Tribute to Director PriyaDardhshan 847.

Tribute to Director Priyadarshan 847 Today, I am going to write about another incredible filmmaker, writer, and director — none other than Priyadarshan. Known for his successful comedy films in Hindi, particularly with the trio of Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, Priyadarshan has earned his place as a prominent figure in the Indian film industry. With a career spanning over three decades, he has directed and produced numerous films in Malayalam, Hindi, and Tamil. His contributions to commercial cinema, especially in the genres of comedy and action, are widely recognized. Priyadarshan’s ability to capture mass appeal with his simple yet effective storytelling and ever-present smile is a true testament to his skill. I’ve had the pleasure of watching a few of his iconic films, such as Hungama, Hulchal, Hera Pheri, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Each of these films showcases his unique ability to blend humor, action, and emotion in a way that resonates with audiences. He has carved his own identity in Bollywood, and his movies are known for their great music, catchy songs, and impressive cinematography. Although I haven't seen Kala Pani, a film that won him the Kerala State Film Award, it is certainly worth mentioning as part of his impressive body of work. Today, I am happy to pay tribute to this extraordinary director who has given us so many memorable films. K.Ragavan 9-12-24 Until We meet Again Next Week,

Memorable Day.

Dear Friends, I would like to once again express my gratitude to my friends in the US who inspired me to begin writing Small Stories. By God's grace, I started this journey on August 30, and I am pleased to share that today, December 7, I have completed 100 Small Stories. Thanks to the invaluable suggestions and support from all my friends, I have documented these 100 stories on my blog. These stories are my original work, and I confirm that they belong to me. Anyone interested in using any of these stories must seek my prior approval. Earlier, I had shared some stories apart from these 100, which are also part of my work. I sincerely appreciate all my friends on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and other platforms, who have dedicated their time to reading and motivating me throughout this journey. Warm regards, K. Ragavan 7-12-24

Small Story 100 Duo's Century

Small Story 100. Duo's Century Ram was watching TV. After his retirement fifteen years ago, he mostly watched important news, some useful debates, and occasionally films. At 75, he remained active, socializing with friends of all ages and genders. His only daughter, Vasanthi, worked in Hyderabad with her husband, Sanjay, who was the CEO of a corporate company. Their son, Gaurav, was studying for his final year of BSc in Bengaluru, living with his grandparents, Ram and Ambujam, for the past ten years. Gaurav, passionate about cricket, preferred staying with his grandfather, Ram. Ambujam, 68, was a graceful woman who spent her time engaged in religious activities. She had retired as a bank manager from a leading bank. Ram, a retired marketing manager in pharmaceutical companies, had worked in Singapore and the UAE before retiring ten years ago and settling in Bengaluru. Gaurav, eagerly waiting for his final exam results, was also hoping for selection by the Cricket Board for the Under-20 team. His love for cricket, along with his passion for walking and marathons, kept him active. After his selection and playing his first match, Gaurav planned to pursue further studies in the US. One day, the doorbell rang, and Ram opened the door to find a letter from the cricket selection committee. He opened it eagerly and saw that Gaurav had been selected for the Under-20 team, with the first match scheduled against Sri Lanka in fifteen days in Bengaluru. Ram was thrilled. Ambujam, who had been waiting for him to return, shared the news with Gaurav, who was at a friend's place. She then called Vasanthi to share the happy news. In the evening, all three went to the Rama Anjaneya temple near their home to offer prayers. The next day, Gaurav began intense practice, preparing for the upcoming match. Meanwhile, Ram was given the responsibility of Secretary for their apartment association. The apartment complex had 175 units, but only 80 residents were enrolled in the association. Ram accepted the challenge and aimed to reach 100 members before his tenure ended. Gaurav, a talented batsman, prayed to his favorite deity, Anjaneya, for a successful match, hoping for a century. As the days passed, Ram's friendly nature helped him enroll 95 members in the association, with just five more to go. On match day, Gaurav went to the stadium early, and Ram, Ambujam, and their apartment friend Keshav followed. Keshav mentioned to Ram that he expected five more members to join the association by the end of the day. The match began, with Sri Lanka winning the toss and choosing to bat. They scored 195 runs in 20 overs. India’s openers, Gaurav and Nikil, played well. Gaurav scored a century, while Nikil made 70 before being out. Gaurav went on to score 29 more runs, helping India win the match. After the match, Gaurav’s unbeaten 100 made both Ram and Ambujam immensely proud. At that very moment, Ram’s mobile buzzed with a message: five new members had joined the apartment association, marking the milestone of 100 members. Ram was elated. Both grandfather and grandson had achieved their centuries. There was a grand celebration in Ram’s apartment to honor their success. Vasanthi and Sanjay were equally thrilled with their achievements. K.Ragavan 7-12-24

Small Story 99 Corporate Scare

Small Story 99 Corporate 99 Scare a large pharmaceutical company, has gained significant recognition over the past ten years. Specializing in pain relievers, vitamins, and other essential health products, the company has earned an annual turnover of 600 crores. It exports its products to various countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia. Kumaravel, the Chief Executive, previously worked in a leading pharmaceutical company before founding Corporate 99. His wife, Sathyavathy, a gold medalist in MPHARM, plays a crucial role in the company’s success by handling the technical aspects of their formulations. The company’s name was unique, and with a total staff of 99 members, Corporate 99 rapidly gained a good reputation in the Indian market. The factory, located in the Jayanagar area, was home to state-of-the-art machinery. The field force was highly professional, driving demand for their products. One day, Kumaravel received an alarming call. A bomb had reportedly been planted in the factory. Concerned, he immediately instructed the security team to conduct a thorough search, but no suspicious items were found. Unsettled, he contacted his friend Paramanand, an internationally acclaimed investigation chief, who assured him that he would send his best team member, Ranjitha. Ranjitha arrived at 3 P.M. and was warmly greeted by Sathyavathy. Impressed by the factory’s advanced equipment, she began her investigation, starting with the quality department. After a detailed search, she found no evidence of a bomb. She turned to Kumaravel and asked, "Do you have any professional enemies?" Kumaravel replied, "No, we don't have any enemies. Why do you ask?" Ranjitha explained, "This kind of threat to the pharmaceutical industry is unusual, and based on my experience, I suspect it's just a prank. However, for your peace of mind, we can call in the bomb squad." Kumaravel was confused, "A prank? But why would anyone do such a thing?" Ranjitha smiled calmly, "Yes, I believe it's just for fun. But I'll call the squad to confirm, just to be safe." Within minutes, the bomb squad arrived and conducted their checks. After thorough investigation, they confirmed that there was no bomb. Relieved, Ranjitha turned to Kumaravel and said, "See? No bomb. Now, let me tell you why I'm confident." Kumaravel looked at her, still uncertain. Ranjitha pointed to the calendar on the wall. "Today is April 1st, Mr. Kumaravel. April Fool's Day." Kumaravel froze in realization, his anxiety dissolving into laughter. He had been the victim of an April Fool's prank. Both he and Sathyavathy were relieved that no harm was done, and they thanked Ranjitha for her expertise. With the mystery solved, Corporate 99’s staff members continued their work, safe and secure, as Ranjitha’s intelligence and keen observation were applauded. She was truly an asset to OO1, and the prank had become just another story to share in the company’s long history of success K.Ragavan 6-12-24

Small Story 98.The Stable Ship.

Small Story 98. The Stable Ship Rajamani and Pichumani were good friends who studied together and later joined the Railway Accounts Department. Both were from Dindigul, which was another coincidence. Rajamani's nephew was a film editor, and Pichumani's cousin was a cinematographer. Both had worked on many films and received awards for their exceptional contributions. Rajamani had only one son, and Pichumani had only one daughter. Despite being friends for over three decades, neither was willing to see their children marry each other. Many of their mutual friends were curious as to why they didn’t want to bring their children together as life partners. Rajamani's son eventually married the daughter of a leading doctor, while Pichumani's daughter married the son of a wealthy businessman. After a few years, both families moved to a senior living community, a new concept with houses that were well-maintained and had all necessary facilities. The families no longer had to cook or worry about daily chores. Initially, their children were skeptical about the idea, but eventually, they agreed. Years passed, and Rajamani’s son had two children, while Pichumani’s daughter had two children, a boy and a girl. On their 80th birthday, both friends celebrated together with their families. After the function and rituals, Rajamani and Pichumani made a special announcement to the gathering: "We did not want to become Sammandhis and spoil our friendship. For us, friendship is the only ship that is stable and not shaky." The entire crowd was stunned and applauded their deep bond of friendship. K.Ragavan 5-12-24

Small Story 97 Good Encounter

Small Story 97: Good Encounter Shalini was walking through the train compartments one by one, looking for the D Coach. There were only a few coaches left to check before she reached her destination and occupied her seat. With the train set to depart in ten minutes, she pulled out her phone. As she read through the morning messages from her office, she saw the news alert from her Chief, Vasanthi, outlining which stories she needed to follow immediately. Shalini worked as a reporter for a leading US-based online magazine. Since childhood, she had been fascinated by reading and drawn to the bold, authentic reporting of journalists on TV. Inspired by them, she pursued her Master's degree in Communication and Journalism, graduating with the highest honors. Her hard work led her to land a position at a reputable company. Now, she was heading to Chennai to cover the latest cyclone and rains. After a four-hour train journey, Shalini arrived in Chennai feeling surprisingly fresh and not too tired. At the station, her colleague, Vishnu, greeted her. "Hi, how are you? The rain just stopped. Take it slow," he said. Shalini, with only a small handbag for her one-day stay, got off the train and followed Vishnu to his car. On the way to their office, she noticed the water stagnation in many areas, as the city was still reeling from the crisis. After spending two hours at the office, Shalini understood the situation on the ground. She was relieved that the cyclone had crossed, though the damage was evident. She snapped a few photos of the worst-hit areas and then headed to her old friend Radhika’s house in Anna Nagar. Radhika, who worked as a Sub Editor for a popular English newspaper, shared her experiences of the cyclone and the rains over dinner at a well-known restaurant. As they finished their meal, Shalini realized she had left her phone behind. Sitting in the car with Radhika, she suddenly remembered. "My phone!" she exclaimed. She rushed back to the restaurant to check. But when she looked, the phone was nowhere to be found. Worry set in — the photos and reports she had uploaded were critical for her office back in Bengaluru. Just then, Vishnu entered the restaurant. "Hey, you missed your phone," he said. "I was following you here to see if you were still around. I couldn’t find parking, so I arrived a little late. I noticed your phone and grabbed it. I was about to call your office in Bengaluru." Shalini took a deep breath, relieved that her work had been saved. Radhika, too, exhaled, glad that everything was okay. Shalini turned to Vishnu, curious. "Why did you follow me?" she asked. Vishnu hesitated, clearly nervous. Before he could respond, Radhika spoke up with a smile. "Shalini, it’s clear — this is a crush. I could tell, even as an investigative journalist. I've seen the signs." Vishnu lowered his head, embarrassed, but with a shy smile. Shalini was touched by Vishnu’s gesture. While she didn't yet have romantic feelings for him, she appreciated his kindness and the way he had saved her from a major issue. It made her think, Maybe I should consider him as a partner in life. K.Ragavan 4-12-24

Small Story 96. Good Initiative.

Small Story 96 Good Initiative Rakesh was waiting at the school gate to receive his daughter. At 4 PM, his daughter Nanditha arrived and waved at him. Rakesh took her to the car and started driving them home. Today, Rakesh was on leave and had come to the school to pick up his daughter. Nanditha was in 9th grade and always ranked first in her class, excelling not only in academics but also in sports. At home, his wife Malathy welcomed them with a smile and brought out some sweets. It was Rakesh’s birthday, so he had taken the day off. Nanditha took a bite of the Badham cake and said, “Mummy, amazing taste!” After half an hour, all three of them set off to visit a senior citizens' home with fruits and sweets. The ashram, run by a philanthropist lady named Ambujam, cared for more than fifty elderly residents. Her husband, Swamy, was a lawyer, and they had no children. Apart from the fruits and sweets, Rakesh gave ten thousand rupees in cash to Ambujam for the residents' lunch. He had been doing this every year on his birthday for the past ten years. Malathy often asked why he was so particular about donating to this place, but Rakesh never shared the reason until today. That evening, while having dinner, Nanditha raised the topic. “Dad, Mum and I don’t understand why you are so particular about donating to this place every year on your birthday.” Rakesh looked at her and replied, “Now I am 46 years old. When I was studying, my parents died in an accident. I was left alone, and no one came forward to help me. One day, I went to Ambujam Madam’s house for a job, just to earn something. She offered to support me until I finished my MBA and helped me reach where I am today. She always asks me to call her 'Mummy.' From that day, I decided to reciprocate her kindness and support her philanthropic deeds.” Malathy was moved to hear the background of Rakesh’s dedication. He loved Ambujam like his own mother and Swamy like his father. Malathy hugged Nanditha, proud of Rakesh for his generosity and selflessness. K.Ragavan 3-12-24