Small Story 69 The Ten Rupees

Small Story 69 The Ten Rupees Chander arrived in Tirunelveli, the city that held a treasure trove of memories from his past. Decades ago, he had visited every two months for work, but it was one fateful trip that had forever changed his life. He remembered the temple in the Junction area where he had met Archana—a moment etched in his heart. Standing before Lord Rama and Anjaneya, Archana's soft voice had caught his attention. She lamented having lost a ten-rupee note just as the priest prepared the Archanai plate. Chander, wanting to help, offered her the money. “Take this, and tomorrow, I’ll collect it,” he said, not expecting her to turn around and introduce herself. Archana accepted his kindness, and they struck up a conversation, revealing their unexpected connections—her father was Dr. Seshan, an old practitioner he admired. That chance encounter led to many evenings spent together in the temple and later at Raj Café, where they shared dreams and aspirations. Archana, a bright MSc Chemistry student, was preparing for a future in the U.S. Meanwhile, Chander was the only son of a retired diplomat, his own path entwined with family expectations. But life took a cruel turn. Archana’s father passed away just as she was about to leave for Boston, and a tragic accident followed, leaving her bedridden and with one leg lost. Communication between them faded, and despite Chander's love for her, he respected her silence. Years passed. Chander's career took him to Mumbai, and he buried his heartache under layers of work. He convinced himself that he could move on, but Archana remained a ghost of his past. Twelve years later, fate had other plans. On a work trip to the U.S., he walked into a laboratory, only to find Archana in a wheelchair, a reality he was unprepared for. Their reunion was bittersweet. Archana, though smiling, revealed her decision not to marry, an oath made at the Anjaneyar temple in Tirunelveli. She had embraced her new life, focused on supporting her brother Ramu and his family. Chander felt a rush of emotions but knew he had to respect her choice. Still, he couldn't shake the love that had blossomed over those simple moments—over ten rupees and heartfelt conversations. Returning to India after that meeting, he decided to retire in Tirunelveli, where their story had begun. Each day, he visited the temple, remembering how a ten-rupee note had brought them together. He bought a small house, filled it with memories, and let the past wash over him like the gentle temple bells. True love, he realized, transcended all material confines. Though their paths had diverged, his heart remained tied to Archana—a reminder that some bonds, once formed, are never truly broken. K.Ragavan 6-11-24