Chapter Text
QUEEN mother Sivagami Devi stared at the myriad scrolls that were scattered across the table in front of her. A few of the women she'd looked at had been quite satisfactory, but none fit for her son. No, she would continue her search, she decided resolutely. She would continue until she laid her hands on an exquisite bride, a woman of no flaws. Exhaling sharply and gently rubbing her temples, she began going through yet another set of scrolls. She would look at women from far and wide, from every nook and corner of Bharatvarsha if it would ensure that she found the flawless bride.
"Your Highness," her lady-in-waiting began timidly. "Surely no woman in the whole of Bharatvarsha is flawless..."
Sivagami raised a hand and silenced the woman. "It is incredibly difficult to find a woman of no flaws. However, it is vital that she possesses the qualities that my son does not."
"Possess a quality that Yuvaraja Baahubali does not?" the woman sounded rather astounded.
"My son is exceedingly naive," Sivagami sighed. "He trusts too easily...and I often find that he puts his faith in the wrong people...even though his heart is in the right place. If Parameshwara is kind, I will find a bride who compensates his flaws. A woman who will partake in political, social and economic decisions. A woman who is well versed in the Upanishads and Smritis. A woman who will stand up for what is right, a woman who will speak her mind. A woman whom Mahishmati will idolise."
The ministers in the room, who had thus far remained silent, nodded in agreement and exchanged glances before man amongst them stood hesitantly and spoke. "Your Highness."
"Dandanayaka," Sivagami consented, gesturing for him to continue.
"I hear of a princess from the kingdom of Kunthala. She holds her head high, makes her own decisions and is fearless in the face of danger. I can arrange for her portrait if Your Majesty wishes."
"Of course," Sivagami said. "And her name, Dandanayaka?"
"Devasena, Your Highness. Named after the daughter of Indira. Roughly translates to the army of the Gods."
"Devasena," Sivagami smiled. Only time will tell if she can do justice to her name."
She dismissed the gathering with the wave of her hand and left to attend to her royal duties.
♛ ♛ ♛
YUVARAJA Baahubali panted for breath as he let his sword slip from his sweaty palms and land on the ground with a heavy thud. He had just finished with an intense practice session with Kattappa. He quickly gulped down the glass of water that an attendant had handed him and splashed a handful on his sweaty face. He sat beside Kattappa under the shade of the century old banyan tree that stood on his training ground.
"Excellent," Kattappa clapped him on the shoulder. "You've proven yourself to be a worthy heir of Mahishmati."
"No greater honour, mama," Baahubali smiled. "Amma always said that I should strive towards becoming an Emperor that people revere and look up to."
Kattappa chuckled. "You've done your mother proud. Her happiness is immeasurable. She told me just last night that once she's found you a bride, everything is set and sorted."
Baahubali sighed frustratedly. "How is it that I have no idea of what is going on in this kingdom? I'm heir apparent, why is it that I remain blissfully unaware of everything?"
If Kattappa was taken aback by Baahubali's mild outburst, he did not show it. "We assumed you would know. It is currently Rajamatha's sole commitment. She is inspecting portraits of girls from far and wide, she is enquiring about princesses from neighbouring countires, she is sending word to kingdoms all across Bharatvarsha so as to find a befitting bride."
"I want to marry for love. Not for a political alliance or economical benefit or anything of that sort. I want to marry a woman whom I can worship and admire," Baahubali declared.
"Rajamatha agrees," Kattappa continued. "She searches for a woman well trained in the shastras, a woman who embodies knowledge and wisdom, a woman who can demonstrate physical and mental prowess. And she did specify that you will be empowered enough to have the final say."
"I will speak to mother regarding this," Baahubali said stiffly. "I remain incredibly doubtful."
"All will be well if Parameshwara intends for it to be," Kattappa muttered pensively, before gathering his sword and moleskin pouch and excusing himself.
♛ ♛ ♛
WHEN Dandanayaka whisked away the velvety red curtain and revealed a massive portrait of Princess Devasena, Rajamatha Sivagami's jaw dropped. Her eyes widened in amazement and she took a step back from where she was standing. "Parameshwara," she breathed, continually gazing at the painting. "Her elegance and class will put beauty to shame! She is enchanting! Simply divine!"
"Yuvarani Devasena of Kunthala, Your Highness," Dandanayaka proclaimed. "A fine woman, enticing indeed."
"Send for Baahubali immediately," Sivagami instructed. "Tell him it is a matter of utmost importance, but reveal no more."
An attendant nodded, bowed swiftly and left the room to summon the crown prince. He returned with the Yuvaraja almost immediately. Baahubali was clad in only an angavastram and silk dhoti, indicating that he had just said his prayers and performed invocations. He bowed deeply to his mother before addressing her. "Amma, you sent for me?"
"Certainly," she conceded. "As you are already aware, I would like for you to marry at the earliest. I do hope you intend to tie the knot soon."
"I do," he admitted. "I intend to marry an intellectual woman. A woman who will face war and battlefield fearlessly. A woman who personifies courage and chivalry. Fundamentally, a woman whom I respect and love."
"Might I say that I have succeeded in finding a suitable woman?" Sivagami intervened. "I have been fortunate and blessed to have come across the portrait of Yuvarani Devasena of Kunthala." She stepped aside to give Baahubali a distinct view of the portrait that adorned the wall behind her. "They say she is the best warrior in her kingdom."
Baahubali surveyed the portrait carefully, his eyes sweeping across Devasena's alluring features. He took in her steel blue saree, her fiery eyes, her determined expression and her precisely drawn bindi. If he was roused, impressed, or even taken aback, his face did not betray it.
"I wish to meet the Princess before I take a stand," Baahubali affirmed. "I intend to be in a successful marriage and taking hasty decisions will lead to nothing but turbulence."
"Well said, Yuvaraja!" a few ministers clamoured encouragingly.
"Indeed," Sivagami nodded in concurrence. "I will consult the royal priest and arrange for the meeting to happen in an auspicious muhurtham."
"No," Baahubali shook his head in dissent. "I am afraid that will not do. I wish to meet her anonymously."
"What good will that do?" Dandanayaka questioned.
"I wish for her to look past the wealth, riches, the power and the title that I possess. I want her to fall in love with the person I am. And I intend to proceed slowly."
"So be it," Sivagami stated in resignation. "Tour the kingdom. Take Kattappa with you. Meet Yuvarani Devasena in Kunthala and proceed in any way that you deem fit. I will await your response."
Baahubali kneeled at his mother's feet promptly to take her blessing. She ruffled his tresses and smiled warmly as she watched him accompany Kattappa down the palace corridor and into the wide courtyard.
♛ ♛ ♛
YUVARANI Devasena looked a thousand times more ravishing in person, at least through Baahubali's eyes, simply due to the fact that she could wield a sword with unerring ease. His jaw dropped as he observed her cut through the curtain that shielded her palanquin and stab two attackers. In the process, she unveiled her stunning features: deep set eyes that bore a determined gaze and a persevering smile. He moved forward to take a closer look, ensuring that he remained cautiously hidden behind the dense foliage.
"Fire in her veins and embers in her eyes!" Kattappa remarked heartily, eyeing Devasena with admiration. "A fine woman, a fine woman indeed."
Baahubali smirked slightly, his gaze still fixed on her movements, and said, "You must do a great deal to ensure our union, mama."
Kattappa chuckled, clapping Baahubali on the back. "Marriages are made in heaven. If it is meant to be, it will always find a way."
♛ ♛ ♛
IT was surprisingly unchallenging for Baahubali to masquerade as a simpleton. The kingdom of Kunthala had surprised him in multiple ways. It was a city of marble, unlike Mahishmati, which was predominantly made of sandstone. Princess Devasena, he learned, was a follower of the Srivaishnava faith and an adherent devotee of Lord Krishna.
He had never pursued religion wholeheartedly, despite the fact that his mother was a devout Saivate, because he was a stubborn believer of kshatriya dharma, which did not speak of disciplinary worship. It spoke only of prayer, which he adhered to every day, and knowledge of the shastras and vedas, which he had possessed since time immemorial. It spoke of a ruler's duties and the responsibilities of kingship in great depth. He had practiced Saivism with his mother, but it did not occupy the place that kshatriya dharma did in his heart.
Kunthala, it turned out, was also very chauvinistic. He overheard Raja Jayasena talking about how Devasena had not given any formal training because she was a woman. It had infuriated him, but on the other hand, his admiration for the Princess grew. Despite being denied tutelage, she strived to practice to the best of her abilities, and she had become Kunthala's best archer, second to none.
He had watched her practice her archery from afar and appreciated her persistence and dedication, for she had refused to stop until her sister-in-law had given her a stern telling-off and dragged her away. He had to make every effort to restrain himself from showing her how to release three arrows simultaneously, for it would break his masquerade. He vowed to teach her as soon as he could, and genuinely hoped that the right moment would present itself in due course.
He knew deep down that the Princess had seen through his facade: she had eventually figured out that he was not who he was claiming to be, but continued to play along. He enjoyed playing the fool and she was insistent on catching him.
He spared no effort in acting like a simpleton, but couldn't help but occasionally hint otherwise: when the Princess had tripped over a protruding stone, he had subconsciously caught hold of her waist, and she had examined his scarred and bruised hand with utmost suspicion. She would often go out of her way to set traps for him: she insisted that he accompany her on a wild boar hunt, after which she challenged him to face an untamed bull with a spear in his hand. It had run into him headfirst, but he had faced worse injuries in battlefields, and it would indeed be rewarding if it won Devasena's heart.
She had, to his absolute delight, hinted at a confession during the Krishna Puja she had performed on the previous full moon, and apologised for letting the wild bull run at him. The antapura was rife with gossip: the girls told one another various versions of the wild bull story, each more dramatic than the last and placed bets on whether the Princess was smitten with the innocent simpleton.
He was in no rush to disclose his identity. They had their entire lives in front of them, years and years in which they could talk. She would birth his children, accompany him to battlefield, sit beside him, as his equal, in his court. She was, in short, everything he wanted in a life partner. He decided that he would wait until the right time presented itself, and until then, he would content himself with milking cows and churning butter in the Kunthala kitchens.
♛ ♛ ♛
KATTAPPA idolised and revered Rajamatha Sivagami and believed without a shadow of a doubt that she could do no wrong, until that afternoon. He stood outside Raja Jayasena's court in the sultry heat, tending to Kunthala's sprawling lawns. A familiar voice caused him to pull out of his dreary errand and listen to the proceeding that was taking place inside the court.
"Rajamatha Sivagami Devi sends her greetings from the Empire of Mahishmati," Nikumba, one of Mahishmati's royal messengers, announced pompously. "She sends well-wishes and compliments to Raja Jaya Varma and the people of Kunthala."
Kattappa's shrewd eyes fell on the truckloads of presents that had been brought along. There were chests filled with the finest and most exquisite jewellery, necklaces of gold and diamond, ornaments specked with ruby and emerald, trays of magnificent silk attire studded with expensive gemstones, cartons holding weapons of indestructible strength: swords with hilts made of diamonds, bows which could fire targets thousands of yards away, spears and shafts made of the most durable material.
"I intend for my son," Nikumba continued haughtily, "Amarendra Baahubali, the warrior of warriors, a man of virtues, unparalleled in strength and chivalry, to make your sister, Yuvarani Devasena, his life partner. Kindly have her abide by the rituals of kshatriya marriage and tie a sacred thread to my son's ceremonial sword and arrange for her travel to Mahishmati at the earliest. Yours Truly, Rajamatha Sivagami Devi."
"A large number of empires and vast kingdoms wish for an alliance with Mahishmati," Nikumba's tone was arrogant and patronising. "But our Rajamatha's pitiful eyes have fallen on your minor kingdom. Princess Devasena is indeed blessed!"
Kattappa buried his face in his palms. From afar, he could see the Princess's temples reddening considerably, and her face contorting into a bitter frown.
"Take a look at the gifts Rajamatha sends!" Nikumba gestured towards the presents that were spread across the courtyard. "Surely you have never laid your eyes on such immeasurable riches!"
Devasena held up a hand, silencing Nikumba. She stood in a contemptuous manner and spoke with the impetuosity of a true Princess. "Is it just you and your Rajamatha, or everyone in the kingdom of Mahishmati?"
Nikumba looked dumbfounded.
"People of your kingdom may behave like a pack of dogs, eyeing riches like these," she waved a hand towards the heaps of gifts, "but I find it equivalent to the dust that settles at my feet!"
"Devasena!" Nikumba exclaimed, thunderstruck by the Princess's nerve.
"Silence!" she retorted powerfully. "If your Prince had an ounce of your pride...I would've respected him for being a man! Lay aside the women, even the dogs in my kingdom would not approve of such shameful behaviour!"
"Devasena," her sister-in-law sounded shaken and unnerved, but the Princess remained unmoved as she instructed a scribe to put down a befitting reply.
"Yuvarani Devasena sends her greetings to Rajamatha Sivagami Devi in the utopian empire of Mahishmati. It is disgraceful that your son does not have the basic respectability to rendezvous with me in person. I have come to know his true colours through this cowardly gesture. I send with my messenger my ceremonial sword. Kindly have him tie the sacred thread around it. Bedeck him in jewels of gold and arrange for his travel to Kunthala, where I shall look after him diligently. Yours sincerely, Princess Devasena."
Kattappa could not help but admire the young woman's audacious and daring response.
♛ ♛ ♛
BAAHUBALI was churning buttermilk in Kunthala's kitchens in the late hours of the night when Kattappa approached him with wonderful as well as dreadful news.
"Which would you like to hear first?" he questioned.
"Tell me both," the Prince said indifferently. "I shall decide which is wonderful and which is dreadful for myself."
"Rajamatha Sivagami sent a messenger to Kunthala, asking for Devasena's hand in marriage," Kattappa chose his words carefully, not intending to elaborately describe the disastrous scene that had followed. "But the Princess rejected the proposal and wrote a wrathful response."
"Parameshawara," Baahubali sighed. "I asked mother not to intrude."
"Rajamatha cannot do wrong," Kattappa defended instinctively.
"No," Baahubali concurred. "She cannot." The prince's lips curved into a heartfelt smile before he said, "The fact that Devasena rejected the proposal is wonderful news indeed. She has fallen in love with the good-natured simpleton Shivu, and consequently, she has rejected Yuvaraja Amarendra Baahubali!"
Kattappa chuckled heartily. "Of course."
Baahubali's smile was, however, short-lived. He sensed the swift but heavy movement of feet, the rhythmic clatter of swords and the distinctive sound of heavy artillery. An army was approaching.
He held out his right hand spontaneously, demanding his sword, and descended the marble staircase to alert the Princess.
♛ ♛ ♛
THE sound of the warning bell jerked Princess Devasena awake. She dressed hastily and left her apartments with only her bow and a quiver of arrows. She moved attentively, listening for sounds of approaching attackers. She turned a corner and was distressed to see a contingent of soldiers coming her way. She acted impulsively and went about shooting her arrows one by one, but she realised that she was largely outnumbered and her quiver was emptying at an alarming rate. Panic and agitation thundered through her nerves in equal measure and she uttered a desperate prayer as she continued taking the soldiers down.
As though miraculously, the three soldiers charging towards her collapsed instantaneously on the marble floor. Arrows longer than her own were protruding from their chests and they were bleeding heavily, staining the white marble in hues of red. She spun around abruptly to catch a glimpse of her saviour and was most astounded when she saw Shivu.
"In the name of Lord Ram," she whispered with quiet intensity. Her jaw dropped slightly when she saw him release three arrows with such impeccable ease. He was much more swift, much more self-assured. Each of his moves were imperturbable, and without a doubt, they were the result of years of training.
"Yuvarani," he addressed her. "Four fingers, not two."
She held out her hand, cautiously replicating his moves.
"Turn the wrist facing outwards," he demonstrated with deliberate simplicity. She observed him with utmost concentration and copied his gesticulation flawlessly. Once she'd perfected the movement, he instructed her to shoot.
"And release!" he commanded with vigour. Her arrows struck their respective targets with incomparable accuracy. They continued taking down the soldiers, each of their moves perfectly coordinated, their actions synchronised. When Baahubali lost his bow to a man who had pounced on him with a sword, he took Devasena's hand and spun in a double pirouette, using her bow to release not three, but six arrows simultaneously.
Devasena inspected the damage warily, ensuring that there were no more attackers coming their way, before she spoke faintly, "Who are you?"
Baahubali considered telling her the truth, for he did not want their relationship to be built upon secrets and lies, but decided against it almost immediately. "This isn't the time and place, Princess. Come along."
She followed him down the sleek marble staircase, ensanguined with the blood of martyred soldiers, and into the battleground, where they would encounter the rest of the army together.
♛ ♛ ♛
THE tip of Devasena's sword was dangerously close to Baahubali's chest. "I trusted you," her voice was barely audible, but exceptionally fierce. She touched the sword to his chest, but it did not draw blood. "Tell me, who are you?"
"Even the sweetest of fruit taste awfully bitter when you are irked," Baahubali maintained his calm demeanour.
She thrusted the sword further into his chest and sensed it meet his armour. "Answer me," she repeated through gritted teeth. His undisturbed state of mind provoked her further.
"Once your anger vanishes," he repeated serenely, looking her in the eye.
Her fury knew no bounds. She acted on impulse, like she had on innumerable occasions, and grabbed the burning torch that stood behind her. She flung it onto his robes and watched in bewilderment as the fabric burnt away, revealing the crest of Mahishmati emblazoned on his armour.
"Heir to the throne of Mahishmati!" Kattappa cried, the pride in his voice immeasurable. "Rajamatha Sivagami Devi's dearest son! The vanquisher of the Kalakeyas and the warrior of warriors!"
"Sriman Narayana", Devasena murmured quietly, eyeing the crown prince with incredulity.
"Amarendra Baahubali," Kattappa announced in conclusion, and instantaneously, Devasena heard the clattering of swords. The soldiers had fallen on their knees with their hands crossed on their hearts as a token of reverence. Her brother and sister-in-law proceeded to kneel, but the Prince advanced towards them and spoke, "Warmth and affection is sufficient amongst kinsmen, Your Highness. Respect is non-obligatory."
They exchanged delightful smiles before rising to their feet.
He gestured towards the other soldiers, instructing for them to rise, before he addressed the Princess once more. "My mother has not wronged thus far, Devasena. I can assure you that there must be a reasonable motive and rationale behind her actions. It is highly probable that a miscommunication has taken place. Come with me, be my captive."
Devasena eyed Baahubali with respect and admiration. "My heart beats for you, Yuvaraja. Ask me to accompany you as your bride, and I shall come joyously." She felt blood rush into her face as she uttered the words. "But to lose my honour and follow as a captive? I would never."
The prince's eyes swept over her undaunted features before he nodded. "From this moment onwards, until death do us apart, I am yours, Princess. I swear on the kshatriya dharma that is instilled in me. I promise you, I will protect your dignity and honour at all costs."
She smiled contentedly as he placed his hand on hers, consummating his vow.
♛ ♛ ♛
"Devasena is treasured by her family and the people of Kunthala alike," her sister-in-law told Baahubali. "She is our pride, Yuvaraja."
"I will ensure that no harm befalls her," Baahubali reassured the older woman. "Trust me." He touched her feet before taking her leave.
Devasena proceeded onto the plank that lead to the rowboat that would take them to the harbour, from where they would sail Kunthala's Hamsa Naava or swan boat through the waters of the mighty Mahishi river. She was wearing a sapphire blue saree, heavier than what she was usually accustomed to, and bedecked in the finest ornaments: massive earrings studded with blue diamonds, hefty necklaces plated with gold, thick ropes of pearls, stones of sapphire embedded in her hair, and a number of jewel-specked rings on both hands. She glanced at Yuvaraja Baahubali and noticed that he was dressed in robes of a similar shade of blue. She had to admit that she found the Prince impressive. He was a potential emperor, and yet, he had put on a facade to win her heart. He wanted her to appreciate him for who he was. And she could not help but admire that.
It was, at that unfortunate moment, that the plank she stood on split it two. She tripped over the end of her saree and caught herself before she went slipping into the water. Her ladies-in-waiting gasped, rushing to her aid, but none of them were a match to the Prince's swiftness. He jumped out of the canoe without hesitation, soaking his royal blue robes in the process, and dragged the canoe towards where she squatted.
"Princess," he addressed her. "I do hope you haven't sustained an injury."
She shook her head, her astonishment clearly visible on her delicate features.
He smirked mischievously and spoke, "Your thoughts are elsewhere, Yuvarani."
He gestured with his eyes for her to walk across his massive shoulders. She raised her eyebrows, holding back a smug smile, before she made her way onto his broad frame. She was benumbed by his strength; he did not waver or flinch as she walked across. He did complete justice to his name, she thought. Baahubali, the one with strong arms.
The Yuvaraja joined her in the canoe once she was safely seated and they set off for the harbour, hurriedly bidding their final goodbyes to the Princess's wonderstruck family.
♛ ♛ ♛
PRINCESS Devasena stood on the foremast of the swan boat, draped in an emerald green saree, paired with a wine-red blouse. She adorned a great amount of jewellery: a set of hefty bangles that tinkled when she moved her hands, a variety of rings studded with precious gemstones, bulky necklaces of shimmering gold and massive anklets that embellished her feet. She was tremendously nervous, for she had insulted Rajamatha, and written an insolent response to the wedding proposal. Kattappa seemed to have sensed her anxiety, for he spoke gently, "Rajamatha will treat you like a daughter. Do not fret, Princess."
She smiled in gratitude, her tense demeanour immediately vanishing.
"Mahishmati," there was immense pride in the Prince's voice as he spoke the word and gestured towards the large sandstone elephant that marked the entrance to the Empire.
Devasena's eyes widened as she gaped at the mighty sculpture. She opened her mouth to express her astonishment, but no words came out.
♛ ♛ ♛
THE massive doors that led to Mahishmati's court were opened by a set of guards, making way for the crown prince and his bride-to-be. The courtiers and noblemen whispered to each other excitedly when they caught sight of the Vaishnavite princess, for they had never laid their eyes on such an exquisite woman.
The prince made his way across the lengthy courtroom, removing his silk turban as he approached the dais where his mother was seated. He nodded to the Princess at the bottom of the sandstone steps, signalling for her to wait below.
He paid obeisance to his mother by promptly kneeling at her feet. The court performed a salutation to the Prince, adhering to royal protocol. Princess Devasena stood below the large dais, at the foot of the sandstone steps, head hung in shame, waiting for the Queen Mother's command.
When Sivagami Devi instructed her to speak, she did so in hushed tones. "I spoke out of turn, Your Highness. It was injudicious of me to write an insolent response. Forgive my arrogance, Rajamatha."
The Queen Mother's perfect circle of a face split into a warm smile. "A smidge of arrogance makes Sivagami Devi's daughter-in-law beautiful, beautiful indeed."
The courtiers cheered, the Prince's eyes met Devasena's and they exchanged subtle smiles.
"Come," Rajamatha beckoned. "Stand beside my son. Let Mahishmati see for itself and decide whether my decision is apt or not."
Devasena advanced towards the dais where Baahubali stood, ascending the sandstone steps with her head held high. She touched Rajamatha's feet just as he had done earlier before taking her place on the Prince's right.
The noblemen whistled encouragingly, the courtiers hooted in joy. She was a suitable bride, they whispered amongst themselves, apt for the crown prince.
And it was with the heartfelt approval of the citizens of Mahishmati that Rajamatha declared, "Let the ceremonies of the Kshatriya Vivaham commence on the very next auspicious muhurtham."
♛ ♛ ♛
THAT night, the Princess dined with Baahubali's family. She sat beside the Prince, choosing not to speak unless spoken to. Her shrewd and calculating eyes swept across the table, carefully observing each member of the royal family. There was Prince Bhallaladeva, who was a fist taller than Baahubali, as well as more muscular and robust. And Bhallaladeva's father, Bijjaladeva, a handicapped man whose inept arm was hidden beneath a velvety fabric. Kattappa, she noticed, did not break bread with the family, for he was a mere slave.
But Devasena found Kattappa the most fascinating: he told her the most thrilling tales, tales of his travels across the world, stories of Emperors he'd met, Princesses he'd seen, and most importantly, tales of the Prince's childhood. He explained the most complicated vyuhas employed in war and the working of Mahishmati's court. And Devasena truly did owe Kattappa everything, for he was instrumental in her union with the Prince.
Dinner was served on the finest silverware Devasena had seen. Warm and golden fritters, platters of rice and lentils, an assortment of spicy curries, and for dessert, a plump chestnut brown sweet filled with a sugary syrup.
"It is a gulab jamun," Rajamatha said, "A Persian dessert."
Devasena had never tasted anything so divine. Once they had finished their meal, brass bowls filled with warm water, accompanied by precisely sliced lemons, were brought out by the attendants. Bijjaladeva and Bhalla rose to leave first, and just as Devasena was about to follow, Rajamatha called her name.
"I would like a word, Princess," she said in an unassuming tone. Her eyes fell on Baahubali, who continued to linger by her side. "Alone."
Devasena glanced at the Prince in alarm. Had she offended the Queen Mother once more? Beneath the table, Baahubali slipped his hand in hers and gave it a reassuring squeeze before bowing to his mother and exiting the room. Sivagami nodded to the attendants who stood beside them; they bowed low and took their leave.
"I have heard," Rajamatha began, turning swiftly to check if they were being overheard, "from a trusted source that my husband and Prince Bhallaladeva intend to usurp the throne, and in the process, break your marriage."
Devasena stared at her in disbelief.
"Baahubali is innocent and unsuspecting, Devasena. I fervently hoped for a shrewder, perceptive, daughter-in-law, and might I say that I have been blessed?"
The Princess smiled timidly.
"I sent the marriage proposal to Kunthala to check whether your allegiance could be bought," Sivagami Devi continued, "and I was pleased, pleased indeed, upon hearing your response, as insolent as it was. The fact that your loyalties lie with your husband comforts me exceptionally."
"Now," Sivagami Devi resumed after a pause for breath, "I wish to speak of more...sensitive matters."
The Princess nodded, listening raptly.
"Baahubali has an excellent spy network outside the palace, but it is rather upsetting that he refuses to maintain one within. He firmly believes that nobody would dare swerve from the path of kshatriya dharma and he remains blissfully unaware of matters inside the royal family. Bijjaladeva will use that to his advantage."
"Of course," Devasena whispered aloud, putting two and two together in her mind.
"I wish for you to set up a spy network within the palace, for you must be well informed. And I must warn you, child, always be alert, always. The palace is heavily guarded and the security is exceptionally good, I can assure you, but there have been breaches in the past." Rajamatha showed her the dagger hidden in the folds of her silk saree and spoke, "I do not leave my chambers unarmed and I highly recommend you do the same."
"Certainly, Rajamatha," she answered, nodding obediently.
"There is one more thing," Rajamatha added. "Poisoning."
Devasena raised a perfectly arched eyebrow, but she did not speak.
"We are surrounded by foes and enemies. The most unexpected people can turn into traitors, one can never tell. Baahubali's food has been poisoned, gradually, from his childhood, in order to ensure that he is immune to most toxins and venoms. It is a must for you to do the same, Princess."
"Without a doubt, I will," Devasena spoke with assertiveness, but her features were laced with apprehension.
"Good," Sivagami said. "The poisoning will begin tomorrow morning. We will, of course, start off with a negligibly small quantity, but I must warn you that your body may not take to the poison immediately. There is a high chance that you will develop a severe fever, or nausea and body aches, but they will cease in a few days' time. I intended for your poisoning to start on a later date, but it is essential that we start tomorrow, so the wedding festivities can proceed unhindered."
Devasena nodded in assent. The gravity of the situation dawned on her abruptly. She felt as though the weight of the world had sunk onto her fragile shoulders. She was to be Mahishmati's Empress in less than ten days, and she had to prepare herself for the entire ordeal: she had to become accustomed to Mahishmati's Saivate traditions, ensure that she was armed at all times, set up a seamless spy network, accompany the Emperor on his entourages, and perhaps even to the battlefield. It was a life of service, she realised, service to the people of the Empire.
"You may leave now, Princess," Rajamatha gestured towards the door. "A warm and comfortable bed awaits you in your quarters. I am certain that the maidservants and ladies-in-waiting will tend to your needs, but if you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask me personally."
When Devasena rose to leave, Sivagami spoke once more. "Devasena—not a word about this to the Prince. Is that clear?"
"Absolutely," Devasena murmured.
"He would never forgive me if anything happened to you," Sivagami said truthfully. "Sleep well, Princess."
♛ ♛ ♛
DEVASENA was astounded to see the Prince waiting for her in her chambers, seated on the bed that had been arranged for her.
"Yuvaraja!" she exclaimed softly.
"Princess," he responded, his voice equally hushed. "Come."
He held out his massive arms and pulled her into a warm hug, rubbing her back gently. "You look awful, Princess," he said in the same quiet tone he had used earlier. "What did my mother say to you?"
"I do not wish to tell you," she whispered into his sturdy shoulders, disappointed that her face had betrayed her anxiety. "Ask me no questions and I shall tell you no lies."
He laughed delicately. "I would regret to find out from someone other than you."
"I can assure you that you will not," she responded, "because the only other person who knows of our conversation is Rajamatha herself."
"Even the walls have ears in Mahishmati, Princess," he said gingerly.
"And still you refuse to maintain a spy network within the palace!" she countered, resting her chin on his shoulder.
"Oh," he sighed. "I have a fair idea of how your conversation went, Princess. I would like to make it clear, clear to a very great degree, that I trust the members of my family with my life. And nothing will change that."
"So you refuse to believe that Bhallaladeva would plot against you for the throne?" she demanded, anger surging through every nerve in her body.
"Princess," Baahubali sighed in exasperation. "I have neither the energy nor the inclination to understand your point of view."
"Brilliant," she whispered scathingly, her voice dripping with heavy sarcasm. She wrestled herself out of his arms and stood, gesturing towards the enormous double doors. "Good night, Yuvaraja."
He left the room, just as enraged as she was, in a stiff and threatening gait.
♛ ♛ ♛
PRINCESS Devasena's breakfast was brought to her apartments the next morning by the Queen Mother herself, accompanied by a trusted servant.
"I heard of your quarrel with the Yuvaraja last night," she spoke with indifference as she placed the breakfast tray on the table that stood before the Princess's bed.
"He will not listen, Yuvarani. I have known him for years, trust my judgement. I have entrusted you with the job, Princess, do not bring it up in front of him. I advise you to let go of the matter."
Devasena remained silent, eyeing her breakfast tray: there were rotis of rice flour, crisp and warm, an assortment of spicy chutneys, marinated with ghee, a bowl of freshly sliced mangoes, golden coloured and honey-sweet, and a goblet of almond milk, infused liberally with saffron.
Rajamatha wisely ignored the Princess's silence. "We intend to proceed as discussed last night. I have personally overseen the process. It is likely that you will develop a fever in the early hours of the afternoon. The rajvaidya is informed of the situation and she will attend to you at your summon."
"Thank you, Rajamatha," Devasena said, before she proceeded to eat. Her hand mildly trembled as she tore off the first piece of the snowy white roti, dipped it into the bowl of lush green chutney and brought it towards her mouth. She could not taste the poison, nevertheless, the thought of falling horribly ill was painstaking. Her feeble agitation did not go unnoticed by Rajamatha's prying eyes.
"I know it is burdensome," she said tenderly. "It is a gruesome process, nastily painful. I felt like succumbing to the nausea. It will not be easy. But trust me, it will be worth it."
Devasena finished her meal with relative ease upon hearing Rajamatha's words.
♛ ♛ ♛
IT was two in the afternoon when the first bout of nausea came. She threw up incessantly, struggling to even breathe in between.
"Summon the royal physician," she croaked, and as soon as she finished saying the words, an attendant left the room immediately.
She was put to rest by her maidservants and a silk handkerchief, dripping with chilled water, was placed on her warm forehead.
The rajvaidya was a young woman named Yamuna. Her luscious black hair was held back in a crisp bun and she was neatly clad in a saree of ivory coloured silk. "You are doing very well, Your Highness. The nausea will cease in the evening. The fever, however, may trouble you for longer."
"How long?" Devasena wheezed.
"It varies, Your Majesty. It may cease tonight, or stay for upto three days," Yamuna replied.
"Thank you, Yamuna," Devasena whispered hoarsely, her throat aching terribly after speaking. Her eyes drooped shut and she fell into a disturbed sleep, waking minutes later, when she felt the bile rise in her throat.
She jolted upright and leaned forward to throw up, when she felt a comforting hand massage her back smoothly.
"Yuvaraja?" she was mildly bewildered to see the Prince by her side.
"In the name of Parameshwara," he responded gravely. "You look dreadful, Princess."
She wanted to deny it, but the fact that she was as pale as the snow that settled on the Himalayan mountains and that she regurgitated the contents of her breakfast once more did not help convince the Prince otherwise.
He took her feet in his hands, instructing the servants to warm a bowl of sandalwood oil. "You should have summoned me earlier." He poured the warm oil that was handed to him on her feet, kneading it thoroughly into her soles. "Is something causing you trouble?"
She shook her head.
"No?" he asked in disbelief. "You are distressed, Princess, and do not try to convince me otherwise."
She did not speak, for she knew that her arguments would go unheard. Moreover, she was too weak to vocalise her thoughts.
"You worry too much," he continued. "Nothing untoward can happen as long as you are by my side. Trust me."
♛ ♛ ♛
THE Princess recovered in three days' time under Baahubali's watchful eyes. He suspected that she had consented to poisoning, so as to develop immunity towards venoms, but he did not give voice to his thoughts until the Princess had healed completely.
He cornered her after she had finished her swords practice with Kattappa. "You agreed to the poisoning, didn't you?"
"Yes," she replied without an ounce of hesitation. "I did."
"And you were fully aware that it would cause you discomfort?" he asked.
"Yes," she assured him.
"And you didn't bother to tell me? Not a single word, in all the hours I sat beside you?" he questioned.
"No," she admitted. "Because I knew—and Rajamatha agreed—that you would not permit it to happen now, and we saw no point in delaying the process."
"I see," the Prince said. "I will have a word with my mother regarding this." He turned around abruptly, to leave in the direction of his mother's chambers, but the Princess placed her hand on his shoulder and stopped him.
"I did it out of my own accord," she said firmly. "Because we are surrounded by foes—men who want to usurp the throne, ministers claiming themselves worthy heirs. I am to be an Empress, and I wish to prepare myself in every possible way. I will refine my swordsmanship, practice my archery for hours into the night if I have to. I agreed to the poisoning knowing fully well that I would undergo three torturous days. I did not choose this life, Yuvaraja. Neither of us did. This life is for the people, and I will strive to become the best version of myself, even if it means I have to pay the price with my own life. Isn't that what kshatriya dharma preaches?"
The words kshatriya dharma seemed to have a hypnotic effect on the Prince, because he nodded affirmatively and mumbled, "Of course, Yuvarani. Do as you deem fit."
♛ ♛ ♛
THE streets of Mahishmati were usually deserted during the summer months, for the weather was blazing hot and sultry. But that day was different. The kingdom was celebrating the coronation of Yuvaraja Baahubali, and no amount of heat or dust could keep the throngs of people inside their homes.
They watched in admiration as Sivagami Devi applied a tilak of vermillion on his forehead. The royal priest rapidly chanted mantras in Sanskrit as she reached for the much revered crown, which sat on a tray of gold held by Princess Devasena. She lifted it with both her hands, for it was quite heavy, and stood on the tips of her toes to place it on the Prince's head.
An attendant brought out a scroll that contained his ceremonial speech and kneeled before the Prince. The Prince, however, held out his hand, refusing to take it, and spoke straight from the heart: "I, Amarendra Baahubali—"
The crowd assembled did not allow him to proceed further. They erupted into cheers, calling his name, beating their chests as they cried for his victory.
"I, Amarendra Baahubali," he thundered, his deafening voice overpowering the ear-splitting cheers, "pledge that in my duty, as the guardian of the health, wealth and lives of the people of Mahishmati, I will never hesitate to lay down my life for the Empire and its people. This, I swear in the name of Rajamatha Sivagami Devi!"
And the Queen Mother declared him coronated as Mahishmati's Emperor.
♛ ♛ ♛
BAAHUBALI and Devasena's wedding rituals began three days after the coronation had taken place. Their engagement took place outside the shrine of Lord Shiva that was situated in the palace grounds, in front of a mighty fire with Lord Agni as their witness. Devasena wore a saree of a creamy white. Baahubali wore a dhoti of a matching shade, but his chest was bare except for his angavastram and sacred thread.
"Do you, Princess Devasena of the Kunthala kingdom, agree to take Maharaja Baahubali as your lawfully wedded husband as per Saivate traditions, on the aforementioned day, at the specified muhurtham?" the priest asked.
"I do," Devasena responded diligently, looking Baahubali in the eye.
"And do you, Maharaja Amarendra Baahubali, agree to take Princess Devasena as your lawfully wedded wife as per Saivate traditions, on the aforementioned day, at the specified muhurtham?" the priest reiterated to Baahubali.
"I do," Baahubali replied with equal sincerity.
"Then you may exchange rings," the priest declared.
They did as they were told, exchanging rings of delicately cut diamond, plated in shimmering gold. The Princess had asked for rings of jade, for they embodied happiness and harmony in relationships and stood for the ideals of nobility and kingship. However, Rajamatha Sivagami had insisted on diamonds, believing that they were an emblem of commitment and faithfulness, and stood for invincibility and intellectual knowledge. The Princess agreed, though reluctantly.
"I declare you officially engaged! May your marriage bring peace and prosperity to Mahishmati and its people!" the priest announced.
They made their way to the palace balcony, hand in hand. Devasena raised a hand, covered in elaborate designs of henna, and waved to the assembled crowds, displaying the ring of diamond. The couple were showered with grains of rice soaked in sunshine coloured turmeric water and petals of roses and golden chrysanthemums.
They were ushered back into the palace grounds by Rajamatha, who muttered, "Parameshwara! I must ward off the evil eye!"
She proceeded to do so by lighting a piece of camphor placed inside a large raw pumpkin.
Their wedding took place on the day that followed, in the mandap within the palace. Words could not do justice to the extravagance of the ceremony, Devasena thought. Rajamatha had invited kings and queens, noblemen and aristocracy from kingdoms far and near. She had made use of the opportunity to showcase Mahishmati's boundless wealth: guests were gifted lamps of silver and pouches of finely cut diamond upon their arrival. They were served elaborate meals on platters of gold: pearly white rice, cooked to perfection, lentils spiced with Kashmiri chillies, curries marinated in large quantities of melted butter, kebabs of paneer, sprinkled with a variety of spices and grilled until crisp, rotis and boats of steaming gravies, the choicest meats, an assortment of mouth-watering milk sweets, along with the Princess's favourite gulab jamuns, wine fresh from the foothills of the Himalayas, and chilled milk, tinted with haldi and saffron.
Rajamatha declared that the people of Mahishmati would be fed elaborate meals outside the palace grounds, free of cost, to honour the royal wedding. Sarees of silk and dhotis of velvet were distributed to common folk in large numbers.
The Princess had been gifted with a vast quantity of jewellery and riches: she was bedecked in diamonds and sapphires, matching the colour of her blouse. Her fingers adorned a great many rings and her wrists were filled with numerous bangles that tinkled when she moved her hands, and gleaming bracelets of gold. Her shoulders were encased in hefty chains of gold, studded with diamond, suiting her ivory coloured saree. She wore a carefully crafted choker of precious diamonds and a number of necklaces made of expensive pearls. Her waist was decorated by a girdle of gold, with a single shimmering sapphire in the centre, and her feet were embellished by a pair of jingling anklets. Her thick mane of hair had been left to tumble down her shoulders, sprinkled with ornaments of expensive white stones. The queen mother had granted her an income of a lakh rupees and declared lands in her name. She was gifted with a ceremonial sword, whose hilt was bejewelled with stones of diamond.
The wedding proceeded as planned: the Maharaja and Devasena took the seven sacred oaths of marriage in front of Lord Agni. Baahubali tied the mangalsutra around Devasena's neck, making their union official. The bride and groom were showered generously with grains of rice and petals of chrysanthemums, as the music of the nadaswaram was played by the well-trained orchestra.
Devasena entwined her little finger in Baahubali's as they proceeded offstage to receive the blessings of the onlookers present.
Amongst the spectators who had come for the wedding were the Persian King, Padshah Aslam Khan, and his daughter, Princess Meher. Her large blue eyes were not focused on the Maharaja and his bride. Instead, she was looking at Prince Bhallaladeva.