Time has a curious way of carrying moments forward, but some memories remain vivid no matter how many months pass. As I sit here now, seven months down the line, I find myself thinking back to a beautiful mid-September weekend that still brings a smile to my face. It was the wedding of someone very dear to me—my cousin and closest childhood companion, Umar.
Umar had been engaged for over a year, and by the time September rolled around, the anticipation had reached its peak. Our bond goes way back, shaped by countless shared adventures and youthful mischief. His wedding wasn’t just a family event for me—it was personal, emotional, and deeply fulfilling.
The Vibrance of Mehndiraat
The evening of the 14th marked the first chapter in those unforgettable two days. Despite being tied up with official responsibilities—specifically, processing permissions for Assembly election candidates—I managed to make it to the Mehndiraat, albeit late.
The venue was alive with music, laughter, and the earthy fragrance of mehndi. We, as close friends, came bearing gifts and high spirits. Amid the cheerful noise, I saw Umar—nervous, excited, and ready to embrace a new life. It was a moment that stirred both pride and nostalgia in me. That nervous smile of his reminded me just how real this transition was.
Even with the official duties lingering in my head, the joy of being among family and friends grounded me. The Mehndiraat wasn’t just about tradition—it was about connection. There’s something magical about watching someone you’ve grown up with step into a new chapter, surrounded by warmth and old friendships.
Wazwaan and Warmth on the Wedding Day
September 15th brought the main event. Though technically a holiday, I had to drop by the office earlier in the day, thanks to the intensified schedule as elections approached. Fortunately, I was able to leave in time for the big celebration.
The Wazwaan was everything one hopes for in a traditional Kashmiri wedding feast—lavish, aromatic, and beautifully presented. Each dish brought with it stories of heritage and celebration. As we gathered around the dastarkhwan, I was delighted to reconnect with relatives and old friends, some of whom I hadn’t seen in years.
There was something heartwarming about the whole setup—the steaming platters, the shared conversations, the laughter echoing through the tent. The wedding meal wasn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it was a reminder of our cultural richness and the joy of togetherness.
Late-Night Cards and Timeless Bonds
That evening, the celebration took a more familiar turn. My friends and I, along with Umar himself, settled in for our favorite pastime—cards. This wasn’t just another game night. It felt like a throwback to our younger days, with the same banter, same light-hearted teasing, and the same sense of belonging.
We played late into the night, joking and reliving stories from school days and early adulthood. It’s strange how a deck of cards can stir so many memories. Even amidst all the change and maturity that life brings, some things remain delightfully the same.
A Shared Journey, a New Beginning
Looking back now, I realize that Umar’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration of love—it was a reflection of our shared history. From playing in the alleys as kids to watching him step into a new role as a husband, the transition has been emotional.
Though seven months have passed, the memories feel fresh, wrapped in the laughter of that weekend, the aroma of Wazwaan, and the bond of lifelong friendships. It was more than a wedding—it was a reunion of souls who’ve grown together.
Here’s to Umar’s new journey, and to the many memories still waiting to be made. And of course, to more late-night card games that keep our friendship alive in the simplest and most beautiful way.