Ayodhya Palace and the entire kingdom had been bustling with activity for the past ten days. Only two more days remained before the marriage of their new emperor and their beloved princess. The majestic palace of Shri Ram was adorned with beautiful decorations and meticulously cleaned by a large workforce.

As part of the rituals conducted by Maharishi Vashistha, the gods themselves were invited to bless the union. The people of Kosala were overjoyed and eagerly contributed to the city's cleaning and decoration. Such happiness hadn't been witnessed in Ayodhya for a long time, and everyone rejoiced and celebrated each day.

However, this news was kept within the boundaries of Kosala. Karna had given strict instructions not to let this information reach other kingdoms, following the orders of his gurudev and Maharishi Vashistha. Ayodhya had isolated itself from the rest of Āryāvrata since the beginning of the Dwapara Yuga, with different rules and active involvement in the politics of Āryāvrata, guided by their kul guru. Their spy network was known to be the best in Aryavart, deterring anyone from sending spies into the Kosala kingdom.

Meanwhile, Madirakshi and Karna found themselves lost in thoughts about their first meeting, which took place in the palace gardens on the day their marriage was fixed.

***

Under the night sky, Madirakshi couldn't sleep, her mind occupied with thoughts of Karna. She decided to take a walk in the palace gardens, where she unexpectedly found Karna. The presence of each other was instantly noticed, and Karna stopped Madirakshi, eager to speak to her privately.

"I would like to talk to you in private. Can we please talk?" Karna requested, and Madirakshi nodded in agreement.

"Let's walk and talk," Karna suggested.

"Listen, my dear, I want to share something about myself. I am Suryaputra Karna, the mortal son of Suryadeva. My mother abandoned me at birth because I was born before her marriage. My foster parents, who belong to the Suta caste, are my true family and the reason I have a life worth living. We were treated poorly in Hastinapur due to our low caste. I, too, consider myself a Suta because my foster parents are my lifeline. I was forbidden from wielding a bow; if I dared to pick one up, people would come to my house and beat me. But I never lost hope. I used to secretly practice archery in the jungle. When I was nine years old, Gangaputra Bhishma and Dronacharya rejected me based on my caste, claiming that I was committing a sin by taking up a bow. I left Hastinapur and then Lord Parashurama entered my life, transforming it completely. He was the first person to reveal the truth about my parentage. He became my teacher and trained me to become an invincible warrior. When I asked him about my Gurudakshina, he asked me to fight against him. After I defeated him, he commanded me to conquer Ayodhya. Two tasks of my Gurudakshina remain, and I have completed the others. When I saw you yesterday, I fell in love with you instantly. I have a question for you: were you forced into this marriage?" Karna poured out his heart in one breath.

"No, I also fell in love with you the moment I laid eyes on you on the battlefield," Madirakshi replied with a smile on her face.

Karna was taken aback by her response.

"We will explore these feelings together," Karna said, his eyes sparkling with joy.

"Yes!" Madirakshi answered.

"Now, tell me, what do you think of me?" Karna asked, a smile on his face.

Madirakshi hummed for a moment and then replied, "Your story is truly inspiring and motivational. You have added colors to my life. Thank you, Adhirath Nandan, for bringing joy back into my life." Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke.

"Now, tell me your story, my love," Karna said in a gentle tone.

"I spent my childhood with my father alone as my mother left me immediately after my birth. Maharishi Vashistha trained me in swordsmanship, politics, Vedas, and medicine. He hasn't yet asked for his Gurudakshina, and I wonder what he will ask for. " Madirakshi shared, a smile gracing her face.

She also revealed to Karna the oracle given by her gurudev, stating that she would marry a man who was a student of Lord Parashurama and would defeat Shri Ram's army.

"Adhirath Nandan, what do you think of me now?" Madirakshi asked, her eyes sparkling.

Karna immediately embraced her and said, "You can always share your emotions with me, my beloved. I am always here for you."

In that comforting hug, Madirakshi felt safe as she whispered, "Thank you for entering my life, Suryanandan." Karna smiled at the endearing name.

They then parted ways and sat together on a nearby bench. Karna leaned closer, gently pressing his lips against her forehead. Both closed their eyes, savoring the depth of their emotions.

***

Karna's reverie was interrupted by his brother Shon, whom he loved dearly. He decided to teach Shon the art of warfare.

"Bhaiya, please play with me. I'm getting bored," Shon pleaded, and Karna chuckled at his brother's antics.

"What games do you want to play with me?" Karna asked, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

"I want to hear stories about your time at gurukul," Shon said with a smile.

Karna smiled back and started sharing his adventures at gurukul with his younger brother, gently caressing his hair. Eventually, Shon fell asleep in his lap, and Karna carefully laid his head on a pillow before drifting off to sleep himself.

Meanwhile, Madirakshi's thoughts were interrupted by her maids, who playfully teased her. Soon, she too fell asleep.

***

The Haldi Ceremony and on its eve preceding the grand union, Ayodhya stirred with an enchanting flurry of activity, orchestrating the splendid tapestry of the Haldi ceremony.

At Karna's side, the vibrant rite commenced with Karna's revered guru, an erudite sage, anointing the auspicious substance upon his princely frame. Subsequently, the sacred haldi was tenderly applied by his loving mother, Radha, and his esteemed father, Adhirath. In harmonious succession, Shon and a bevy of honored guests beseeched the blessings of turmeric upon Karna. As the sands of time drifted, the ceremonial affair drew to its conclusion.

And at Madirakshi's side, the Haldi celebration unfolded in a jubilant atmosphere, brimming with exuberance and joy. Brihadbala, with utmost reverence, inaugurated the ritual by anointing Madirakshi, followed by the esteemed gurumata Arundhati and venerable gurudeva Vashistha. The bejeweled ladies of royalty contributed their tender strokes of haldi, culminating in a resplendent crescendo of music and dance.

***

Under the veil of night, the ethereal enchantment of the night embraced Karna and Madirakshi, as slumber eluded them. The morrow beckoned, laden with momentous significance. Gazing heavenward, they beheld a celestial expanse adorned with a myriad of stars, when suddenly, a shooting star blazed across the heavens. Seized by a divine impulse, they rose from their reverie, their hearts aflame with fervent wishes.

Karna beseeched the celestial powers for a profound harmony to permeate his conjugal bond. Madirakshi, in turn, entreated for her beloved husband's well-being and the continued prosperity of her esteemed father.

***

The nuptial dawn arrived and the air teemed with feverish preparations for the matrimonial gala. The resplendent Ayodhya palace, bedecked in opulent finery, blossomed forth in a kaleidoscope of blossoms and gilded accents.

Ayodhya, exultant in the union of its princess and emperor, basked in unwavering devotion for Karna's benevolent reign. The populace, enamored by his judicious rule, pledged unswerving allegiance. No dissenting voices dared to challenge his sovereignty.

Prior to his regal duties, the new emperor embarked upon his customary Surya puja, offering his veneration to the radiant deity by the banks of the sacred Saryu River. As he fervently engaged in the ritual, an ineffable lightness enveloped his being, soothing his noble spirit.

In a sublime encounter, Suryadeva and his two illustrious sons graced their regal sibling with their august presence. Karna, humbled by their divine aura, prostrated himself, seeking their divine benediction. The triumvirate bestowed their heartfelt blessings, while mischievous Shani deva and Yam deva playfully jested. And then, as suddenly as they had appeared, they withdrew into the ethereal realms.

Having completed his daily ablutions, Karna sought the counsel of his revered guru. The sagely mentor admonished him to discharge his kingly duties with unwavering dedication, stressing the need for discernment and precision in decision-making. Furthermore, he imparted wisdom on the art of maintaining balance within the sacred confines of married life.

Meanwhile, Madirakshi sought solace in the company of her loving father, who exuded an ineffable happiness. His paternal blessings enveloped her like a gentle embrace, ensuring a harmonious union in the days to come. Thereafter, she embarked on a pilgrimage to her revered gurudev and gurumata, who imparted sagacious counsel, emphasizing her unwavering support for Karna in light of the hardships he had endured.

And so, adorned in resplendent attire, Madirakshi made her way to the palace, her heart brimming with anticipation for the impending nuptials.

***

Under the enchanting night canopy, the ambiance of the wedding venue exuded an ethereal purity, transporting one to realms of celestial enchantment. The revered sage, Lord Parashurama, had summoned an assembly of esteemed sages, their presence lending an air of sublime grandeur to the auspicious occasion. Karna, in turn, had gathered his venerable gurus, paying homage to their enlightened guidance.

The mandap, adorned with a profusion of exquisite blooms, emanated a tapestry of fragrances. The gentle zephyrs, as if choreographed by the heavens themselves, infused the atmosphere with an otherworldly serenity. The stars twinkled in silent celebration, while the crescent moon cast its silvery glow, adding an ethereal touch to the sacred sanctum.

Clad in resplendent robes of crimson hue, bedecked with the crown of Āryāvrata atop his noble brow and adorned with delicate adornments, Karna radiated regal splendor. A diaphanous angavastram in hues of red and white graced his princely frame.

Then, with an air of mystique, Madirakshi made her grand entrance, accompanied by a retinue of handmaidens. Gasps of awe rippled through the assembly, for her beauty transcended mortal realms.

Karna stood transfixed, captivated by the resplendent manifestation of his beloved. Love, effervescent and pure, radiated from their souls. Both bedecked in regal attire of scarlet and gold, adhering to the timeless traditions of Raghukul, they stood poised for the sacred union.

As their eyes met, a profound connection formed, and Karna graced her with a tender smile. With a graceful gesture, he inclined his head, and in response, Madirakshi lovingly adorned his neck with a garland of fragrant blossoms. In perfect harmony, Karna reciprocated the gesture, and in that sacred exchange, both bride and groom found solace.

With the completion of the varmala ceremony, Maharishi Vashistha commenced the sacred ritual of kanyadaan. Brihadbala, with solemn grace, beseeched Karna to uphold the ideals of dharma, artha, and kama in his life's journey. The groom vowed to the father of the bride, pledging unwavering commitment to the pursuit of righteousness, prosperity, and love. Three times over, Karna reiterated his solemn promises, sealing them with the sacred bond of his word.

Following the ritual of kanyadaan, Maharishi Vashistha ushered in the ritual of Panigrahana, symbolizing the imminent union of bride and groom. As Karna sat facing west and Madirakshi faced east, their hands intertwined, uniting them in their sacred bond. The sage invoked the blessings of four deities-Bhaga, Aryama, Savita, and Purandhi-representing wealth, the celestial realms, radiance, and wisdom, respectively.

"I Behold! Whence did this fair maiden emerge, and to whom is she bestowed?
'Twas Kama, the ethereal deity of love, who graciously presented her to me, that I may ardently cherish her.
For love itself is the giver, and love itself the acceptor.
Enter now, O radiant bride, immerse thyself in the vast ocean of love.

With fervent love, I embrace thee,
May thou forever be mine, O divine embodiment of love,
Indeed, thou art the very essence of prosperity,
May the heavens shower their blessings upon thee, and may the earth embrace thy presence.

As the verses resounded, Brihadbala beseeched Karna, urging him not to falter in his pursuit of dharma, artha, and kama, in service to the bride. The groom, in turn, pledged to the bride's father that he shall never waver in his commitment to upholding moral righteousness, acquiring wealth, and fostering love. Karna echoed these vows thrice, his words resolute and unwavering.

Following the ritual of kanyadaan, Maharishi Vashistha commenced the ceremonial act of Panigrahana.

Panigrahana, the ritual known as "holding the hand," symbolized the imminent union of the bride and groom, as the groom assumed the responsibility of four deities: Bhaga, the harbinger of wealth; Aryama, the celestial messenger of the heavens; Savita, the embodiment of radiant new beginnings; and Purandhi, the bestower of wisdom. Positioned in the west, Karna, facing the east, extended his hand towards Madirakshi, while the following verses were melodiously recited:

"I grasp thy hand, yearning for boundless bliss,
I beseech thee to be my partner, my husband,
Until both of us, in the passage of time, grow old."

"Know this, as I declare, that the celestial Gods,
Bhaga, Aryama, Savita, and Purandhi, have consigned thy being to me,
So that I may fulfill my obligations as a householder, with thee."

"I am the reflection, and thou, the source,
I am the Sāman, and thou, the Ŗc,
I am the Heavens, and thou, the Earth."

Then Maharishi Vashishtha inaugurated the ritual of Saptapadi, proclaiming, "By traversing the seven steps together, the world of men and women, united in the sacred bond of matrimony, shall bask in the jubilation of life's eternal dance."

With the onset of the sacred ritual known as Saptapadi, initiated by the venerable Maharishi Vashishtha, the harmonious union of man and woman in the divine bond of matrimony was ushered forth. The assembly, in sheer anticipation, stood united, eager to bask in the ensuing blissful communion.

As the initial stride was embarked upon, Karna, his voice resolute and brimming with fervor, solemnly vowed, "Oh, thou sustainer of life's nourishment, bestow thy benevolence upon my esteemed guests, cherished comrades, venerable parents, and the progeny that graces our existence with their presence. Oh, resplendent damsel, assuming the divine form of Vishnu, I take this inaugural stride alongside thee, symbolizing the sustenance bestowed by nourishment." Once Karna's impassioned words had subsided, Madirakshi, her countenance radiant, responded, "Indeed, whatever sustenance thou shalt diligently acquire, I shall safeguard it, preparing it with utmost care to nourish thee. I pledge to honor thy desires and extend nourishment to thy kin and confidants."

With their initial circumambulation around the sacred fire completed, Karna and Madirakshi embarked upon the second revolution, their hearts ablaze with devotion. Karna, his voice imbued with introspection and admiration, professed, "Oh, thou thoughtful and resplendent lady, endowed with a well-ordered abode and pure in both conduct and cogitation, thou shalt empower us to thrive, infusing strength, vitality, and bliss into our beings. Oh, enchanting damsel, as Vishnu personified, I take this second step with thee, symbolizing the fortification of body, character, and essence." In response, Madirakshi, with resolute determination, proclaimed, "Indeed, I shall diligently manage our abode to the best of my abilities and reason. Together, we shall forge a home that radiates vitality, strength, and vigor."

Their second circuit around the sacrosanct fire completed, the couple commenced the third revolution, intertwining their destinies further. Karna, his voice resonating with sincerity and ardor, vowed, "Oh, skillful and resplendent damsel, I pledge to dedicate myself to the righteous acquisition of sustenance, engaging in honest discourse while entrusting thee with the management and preservation of our wealth. Oh, beloved lady, assuming the form of Vishnu, I take this third step with thee, envisioning the prosperous growth of our affluence." Madirakshi, with steadfast resolve, responded, "Indeed, I shall partake in the administration of our income and expenses. I promise to seek thy consent as I prudently manage our fairly amassed wealth, ensuring its growth and sustenance for the betterment of our family."

With the conclusion of their third circumambulation, Karna and Madirakshi commenced the fourth revolution, forging an unbreakable bond. Karna, his voice tender and filled with trust, professed, "Oh, dear lady, I vow to repose unwavering faith in thy judgments regarding matters of the household and external affairs, pledging my unwavering commitment to the prosperity of our community. Through this, we shall attain the accolade of respect. Oh, my cherished lady, embodying the essence of Vishnu, I take this fourth step with thee, embracing active participation in our shared world." Madirakshi, brimming with devotion, declared, "Indeed, I shall strive to create a haven of utmost comfort for us, anticipating and providing for thy material needs in this worldly existence, ensuring the happiness of our cherished family."

Upon the completion of their fourth circuit, Madirakshi initiated the fifth revolution, symbolizing their unity amidst the cycle of life. Karna followed suit, their steps echoing in harmony. Meanwhile, Maharishi Vashishtha continued his mellifluous recitation, evoking an ethereal ambiance.

Karna, his voice resonating with determination, proclaimed, "Oh, lady of skill and purity, I pledge to consult thee and engage thee in the care of our bovines, agriculture, and means of sustenance. I vow to contribute to the well-being of our nation, thereby securing a prosperous future. Oh, my skilled and beloved lady, as Vishnu incarnate, I take this fifth step with thee, joining forces to cultivate our fields and nurture our cattle." Madirakshi, her words filled with devotion, replied, "Indeed, I solemnly pledge to partake in the safeguarding and nurturing of our livestock, agriculture, and business ventures. They serve as founts of yogurt, milk, clarified butter, and income, all indispensable elements for the well-being and happiness of our beloved family."

The completion of their fifth revolution marked the commencement of the sixth, where Karna, his voice suffused with adoration, professed, "Oh, lovely lady, it is thou and thou alone whom I seek, to love, to raise progeny, to experience the myriad seasons that life unfolds. Oh, my beloved lady, as the embodiment of Vishnu, I take this sixth step with thee, embracing the essence of every season life presents us." Madirakshi, her voice resonant with love and devotion, responded, "Feeling indissolubly linked with thee, and with thy consent, I shall serve as the conduit for thy sensory pleasure in every season of life. Through life's ever-changing panorama, I shall hold thee dear in the sanctuary of my heart, worshipping and striving to fulfill thy every desire."

As the sixth circumambulation drew to a close, the couple embarked upon the final revolution, ushering forth the pinnacle of their sacred bond. Karna, his voice resounding with conviction, addressed their cherished companions, beseeching, "Oh, dear friends, grant us the honor of traversing this seventh step together, a testament to our everlasting friendship forged through this sacred rite of Saptapadi. Pray, be my constant companion, my eternal confidante." Madirakshi, her eyes gleaming with joy, responded, "Yes, today, I have found thee, securing the highest form of friendship and companionship. I shall forever cherish the vows we have exchanged, adoring thee wholeheartedly and sincerely for all eternity."

As the seventh revolution neared its conclusion, Karna, brimming with affection, lovingly adorned Madirakshi's neck with the sacred thread, known as mangalasutram. Uttering the following verses, he sealed their union, "This sacred thread, an essential emblem of our everlasting bond, shall ensure my longevity. Thus, I adorn thee, O maiden adorned with countless auspicious qualities! May we revel in a hundred years of blissful togetherness."

With the completion of the Hoja loma ceremony, guided by the benevolent Maharishi Vashishtha, Karna gently placed the chudamani, a symbol of marital bliss, atop Madirakshi's head. Following this, he delicately took a pinch of sindoor, gracefully filling the parting of her hair, anointing her with vermilion.

As the final act unfolded, Maharishi Vashishtha's voice resonated through the air, declaring, "Vivaha Sampan hua!" - a proclamation heralding the culmination of the sacred union. The newlywed couple, their hands intertwined, stood before the radiant fire, basking in the profound moment. Finally, they sought the blessings of the esteemed elders, commencing their journey together, hand in hand, into a future brimming with love and harmony.