamuna.)

Radhika and Akash stood still.

They looked at each other and nodded before replying together, "Haan, Pandit Dadu. Hum jaake bulaa lete hain."

(Yes, Pandit Dadu. We will go and call her).

And just like that, the two turned and ran toward the ghat. The streets of Vrindavan were active with Holi preparations.

As they came near the water's edge, they could feel the cool breeze from the Yamuna river.

"Ek... Do... Teen... Chaar... Paanch... Chey!"

(One...two...three...four...five...six)

A sweet, soft and melodic voice echoed through the ghat as Vrinda counted as her eyes on the skipping stone.

The rock jumped across the Yamuna's sparkling surface beneath the sunlight, each bounce making her happy until it finally sank into the water.

She turned with grinning ear to ear as a group of young boys stared at the water.

their mouths hanging open in admiration and shcokness.

"Hum jeet gaye" Vrinda said with a grin, eyes twinkling in happiness. "Humara patthar chey baar uchla!"

(I won...my stone bounced six times)

The boy in front of her ..the one who had challenged her pouted in defeat. His tiny fists clenched as if trying to hold onto his dignity.

"Haan didi, aap jeet gaye... ab jo bolenge, main karunga," he muttered under his breath but loud enough to hear.

(Yes...didi, you won..i will do whatever you say)

He accepted his loss.

Vrinda raised her brow, with amusement in her eyes. "Thik hai," she said , crouching slightly to match his height.

(Okay)

Lifting her delicate hand, she placed her index finger against his forehead.

ready to flick.

The boy squeezed his eyes shut, his small fists clenched tight.

Vrinda looked at the scared boy as if he had made a grave mistake.

A soft laugh escaped Vrinda's lips. She leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Jao, naha kar aao aur saaf kapde pehno... puja baithne wale hain. Yahi tumhara punishment hai."

(Go take a bath and change into clean clothes... Puja is about to begin. This is your punishment.)

The boy's eyes widened in surprise. For a second, he just stared-then groaned in dramatic defeat.

Vrinda chuckled.

From across the ghat, Radhika's voice rang out clear and urgent."Vrinda didi! Pandit Dadu aapko bula rahe hain!"

(Vrinda didi, pandit dadu is calling you)

Radhika leaned over the ghat steps, looking down at the boys and Vrinda near the water's edge.

Vrinda's head snapped up at the call. Her eyes widened and expression softened with realization. She bit her tongue, guilty and amused all at once.

"Dekha? Tum logon ki wajah se humne Pandit Dadu ka kaam bhool gaya," she scolded them , her tone playful but firm. She gave the boys a mock glare before turning back to Radhika.

(See? See? Because of you all , I forgot about Pandit Dadu's work.)

"Jao, jaldi jao-kaam karo apna," she added before turning.

(Go, go quickly, do your work.)

The boy who had pouted just minutes ago now grinned ear to ear. His mood had changed completely like weather.

The defeat washed away in laughter.

The group of boys still giggling, ran down further the ghat steps and jumped into the cool Yamuna.

Water splashed around , the ghat filled with their carefree squeals.

Vrinda, meanwhile steadied the kalash of water on her head, the woven basket of flowers balanced in her hands. She began her climb up the steps .

Her payal-the silver anklet wrapped around her ankle-sang with each movement.

Jhan jhan jhan...

she moved, balancing her with the kalesh. In that moment she was looking gracefully epitome of beauty.

In her slow pace, a melody was there...

In her walking.

In her elegance.

In her everything.

As Vrinda finished climbing the last step of the ghat stairs, her eyes fell on Radhika and Akash, who were waiting for her.

They smiled as they saw Vrinda.

"Hum to bhul gaye the... in ladkon ke chakkar mein aur unki chunauti ki wajah se," she said, her voice mixed with amusement and annoyance.

(I had forgotten... because of these boys and their challenge,)

She shook her head with a soft laugh...clearly amused by how easily she'd gotten caught up in the moment.

Then with a motion of her hand, she gestured to the children."Chalo, Radhu... Akasu," she said, turning toward the temple.

As she approached the top of the temple steps. The scent of sandalwood filled air greeted her. She approached Panditji, who was dressed in a white dhoti and stood outside.

She calmly presented him with a kalash filled with Yamuna water and  beautiful flowers.

"Maaf kijiye, Pandit Dadu," she said softly, lowering her eyes. "Khel mein thoda vyast ho gaye the hum."

(Sorry..pandit dadu)

Her tone held a hint of guilt but the respect in her gesture spoke louder than her words.

She lowered her head.

Panditji looked at her with warmth and affection in his eyes. His eyes crinkled as he smiled.

"Koi baat nahi, beti," he said, his voice like a calm blessing.

(It's okay)

"Aao, hamare Prabhu ke liye mala bana do," he said to her.

(Come, help string garlands for our Lord.)

Vrinda nodded and moved a little closer to where the statues of Krishna and Radha were placed. She sat on the ground. She let her fingers begin their work.

She picked flowers one by one and started to make garlands.

Slowly the temple began to buzz with people as people started to arrive. including young people chattering enthusiastically, elderly people leaning on walking sticks and women wearing colourful saris.

Vrinda maintained her focus as she threaded each blossom with devotion and respect.

This was not a task for her -it was her own love for her kanha , which being offered .

When she was done, she used both hands to give Panditji the malas.

His old fingers trembled slightly as he took them.

With deep devotion, he placed the malas around the necks of Radha and Krishna's idols like garlands of affection.

Panditji then started the pooja. His rich, rhythmic voice raised gradually, each chant bearing the weight of years of dedication.

The temple was filled with ancient Sanskrit poems, that swirled with the smoke from the incense.

Vrinda sat silently, her heart full with love.

her gaze fixed on the idols.

The people around the temple stood still, eyes closed in reverence. They joined their hands together in silent prayer, palms pressed against one another.

As the flames of the aarti danced in the distance, the temple was filled with both happiness and celebration.

The festival of Holi is just around the corner.

A peaceful Quiteness descended upon the temple as the puja came to a close. Vrinda came forward to help Panditji.

As she lifted the puja thali, prepared to serve prasad.

She presented each devotee with the fruits and sweets  with her delicate hands.

From afar Warmly observing her , Panditji nodded ,  "Beti, tumhara haath main bhagwan ka ashirwad hai," he uttered with a gentle smile "Krishna aur Radha tumhare saath hai."

(your hand is a blessing from God. Lord krishna and radha with you always)

His remark caused Vrinda's eyes to light up and she smiled back.

She carefully returned the thali to Panditji's hands after the last of the prasad had been served.

"Beti, suna hai tumhari didi aane wali hai aaj?" Panditji asked, curiosity softening his voice.

(Beti, i heard your sister's coming today)

"Haan, Pandit Dadu," Vrinda said, her gaze darting momentarily to the clock that hung on the temple wall.

(Yes)

Her grin dimmed like a light.

“Jaldi aana Vrinda," her mother's words echoed in her mind. And now she was running late.

(Come soon Vrinda)

An abrupt realization struck within her . She turned quickly on her heel and began to run without saying anything.

The buzzed temple behind her faded as her anklets jingled with every step.

"Kya hua, beti?" Panditji called, his voice growing worried.

(What happened?)

"Hume jaana hoga, Dadu!" she called back her words stumbling from her mouth as she ran "Hum kal aayungi!"

(I have to go dadu)

With that she rushed out of the temple, her mind filled with the thought of her mother waiting for her at home.

Vrinda descended the temple stairs in a hurry.

She could feel her heart pounding in her chest. the urgency in her movements only growing as she neared the streets of her home.

The morning breeze caught in her dupatta as it flowed behind her.

Within minutes, she reached the entrance of her house. The car was already parked in the driveway. Her mother, father and elder brother were all standing outside, eyes locked on the car door.

Then it opened.

A girl stepped out of the car. her long hair flowing against her back , dressed in a traditional salwar suit.

She hadn't even fully come outside before their mother wrapped her in a tight, emotional hug, followed quickly by their father and then her brother.

Vrinda stood frozen for a moment, watching the scene with wide eyes, heart filled with love and happiness .

She knew exactly who it was.

And then she shouted out in excitement, her voice filled with joy. "Didi" she called, her smile brighting up her face as she ran toward her sister.

As soon as she reached her, she threw her arms around her, hugging her tightly.

"Didi," Vrinda whispered again.. It had been so long.

Her sister chuckled softly, holding Vrinda close and brushing her fingers through her hair.

"Look at you," she murmured. "You've grown up so much Vrinda."

"Aap bhi toh bohot sundar ho gaye ho, Didi," Vrinda said, pulling back just enough to look at her sister's face.

(You have also become very beautiful)

Her sister smiled warmly, tucking a lock of hair behind Vrinda's ear.

"Tum bhi, Vrinu," she replied gently, her voice soft and full of love.

(You too)

"Humne aapko bohot miss kiya," Vrinda said, holding her sister's hands.

(I missed you so much)

The moment played in front of the whole family.

"Chalo, andar chalte hain," Chandrani, Vrinda's mother, said, as she opened the front door. Then, raising an eyebrow with mischief.

(Let's go inside)

Aur Vrinda, maine bola tha na jaldi aane ko? Chandrani said.

(And vrinda i told you to come early)

Vrinda pouted slightly, her cheeks tinged pink .

"Hum jaante hain, sorry Maa," she said, her voice light and playful.

(I know, sorry maa)

"Arre, humari beti ko kyun daat rahi ho?" Amit, Vrinda's father, said with a chuckle as he stepped forward, pulling both daughters into a big and tight embrace.

(Aree, why are scolding my daughter?)

"Maine kab daanta? Main toh sirf keh rahe thi," Chandrani replied with a grin, nudging Amit teasingly as her eyes sparkled with happiness.

(When did i scold her? I was just asking her)

The family stood there for a while, wrapped in the kind of love that didn't need words-just shared joy and laughter.

The family walked inside together. Chandrani led the way. The house smelled of freshly prepared food.

As they settled in, Vrinda sat down with her sister and brother, eagerly catching up on the time they had missed. The conversations started, filled with stories, laughter and little teasing moments that only family could understand.

"Toh, didi, batao, kaise guzar raha hai waha?" Vrinda asked.

(So didi, tell me , how was your days there?)

Her sister smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Sab kuch accha hai, Vrinda. Par tum sabka bahut yaad aata hai," she said, a smile kept on her lips as she glanced at the family photos hanging on the wall.

(Everything was fine but I missed you all)

Vrinda's eyes softened as she nodded. She could feel the bond they shared, stronger than ever.

"Maa, khaana ready hai?" Aditya asked, his voice filled with anticipation, looking toward the kitchen.

(Maa, Mom, is the food ready?)

Chandrani nodded, smiling brightly. "Haan, bas abhi lati hoon."

(Yes, I'm coming)

The family settled around the dinner table, the laughter and chatter continuing as they enjoyed a peaceful, joyous evening together.

As the sisters and brother laughed, lost in their playful conversation. Amit looked at them , his eyes shifting between Vrinda, Aditya, and then Chandrani. Chandrani returned the same gesture.

Amit cleared his throat, "Main abhi kuch kehne wala hoon," he said, his tone serious but filled with something that arouse everyone's curiosity.

(I want to teel you something)

Instantly, the playful atmosphere shifted. All eyes turned to him.

"Tum logo ko yaad hai, maine kaha tha kuch din pehle mere business trip pe maine ek purane dost se milna tha?" Amit asked, looking at both Vrinda and Aditya.

(Do you remember...I told you I had to meet an old friend on my business trip a few days ago?)

"To iss Holi ke utsav mein, woh aane wale hain," Amit said.

(So in this Holi celebration, they are coming)

The family exchanged looks. Everyone curious about this old friend who would be joining them during the festive season.

The room fell into a moment of silence as everyone was still thinking about Amit's words. Vrinda and Aditya exchanged confused glances, while Chandrani raised an eyebrow.

"Koi purana dost?" Aditya asked, his curiosity piqued. "Kaun hai woh?"

(Old friend? Who is he ?)

"Humare college life ke dost," Amit replied as he leaned back in his chair, "Woh log parso dopahar tak aa jayenge."

(My college time friend. He is coming the day after tomorrow)

Vrinda's mind raced, trying to figure out who these people were and why their arrival felt so special "College life ka dost?" she said softly, her brow furrowed in thought.

(College time friend?)

Chandrani turned her gaze toward Amit, an amused smile on her lips. "Kahi tumhare purane dost se kuch aur baat toh nahi ho rahi hai, Amit?"

(Are you talking about something else with your old friend, Amit?)

Amit chuckled, waving off her teasing. "Nahi, bilkul nahi. Bas purane doston ka ek chhota reunion ho raha hai," he said with a smile.

(No...just a reunion of two friends)

_________

The grand palace was buzzed with to and fro as the workers doing their work and moving swift.

Everyworkers engaged with their own duties. Some were mopping the marble floor, some were present in the kitchen.

Everyone were busy as holi celebrations after few days so they have get everything ready.

Despite this chaos the palace Didn't lose it's beautiful, majestic and powerful aura but still stood with his ancient and historical brick and wall which tells every hidden secret , promise and blood marks.

Each wall hold an untold mystery yet to be solved but still unsolved.

The walls were decorated with ancient pictures, warriors' swords and antique things which carried many tales and oaths.

"Aksh beta, kaha ho? Jaldi aao!" Savitri said , the current queen of Udaipur. Her authoritative voice which echoed through the living hall.

(Where are you?)

Descending the grand staircase with an presence which can't be shaken and royal aura, Suryaksh Singh Rathore, the second prince of Rajasthan, Udaipur.

Come in the living room.

With his tall and commanding presence and an air of dominance. he stood in front of his mother, Savitri.

He didn't need any traditional clothes or jewellery to prove he was from royalty, but the way he walked, the sharp gaze in his eyes and the invisible yet visible aura proved his lineage from royalty.

"Aa gya, Maa sa," he said in his deep voice, standing front of his mother.

(I have come)

Sabitri turned to him , her observant eyes scanning him from head to toe. "Aaj ka din bohot mahatvapun hai, Suryaksh. Tumhe yaad hai na?"

(Today is a very important day, Suryaksh. Do you remember?)

A small smile played on Suryaksh's lips. "Main kuch bhoolta, Maa-sa," he replied, his tone filled with confident.

(I don't forget anything, a mother.)

"Chalo dekho, sab taiyar hue ki nahi?" Sabitri ordered him.

(Okay. Is everything ready?)

"Main dekh kar aati hoon... tumhare Papa ko," she said and turned towards other side 

(I'll go see your father...)

But just as she took a step forward, she stopped.

A thought crossed her mind, making her glance back at her son.

"Tumhara bhai kab aa raha hai?" she asked him as she was curious about her other son.

(When is your brother coming?)

Without looking up from his phone. Suryaksh responded with ease. "Bhai-sa ne kaha woh Holi ke din pohonch jayenge." His tone was casual but there was a respect whenever he spoke about his elder brother.

(He told me that he would reach on holi day)

Sabitri  gave a small nod and walked off as she knows if suryaksh said that then her other son will go there.

Suryaksh glanced at his phone screen, his fingers scrolling through unread messages and email .

He knew his Bhai-sa, the Crown Prince would arrive on Holi.

He straightened his shoulders and strode towards the outer courtyard where the palace staff was still running around and checking everything was perfect for the festival.

Just as he stepped out, a familiar voice called out-"chote rajkumar!"

He turned to see Raghu Kaka, the palace's oldest and most trusted servant. He walked towards him with a knowing smile,"Chote kuwar sa .Holi ke liye saari tayyariyan ho chuki hain. Bas aapko dekhna tha ki sab kuch thik hai ya nahi."

(All the preparations for Holi are complete. You just need to check if everything is in order.)

Suryaksh's gaze moved over the palace grounds once more, checking everything was in order. The preparations were nearly complete.

Suryaksh adjusted the cuffs of his shirt before saying. "Hum sab Vrindavan ja rahe hain, toh hum yahan nahi rahenge. Dada ji aur aap milkar sab dekh lijiyega, Raghu Kaka."

(We're all going to Vrindavan, so we won't be staying here. Grandpa and you can take care of everything together, Uncle Raghu.)

Raghu Kaka nodded immediately. "Jaisa aap kahenge, Rajkumar ji."

(As you say)

Without uttering another word Suryansh turned on his heel.

Vrindavan he thought.

A place soaked in devotion, love ,tradition and history.

_______________

The room was dimly lit as only sunlight was slipping through the curtains of the big balcony.

As the sunlight fell from the balcony , it made a long shadow falling on the marble floor across the room.

The chaotic view of the metropolitan city was visible busy, loud yet dull.

He stood by the balcony tall, unwavering , untouched yet sharp. With one hand holding his phone to his ear and the other hand ruffling his wet hair with a towel.

His deep, hard , cold yet attractive voice filled the room as he started to give instructions.

His sharp eyes were on the dull and robotic city but with those eyes he was calculating everything.

He was half naked as he just took a shower after his gym session. With a tight , toned and muscular body and a towel wrapped around his lower part makes him almost a sexy demon.

Sunlight fell on his naked skin , highlighting his abs,chest and his broad shoulder makes him attractive like a Greek demon.

His raven black hair was damp, water droplets were cascading down from his face, trailing over his neck , chest and sculpted abs then disappeared though the deep v line beneath his towel..

This view makes anyone or any girl head over heels over him.

A faint scent of wood and oakmoss lingered in the air.

His grip on the phone tightened as His lips curled into a smirk.

His deep, authoritative yet calm voice cut through the silence, laced with amusement.

"Get the deal. I will invest in it, but it has to bring me a profit of 500 crore."

A sharp breath came from the other end. "But sir, it can't be possible-"

His lips curved into a lazy smirk.

"It's possible. There's no such thing as impossible in my dictionary." He said And without another word, he ended the call.

His jaw clenched, a flicker of something dark and dangerous flashing in his stormy golden brown gaze.

Power. Control. Precision.

he throw the phone on his bed before going to his big wardrobe. Exhaling a deep breath , he picked up a crisp white shirt and black three piece suit and started to get ready for his own day.

No rush as his hand started to wrap himself in soft fabric.

His business was complete , now it was to play with his business partners - a play which no one wants to imagine or play.

But still have to play as the pro player, play dumb to win and manipulate others.

After getting ready he walked over the big mirror attached to his wardrobe wall.

He looked at the reflection, confident posture, breath takingly handsome yet unreadable face.

He took his Rolex watch and slid it into his wrist.

A glass bottle of cologne placed there wood and oakmoss filled the air as he spread it on himself.

Lastly, his hair.

He ran his fingers through it once then used a comb to smooth it back.

He took a final step back to check himself in the mirror.

Sharp. Perfect. Unshakable and Unreadable.

He didn't need to ask for attention. He just got it-without uttering a word or doing anything.

Then he adjusted his blazer and walked off from his wardrobe.

Every step he took echoed through the room, he took his phone from bed and wallet from the table, sliding into his pants he was about to go towards the door. That's when he heard a knock.

"Come in," he said.

The door opened, and in walked his right-hand man-well-dressed, but clearly a little nervous.

"Sir, the car is ready," he said.

He gave a small nod "Good. Let's go." His voice was calm.

He walked out of his room, his polished shoes clicking against the marble floor.

As he reached the stairs of his penthouse, his secretary hurried over, holding a few files.

"Sir, the meeting with the international investors is in an hour. The legal team is ready to go through the final contract," she said quickly.

Suryansh took the file from her and looked through it while walking.

"Good. Make sure everything works in our favor. No room for compromise." He said.

"Yes, sir," she replied right away.

His car was already waiting at the front.

The driver opened the door just as he arrived, and Suryansh slid in.

"Drive.”

As the car drove onto the road, his phone buzzed again-maybe another deals call.

The morning sun fell on his face, bringing out the sharp lines of his features.

Suddenly, his phone rang. He saw Maa Sa calling him. Without hesitation he received the call.

"Good morning, Maa Sa," he said in a soft tone, unlike his usual hard and authoritative voice.

"Good morning, Ansh beta, tum kab Vrindavan pahunche rahe ho? Aaj hum sab nikal jayenge," Sabitri asked.

"Maa Sa, hum pooja ke din jayenge, kuch kaam hai yaha," he replied.

"Beta, jaldi aana," Sabitri Devi said with warmth in her voice.

"Ji Maa Sa," he answered before ending the call.

As the call ended, Suryansh leaned back into the seat, exhaling slowly. Vrindavan. A place drenched in devotion, colors, history and traditions.

He glanced out of the tinted window, watching the city . His world was one of power, negotiations, and control. But Vrindavan? It was different.

It was untouched by his ruthless ambitions.

A sharp knock on the window pulled him from his thoughts. The driver glanced back.

He hesitated before speaking. "Sir, we've arrived."

With a curt nod Suryansh straightened his blazer and stepped out.

his posture effortlessly commanding.

The grand building before him-his empire, his battlefield-stood tall against the morning sky.

________________

Here's the first chapter of TRD (The Royal Destiny)..

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