SmallStory 347.

Small Story 347 Nothing Can Be Taken for Granted Retired Professor Viswanath returned home after attending a student reunion in Jayanagar. His wife, Savitri, greeted him with his favourite potato bondas and a hot cup of coffee. “The same bonda I had at the meeting. What a coincidence!” chuckled Viswanath, nodding in amusement. Their son, Ravi, had gone to play table tennis in the apartment's recreation room. Viswanath, now in his 70s, had a calm and composed personality. A devout follower of Lord Sri Ram and Shirdi Sai Baba, he lived a disciplined and spiritual life. Suddenly, he received a call from his younger sister Padma, who lived in Palani. She invited him to attend the upcoming temple festival there. “When is it?” he asked. Padma told him it was fifteen days away. Viswanath agreed to come, along with Savitri. Being a native of Dindigul, Viswanath had always felt a strong bond with Palani. He had visited the temple town many times with friends in his youth. Padma lived there with her husband and daughter, Shalini. On the scheduled day, Viswanath and Savitri reached Palani. Padma welcomed them warmly. Shalini’s eyes searched eagerly for Ravi. Since childhood, she had a soft corner for him, always admiring his gentle and respectful nature. But Savitri informed Padma, “Ravi couldn’t come. He had urgent work at the office.” After attending the vibrant festival and enjoying their hosts’ warm hospitality, it was time to return. On the day of departure, Padma gently brought up a proposal to her brother. “Anna, my husband and I were thinking... we would love to see Shalini and Ravi get married. What do you think?” Viswanath smiled thoughtfully and said, “That’s a good idea, Padma. You are my only sister, and we are close. But as you know, I usually don’t encourage marriages within the family, for many reasons. Besides, Ravi has plans to go abroad. With God’s blessings, Shalini will surely find a good groom.” Padma nodded. She knew her brother well. Once he made up his mind, there was no changing it—and his reasons were always clear and fair. Though her plan didn’t materialize, she was content. What mattered most was that her brother had attended the temple festival as the respected head of the family. Indeed, it is true: Not all our wishes are accepted by God. K.Ragavan 24-8-25