There was an aura of pure brightness in the sunrise today, thought Naina, as she stood in the balcony watching the deep color of mehendi in the sunlight. She smiled, recalling how elders would say that the color of signified the love of husband for his wife. The deep…

Flowers adorned the walls, colorful fabrics creating a circle of sheer enclosure, tall floor fans were placed at regular intervals to help with the soaring temperatures of March. Men and women were rushing here and there trying to finish the final preparations. The bride’s father and brother were carrying…