Small Story 53God's Blessings

Small Story 53 God's blessings At Kumbakonam railway station, the air buzzed with the energy of pilgrims arriving to visit the renowned temples. Madhav waited eagerly for his family friends, Janaki and her daughter, Shilpa. He had met Janaki three years ago in Chennai, just before his transfer. Now, his heart raced at the thought of seeing Shilpa again—she was a beautiful, modern girl rooted in tradition, and Madhav couldn’t help but feel a crush on her. As the train rolled in, his heart leapt when he spotted Shilpa stepping off in a vibrant orange saree that perfectly complemented her blouse. “How are you, Madhav?” Janaki’s voice pulled him from his thoughts. “Fine, aunty! And Shilpa, you look lovely,” he managed to say, his cheeks flushing. “Thank you! I’m doing well,” Shilpa replied with a bright smile. They made their way to Madhav's newly bought car. “How’s the weather?” Janaki asked. “Hot, aunty,” Madhav replied, sneaking glances at Shilpa. After a hearty lunch at home, Pankajam, Madhav's mother, turned to Janaki. “You should stay for a week!” “Thank you! We’ll visit the Oppiliappan temple tonight and then the local temples tomorrow morning before our train back to Chennai,” Janaki said. Curious about Shilpa's life, Pankajam asked, “What are you doing now?” “I joined a leading newspaper as a sub-editor after finishing my degree last year,” Shilpa beamed with pride. That evening, they reached the Oppiliappan temple, where Janaki approached the priest, handing him two pieces of paper. She asked him to show one to God and to give her the other. After the ritual, she tucked the paper away, leaving the others curious but hesitant to ask. Later, as they shared dinner at a nearby mess, Shilpa inquired about Madhav’s job. “I work as a manager at a leading bank,” he replied, feeling more comfortable around her. The following evening, Janaki asked Pankajam to prepare her favorite sweet, Kesari, along with crispy bajjis. The kitchen filled with delightful aromas, and everyone enjoyed the meal together. As 6 PM approached, it was time for Janaki and Shilpa to leave for their train. “I wish you could stay longer,” Madhav said, his disappointment evident. “Shilpa just started working and can’t take leave,” Janaki explained. “I came here to discuss something important.” Her eyes twinkled with excitement. “I’ve been feeling for a while that Shilpa and Madhav would make a good pair. Yesterday, I sought God’s blessing by giving those two pieces of paper to the priest, and he showed one to God. This piece represents my hope.” Pankajam's eyes filled with emotion as she realized the weight of Janaki’s words. Shilpa and Madhav exchanged a glance, the unspoken understanding growing between them. Just then, Madhav’s father, Ravi, called from the other room. “It’s time to discuss this!” he said, affirming Janaki's sentiments. The air was thick with anticipation, and the promise of new beginnings hung between them. K.Ragavan 21-10-24