Small Story 448.

Small Story 448 Modern Minds, TraditionalRoots Kamath returned from Mangalore to his residence in Bangalore after attending his relative’s wedding in Udupi. He opened the box filled with Udupi sweets and famous snacks for his wife, Shanthala, who couldn’t attend the ceremony because she had to be present at her own relative’s wedding in Bangalore. Their son, Naveen, greeted him: “Hey Dad, how was the wedding?” “Fine, Naveen. Everyone asked about you—and about your marriage,” Kamath whispered teasingly. “Dad, there’s something I haven’t told you all these days,” Naveen said seriously. “I’m in love with a South Indian girl from Rajapalayam.” “My God… Rajapalayam—the place famous for dogs!” Kamath laughed. “Dad, I’m talking seriously and you’re joking. The place may be known for many things, but my girl is native to that region and now settled in Bengaluru. She works in our Advertisement Department. I see her every day from my Editorial Department. We got to know each other, liked each other, and I found she shares my nature and values.” He took out his phone. “Here is her photo—Archana.” Naveen showed the picture and Kamath was instantly impressed. “Her original native place is Udupi,” Naveen added, making Kamath even happier. Shanthala nodded with approval. “The girl is very pretty,” she said. “Her parents are coming to meet us this evening.” Kamath believed in straightforwardness and honesty, and he had raised Naveen to be the same. He admired his son’s frankness and clear decision. Shanthala, though traditional, had a forward-thinking mind: “If parents and children understand each other and respect values, there is no room for misunderstanding.” That evening, Archana’s parents visited, and the families happily fixed the wedding date. Kamath’s family stood as a perfect example of modern thinking blended beautifully with traditional values. K.Ragavan 3-12-25