Small Story 260.

Small Story 260 The Unexpected VIP Encounter Today, Seshan had planned to meet his old friend Chander, but he was disappointed as heavy rains poured in his area. Chander had come all the way from New Zealand with his wife. Seshan and Chander had served in the same firm that manufactured pharmaceutical machinery, both working as technical engineers. After retirement, Seshan chose to settle in Bengaluru, while Chander moved to New Zealand with his wife, following their only daughter Aditi, who had migrated there with her husband and son. Now, after three years, Chander was visiting Bengaluru, staying at his uncle’s house on Kanakapura Road. He had invited Seshan to meet him. Although Seshan had already invited them for lunch earlier, Chander and his uncle’s family insisted that Seshan should visit them first. There was still no sign of the rain stopping. Suddenly, Seshan received a call from his son in Sydney. His son was delighted to hear that Uncle Chander was in town and fondly recalled playing chess with him during childhood. After chatting for a few minutes, he wished that the rain would stop soon so his father could meet his old friend. Miraculously, within ten minutes, the rain ceased. Seshan called out to his wife Anjali to get ready, and together they headed to Chander's place. On arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Chander, his wife, and his uncle Swamy and his wife. After enjoying delicious sweets and snacks, Swamy asked Seshan how long he had been in Bengaluru. "It's my eighth year, sir. I really enjoy the culture and traditional values here," Seshan replied. Swamy nodded in agreement. “Yes, people here are deeply rooted in faith and tradition. I’ve been living here for thirty years since I retired as Chief Director of RAW.” Seshan was taken aback. “You are the Swamy of RAW? The one who cracked several high-profile cases and was honored by the government 25 years ago? I remember! My late father was your admirer, and so am I. What an honor to meet you—thanks to my old friend Chander.” Chander smiled modestly. “I’ve heard about Swamy’s remarkable career from my mother too. She admired his service deeply.” After spending quality time reminiscing and sharing stories, Seshan and his wife left with hearts full of joy—not only from reuniting with an old friend, but also from unexpectedly meeting a national hero. Swamy warmly promised to visit Seshan s K.Ragavan 29-5-25 .