The day of the ritual arrived, and Priya woke with a sense of trepidation mixed with a strange anticipation. Strange women in flowing saris and heavy jewelery arrived at the house, their eyes filled with a curious mix of welcome and something far more primal as they looked her over.

Rajesh and his father, Mr. Singh, led Priya to the courtyard in the center of the sprawling house. A massive copper tub, large enough to bathe an elephant, had been set up and was filled with fragrant rose petals and steaming water. The scent of roses and spices filled the air.