Small Story 555.

 Small Story 555.

Ugadi Surprise

Ashwini boarded a bus to Mysore in the to celebrate Ugadi with her parents, looking forward to their blessings and a delicious lunch prepared by her mother. She arrived at the Mysore bus station and took an auto to Yadavgiri, where her parents had settled after retiring from college. Both of them were English professors.

Ashwini’s only son was in New Zealand, and her husband had also gone there on official work. So, she decided to stay back and surprise her parents for Ugadi.

When she reached home, Madhav Rao was pleasantly surprised to see her. Her mother, Ambujam, was overjoyed that their only daughter had come home on such a happy occasion. They spent some time reminiscing about Ashwini’s childhood days.

After a while, Ambujam said, “I always prepare lunch for two people with sweets on Ugadi. You can eat now. It’s already 12. But if you wait for 15 minutes, a guest I’ve invited will arrive—you’ll be happy to see her.”

Ashwini wondered what surprise her mother had planned, just like the one she had brought.

Exactly at 12:15, an elegant lady arrived in a car, parked outside, and entered the house. The moment Ashwini saw her, she was thrilled.

“Madam Ranjitha! The amazing investigation assistant of OO1—I’ve seen you in TV interviews! I never expected to see you at my mother’s house!”

Ranjitha smiled warmly, hugged Ashwini, and said, “I never expected to see you here either.”

Ashwini, meeting her for the first time, introduced herself. Ranjitha replied, “I’ve seen your son’s graduation photo. Your mother showed it to me during my last visit.”

Ashwini was amazed. “You’re truly in the right profession—how do you remember me so well?”

After enjoying a delicious Ugadi lunch, including the famous sweet poli, Ranjitha took her leave.

Ashwini felt deeply happy that her surprise visit had led to an unexpected and delightful meeting with the famous investigation officer of OO1. It turned out to be a Ugadi she would never forget.

K.Ragavan

20-3-26