A NobleReunoon of PharmaProfessionals Meeting.

A Noble Reunion of Pharma Professionals – Celebrating Legacy and Service March 9, 2025 | Century Club, Bengaluru Dear Sir, I have been a devoted reader and follower of New India Abroad for over a decade, and I truly appreciate your consistent and engaging coverage of the Indian diaspora, as well as the various professionals and their reunions around the globe. Your paper connects millions of readers and brings forth inspiring stories that deserve to be shared. I belong to a noble and impactful profession—the pharmaceutical industry—where I served as a Medical Representative, bridging the gap between the pharma industry and the medical fraternity. Our role is essential: we introduce formulations, share critical medical knowledge, and ultimately serve the suffering humanity. It is a profession built on trust, service, and commitment. A group of us—friends and fellow Medical Representatives—who worked in Madurai as our headquarters between 1967 and 1978, across various domestic and multinational pharmaceutical companies, reunited after 45 years in February 2023 in Chennai. It was an emotional and joyous gathering. Building on that momentum, our second reunion was held on March 9, 2025, at the Century Club, Bengaluru. This meeting was especially memorable. Among the senior members, four of us were honored in traditional Karnataka style, and I had the privilege of being one of them. The respect and warmth we received was truly overwhelming. As an avid reader and occasional contributor, it is my sincere wish that this meaningful reunion of professionals from such a noble field be featured in your prestigious publication. The legacy and dedication of Medical Representatives, who have served tirelessly behind the scenes, deserve recognition and remembrance K.Ragavan Bengaluru

Unacceptable attack.

The recent terrorist attack in the Pahalgam area of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists and 2 foreign nationals, has been widely condemned and is deemed absolutely unacceptable. Terrorism continues to pose a significant threat to nations worldwide, and India, in particular, faces heightened challenges, especially as it works towards rapid development—most notably in the tourism sector. Despite numerous precautionary measures taken by security forces to protect civilians and tourists, such incidents highlight the persistent and evolving nature of this menace. The fact that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi cut short his international visit and returned to New Delhi immediately underscores his commitment to the safety and well-being of the people. It is hoped that with the current strategies and a strengthened security apparatus, the Indian government will be able to curb this threat effectively, ensure justice for the victims, and create a safer environment for all, especially in vulnerable regions. K.Ragavan Bengaluru - https://www.narendramodi.in/network/userpost-task/68085f031a4f2928e32647e5 via MyNt

SmallStory 224.

--- Small Story 224. "A Surprise Among the Stars" Sophia arrived at the Bengaluru International Airport, preparing to depart for New Zealand. After checking in her luggage, she headed to the Business Class VIP lounge for breakfast. A few of her favorite dishes were available, and she happily began to eat. Suddenly, someone called her name. She turned around, surprised to see her old friend Vasanthy. "Hey, how are you?" Vasanthy asked warmly. "I'm fine!" Sophia replied with a smile. They quickly got lost in reminiscing about their school and college days. Vasanthy, now forty-two and a few years older than Sophia, was settled in New Zealand with her husband Ram and their son Vishal. Sophia shared the reason for her trip. "You know, Vasanthy, since college, I’ve always loved writing stories. One of my stories was recently selected by a popular New Zealand producer, Mr. Atkinson. He asked me to come and sign a contract. He even arranged my business class ticket and visa." "That’s amazing, Sophia! I always knew you were a versatile writer," said Vasanthy. "I’m so happy to hear this, especially since it’s happening in my home country now." Sophia showed her the hotel booking. Vasanthy looked at the address and exclaimed, "My God, this hotel is so close to my house!" After a comfortable flight, both women arrived in New Zealand. They parted ways but exchanged numbers before leaving the airport. Sophia never expected to meet her close friend after five years, especially like this. She was now a feature writer for a leading online magazine. The next day, Atkinson sent his staff to pick up Sophia for their meeting. His office was beautifully decorated with elegant, classy furniture. Atkinson, in his fifties, was a smart and well-mannered man. "I loved your story," he said, greeting her warmly. "I’m very impressed and would like to offer you a contract worth 500000 New Zealand dollars. If the story performs well, you’ll also receive a bonus." After reading the contract, Sophia signed it eagerly. "This story was actually recommended by our consultant, who is a great media creator and storyteller," Atkinson said. Just then, the consultant walked in—Mr. Ram. Ram, elegant and charismatic at 48, smiled. "Hey, congratulations! You’re coming to my house this evening for tea—with Atkinson." That evening, Sophia and Atkinson visited Ram’s beautifully furnished home. To her delight, Vasanthy appeared from inside, excited to see her again. Later, Sophia discovered the biggest surprise: her story had been selected by none other than Ram—her friend’s husband—who was also a versatile writer and a consultant for Atkinson's firm. No one had revealed the connection until then. Vishal was also thrilled to meet “Sophia Aunty,” his mother’s close friend. After spending 15 unforgettable days in New Zealand, Sophia returned home with a heart full of joy and memories of an unexpected and beautiful reunion—a true miracle she never saw coming. K.Ragavan 23-4-25

Unforgettable Touching one.

Nenjai Thottadha (Unforgettable Memories) Our Madhyamar group administrator gave us a beautiful and touching topic—“Nenjai Thottathadha” (Touch the Heart)—and encouraged us to share memories that truly moved us. Experiences differ from person to person, but the essence, the emotion, must reach the heart. Here's one such moment from my own life that still lingers in my memory like it happened yesterday. It was during my school days, sometime in the 1960s. A highly anticipated cricket match between India and Pakistan was to be played at the Madras Corporation Stadium, which I believe was located behind Moore Market. Like most young boys back then, my friends and I were thrilled. One of my close friends assured me that he would take me along, as he had some influence with the gate authorities. The big day came, but to my surprise and dismay, he took two of our friends and forgot me by oversight. I was left behind. As was my routine, I went to Tambaram Ramar Kovil that morning. There, I ran into another friend who was with his uncle. Seeing me there, he asked, “Why haven’t you gone to the match?” I told him, a bit shyly, “Our friend forgot me by mistake.” His uncle looked at me with kindness and asked, “Aren’t you disappointed?” I replied, “No sir, he's a good friend. It was just an oversight. Maybe I’m just not lucky today.” He smiled and said something that still echoes in my heart: “Don’t worry. Tell your parents you're going for the match—there’s still time. Go to Park Station, get down, and head to the stadium. At the 'M' stand gate (Chair Gallery), ask for Sergeant Swaminathan and tell him my name and the code I’ll give you.” I had just three rupees in hand and a third-class season ticket. I quickly set off, full of hope. Once I reached the stadium, I nervously approached the gate and mentioned the code and the Sergeant’s name. To my amazement, I was immediately allowed in. I walked inside and found myself comfortably seated in the third row of the Chair Gallery. The match began, and the atmosphere was electric. I was overjoyed—not just because I got in, but also because my favorite player, Chandu Borde, scored a fantastic 177 runs! It was like a dream. Since re-entry wasn’t allowed, I stayed till the end. After the match, I went to the railway station canteen, had a cup of tea, and returned home to enjoy my mother’s delicious rice uppuma. This wasn’t just a memorable experience—it was a touching life lesson. Sergeant Swaminathan, though I met him only briefly, recognized my calm and forgiving nature and gave me a seat in the Chair Gallery. His gesture, combined with the kindness of my friend’s uncle, still lives in my heart. Some people don’t just help—they become part of your story. Even decades later, this memory continues to touch my soul. K.Ragavan 22-4-25

Small Story 223.

Small Story 223. "Amazing Victory 223: Vishnu’s First Triumph" Vishnu was eagerly waiting for his Grandpa Ram to return from a visit to his friend’s house. As Ram walked in, he smiled and said, “Hey, tomorrow I’m taking you to the Selection Committee!” Vishnu’s eyes lit up. “Thank you, Grandpa!” he said, delighted. Ram’s only daughter, Vasanthy, had a son — Vishnu — a bright 8th-grade student with an immense passion for cricket. Despite being only 13 (soon to turn 14 in 15 days), his dedication and numerous accolades had brought him to the doorstep of his dream — playing in the IPL. Ram’s old colleague Shekar had a son, Rahul, a well-known cricket coach. Rahul had requested Ram to bring Vishnu for the under-14 selection trials scheduled for the next day. The following morning, after warm hugs from his mother and grandmother Pankajam, Vishnu set off to the cricket ground with his grandpa. Coach Rahul greeted them, took Vishnu’s credentials, and added him to the pool of 40 candidates. In the first round, Vishnu’s technique — both his defensive play and powerful strokes — impressed Rahul greatly. A week later, during the final selection round, Vishnu continued to shine and was chosen to represent the Bengaluru Under-14 team for the upcoming IPL-style T20 tournament on May 1st. Just in time, Vishnu would be 14 and fully eligible to play. On match day, the entire family — Ram, Pankajam, Vasanthy, and her husband Murali — were at the stadium, hearts pounding with pride and excitement. The opposing team scored 222 runs. Vishnu’s team needed 223 to win. After losing two wickets with the score at 122, Vishnu was sent in. What followed was a masterclass in batting. His composed defense and explosive strokes were a treat for the audience. Vishnu scored an unforgettable 101 not out, leading his team to a thrilling victory by chasing 223, just one run more than the opponent. He was rightfully named "Man of the Match." His parents and grandparents were overjoyed. Coach Rahul stood proud, watching his young protégé shine. Ram later received a call from Shekar, who was visiting his daughter in New Zealand, congratulating him and Vishnu on the incredible debut performance. Vishnu, glowing with pride, turned to his grandpa and said, “I’m your favorite boy. I’ll always need your blessings.” Ram’s eyes welled up with tears, filled with love and pride for his grandson — a young star, already on his path to greatness. K.Ragavan 22-4-25

Wheel chair facilities needed.

Wheelchair facilities must be made available at stations, airports, and other essential service centers for senior citizens and individuals with special needs. Although the government has made efforts to provide wheelchairs, the persistent shortage is not only disappointing but also unacceptable. Senior citizens deserve to be treated with dignity, and individuals with special needs should receive additional care and support. It is essential to ensure that these basic facilities are accessible to all who require them. We sincerely hope that authorities will address this issue promptly, and in the near future, no individual in need of such assistance will be left without proper support. K.Ragavan Bengaluru https://www.narendramodi.in/network/userpost-task/68062c59e272306f245781bb via MyNt

Small Story 222.

Small Story 222. Hidden Secret – The Letter That Flew Away Keshav was waiting eagerly for a sign from Sujatha—a confirmation of her interest in marrying him. Both were Chartered Accountants working at the prestigious Bhujanga Rao & Company, an audit firm with a legacy of fifty years. They earned good salaries, enjoyed professional respect, and shared a quiet affection for each other. Keshav, the only son of Damodaran and Varsha, had always been thoughtful and sincere. Sujatha, the only daughter of Nandhini, a Carnatic music teacher, and Vishnu, a talented artist, carried a grace and warmth that drew people to her. That morning, around 11 a.m., Sujatha arrived at the office. Her usual cheerful smile was missing. She walked up to Keshav and handed him a letter, saying softly, “Please read this when you find time.” Keshav's heart leapt. He assumed the letter was her way of expressing her love and consent. He placed it carefully on his desk, planning to read it in peace. But before he could, Swamy, the office peon, switched on the fan—as part of his routine. The breeze caught the letter, and in a moment of cruel chance, it flew out the open window. Keshav rushed to the window but the letter was gone. Disappointed, he could hardly blame Swamy, who was just doing his job. That evening, he told Sujatha about the lost letter. She smiled sadly and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll send you a voice message with everything I wrote.” Later that night, at home, Keshav listened to her voice message. His heart sank. The previous day, the firm’s founder, Bhujanga Rao’s daughter and son-in-law had visited Sujatha’s home. They had proposed a marriage between their son Rajeev, a software engineer in Sydney, and Sujatha. Her parents, pleased with the match, had given their approval. The message ended with Sujatha saying she felt torn but helpless—the firm had supported her education, and this proposal came from the family that had helped shape her career. Keshav felt crushed. Yet he calmly replied the next day, “I heard your message. If it is God’s will that we unite, it will happen.” Days passed. No further word came. Then, on a quiet Sunday, Bhujanga Rao’s daughter received a message from her son Rajeev: he was already in a committed relationship and kindly asked his parents to excuse him from the proposal. His mother felt sorry for rushing the alliance and apologized to Sujatha's family. Three months later, the wedding of Keshav and Sujatha took place in a grand and joyous celebration attended by friends, colleagues, and family. The astonishing truth—known only to Keshav—was that Rajeev was his close friend. Knowing about Keshav and Sujatha’s bond, Rajeev had gently declined the match, without revealing the real reason. Keshav never shared this secret with anyone, choosing instead to cherish his friend's silent sacrifice. A letter lost to the wind, a voice message of heartbreak, and a friend’s quiet gesture had all led to a love fulfilled. K.Ragavan 21-4-25