Niddhi's Hidden Struggles​ - #1

After returning from our honeymoon, my life took a whirlwind turn. Raj had to return to work, but I was asked to take an additional week off to participate in various traditions and ceremonies. The entire week was incredibly busy with relatives visiting and different ceremonies to follow.

The first morning back, I woke up early to get ready for the day's ceremonies. My mother-in-law helped me dress in a heavy saree and full makeup, ensuring that every piece of jewelry and accessory was in place. The ghungat covered my entire face and neck, making it difficult to see or move freely. Despite the discomfort, I understood the importance of these traditions and embraced them wholeheartedly.

Mother-in-law (smiling): "Niddhi, you look beautiful. Today is your muu dikhai, and you'll receive blessings and gifts from our relatives."

(nervously): "Thank you, Ma. I hope I make a good impression."

The muu dikhai ceremony was a highlight. Relatives showered me with cash gifts, and some even gave silver jewelry like payal and bichiya. The generosity and love from everyone were overwhelming, and I felt a deep sense of belonging.

Aunt (handing me a gift): "Niddhi, welcome to our family. May you bring happiness and prosperity to our home."

(gratefully): "Thank you so much. Your blessings mean a lot to me."

The days were filled with endless activities, from pujas to family gatherings. Each evening, I was exhausted by the time I got free. By then, Raj was already asleep, and I felt a pang of disappointment as I looked at his peaceful face.

(thinking): "I miss you, Raj. I wish we had more time together."

Despite the exhaustion, my mind often wandered to the intimate moments Raj and I had shared during our honeymoon. I longed to feel his touch again, to hear his whispers of love and adoration. The rituals and heavy clothing made it difficult to even get a moment alone, let alone share any intimacy.

(thinking): "I can't wait for these ceremonies to be over so we can have some time to ourselves. I miss being close to you, Raj."

Whenever I did get a moment to talk to Raj, it was brief but filled with love and understanding. He reassured me that this busy time would soon pass, and we would be able to enjoy our married life more freely.

Raj (over the phone): "How are you holding up, Niddhi? I know it's a lot, but it'll be over soon."

"I'm managing, Raj. I miss you, though. These ceremonies are exhausting."

Raj (comfortingly): "I miss you too. Just a few more days, and we'll have our time together. I promise."

One afternoon, as I was getting ready for another ceremony, we received an unexpected visit from raj's cousin, Priya. She had traveled from their hometown to be with us during this time.

Priya (hugging me): "Niddhi! It's so good to see you."

(smiling): "Priya, It's good to see you too"

Her visit provided a much-needed respite from the relentless schedule. We spent some time catching up, and she helped me get through the rest of the week with her cheerful presence.

As the final day of ceremonies approached, I felt a mix of relief and anticipation. The last ceremony was a grand family dinner, and I was dressed in yet another elaborate saree with full makeup and jewelry.

Mother-in-law: "Tonight is the last ceremony, Niddhi. You've done wonderfully this week."

(gratefully): "Thank you, Ma."

That night, after everyone had left and the house was finally quiet, Raj and I had a moment alone. He pulled me into his arms and kissed me gently, his touch sending shivers down my spine.

Raj (whispering): "I missed you so much, Niddhi."

(softly): "I missed you too, Raj. I can't wait to have some time just for us."

We spent the night talking and reconnecting. Though we didn't make love, the intimacy and closeness we shared were enough to make me feel cherished and loved.

Raj (holding me): "I promise, we'll have our time soon. Just a little more patience, my love."

(smiling): "I'm happy just being with you, Raj."

With the ceremonies finally over, I looked forward to the days ahead. The past week had been a whirlwind of traditions and rituals, but it had also strengthened my bond with Raj and his family. I was eager to start our married life in earnest, knowing that the love and understanding we shared would guide us through any challenges.

(thinking): "This is just the beginning of our journey together. I can't wait to see what the future holds for us, Raj."

As I lay in bed that night, wrapped in Raj's arms, I felt a sense of contentment and anticipation. The busy week had come to an end, and now it was time to focus on our love and building a life together. The future looked bright, and I was ready to embrace it with Raj by my side.

From Next Day it was time for my daily routine, My days had become a blur of responsibilities and expectations. Every morning, I woke up at 5 am to start my day. I prepared tiffin for Raj and cooked breakfast and lunch for the entire family. Raj's family, including his elder sister, her husband Ravi, and their two kids, were staying with us temporarily, adding to my workload. My mother-in-law had set a strict routine for me, ensuring I balanced both household chores and my job.

Mother-in-law: "Niddhi, remember to prepare the children's favorite snacks for their school lunch. And don't forget to iron Raj's shirts."

"Yes, Ma. I'll take care of everything."

I left for work around 8 am, dressed in a traditional saree with a half-sleeve blouse, light makeup, and slightly faded mehndi.

Despite my efforts, I often reached the office late. One morning, I arrived at 9:30 am, half an hour late. My boss, a chubby, annoying woman in her 40s, called me into her cabin.

Boss (sternly): "Niddhi, this is unacceptable. You're half an hour late. I'm marking you for a half-day."

(almost in tears): "I'm sorry, ma'am. I had some urgent household work. It won't happen again."

Boss: "No excuses. Be on time."

Feeling dejected, I walked to my desk. Vicky, waved at me with a soothing smile. His gesture made me feel a little better, and I smiled back, momentarily forgetting about my boss's rudeness. Throughout the day, I worked with renewed passion, being happy by Vicky's kindness.

Vicky (smiling): "Hey, Niddhi. Rough morning?"

(smiling back): "Yeah, but I'm okay now. Thanks."

I left work at 6 pm and reached home by 7 pm, only to dive back into household chores. Preparing dinner, fulfilling my in-laws' wishes, and managing other tasks left me exhausted. By the time I finished everything, it was late, and I barely had the energy to shower before collapsing into bed.

This routine continued for a month. Each day presented new challenges, but I endured everything. I started waking up at 4 am to manage my time better, and I finally began reaching the office on time. It took me two weeks to adjust, and soon I was expertly managing my dual responsibilities. However, I didn't realize how much this relentless schedule was affecting my health.

A month later, I found myself more tired than ever. My body ached from the lack of rest, and my mind was constantly preoccupied with the never-ending list of tasks. Despite my efforts, the workload at home didn't seem to lessen, and the demands kept piling up.

Raj (concerned): "Niddhi, you look exhausted. Are you getting enough rest?"

(forcing a smile): "I'm fine, Raj. Just a bit tired. There's a lot to do."

One evening, as I was preparing dinner, Raj's elder sister, Priya, approached me.

Priya: "Niddhi, you need to take care of yourself. You're doing so much for everyone. Why don't you take a break and rest for a while?"

(gratefully): "Thank you, Didi. I'll be okay. I just need to finish this."

Despite the support from Priya, I pushed myself too hard. My health began to deteriorate. I started losing weight, and my energy levels were low. Raj noticed and became increasingly worried.

Raj (firmly): "Niddhi, this can't go on. You're overworking yourself. We need to find a solution."

(tearfully): "I don't know what to do, Raj. There's so much to manage."

Raj: "We'll figure it out together. Maybe we can hire some help for the household chores."

Raj's suggestion brought a glimmer of hope. We decided to hire a part-time maid to help with the household chores. This decision brought some relief, but the routine still demanded so much from me.

Despite the challenges, I continued to navigate my responsibilities with determination. The support from Raj and the occasional moments of kindness from colleagues like Vicky helped me stay afloat. But deep down, I knew I needed to find a better balance for the sake of my health and well-being.

As the week concluded, I reflected on my journey so far. It had been a month of immense challenges, but also one of growth and resilience. I realized the importance of self-care and the need to lean on my support system. With Raj by my side and a plan to ease the workload, I felt hopeful about the future.

(thinking): "This is just a phase. I'll get through this. With Raj's support and some adjustments, I'll find a way to balance everything."

And so, the journey continued, with new lessons learned and a renewed commitment to find balance and happiness in my new life.