Rashi knew Angad loved her and would understand her dilemma, may be a little later.
She also knew, if she gives way to the prejudices in the beginning, the vicious circle of unremitting expectations (beyond her beliefs) will hold her densely. She will NOT be able to reject the traditional overtures of marriage, deeply rooted in patriarchy.
“Maa, since Angad and I will be going back to Hyderabad in next few days to resume our offices, I would want to stay at my home for a couple of days. So, I will not be able to come back today before 6 P.M. Instead, I will stay for 2 days there and then Angad can come and pick me up. If he also wants to spend some time with his extended family now, we can surely stay there for 1 more day.”
Aghast at her daughter in law’s statement, she retorted-
“This is not how a newly wedded bride should talk, instead, you were to be coy and timid.”
A short pause followed!
“When I was a bride, I did whatever I was asked for, and never uttered a word nor raised my voice, even if I felt uncomfortable or did not like certain things. I was respectful and kept my head hung low in front of my in-laws.”
Few seconds later, she again said-
“This must change!”
With a smile on her face, Rashi said-
She touched her feet and took her blessings.
“I would quickly go and change into the sari which you had given me as your first gift. I am sure, you will love me into that.”
And there was a sudden twinge of delight into maa’s eyes.
“Rashi! I do not want you to be me, I want you to be you only. I could not take my decisions, but I am with you now in making your marriage a “Marriage of Equals”.
In a Scarlet red and golden banarsi silk sari, Rashi looked beautiful. The new dawn awaited and the couple looked forward to it!
