SmallStory 340.

Small Story 340 Relationships Never Die After five long years, Shivappa visited Mandya to see his ailing aunt, Sumithra. At 73, she was fragile and restless. Her grandson, Arun, had recently migrated to Canada for a promising job opportunity. Since the passing of her husband fifteen years ago, Sumithra had been living with Arun—her only source of companionship after her daughter Vandhana moved away. Arun had completed his studies and worked in India for three years before moving abroad. Seeing Shivappa brought a wave of joy to Sumithra. Shivappa, now 65, was the only son of her late elder brother. A retired army officer, he had settled in Bengaluru with his wife, Anitha.. Their only daughter Roshani, was a practicing lawyer in the same city. After tea and snacks, Shivappa gently revealed the purpose of his visit. "Aunt," he began, "I came with a proposal. I believe your grandson Arun and my daughter Roshani would make a perfect match. I’d like to discuss the possibility of their marriage." Sumithra’s eyes lit up. “I’m so happy to hear that. Roshani is smart and beautiful, and Arun too is a fine young man. I will speak to him.” That very moment, Arun called to check on his grandmother’s health. Sumithra, excited, told him about Shivappa’s visit and the proposal. Arun smiled and whispered over the phone, “I appreciate Uncle Shivappa’s intention. I don’t have any objections to Roshani—no strong likes or dislikes. But above all, I want to keep the bonds between our families alive. If Roshani agrees, I’m happy too. Uncle is a disciplined man with strong values—I respect him greatly.” Shivappa was overjoyed hearing this. Eight months later, the wedding was celebrated in grand style in Bengaluru, attended by many of Shivappa’s friends and fellow army veterans. Indeed, relationships never die—they only grow stronger when nurtured with love and respect. K.Ragavan 17-8-25