Small Story 344.

Small Story 344 Rainy Blessings Lakshmi and her husband Krishna were disappointed as heavy rains lashed Mumbai. Their son Madhav’s upanayanam ceremony was scheduled for the next day, and her brother Ram and sister-in-law Vasanthy, who lived in Chembur, wouldn’t be able to attend due to flooding and traffic disruptions. Her brother’s absence left Lakshmi with a heavy heart—he was her only elder brother and held a special place in her life. Madhav, though slightly late for this traditional rite at age 20, was now a smart and ambitious young man whose charismatic presence could capture anyone’s attention. The next day, despite the grey skies outside, the ceremonial hall in Garden City was filled with the warmth and cheer of relatives and guests. Madhav, dressed in traditional attire, sat patiently as the pandit chanted the sacred mantras. Everyone praised the meticulous arrangements, and both breakfast and lunch received heartfelt compliments. Yet Lakshmi’s mind kept drifting to Ram, Vasanthy, and their daughter Ramya, whose presence she sorely missed. Just then, a courier arrived, asking for Lakshmi and handing her a large parcel. To her surprise, it was from Ram. Inside were neatly packed traditional sweets, crunchy chaklis, a dhoti and shirt for Madhav, and a heartfelt note filled with blessings—along with ten thousand rupees as a gift from Madhav’s loving uncle. Ram and Vasanthy had even coordinated with a local caterer to ensure their presence was felt—even if not physically. Lakshmi’s eyes welled up. Despite the downpour, Ram and Vasanthy had ensured that tradition was honored. Their thoughtful gesture brought emotional closure to the event and reaffirmed a simple truth: in any traditional celebration, the blessings of elders hold the deepest value. Lakshmi silently prayed for the rains in Mumbai to subside soon and for life to return to normal. But in her heart, the storm had already passed—thanks to the love and blessings that had arrived, wrapped with care. K.Ragavan 21-8-25