Small Story 778
Friendship, Sweet Memories, and a Kannada Film
Ram was enjoying his usual morning walk in the park when his mobile phone suddenly rang. It was his wife, Vasanthi.
“Hello, Ram! Have you finished your walk? A good friend of mine from the United States is coming to meet us this afternoon. We knew the couple well when we were living in Dubai. Nandhini called me just now from Bengaluru and said that she and her husband, Pawan, would reach Mysore this evening.”
Ram was delighted to hear the news. “That is wonderful! They are coming all the way to Mysore to see us. I am really looking forward to meeting them,” he replied happily.
After finishing his walk, Ram returned to their apartment. Their pet dog, Tommy, greeted his master affectionately, wagging his tail.
Kaadhambari, who had just arrived, greeted him cheerfully. “Hey, Dad! I have come to give you some badam cake prepared by my mother-in-law.”
Ram was pleased to see her. Kaadhambari added, “I am happy to hear from Mummy that our friends Nandhini and Pawan are coming to visit us.”
Ram accepted the sweet and said, “Please convey my thanks to your mother-in-law for preparing such a tasty cake.”
Kaadhambari had to leave soon because she had some work at their office, Bloggers Paradise, situated on a prominent road in Mysore. The organisation operated from a newly constructed three-storeyed building.
After Kaadhambari left, Ram completed his bath and other morning routines before leaving for the office. Bloggers Paradise had established an excellent reputation over the past three years. Its strength had grown to 56 people, representing different countries, with the majority coming from India. The organisation had also made remarkable progress in its publications and circulation.
In the evening, Nandhini and Pawan arrived at Ram and Vasanthi’s apartment. Both were in their mid-forties, smartly dressed and pleasant in appearance.
Vasanthi, looking graceful in her blue saree, welcomed the couple warmly along with Ram, who wore his favourite trousers and a cream-coloured shirt.
After the introductions, Pawan congratulated Ram and Vasanthi on their reunion after several decades and expressed his happiness that they had settled in Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka.
The conversation continued over delicious evening snacks and two of Vasanthi’s favourite sweets, Mysore Pak and halwa. Everyone enjoyed the warm hospitality and exchanged memories of their earlier days in Dubai.
Vasanthi invited the couple to stay with them for two days. Nandhini and Pawan gladly accepted the invitation, and one of the guest rooms was allotted to them.
That night, Kaadhambari arrived with her husband, Prasanna. The gathering became livelier as everyone discussed various subjects, including their experiences abroad, their professional lives, and their common interests.
Suddenly, Nandhini remembered something exciting.
“Oh! I nearly forgot to tell you. We watched a Kannada film in the United States, and it was absolutely amazing!”
Vasanthi was curious. “What was the name of the film, Nandhini?”
“It was *America America 2*, by the famous writer, director, and producer Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar. We enjoyed it immensely. The film was impressive in every aspect,” Nandhini replied enthusiastically.
Ram nodded in recognition. “Yes, Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar is a well-known personality in the Kannada film industry, popularly called Sandalwood.”
He continued, “We are planning to visit Bengaluru in four days to attend a function. Perhaps we can watch the film during our visit.”
“Good idea, Mr Ram! Do not miss the opportunity,” Pawan said with a smile.
After their lively discussion, everyone sat down for dinner. They were served roti and dal, a simple and satisfying meal after the heavy evening snacks. The family and their guests enjoyed the dinner together.
Nandhini and Pawan spent two pleasant days with Ram and Vasanthi before leaving for Bengaluru. Their visit brought back fond memories of their friendship in Dubai and gave everyone an opportunity to strengthen their bond.
After their friends departed, Ram and Vasanthi reminisced about the enjoyable visit.
“We must certainly watch the film when we go to Bengaluru,” Vasanthi said.
Ram agreed. “Absolutely! If possible, we should also try to meet the award-winning director, as he is a friend of OO1. It would be wonderful to meet him personally and learn more about his experiences in the Kannada film industry.”
The couple looked forward to their forthcoming Bengaluru visit, hoping to enjoy the film and perhaps meet its celebrated director.
K.Ragavan
29-10-26