The day of the very first pre-wedding function had officially arrived. The entire Mehara mansion had been transformed into a majestic traditional paradise. Thick, fragrant garlands of fresh orange and yellow marigolds, mixed with elegant white jasmine strings, draped beautifully from the massive marble pillars and grand staircases. The air was thick with the soothing scent of burning incense and the distant, rhythmic chanting of the priests preparing the holy fire in the central courtyard.

Everyone was dressed in magnificent traditional attire to mark the auspicious beginning of the wedding festivities.

Tanishka was an absolute vision, radiating a timeless bridal glow. She wore a stunning mustard-yellow silk lehenga intricate with delicate golden zardozi embroidery. Her hair was styled in a soft, elegant half-updo adorned with fresh jasmine flowers, and she wore a traditional polki jewelry set that complemented her look beautifully.

Reyansh stepped into the courtyard, and a collective hush fell over the guests. He looked devastatingly handsome in a royal navy blue bandhgala sherwani featuring intricate silver button detailing along the collar. His posture was commanding, but the moment his dark eyes locked onto Tanishka sitting near the sacred altar, his icy expression completely melted into a look of absolute admiration.

Kavya, looking perfectly healthy, vibrant, and glowing in a soft pastel pink silk saree, sat nearby holding little Aarvik. Aarush stood proudly right beside her, keeping a protective hand on her shoulder as they watched the young couple.

"You look breathtaking, Tanu," Reyansh murmured softly as he took his seat right next to her in front of the holy fire.

Tanishka’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, her heart fluttering at his tone. "You don't look too bad yourself, Mr. Mehara," she whispered back playfully.

The head priest stepped forward to begin the Tilak Ceremony. With deep, resonant chants echoing through the grand pavilion, Aarush stepped forward as the elder brother to perform the traditional rituals, applying the sacred vermilion and rice tilak onto Reyansh’s forehead, officially blessing his younger brother for the beautiful journey ahead.

Following the tilak, the priests commenced the holy pre-wedding puja. Reyansh and Tanishka sat close together, their shoulders brushing as they offered holy grains and flower petals into the sacred fire, praying for an unbreakable bond, endless prosperity, and lifetime protection.

As the final prayers concluded, the priest instructed them to seek the blessings of the elders. Together, hand-in-hand, Reyansh and Tanishka turned to Aarush and Kavya. They leaned down to touch their feet.

Aarush immediately placed a warm, proud hand on Reyansh's head and smiled at Tanishka. "Always stay happy, you two."

Kavya gently pulled Tanishka up into a warm, careful hug, her eyes shining with tears of absolute joy. "Welcome to the family officially, Tanu. I am so incredibly happy today."

With the holy rituals successfully completed, the serene atmosphere shifted seamlessly into a lively celebration. Traditional dhol players entered the courtyard, their energetic beats echoing through the estate as guests began to cheer and dance.

Reyansh pulled Tanishka slightly closer to his side, his fingers locking securely through hers. He leaned down, his voice a smooth, thrilling whisper against her ear. "The gods have given their blessings, Tanu. You are officially one step closer to becoming Mrs. Reyansh Mehara."

Tanishka looked up into his fierce, loving eyes, a brilliant, beautiful smile breaking across her face. "And I wouldn't have it any other way, Reyu."