Small Story 578.

 Small Story 578

The Poongulam Wedding Encounter

Seshaiah came to the small village of Poongulam to attend his old friend’s daughter’s wedding. Before his retirement, he had worked as an administrator at a prestigious institute.

One evening, while staying in Chennai , he went to the beach with his wife, Akshitha. Though the city was hot during the day, the evenings were pleasant with the cool sea breeze. As they enjoyed the fresh air, Seshaiah noticed a young boy, about ten years old, selling chukky and groundnut balls.

Curious, Seshaiah called him over and asked, “Why are you selling these on the beach at this age?”

The boy replied politely, “Sir, I come from a poor family. I do this in the evenings to help my father. I am studying in the 6th standard, and this income supports both my family and my education.”

Seshaiah and his wife were deeply impressed. He then asked, “What do you want to become in the future?”

The boy smiled and said, “Sir, my mother prepares these sweets. After my studies, I want to start a small factory to manufacture chukky and make my village proud by creating jobs.”

Seshaiah was touched by the boy’s determination. He encouraged him and even suggested, “When you start your business, name your brand ‘Hari Chukky.’ Work hard, and you will succeed.”

Suddenly, Seshaiah’s thoughts were interrupted by his friend at the wedding.

“Hey buddy! I’m so happy you came to my daughter’s wedding!”

“How could I miss it?” Seshaiah replied warmly.

After the ceremony and a hearty breakfast, Seshaiah and his wife blessed the newly married couple. When his friend introduced the groom, the young man looked at Seshaiah and said, “Sir, I know you—from 18 years ago.”

Seshaiah was surprised. He couldn’t recognize him.

The groom smiled and continued, “Sir, I was that boy selling chukky on the beach. Your encouragement and your suggestion for the brand name changed my life. Today, I run a small factory in Poongulam. Our brand, ‘Hari Chukky,’ has become popular, and I employ around 80 people.”

At that moment, Seshaiah remembered the determined young boy—Venkatesh.

With tears in his eyes, Venkatesh said, “Sir, I never expected to meet you again. I have been searching for you. Today, I feel truly blessed.”

Seshaiah, his wife, and his friend stood in awe, filled with pride and emotion. A small moment of encouragement had transformed a young boy’s dream into a successful reality.

K.Ragavan

12-4-26