Devaraj Gurukul
Morning had brought a wave of activity to the Gurukul. From the earliest hours, the princes were already at work. The younger students carefully decorated the grand front gates with vibrant garlands of flowers, while others scattered petals along the stone path leading into the Gurukul, creating a colorful, fragrant carpet that welcomed the day.
Nearby, the gurus supervised the preparations for the puja with meticulous care, ensuring that every ritual detail was flawless. In contrast, the elder princes had taken responsibility for arranging the grand feast that would follow the ceremonies.
Inside the bustling kitchen, where the aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air, Dhruva stood beside a large cauldron, stirring kheer with practiced skill. His concentration broke when Rudra arrived carrying freshly cut vegetables. A teasing smile played on Rudra's lips as he leaned closer, inhaling deeply.
Rudra said playfully,
"Wow, Dhruva, wow! Today's kheer smells different. Just its fragrance pulled me here the moment I finished my work."
Dhruva could not stop himself from laughing at Rudra's words. A warm smile spread across his face as he replied politely.
Dhruva said good-naturedly,
"Thank you for the compliment, Prince."
Rudra, still smiling, continued excitedly,
"You know, Dhruva! Taksh told me that today Guru Shiv is taking us to Dinar village to witness the Dussehra festival. It is said that the Dussehra there is extremely popular and world-famous. People from across the country and even from foreign lands come to set up their shops, selling all kinds of goods. And the fair itself is something else entirely—I've also heard that there are many games to play, and even grand arrangements for entertainment."
Lost in thought, Dhruva finally spoke, voicing the question forming in his mind.
Dhruva asked in surprise,
"But if the festival is so famous, then why didn't the Gurus take us there in all these seven years? Dussehra is celebrated every year, isn't it?"
Rudra smiled softly and replied,
"I don't know for sure, but maybe it's because this is our final year of training. That's probably why Gurudev is taking all of us there—like a final farewell."
Saying this, Rudra turned back to his work in the kitchen, leaving Dhruva quietly thinking over his words.
As the evening sky softened into a calm twilight, the Gurukul came alive with the joyful spirit of the Dussehra puja. The warm glow of oil lamps flickered across the decorated walls, and the air filled with chants, laughter, and the sharp crackle of fireworks. Princes and Gurus worked together in harmony, lighting sparklers bought from the bustling market earlier that day. Their faces shone with excitement, and with every spark dancing in the night, their bond grew stronger.
Later, the celebration moved to the grand dining hall, where everyone gathered to share the royal feast. Plates filled with sacred offerings were served, and the hall echoed with cheerful conversation as they enjoyed the meal together, celebrating the true spirit of Dussehra.
After the meal, just as the princes were about to return to their rooms, Guru Shiv stepped forward. His calm, steady voice drew everyone's attention.
Guru Shiv (warmly) "All senior princes, listen carefully. Now prepare yourselves, because we are going to Dinar Village to witness the grand Dussehra celebration. I believe you will all enjoy it. However, I will not force anyone. Those who wish to rest may return to their rooms, but those who wish to join me should follow me."
A soft murmur spread through the group as the princes considered their choices. Some, already satisfied with the day's festivities, decided to return to their chambers. Meanwhile, led by Dhruva, a group of eager princes stepped forward, their eyes shining with excitement. Together with Guru Shiv, they left the Gurukul and set out under the moonlit sky toward Dinar Village, ready to witness the magnificent festival.
Surank Kingdom:
After completing the Dussehra celebrations at the royal palace, Princess Nandini also set out for Dinar Village in her chariot, accompanied by her maids. A group of soldiers rode along to ensure her protection.
Dinar Village:
Under the soft glow of moonlight and the gentle rustling of leaves, Guru Shiv led the group of princes into the vibrant heart of Dinar Village. As they approached the Dussehra grounds, the air grew warmer and more alive, filled with joy, music, and the crackling sound of ceremonial fires. The field itself glittered with rows of lights and colorful decorations, creating a spectacle that left the princes in awe.
As their eyes absorbed the mesmerizing scene, their steps slowed—brightly lit stalls, people dressed in festive attire, and towering above the crowd stood the grand effigy of Ravana, waiting for its fiery end. Among the princes, Rudra finally broke the silence, his voice filled with both wonder and regret.
Rudra (thoughtfully, almost in awe)
"You know, Dhruva, in all my seventeen years, I have never seen the Dussehra festival. I used to think coming here was a waste of time. But today… today I realize how many beautiful moments of life I have lost by thinking that way."
Dhruva smiled, his mind drifting into distant memories.
Dhruva (softly, with nostalgia)
"As far as I remember, we used to celebrate Dussehra in my village. I mean, I was very young, but I still remember going there with my mother. It felt magical… just like this."
Hearing Dhruva, Takshraj, who was standing nearby, also joined in. His voice was calm, yet filled with emotion.
Takshraj (reminiscing)
"I think I was about five years old when my father once took me to a place where Dussehra was being celebrated."
As the lively festival buzzed all around them, Guru Shiv gathered all the princes together under the glowing lights of the Dussehra fair. His voice, calm yet commanding, cut through the cheerful noise.
Guru Shiv (firm yet warm)
"Alright, princes. Now it is time for each of you to explore on your own. You are free to roam wherever you like and buy whatever interests you. But remember—once the time is over, we will gather here again and return to the Gurukul. Understood?"
The princes answered eagerly, their voices rising together.
All Princes (excitedly)
"Yes, Gurudev!"
With that, the group scattered, each prince drawn in a different direction by the fair's vibrant attractions. Laughter, music, and the loud calls of merchants advertising their goods filled the air.
Meanwhile, Rudra's sharp eyes caught sight of a crowd gathered near the edge of a nearby field. He turned toward his companions, Dhruva and Taksh, curiosity lighting up his face.
Rudra (excitedly)
"Hey, look over there! A group of people is standing together. Let's check it out—it looks like some kind of competition."
As the sun began to set, spreading a golden glow across the village, Princess Nandini and her maids arrived near the entrance of Dinar village. The air was already filled with distant sounds of celebration, but as they reached the gate, the sight before them was unexpected.
The road leading into the village was narrow—nothing like the wide, grand paths they were accustomed to traveling on in their royal chariots.
Meena (looking at the narrow path)
"It seems we will have to go on foot from here, Princess. The road is too small for the chariot."
Worry creased Princess Nandini's forehead as she studied the restricted path ahead. Turning to Meena, her voice carried confusion and hesitation.
Nandini (anxiously)
"But why?"
Meena spoke calmly, her expression thoughtful and wise.
Meena (explaining)
"It seems that this year the villagers have built a very small welcome gate. It appears they intend for everyone to enter on foot, according to tradition."
Princess Nandini took a deep breath, her eyes fixed on the narrow entrance before her. She paused for a moment. Then, with a gentle yet determined smile, she made her decision.
Nandini (firmly)
"Very well. If all the devotees are walking on foot, then we shall walk too. We will experience the Dussehra worship just like everyone else."
Princess Nandini stepped forward, her maids following closely behind. Together, they moved along the narrow path leading into Dinar village, embracing the spirit of tradition and festival, their steps light with anticipation.