chapter 5

The morning after the post-wedding rituals, Binodini awoke to the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of the morning breeze through the open windows. She sat up in bed, taking a moment to absorb her new surroundings. The room was elegantly furnished, with ornate wooden furniture and embroidered drapes. It felt both grand and foreign to her.Ashutosh had already left the room, likely to attend to his duties, leaving her to face the day alone. Binodini took a deep breath, gathering her courage, and dressed herself in a simple saree. She knew she had to make a good impression on her new family.As she stepped out of her room, she was greeted by the sight of several servants bustling about with trays and baskets. Nayana and Kantimoyee approached her with warm smiles, each carrying a bundle wrapped in rich fabric.“Good morning, Binodini,” Nayana greeted. “We have some gifts for you.”Binodini’s eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. “Thank you, Boudi. This is too kind.”“It’s a tradition,” Kantimoyee explained. “These are gifts from the family to welcome you.”The servants laid the bundles on a nearby table, unwrapping them to reveal an array of beautiful items. There were sarees of various colors and fabrics, each more exquisite than the last. Some were adorned with delicate embroidery, while others had intricate zari work. Binodini’s fingers traced the fine threads, marveling at the craftsmanship.“These are beautiful,” she said softly, feeling overwhelmed by the generosity.“There’s more,” Nayana said, gesturing to another bundle. Inside were pieces of jewelry—gold bangles, necklaces, and earrings. Each piece was intricately designed, reflecting the family’s wealth and status.“These are family heirlooms,” Kantimoyee explained. “We hope you will wear them with pride.”Binodini nodded, her heart swelling with emotion. She felt a sense of belonging, despite the challenges that lay ahead. Among the gifts, she noticed a small stack of books, their covers ornately decorated. She picked one up, running her fingers over the embossed letters.“What are these?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.Nayana exchanged a glance with Kantimoyee. “They are books, Binodini. Do you know how to read?”Binodini shook her head, feeling a pang of embarrassment. “No, I never had the opportunity to learn.”Nayana’s expression softened. “That’s alright. There’s no shame in it. Perhaps, in time, we can teach you.”Binodini felt a spark of hope at Nayana’s words. The idea of learning to read was both daunting and exciting. She carefully placed the books back on the table, promising herself she would return to them one day.As the morning continued, Binodini was guided through various introductions and rituals. The house was a labyrinth of rooms and corridors, each filled with history and tradition. She met more relatives and servants, each with their own stories and roles within the household. Despite the overwhelming nature of it all, Binodini felt a growing sense of belonging.By mid-morning, it was time for her first experience in the kitchen. Nayana and Kantimoyee led her to the large, bustling space, where the air was filled with the aromas of spices and cooking food. The kitchen was the heart of the household, a place where the women gathered to prepare meals and share stories.“Today, we’ll show you how things are done here,” Nayana said, her tone encouraging. “You’ll learn our recipes and routines. It might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but you’ll get the hang of it.”Binodini nodded, determined to do her best. She watched as Nayana and Kantimoyee moved around the kitchen with practiced ease, instructing the servants and preparing ingredients. The atmosphere was warm and collaborative, a stark contrast to the stern formality of the main household.“Let’s start with something simple,” Kantimoyee suggested, handing Binodini a basket of vegetables. “You can help us chop these.”Binodini took the basket, feeling the weight of her new responsibilities. She picked up a knife and began to chop the vegetables, mimicking the movements she had seen the other women do. Her hands were unsteady at first, but Nayana and Kantimoyee were patient, offering gentle corrections and encouragement.“You’re doing well,” Nayana said with a smile. “Just take your time.”As they worked, the conversation flowed naturally. Nayana and Kantimoyee shared stories of their own early days in the household, their voices filled with nostalgia and humor. Binodini found herself laughing along, feeling a sense of camaraderie with these women who had once been in her shoes.“Tell me about Kusumlata Debi,” Binodini asked hesitantly, curious about her mother-in-law.Nayana and Kantimoyee exchanged glances, their expressions thoughtful. “Kusumlata Debi is a strong woman,” Kantimoyee said carefully. “She has had to be, given her role in this family.”“She can be strict,” Nayana added. “But she has the family’s best interests at heart. She expects a lot because she believes in maintaining the family’s honor and traditions.”Binodini nodded, understanding the unspoken warning in their words. She knew she would have to earn Kusumlata’s respect and navigate her high expectations.“Don’t be discouraged,” Kantimoyee said gently. “We are here to help you. You are not alone in this.”Their reassurance gave Binodini a sense of strength. She continued her work, feeling a growing sense of competence and confidence. The kitchen, once an intimidating space, was becoming a place of learning and connection.As the morning progressed, Binodini was introduced to more complex tasks. She learned to grind spices, knead dough, and prepare various dishes. Each task was a small victory, a step towards mastering her new role. Nayana and Kantimoyee’s patient guidance made the process less daunting.When it was time to prepare lunch, Binodini was given the responsibility of making a simple vegetable curry. She worked diligently, following Nayana’s instructions, and felt a sense of accomplishment as the dish came together. The rich aroma filled the kitchen, a testament to her efforts.As they set the table for the family’s lunch, Binodini felt a mix of pride and nervousness. This meal would be a test of her abilities, a chance to prove herself to her new family. She watched anxiously as the dishes were served, waiting for their reactions.Brijnarayan was the first to take a bite. He nodded approvingly, his expression softening. “This is well done, Binodini. You have done a good job.”The rest of the family echoed his sentiments, their smiles and compliments boosting Binodini’s confidence. Even Kusumlata gave a nod of approval, a rare gesture that meant a lot to Binodini.“Thank you, Father,” Binodini said, her heart swelling with pride.After lunch, as they cleaned up the kitchen, Nayana and Kantimoyee praised Binodini’s efforts. “You did very well for your first day,” Nayana said warmly.“You have a natural talent,” Kantimoyee added. “With practice, you’ll become even better.”Binodini felt a deep sense of gratitude towards these women who had welcomed her so warmly and guided her with such patience. She knew that the road ahead would not be easy, but she also knew she was not alone. With their support, she could face any challenge.As the day came to a close, Binodini reflected on all she had learned and experienced. She felt a sense of accomplishment and a growing bond with her new family. The gifts she had received, both material and emotional, were treasures she would cherish.Binodini retired to her room, feeling a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. She looked at the books she had received, a symbol of the new knowledge and opportunities that lay ahead. She vowed to herself that she would learn to read and continue to grow in her new life.As she drifted off to sleep, Binodini felt a sense of hope and determination. She was ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of her new role, confident in the support of her new family and the strength she had found within herself.