Small Story 297.

Small Story 297 Sweet News After Hanumantharao's 70th Seshan reached the park where his old friend Hanumantharao was already waiting. With a warm smile, Hanumantharao greeted Seshan and handed him a sweet box — a token from his recent 70th birthday celebration held at their hometown deity’s temple in Maddur. Seshan had missed the event, so Hanumantharao brought the sweets especially for him and his family. Both men, retired colleagues from the Telephone Department, had settled in Rajajinagar — a peaceful locality near the city station. Though two years younger, Seshan shared a deep bond with Hanumantharao, and they often met like this to relive old memories. As they chatted, Seshan received a call from his wife, Lalitha. “On your way back, bring some sweets. My good friend Lakshmi is coming over with her son.” “Okay,” said Seshan and soon took leave from Hanumantharao, clutching the sweet box. On the way home, he stopped at a popular sweet shop and picked up some additional sweets. When he arrived, Lakshmi was already there — along with her daughter Shobha and husband Mahesh. After a brief round of introductions, Mahesh expressed their wish to propose Shobha's hand in marriage to Seshan’s son, Vishnu, who worked in Dubai. Seshan was pleased — Shobha seemed like a perfect match for Vishnu. Lalitha had already sent Shobha’s photo to their son, and he had responded with an enthusiastic ‘yes’. After a pleasant conversation, Mahesh’s family took their leave, promising to send the formal proposal and discuss the wedding date soon. Later that evening, Lalitha opened Hanumantharao’s sweet box. Inside were Vishnu’s favorite treats — Badam Cake and Mysorepak. Smiling, she whispered, “Anna Hanumantharao’s 70th birthday… and now our son’s wedding — maybe the sweets brought good luck!” Seshan nodded in agreement. “True,” he said, contentment shining in his eyes. K.Ragavan 5-7-25