Small Story 215.

Small Story 215 "Ippadium Nadakuma – A Real-Life Twist" It was Tamil New Year’s Day, and the much-anticipated movie Ippadium Nadakuma, an investigative thriller written and directed by Ram, had just released. The film starred the award-winning actor Jai, known for his powerful performances and deep connection with his audience. Wanting to gauge the public’s reaction firsthand, Jai decided to visit Srileka Theater in a simple disguise—wearing a white dhoti and shirt. Blending in with the crowd, no one recognized the superstar amidst the bustling audience. The theater was packed, largely due to Jai’s star power and the buzz around the movie. During the intermission, he listened to the crowd's excited chatter. “The suspense is incredible,” someone said. “Director Ram has handled it beautifully—I still can’t guess what’ll happen next!” another exclaimed. The theater owner, Nagarjun, was observing the crowd when he noticed an elderly man in a dhoti standing alone. “Where’s your ticket, sir?” he asked politely. “I lost it in the crowd,” the man replied. Without hesitation, Nagarjun said, “No problem, sir. Please come upstairs,” and arranged a special seat for him. Unbeknownst to him, the man he helped was none other than Actor Jai himself. The film ended to loud applause. Audience feedback was overwhelmingly positive—85% rated it highly. People praised Jai’s performance, Ram’s direction, Shakthi Vel 's breathtaking cinematography, and the seamless music and editing by Shekar Urs. The next afternoon, Nagarjun received a surprising call—an invitation from Jai’s secretary to visit the actor’s home for tea at 6 PM. At exactly 6 PM, Nagarjun arrived. He was warmly welcomed by the secretary and soon greeted by Jai himself, now dressed in his usual pant and half-shirt. “I’m honored, sir,” Nagarjun said, humbled. “I never expected to meet an award-winning actor in his home!” Jai smiled. “You are welcome, my friend. Your humanitarian gesture yesterday touched me. You respected an old man who’d lost his ticket. That was me.” Nagarjun was stunned. “That was you, sir? I’m speechless!” “I’m equally amazed at how I was treated, even without being recognized,” Jai said with a chuckle. “It was a real-life scene fitting the title—Ippadium Nadakuma—‘Can this really happen?’” After some photos, warm conversation, and a gift of a fine pen, Nagarjun left with immense joy and a heart full of memories. Indeed, life had mirrored cinema—Ippadium Nadakuma. K.Ragavan 14-4-25 ---