Skip to main content

Engagement

 Summer 1609, Agra Fort

Khurram sat reluctantly staring at his reflection in the mirror while Jagat Gossain presented him with a necklace, of nine gems studded beautifully in strands of five. He stared at her beaming face as she put it around his neck and his sisters, Sultana Begum and Izzat Un Nisa stared at her smiling.

“Do you like it Shehzaade?” Jodha Begum’s words were met with a brief nod. She took out some kajal from her eyes and put it behind his ears. He frowned.

“What was that for?”

“So that nobody’s evil eyes fall on you. You look so handsome today!” Jodha Begum smiled. “And you will look smarter at the wedding. Mariam Ur Zamani is arranging for your attires herself.”

“But the wedding isn’t soon!” Khurram frowned.

“Oh, she doesn’t mean this wedding. She means the other one!” Sultana Begum spoke as her mother smiled with a nod.

“What other wedding?” This time Khurram stood up from his seat and faced the queen with a frown. Jagat Gossain looked taken aback.

“Why? Rukaiya Sultana Begum didn’t tell you?” Izzat Un Nisa frowned.

“What are they talking about?” Khurram asked Jagat Gossain who cleared her throat and dismissed the girls to talk to him in private.

A few months back,

Rukaiya Begum had made a hard bargain for the sake of Khurram’s happiness this time, she had asked Mariam Ur Zamani and Emperor Jahangir for considering the engagement of Khurram to the girl of his choice before he married the girl Jahangir chose.

While the emperor was ready to accept this idea, Mariam Ur Zamani shook her head.

“What’s the hurry? If he marries the princess now, he is not marrying again within a year, the engagement can wait.”

“But what if Khurram doesn’t obey his father?” Rukaiya Begum suggested as Jahangir stared at her “He is very adamant about his choices like his father. To make him agree to marry the Princess can be a good deal. We don’t want his relationship to strain with the emperor over this. After all, even the emperor has been in his age and time; he will understand how important this is for Khurram.”

Jahangir stopped his mother from taking the discussion further. Rukaiya Begum had struck the right chord in him, he didn’t want to push Khurram away, and he didn’t want him hurt like he was once. He didn’t want his son to rebel. He had immediately sent for Asaf Khan and arranged for elephants, jewellery, clothes and horses for the engagement proposals to happen.

Khurram entered the chambers where Rukaiya sat dressing for the engagement, two ladies in waiting to help her with her jewellery and Mehr Un Nisa painting her hands with Henna.

He was dressed in a green Angrakha designed with golden threads and a saffron turban with a Timurid brooch over his head.

“What is going on Shah Ammi?” he looked unnerved “I am told that I have to marry a princess. I thought my engagement was with Arjumand.”

Rukaiya Begum gestured for the ladies to stop with a wave of her hand as they started packing their things.

“Who told you that now? It is not a thing to think of today!” Rukaiya Begum smiled at her son “Today you are getting engaged to the one you chose!”

“But what if I don’t want to marry this princess? Will the emperor force me then?” Khurram’s words made Mehr Un Nisa stop at her work and stare at the Dowager Queen. Rukaiya Begum caught her eyes and smiled back at her son.

“Calm down and take a seat, Khurram Baba!” She ordered. The prince sat down in a restless hurry.

“Your engagement with Arjumand Banu will be done just as I promised you.” Rukaiya smiled at Mehr Un Nisa who looked visibly happy. “But it is a good time to have some ties with the Safavid...”

“But then why do I have to marry this princess? Why can’t Khusrau or Pervez?” Khurram asked frowning as Rukaiya Begum smiled slightly pulling him closer to her.

“Because I gave the Emperor my word. They want you to marry their princess and the emperor wants the same.”

“What about what I want Ammi? Am I not old enough to decide for myself?”

Cupping his chin in her hands Rukaiya Begum shook her head, “I am so happy you are grown up Khurram, but being grown up is not easy. We often have to honour the choices others make for us and those perhaps make very little sense then. But I know you my son; I know you will honour this marriage you unwillingly agree to as much as you honour the engagement you wanted, won’t you?”

Khurram nodded at his mother’s words and left as Rukaiya Begum smiled watching him leave.

“Mehr Un Nisa...” She stared at Mehr through the reflection in the gold-bordered mirror.

“Yes, my Lady?” Mehr asked with a smile at the Dowager Queen.

“Go to your quarters and get ready in your best clothes. You are attending this engagement with me. Not as my serving lady, but as Asaf Khan’s family.” Rukaiya Begum stood up and smiled at taken aback Mehr by the hug she received from the Dowager Queen. “Congratulations, to us, on this new relation.” She nodded at the Begum, overwhelmed in happiness for Arjumand.

“I think the emperor will like to be graced by your presence too.” Mehr Un Nisa’s smile faded a little at those words as Rukaiya Begum added “After all you are Asaf Khan’s closest sister and a part of this harem. And don’t forget, we also have to prepare for a grand wedding for my Khurram. It is his first.”

“Yes, Begum as you wish.” Mehr Un Nisa bowed and left as Rukaiya sighed with a smile.

 It didn’t escape her keen eyes how thoughtful Mehr Un Nisa was towards Asaf Khan’s daughter. That would perhaps mean, that Mehr Un Nisa being in the harem, close to both the emperor and her Khurram would prove to be beneficial for her. Rukaiya Begum wondered. 

The engagement was a grand affair as elephants, horses, clothes, jewellery, gemstones and baskets of fruits and dry fruits were exchanged. The emperor came down from his throne and hugged Asaf Khan who was humbled and congratulated Ghiyaz Begh, while the ladies behind the veil sat around a blushing Arjumand, dressed in a green Sharara and made merry. A grand feast was laid down in the Harem, arranged by Rukaiya Begum herself with mouth-watering sweet dishes, meat and wine of different kinds, while ladies of the harem flocked with gifts. Dancing girls entertained the men at Diwan E Khas and Khurram sat beside his father beaming. Jagat Gossain made her way to the blushing bride sitting between her mother and grandmother as she stood up to bow; the Jodha Begum smiled the sweetest smile and gifted a necklace that belonged to her Rathore Heritage. Asmat Begum was swift to thread it around her already filled-up neckline. Rukaiya Begum sat watching from the cushion adjacent to hers, alongside Salima Begum. After most of the ladies had dispersed, Rukaiya Begum stood up and walked toward the bride-to-be. She surprised Arjumand Banu who bowed to her with a hug as Mehr Un Nisa smiled at her mother.

“Now my Khurram is yours too. I have taken care of him all these years, it is time that you do the same.” Rukaiya Begum whispered into her ears, loud enough for her to hear over the music of Jagat Gossain’s choice, as she nodded. Mehr Un Nisa noticed Rukaiya Begum’s moist eyes as she hurriedly put her hand gently on her shoulders in a reflex. Rukaiya Begum stared at who it was and smiled at her.

“Padshah” A soldier bowed amidst the merriment at the Diwan E Khas, Jagat Gossaini has sent to you, the best astrologer from her land, to predict a future date for the wedding. Jahangir smiled nodding at the astrologer to feel welcome to do his calculations.

“From what I see here, their marriage will be full of love, and may bear future kings of the dynasty.”

“Mashah Allah!” the men praised as Khurram blushed slightly.

“But....” The old man frowned at the paper.

“But?” Jahangir asked.

“To ensure an heir, the wedding should happen after a gap of two years.”

“Two years?” Asaf Khan frowned. “That is too long a time to remain engaged.”

“But will it ensure an heir to the throne?” Ghiyaz Begh’s eyes lit up. The old man nodded. Jahangir smiled.

“I suppose we can wait two years then.” Khurram’s smile faded at his father’s words.

“Don’t worry! Two years will be gone before you know it!” Jahangir patted an embarrassed Shehzaade Khurram’s back.

“Two years you say?” Jagat Gossain frowned “Is anything wrong?”

“No, my Begum, just to ensure an heir to the throne...”

“What did you say?” Jagat Gossain’s eyes lit up “Heir to the throne? Are you sure astrologer?”

“Have I ever predicted wrong my Begum?” He bowed. Rukaiya Begum came forward, gesturing at Mehr to give her a coin from her pouch, to gift to the astrologer who bowed.

“No harm in waiting just two more years then!” She agreed. Jagat Gossain smiled relieved.

“Besides, the prince has another to wed and bond with as well.” Sahila Banu smiled “If Arjumand lets him.” The ladies giggled and teased while the bride-to-be blushed.

Soon, Mehr stepped out of the crowded gardens, to catch some fresh air, in peace when she caught the Emperor’s eyes in the distance. He stood there with Asaf Khan beside the running fountain when eyes met. Before he could approach her, Mehr slowly slipped back into the Harem crowd beside Rukaiya Sultana Begum who noticed her pale face.

“Asaf.” Jahangir sighed. “You have been a friend since my early days, expeditions to Mewar against the Rana, and hunting adventures.”

“Yes, indeed Padshah.” Asaf Khan smiled “It is my honour...”

“Nothing is hidden from you, about me or my life.” Asaf Khan fell quiet at his melancholy voice as Jahangir sighed. Taking a sip of wine from his cup he continued, “I have made terrible mistakes in the past, been addicted to things I shouldn’t be...”

“Don’t be so harsh on yourself Padshah. We all make mistakes.”

“We do. Don’t we?” Jahangir let out a murmur with half a smile, slightly intoxicated.

“I did try Asaf, you know that don’t you?” He said putting his hand on Asaf Khan’shoulders. “I did try to get over my addictions and failed. I tried to hold on and failed...” His voice trailed as Asaf Khan made him sit down on the red stone bench beside the fountain.

“ But I paid the heaviest price for it. My heart knows that.” Jahangir let out a sarcastic laugh. “Tell me Asaf, can nothing be done? Is it too late? Will she never...” Jahangir stopped at Asaf Khan’s uncomfortable look and shook his head.

“ I am sorry! I am so sorry!”

“Please Padshah you shouldn’t apologize...” Asaf Khan looked more awkward.

“Today is about our Children Asaf, it’s about Khurram Baba’s happiness. I am so selfish.” Jahangir spoke gulping down the contents of his cup.



“Let me take you to your chambers Padshah.” Asaf Khan offered.

“Please never leave my side Asaf! For the sake of this new relationship.”

“I will never be disloyal to you Jahan Panah. I promise.” Asaf Khan firmly held him and led him to his chambers.


READ STORY HERE



Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts

See You Soon

Kunwar Partap entered the relatively quiet stable premises at the break of dawn checking on Bijli who was asleep, when he heard the sound of anklets near the cow shed. He walked up to the entrance of the stable, from where he could see her, her dupatta placed loosely over her wet hair, devoid of jewellery the way he never saw a royal lady, with a basket of flowers in one hand and a plate of sweets on the other. She was distributing sweets to the cow keepers, veterinarians and everyone who came by on the occasion of Lakshmi giving birth to her calf. “What will you name her, Hukum?” an old man asked. She smiled shyly, pressing her lips together. “Mandakini, Kakasa.” The old man smiled at her suggestion. “Like the kund? Very nice.” Kunwar Partap walked up to Lakshmi’s shed only after most people had dispersed to their work. Ajbante Kanwar heard footsteps behind her and turned with the plate that now had one sweetmeat left. Alarmed at his sight and at the lack of options she could offer fr...
Post a Comment
Read More

Stable Boy

  “Jija, I want to go to the stables too.” Ajbante was stopped in the corridor of the inner palace by Ratan Kanwar, followed by their half-brother, Akhil who was three. “We do.” Ratan corrected herself. The dawn had just set on the horizon and the birds were chirping in the gardens. Ajbante Kanwar had just taken a bath in the private pool and managed to grab her empty flower basket to go to the gardens still before that, she would visit the stables and cowshed, check how Lakshmi was doing with her newborn, and if Bijli was okay with the sudden changes her father made. Ratan Kanwar’s nagging made her sigh and nod. “Don’t make so much noise so early in the morning.” She scolded them as they followed her, giggling and skipping down the hall behind her. “Don’t touch the newborn Kunwar Akhil, you will scare Lakshmi.” The familiar alarmed voice made Kunwar Partap stop gathering hay as he placed them down, wiped his forehead and glanced over his shoulder at the cowshed. There was some gig...
Post a Comment
Read More

I Saw You

Kunwar Pratap was in his brown Dhoti, off-white angrakha and a piece of brown cloth tied to his head when he entered the palace premises. He was standing in the courtyard, eyeing the lofty towers and domes, wondering whom to talk to as some soldiers galloped their horses out of the stables on the right and some people were gathered on the left. The main entrance and two guards on either side and he decided to go towards the stairs leading up to the inner palace when the guards stopped him. “Who are you looking for?” “Rao ji?” He asked unsurely. “Rao Ramrakh…” “What audacity, boy?” The old guard scolded, “Say, Hukum!” “Yes, Hukum.” He nodded. “I came to tend to the stables.” “Then go to the stable, why are you loitering around the private gardens?” One of the soldiers said in a gruff voice. “He must be the one we were told about…” The other one reminded him. “Oh, go to the stables anyway, Hukum is busy practising, I will summon you once he is on the premises.” Pratap nodded at his words...
Post a Comment
Read More

Towards You

Kunwar Pratap and Ajabde were friends. He didn't feel awkward sharing his plans and thoughts with her anymore. She was more than happy to advise him on everything. She was happy he listened to her advice before taking or discarding them, be it on what to wear to Padmavati's Sagai or how to befriend the revolting Bhils. He loved the way Ajabde always used metaphors from Puranas and Ramayanas to explain the toughest things so easily. She expressed herself so well, so easily that it amazed him.   The Afghans were now led by Mehmood Shah. They have made secret territories in the forests and waited to attack. Rawatji and his spies had confirmed the news and Udai Singh had warned Mehmood Shah to withdraw his troops from Mewar in vain. Now, it was time they declared war. Mehmood Shah had limited resources in Mewar. And his spies clearly suggested that in no way could he win, especially with Kunwar Pratap leading his troops. He was having second thoughts about the war. One of his aides...
6 comments
Read More

Prologue: Impulsive Hearts

1576 CE. The dark clouds circled over the Haveli of the Chieftain at Avadgadh, one of the unimportant posts on the western borders of Mewar, Rajputana. It was the arrival of the rainy season, with occasional downpours over the green veil of the Aravallis on the horizon and the streams that often meandered around the hills now surged like rivers. The monotonous life in the little settlement was stirred by the arrival of guests in the Haveli. It was not usual for the old chieftain to receive so many guests, especially women and it sparked curiosity and rumours among the villagers. Who were these people? Some of them looked like royal ladies and some not. In the inner palace of Avadgadh, on a balustrade that was designed with Jali, nymphs adorning its pillars that looked over the Aravallis in a distance, covered with dark clouds, the gusty wind blew the new curtains almost toppling a vase kept by the window. She caught it, alarmed, almost out of the force of habit to be alert about her su...
Post a Comment
Read More

Queen of the Heart

Kunwar Pratap was in the Dangal Sthal practising his moves. Ajabde decided it was fair to know his strength before the big competition. Sword in hand, in a white female warrior attire with only her face visible she hid behind one of the large watchtowers of the Dangal watching him move. She heard Rawatji say, " Your left hand is still weaker than the right one with the moves. Both should be perfect." A smile curved her lips. Knowing an opponent's weakness always helps, which is one rule of the war she always remembered.   Kunwar Pratap swung his sword with his left hand and turned around. He could sense someone watching, his sixth sense was never wrong. He looked around and hatched a plan. Ajabde again peeped at the grounds to see it was empty. He had left. She walked towards the empty ground, sword in hand. Suddenly, the cold blade of a sword was felt on her neck. She stopped still. " So someone was spying on me." His voice had a hint of taunt. " No, I was...
Post a Comment
Read More

Unexpected

" This is your room Ranisa." Hansa opened the door to the well-furnished large guest room of the Bijolia Palace. The diyas were lit and the room was neat and clean. " Your Daasis decorate the rooms well." Jaivanta Bai looked around. " Oh, Ranisa. all these... " Hansa smiled proudly. " All these are done by my daughter." " Your daughter?" Jaivanta Bai smiled surprised. " Milwayiye ." Jaivanta Bai was eager to meet her. " Ajabde! Ratan!" Hansa called as the girls came in. 13-year-old Ajabde preferred a simple lehenga in a pink and blue Dupatta clad over her head. She was the first one to calmly bend down and touch Maharani's feet as a five-year-old Ratan came running. " Ajabde is very talented in sewing, gardening and home decor. She can also...." " Maa Sa...." Ajabde's soft protest stopped Hansa as Jaivanta Bai smiled. " Accha, I won't tell but these are your good talents, right? ...
2 comments
Read More

Protectors

Rao Surtan was at the Palace gates as the soldiers tried in vain to attack with arrows. His army was stronger and more competent than the one Balwant headed at the Bijolia Fort Gates. “Break the door” he ordered. “Where is Ajabde?” Hansa looked around the cellar. “Jija!” Ratan exclaimed. “She was on the roof last I saw.” “Ajabde.” Hansa Bai opened the cellar door and stepped out followed by Ratan who was equally worried. “Stay back!” Sajja Bai called in vain as Jaivanta Bai too walked out and up the stairs to the corridors of the Ranimahal in search of Ajabde.  Meanwhile, Surtan’s army had entered the palace and he made his way to the Ranimahal. He was having different thoughts now. Killing Jaivanta Bai won't yield him anything… Maybe capturing a few young maidens… Ratan froze in the corridor seeing the man approach. Behind her were her mother and Jaivanta Bai with the same reaction. “ Jee Bavro ho gayo!” Surtan Singh took out his sword. Ratan took two ste...
Post a Comment
Read More

Life and You

" Maharanisa! Maharanisa!" The Daasi ran through the quiet Rani Mahal as Jaivanta Bai who was sitting in front of the Lord in her room ever since she was back, rushed out of her room followed by Sajjabai and Veerbai. " What happened?" She asked, her voice calm, but her heart thumping. " Kunwarsa is here... with Kunwarani... She... She...." The Daasi sobbed as Jaivanta Bai rushed to the room. She stood at the door as her eyes couldn't believe what she saw. Kunwar Pratap was soaked in her blood as he laid her down on the bed shouting " Jaldi. Rajvaidya..." His eyes stopped at the door as Jaivanta Bai rushed to be beside the unconscious Ajabde. The Daasis and Sevaks were running about soon enough. SajjaBai gasped at the scene. So much blood. Kunwar Pratap hadn't noticed anything except her calm unconscious face. Now he looked down at his blood-soaked hands, red, he stared at them as though in a trance. " Kunwar Pratap! Tell me what happ...
6 comments
Read More

You Deserve More

Ajabde woke up with the song of birds as she felt something warm clinging to her hand. Her eyes went wide. Her hand was on the pillow in between, between his hands, clasped as he slept. She thought of removing it slowly but he was holding it so tight. Ajabde's heart beat faster and faster. What do I do now? How do I not wake him? What if... why is my hand in his? She was utterly confused.   " Am I..." In love? Pratap was staring at the sleeping figure on his bed as he again looked back at the rain. Then he looked back frowning as she shivered. He closed the windows of the room, to make it cosy then sat on his side of the bed. A lamp flickered on her side like always and he stared at her sleeping figure as he put his blanket over her as well. She shifted a little in her sleep to make herself cosy again. Her payals and bangles made a rhythmic sound breaking the silence of the room. Her hand was out of her blanket and on the pillow in between. He tried to slowly put it in th...
8 comments
Read More