Small Story 246.

Small Story 246: Swamy’s Mysore Pak Encounter Anantha Swamy was coming to Bengaluru after three long years to visit his sister Swapna’s house. Having retired from the Forest Department in a good position, he had since settled in Chennai. Swapna’s children fondly called him “Mysore Pak Uncle” because of his love for sweets—especially Mysore Pak made with pure ghee. Sandeep, Swapna’s son, was waiting eagerly for his uncle’s call so he could receive him at the station. But suddenly, a car pulled up in front of the house. To his surprise and delight, Anantha Swamy stepped out with his wife Ambujam and their daughter Roopa. Sandeep was amazed to see Roopa after three years—she had grown into a graceful and slender young woman. She smiled warmly upon seeing him. Swapna greeted her brother, sister-in-law, and Roopa with joy. Soon, her husband Ram came down from upstairs to join them. The families reminisced about their old days in Bengaluru, laughing over fond memories. Anantha Swamy then turned to Sandeep and asked, “So, what are you doing these days?” Sandeep replied with a nod, “I’m working as an artist for the local newspaper.” “Nice,” said Anantha Swamy. “Roopa got promoted in her bank and also got married last year.” Swapna was shocked. “Anna! You forgot to invite us?” Anantha Swamy explained gently, “Roopa liked her classmate Bharath. We liked him too, and his parents. But they were both bedridden. We had to arrange a quick wedding at a temple, and sadly, the next day both his parents passed away. It all happened so fast—I couldn’t manage to invite anyone. I'm sorry.” Sandeep added with understanding, “Uncle, don’t feel bad. I know Bharath—he was a good cricketer during our college days. I saw his photo in a recent match in Chennai, and I noticed Roopa was there too. That’s when I guessed they were together.” Swapna smiled, “Well, to make you happy, I’ve made your favorite Mysore Pak. I also bought some from Nandhini Sweets—please have some.” Anantha Swamy chuckled. “Thank you!” Swapna added, “Anna, I have good news—Nandhini, your son-in-law’s cousin, is going to be my daughter-in-law. The wedding is on March 21 in Anna Nagar, Chennai.” Anantha Swamy beamed. “That’s wonderful! So Sandeep is going to marry Bharath’s cousin? Congratulations, Sandeep!” Sandeep whispered to his uncle with a grin, “Uncle, you have to promise me—today you must eat three pieces of Mysore Pak for my happiness.” Anantha Swamy laughed sportively. “No problem! I’ll gladly fulfill your demand.” And he happily ate the sweets. Thus, Anantha Swamy once again lived up to his title—Mysore Pak Uncle—proving his everlasting love for the delicacy. K.Ragavan 15-5-25

Small Story 245.

Small Story 245. "A Mango of Memories" After returning from his usual walk, Ram was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by Mani, a friend he had met at a recent Facebook social get-together. "Ram, your speech that day was really impressive," Mani said warmly. "We should plan such meetings every three months." Ram nodded. "Yes, that would be wonderful. But people are scattered all over the city, and conveyance remains a challenge—even with Metro connectivity. The city has expanded nearly 60 kilometers now." With a smile, Mani offered, "How about a coffee?" "Thanks, but I just had my favorite tea with our usual group," Ram replied. Mani continued, "Do you remember my brother-in-law Shankar from Vijayawada? He was at the meeting and asked about you and your family. He really liked your speech and even noted down your address." "Thank you, that's very kind," Ram said, and soon after, he parted ways with Mani and headed to his apartment. As he stepped into the hall, his wife Shubhashini greeted him with a teasing smile. "Can you guess what that smell is?" "Mangoes?" he asked, sniffing the sweet aroma. "Yes!" she laughed. "Just ten minutes ago, a relative of your friend Shankar dropped off ten big mangoes and this note." Ram opened the chit and read aloud: "Mangoes are a token of my affection. Your story is above all. Regards to all your family members. – Shankar, Vijayawada." These were mangoes from Shankar’s own garden—famous in his region. Touched by the unexpected gesture, Ram felt tears well up in his eyes. "Our group of friends truly is amazing," he whispered. "Yes, they are," Shubhashini agreed, her voice soft with emotion. "Beyond anything else." K.Ragavan 14-5-25

Small Story 244.

Small Story 244 A Sweet Encounter at the Bus Terminal Parvathy came to North Chitrai Street in Madurai to buy the famous halwa. She had been staying for two days at her friend Lakshmi’s house to attend the Chitra Festival. After enjoying the festivities, she planned to return to Periyakulam in the evening, but not before picking up the special halwa from a popular shop. Madurai was bustling with people visiting temples and celebrating the Chitra Festival. Parvathy thoroughly enjoyed the warm hospitality of her classmate Lakshmi and Lakshmi’s son, Krishna, who worked in a good position in the TVS group. A well-mannered young man and an eligible bachelor, Krishna had made a good impression on Parvathy. Parvathy herself had only one son, Laxman, who worked in the police department in Dindigul. After buying the halwa, Parvathy returned to Lakshmi's home. Following tea and snacks, she left for the Periyakulam bus terminal. At the terminal, she met a charming young woman named Mridula, who was traveling to Batlagundu. They started chatting during the wait. Mridula mentioned that she worked at a bank in Dindigul. Just before boarding, Parvathy, by oversight, handed her halwa bag to Mridula and asked her to take some. Mridula smiled and said, "No problem, aunty. You bought it for your home. I also got some from the same shop. Let’s exchange a little from both." In the confusion of exchanging the halwa bags, the bus arrived, and they hurriedly boarded their respective buses. Later, Mridula called Parvathy using the number written on the halwa bag. “Aunty, your halwa was delicious! Same shop as mine.” They laughed over the coincidence. The next day, Mridula visited Parvathy’s house with her parents. Over tea, Mridula’s mother revealed that they had received Laxman’s horoscope through their marriage broker, and it matched perfectly with Mridula’s. They had also seen Laxman's photo and liked him, and Mridula had developed an interest in him too after learning about him from Parvathy. Parvathy was overjoyed. She had secretly hoped Mridula might become her daughter-in-law. And soon enough, within a month, the marriage of Laxman and Mridula was celebrated grandly in Periyakulam—Mridula’s native place as well. Thus, a sweet exchange at a bus terminal during the Chitra Festival led to a beautiful bond between two families—thanks to a bag of halwa. K.Ragavan 13-5-25

Tribute to Versatile Actor Srinath.872

Tribute to Versatile Actor Srinath 872. Today, I pay tribute to another versatile and iconic Sandalwood actor who has made a profound impact on Kannada cinema for over five and a half decades — the legendary Srinath. Born in the cultural city of Mysuru (Mysore), Srinath initially nurtured an interest in cinematography. However, destiny had other plans, and he began his journey in the film industry with small roles before evolving into one of the most beloved heroes and versatile actors of Kannada cinema. If I am not mistaken, he has acted in over 350 films, portraying a wide range of characters alongside several legendary heroines and actors. His performances have spanned genres and generations, earning him numerous accolades and awards, including recognition from the Karnataka government and film industry bodies. Two of his notable films that I personally cherish are "Shubhamangala" and "Eradu Rekhegalu", where his acting brilliance truly shines. Few films i couldnot catch up.These films reflect his natural screen presence and deep emotional range. Beyond cinema, Srinath is also known for his philanthropic spirit. He has extended help to many deserving individuals in need, especially those suffering and struggling in silence. His humility and compassion off-screen make him a true doyen, not just of acting, but of humanity. A heartfelt salute to Srinath avaru — a legend, a gentleman, and an everlasting name in the annals of Sandalwood. K.Ragavan 12-5-25

Small Story 243.

Small Story 243. Dairy Negotiation and a Great Encounter After ten years, Chandini visited Mysore to see her good old schoolmate, Ranjitha. Chandini had settled in New Zealand with her husband Ram and their daughter Smitha, a final-year commerce student. Working as a Finance Manager in a large dairy farm, Chandini had recently come to Bengaluru to negotiate a product collaboration with a well-known dairy brand in Karnataka. Her meetings were fruitful, and before returning home, she decided to visit Ranjitha in Mysore. At the bus stand, Ranjitha was waiting eagerly. Seeing each other after so long, they hugged warmly, filled with joy and nostalgia. As they drove home, Ranjitha asked about Ram and Smitha. "They're fine," Chandini replied with a smile. At Ranjitha’s house, her parents—Desikan and Ambujam—welcomed Chandini warmly. Ram was Ambujam's nephew, and it was she who had arranged Chandini’s marriage when she was just 21. Chandini handed over some sweets she had made, and after a delicious lunch, she took a rest with Ranjitha. At 4 PM, Ranjitha had to head to the office for an important discussion, so Chandini stayed back. The next evening brought an unexpected highlight. Chief OO1, the internationally acclaimed investigator, visited Ranjitha’s home for tea. Chandini, who had watched many of his interviews, was thrilled to meet him in person. His humble demeanor paired with his brilliant mind left her speechless. After enjoying tea and sweets, OO1 praised Chandini’s efforts in building a bridge between Karnataka’s leading dairy brand and her homeland. Chandini couldn't contain her admiration and asked him a few questions, to which he replied with grace and wisdom. Meeting OO1, a world-renowned figure whose investigative academy had put Mysore on the global map, was an unforgettable experience for Chandini. She later remarked, “My country will be proud of this new collaboration, and my visit will be forever remembered for the great meeting with the legendary OO1.” Hearing her words, OO1 smiled majestically, his presence radiating the quiet power of true greatness. K.Ragavan 12-5-25

Small Story 242.

Small Story 242. Royal Encounter in the City of Dreams Vivek landed at Dubai International Airport, where his relative Ram was waiting to receive him. Ram, a chief executive at a leading pharmaceutical company in Dubai, lived with his wife Vasanthy and their only daughter Namratha, who was in her final year of a Master's in Visual Communication. After collecting his luggage, as they drove home, Ram asked, “How was your journey? How are Dad and Mum?” “The journey was fine,” Vivek replied. “Both Dad and Mum are doing well.” They soon arrived at Ram’s independent villa in a beautiful neighborhood near Satwa. Vasanthy welcomed Vivek warmly. “You’ve grown so tall! When you left Dubai 15 years ago, you were just a boy—and now you look like a hero.” “Thank you, aunty,” Vivek whispered with a shy smile. Namratha walked in from another room. “Hey! How are you?” she said with excitement. They all spent the morning reminiscing about old times. Over a hearty breakfast that included Vivek’s favorite—badam cake—Vasanthy nodded and said, “We always remember your mother's help. Without her support, Ram wouldn’t be where he is today.” Vivek’s father had moved to the U.S. 15 years ago, while Vivek had returned to India. Now, he had come back to Dubai for higher studies at a reputed university near Ram's home. “You spent five years at our own English school here,” Vasanthy continued, “and your return for further studies shows how much your mother loved this place.” Vivek smiled. “Not just my mum—I have many fond childhood memories here, too. I’m amazed at how dramatically the city has developed in the past 15 years, aunty.” Later in the afternoon, Vivek’s mother, Harini called from India and thanked Ram and Vasanthy for welcoming Vivek so warmly. Vasanthy responded kindly, “This is nothing, Harini it was you and your husband Shekhar who helped us come to the UAE. Where we are today is all thanks to you.” Harini replied, “Please don’t say that. One must always help those who are capable and deserving. Ram has proven himself, and I’m proud he’s my cousin.” After the call, life settled into a happy rhythm. Vivek began college and enjoyed the royal treatment from Ram and Vasanthy in the Royal City of Dubai. As Vivek reflected on the warm welcome and support he received, he realized—when you help others selflessly, life has a way of returning that kindness in the most timely and meaningful ways. K.Ragavan 11-5-25

Small Story 241.

Story 241 Sanctum of the Same Divine Sunitha had been longing for a visit to Guruvayur to worship Sri Guruvayurappan. But due to various reasons, her trip had been postponed multiple times. One morning, after sending her husband and daughter off to work, she settled down with the newspaper when the phone rang. It was her old classmate Ranjitham calling from Chennai. “Hey, how are you?” Ranjitham asked cheerfully. Hearing her old friend’s voice brought immense joy to Sunitha. Ranjitham shared that she would be attending a wedding in Bengaluru in three days and, since she was coming alone, asked if she could stay with Sunitha. “My dear, this is your home. You are always welcome!” replied Sunitha warmly. Ranjitham arrived that Thursday morning. At 50, she was majestic, respectable, and beautiful. Sunitha had sent her the location, and she reached comfortably by cab. After reminiscing about school days, they enjoyed a hearty breakfast of poori, chutney, and tea. Ranjitham had also brought sweets from Chennai, which Sunitha’s husband and daughter happily accepted before leaving for work. Later, Ranjitham shared her wish: “I came not just for the wedding or to meet you, but also to visit the Guruvayurappan Temple on Kanakapura Road. My friend Ambujam highly recommended it.” Sunitha’s heart filled with joy. “I’ve been longing to go to Guruvayur, and now, through you, it seems the Lord Himself has come to me!” The next day, Friday morning, they left Sunitha’s Jayanagar home by cab and reached the temple by 11 AM—just as Ambujam had advised. They had a blissful darshan of the deity and felt the divine presence akin to the original Guruvayur temple. After buying prasadam, they returned home for lunch. The following day, Ranjitham attended the wedding and left for Chennai by evening train. Sunitha was overwhelmed with gratitude. Through her beloved friend Ranjitham, her long-cherished wish to experience the divine presence of Guruvayurappan was fulfilled—right in her own city. K.Ragavan 10-5-25