chapter 7

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden light over the sprawling Chowdhury estate. Binodini stood on the grand veranda, her heart a mix of excitement and trepidation. Today, her family was visiting her new home for the first time. She had dressed with care, hoping to make a good impression, and now she anxiously awaited their arrival.The distant sound of approaching footsteps made her turn. There, walking up the pathway, were her parents, Ananda and Mahamaya, her elder brother Surjokanto, his wife Mrinal, and her widowed sister Sarojini with little Jayanta in tow. Binodini's heart swelled with affection and nervousness. She could see the awe in their eyes as they took in the grandeur of the estate.“Binodini!” Mahamaya called out, her voice a blend of pride and emotion.“Ma, Baba,” Binodini replied, rushing to embrace her parents. She then turned to her brother and sister-in-law, greeting them with respect, and finally to Sarojini, who stood slightly apart, holding Jayanta's hand.Kusumlata Debi and Nayana had already prepared a warm welcome. Kantimoyee joined them on the veranda, her serene presence a source of comfort for Binodini. “Welcome to our home,” Kusumlata said graciously, her gaze taking in the modest attire and simple demeanor of Binodini’s family.The servants quickly arranged chairs in the shaded part of the veranda, and refreshments were brought out. Binodini's family looked around, their eyes wide with wonder at the opulence surrounding them. Binodini guided them through the estate, showing them the beautiful gardens, the spacious living areas, and the well-maintained courtyards.As they toured the estate, Sarojini's initial awe seemed to give way to something else. “It must be quite a change, living in such luxury,” she remarked, her tone laced with a hint of sarcasm. “Who would have thought a farmer’s daughter would end up in a zamindar’s palace?”Binodini flinched at her sister’s words but tried to maintain her composure. “I am grateful for the life I have here,” she replied quietly.Mrinal, her brother’s wife, chimed in. “Yes, it’s quite a leap from our simple home, isn’t it? But I suppose fate has its own plans.”The undercurrent of mockery in their voices was not lost on Binodini. She felt a pang of hurt but did her best to smile and carry on with the tour.They eventually made their way back to the main hall, where a table was set up with gifts from Binodini's family. The offerings were simple: homemade sweets, hand-woven textiles, and a few pieces of modest jewelry. Despite their simplicity, these gifts were given with love and sincerity.“These are gifts from our home,” Ananda said, his voice humble. “We hope you will accept them.”Kusumlata stepped forward, her expression warm. “Thank you for these thoughtful gifts. We appreciate your kindness and generosity.”Kantimoyee also stepped in, her voice gentle yet firm. “It is the love and thought behind the gifts that matter most. We are grateful for your presence and these offerings.”Sarojini snorted softly, but before she could say anything further, Kantimoyee addressed her directly. “Sarojini, Mrinal, you must understand that Binodini is still your family. Instead of mocking her, you should support and rejoice in her happiness.”Mrinal opened her mouth to retort, but Kantimoyee’s calm yet commanding presence silenced her. “We are all here to ensure that Binodini feels welcomed and loved. I hope you can do the same.”The tension in the room eased somewhat, and the family settled down to enjoy the refreshments. However, the sting of her sister and sister-in-law’s words lingered with Binodini. She did her best to stay composed, but the hurt was evident in her eyes.As the evening wore on, Binodini’s family prepared to leave. Ananda and Mahamaya embraced her warmly, their pride and love evident. “Take care of yourself, dear,” Mahamaya whispered.“I will, Ma,” Binodini replied, her voice thick with emotion.After her family had departed, Binodini retreated to her room, the day’s events weighing heavily on her heart. She sat by the window, tears streaming down her face as she replayed Sarojini and Mrinal’s words in her mind. The hurt and humiliation felt unbearable.A soft knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. “May I come in?” Ashutosh’s voice was gentle, filled with concern.Binodini quickly wiped her tears and nodded. Ashutosh entered the room, his eyes softening as he saw her distressed state. He sat beside her, taking her hand in his. “I heard what happened today,” he said quietly.“I tried so hard to make them feel welcome, but…” Binodini’s voice broke. “Why can’t they be happy for me?”Ashutosh squeezed her hand reassuringly. “People often react with jealousy and bitterness when they see others succeeding where they have struggled. It is not a reflection of you, Binodini, but of their own insecurities.”Binodini looked up at him, her eyes searching his face for understanding. “But they are my family. I thought they would be happy for me.”Ashutosh brushed a tear from her cheek. “Sometimes, even those closest to us find it hard to accept our happiness. It does not diminish your achievements or your worth. You have done nothing wrong, and you do not deserve their mockery.”His words were a balm to her wounded heart. Binodini leaned against him, finding comfort in his presence. “Thank you, Ashutosh,” she whispered. “I just want them to see that I am still the same person.”“They will, in time,” he assured her. “For now, focus on the love and support you have here. We are your family too, and we care for you deeply.”As the night deepened, Binodini felt a sense of relief wash over her. Ashutosh’s words had given her the strength to face her challenges. She realized that while her journey was fraught with obstacles, she was not alone. She had the support of her new family, and that gave her the courage to persevere.The next morning, Binodini rose early, determined to embrace her duties with renewed vigor. She knew that her worth was not defined by the scorn of others but by her actions and the love she shared with those around her. With Ashutosh by her side and the support of her new family, she felt ready to face whatever came her way.The sun rose over the Chowdhury estate, casting a warm glow over its inhabitants. In that golden light, Binodini found a renewed sense of purpose and hope. She would continue to honor her responsibilities, to be a source of strength and kindness, and to build a future where love and respect prevailed over jealousy and bitterness.As she went about her day, Binodini carried with her the wisdom of Kusumlata Debi, the kindness of Nayana and Kantimoyee, and the unwavering support of Ashutosh. These were the pillars that would sustain her, guiding her through the trials and triumphs of her new life. And with each step she took, Binodini felt herself growing stronger, more resilient, and ever more determined to forge a path of love and compassion in the Chowdhury family.