Small Story 172.

Small Story 172 Unexpected Acclode Ram arrived at Dubai International Airport to attend an event organized by his good friend Nandhini, who was running her own event management company. The event, sponsored by a leading business house in Dubai, honored various personalities who had excelled in their professions. Nandhini had created a big suspense about the people who would be honored. Outside the airport, Nandhini had arranged for a driver, Ali, to take Ram to his hotel and show him around the city for the next three days. Ram had left Dubai five years ago, after working as a General Manager in a leading pharmaceutical company, and had since settled in Bengaluru. He was the only son and had moved back to care for his mother, who had health issues. Now, he was running his own consultancy in India. As they drove, Ali introduced himself and drove carefully. On both sides of the road, Ram noticed dramatic changes in the city since he left with his wife, Vasanthy. Ali stopped the car in front of the Dubai Sheraton, where Ram’s accommodation was booked for the next three days. After taking some rest for two hours, Ali came to pick up Ram and took him to the venue, a beautiful hotel. Nandhini greeted Ram with a warm hug. "I am really proud that my eminent friend has arrived to grace the function," she said. Around 250 people had gathered for the event. After the sponsor’s introduction and the purpose of the event—honoring individuals under Nandhini’s company, Memorable Dubai—a catchy name—Nandhini suddenly called Ram to address the gathering. Ram had never expected this from Nandhini, but he went to the dais. He thanked the organizers for inviting him and began his speech on the importance of world peace. After 15 minutes of his amazing speech, the organizer, Mr. Suhail, a royal family member of Dubai, congratulated Ram for his talk. After one hour of various speeches, Nandhini announced that five categories of people would be honored with certificates and a $5,000 award each. Ram was thrilled when his good friend, Ramesh Urs, was awarded for his editorial knowledge and contributions in India. Other honorees included Lakshmi, the Best Online Editorial Lead Editor, Ram himself in the pharmaceutical profession, Makesh, a writer in the Telugu film industry, and Sathish, recognized for his work in media and advertising. After the function, a beautiful dinner with many desserts followed, and Ram returned to his hotel. He thanked Nandhini for her invitation and for honoring him and the other deserving individuals. Two days later, Ram returned to Bengaluru. At home, his loving wife, Vasanthy, hugged him, having watched the event recording. "You are amazing," she whispered. K.Ragavan 2-3-25