Thursday, May 15, 2025

Small Story 247.

Small Story 247. Extraction Encounter — A Twist of Destiny Kanaka was waiting for her daughter's call to go to the dentist for a tooth extraction. Finally, Smitha called and asked her to come straight to the clinic. Kanaka took a cab and reached the clinic, where Smitha was already waiting. "Mum, our regular doctor isn’t available today—he’s gone to attend a wedding. But he referred us to another doctor, his nephew," Smitha explained. Kanaka and Smitha went inside. The young doctor, elegant and in his mid-twenties, greeted them politely. "I'm a bit scared about getting my tooth removed," Kanaka said nervously. "But I heard there's a new technique that makes it painless." "Don't worry, madam. I'll be very careful," the doctor assured her kindly. Before beginning, the doctor opened his wallet, looked at a photo inside, and whispered a prayer. Curious, Kanaka asked, "Which god did you pray to, doctor?" With a warm smile, he replied, "My goddess is my mummy. I always seek her blessings before an extraction." Kanaka was touched by his devotion to his mother. Fifteen minutes later, the procedure was complete—smooth and painless. Kanaka was both relieved and impressed. As she was about to leave, she said, "Doctor, may I have the pleasure of seeing your mother's photo?" "Of course," he replied, showing her the picture. To Kanaka's surprise, it was her old friend Pankajam! Overjoyed, she called Pankajam and spoke with her for ten minutes, right there in front of the young doctor—Ajay. The old friends recalled a promise they once made: to get their children—Ajay and Smitha—married someday. Smitha was stunned. She had never imagined that the handsome young doctor would turn out to be her future life partner. The following week, Kanaka, her husband Kannan, and Smitha visited Ajay’s home. They met his father Kesav and mother Pankajam, and together they fixed the wedding date. After enjoying sweets and snacks, everyone departed with joy in their hearts. Ajay never imagined that a routine tooth extraction would lead to such a beautiful bond. Indeed, destiny always finds its way. K.Ragavan 16-5-25

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Small Story 246.

Small Story 246: Swamy’s Mysore Pak Encounter Anantha Swamy was coming to Bengaluru after three long years to visit his sister Swapna’s house. Having retired from the Forest Department in a good position, he had since settled in Chennai. Swapna’s children fondly called him “Mysore Pak Uncle” because of his love for sweets—especially Mysore Pak made with pure ghee. Sandeep, Swapna’s son, was waiting eagerly for his uncle’s call so he could receive him at the station. But suddenly, a car pulled up in front of the house. To his surprise and delight, Anantha Swamy stepped out with his wife Ambujam and their daughter Roopa. Sandeep was amazed to see Roopa after three years—she had grown into a graceful and slender young woman. She smiled warmly upon seeing him. Swapna greeted her brother, sister-in-law, and Roopa with joy. Soon, her husband Ram came down from upstairs to join them. The families reminisced about their old days in Bengaluru, laughing over fond memories. Anantha Swamy then turned to Sandeep and asked, “So, what are you doing these days?” Sandeep replied with a nod, “I’m working as an artist for the local newspaper.” “Nice,” said Anantha Swamy. “Roopa got promoted in her bank and also got married last year.” Swapna was shocked. “Anna! You forgot to invite us?” Anantha Swamy explained gently, “Roopa liked her classmate Bharath. We liked him too, and his parents. But they were both bedridden. We had to arrange a quick wedding at a temple, and sadly, the next day both his parents passed away. It all happened so fast—I couldn’t manage to invite anyone. I'm sorry.” Sandeep added with understanding, “Uncle, don’t feel bad. I know Bharath—he was a good cricketer during our college days. I saw his photo in a recent match in Chennai, and I noticed Roopa was there too. That’s when I guessed they were together.” Swapna smiled, “Well, to make you happy, I’ve made your favorite Mysore Pak. I also bought some from Nandhini Sweets—please have some.” Anantha Swamy chuckled. “Thank you!” Swapna added, “Anna, I have good news—Nandhini, your son-in-law’s cousin, is going to be my daughter-in-law. The wedding is on March 21 in Anna Nagar, Chennai.” Anantha Swamy beamed. “That’s wonderful! So Sandeep is going to marry Bharath’s cousin? Congratulations, Sandeep!” Sandeep whispered to his uncle with a grin, “Uncle, you have to promise me—today you must eat three pieces of Mysore Pak for my happiness.” Anantha Swamy laughed sportively. “No problem! I’ll gladly fulfill your demand.” And he happily ate the sweets. Thus, Anantha Swamy once again lived up to his title—Mysore Pak Uncle—proving his everlasting love for the delicacy. K.Ragavan 15-5-25

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Small Story 245.

Small Story 245. "A Mango of Memories" After returning from his usual walk, Ram was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by Mani, a friend he had met at a recent Facebook social get-together. "Ram, your speech that day was really impressive," Mani said warmly. "We should plan such meetings every three months." Ram nodded. "Yes, that would be wonderful. But people are scattered all over the city, and conveyance remains a challenge—even with Metro connectivity. The city has expanded nearly 60 kilometers now." With a smile, Mani offered, "How about a coffee?" "Thanks, but I just had my favorite tea with our usual group," Ram replied. Mani continued, "Do you remember my brother-in-law Shankar from Vijayawada? He was at the meeting and asked about you and your family. He really liked your speech and even noted down your address." "Thank you, that's very kind," Ram said, and soon after, he parted ways with Mani and headed to his apartment. As he stepped into the hall, his wife Shubhashini greeted him with a teasing smile. "Can you guess what that smell is?" "Mangoes?" he asked, sniffing the sweet aroma. "Yes!" she laughed. "Just ten minutes ago, a relative of your friend Shankar dropped off ten big mangoes and this note." Ram opened the chit and read aloud: "Mangoes are a token of my affection. Your story is above all. Regards to all your family members. – Shankar, Vijayawada." These were mangoes from Shankar’s own garden—famous in his region. Touched by the unexpected gesture, Ram felt tears well up in his eyes. "Our group of friends truly is amazing," he whispered. "Yes, they are," Shubhashini agreed, her voice soft with emotion. "Beyond anything else." K.Ragavan 14-5-25

Monday, May 12, 2025

Small Story 244.

Small Story 244 A Sweet Encounter at the Bus Terminal Parvathy came to North Chitrai Street in Madurai to buy the famous halwa. She had been staying for two days at her friend Lakshmi’s house to attend the Chitra Festival. After enjoying the festivities, she planned to return to Periyakulam in the evening, but not before picking up the special halwa from a popular shop. Madurai was bustling with people visiting temples and celebrating the Chitra Festival. Parvathy thoroughly enjoyed the warm hospitality of her classmate Lakshmi and Lakshmi’s son, Krishna, who worked in a good position in the TVS group. A well-mannered young man and an eligible bachelor, Krishna had made a good impression on Parvathy. Parvathy herself had only one son, Laxman, who worked in the police department in Dindigul. After buying the halwa, Parvathy returned to Lakshmi's home. Following tea and snacks, she left for the Periyakulam bus terminal. At the terminal, she met a charming young woman named Mridula, who was traveling to Batlagundu. They started chatting during the wait. Mridula mentioned that she worked at a bank in Dindigul. Just before boarding, Parvathy, by oversight, handed her halwa bag to Mridula and asked her to take some. Mridula smiled and said, "No problem, aunty. You bought it for your home. I also got some from the same shop. Let’s exchange a little from both." In the confusion of exchanging the halwa bags, the bus arrived, and they hurriedly boarded their respective buses. Later, Mridula called Parvathy using the number written on the halwa bag. “Aunty, your halwa was delicious! Same shop as mine.” They laughed over the coincidence. The next day, Mridula visited Parvathy’s house with her parents. Over tea, Mridula’s mother revealed that they had received Laxman’s horoscope through their marriage broker, and it matched perfectly with Mridula’s. They had also seen Laxman's photo and liked him, and Mridula had developed an interest in him too after learning about him from Parvathy. Parvathy was overjoyed. She had secretly hoped Mridula might become her daughter-in-law. And soon enough, within a month, the marriage of Laxman and Mridula was celebrated grandly in Periyakulam—Mridula’s native place as well. Thus, a sweet exchange at a bus terminal during the Chitra Festival led to a beautiful bond between two families—thanks to a bag of halwa. K.Ragavan 13-5-25

Tribute to Versatile Actor Srinath.872

Tribute to Versatile Actor Srinath 872. Today, I pay tribute to another versatile and iconic Sandalwood actor who has made a profound impact on Kannada cinema for over five and a half decades — the legendary Srinath. Born in the cultural city of Mysuru (Mysore), Srinath initially nurtured an interest in cinematography. However, destiny had other plans, and he began his journey in the film industry with small roles before evolving into one of the most beloved heroes and versatile actors of Kannada cinema. If I am not mistaken, he has acted in over 350 films, portraying a wide range of characters alongside several legendary heroines and actors. His performances have spanned genres and generations, earning him numerous accolades and awards, including recognition from the Karnataka government and film industry bodies. Two of his notable films that I personally cherish are "Shubhamangala" and "Eradu Rekhegalu", where his acting brilliance truly shines. Few films i couldnot catch up.These films reflect his natural screen presence and deep emotional range. Beyond cinema, Srinath is also known for his philanthropic spirit. He has extended help to many deserving individuals in need, especially those suffering and struggling in silence. His humility and compassion off-screen make him a true doyen, not just of acting, but of humanity. A heartfelt salute to Srinath avaru — a legend, a gentleman, and an everlasting name in the annals of Sandalwood. K.Ragavan 12-5-25

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Small Story 243.

Small Story 243. Dairy Negotiation and a Great Encounter After ten years, Chandini visited Mysore to see her good old schoolmate, Ranjitha. Chandini had settled in New Zealand with her husband Ram and their daughter Smitha, a final-year commerce student. Working as a Finance Manager in a large dairy farm, Chandini had recently come to Bengaluru to negotiate a product collaboration with a well-known dairy brand in Karnataka. Her meetings were fruitful, and before returning home, she decided to visit Ranjitha in Mysore. At the bus stand, Ranjitha was waiting eagerly. Seeing each other after so long, they hugged warmly, filled with joy and nostalgia. As they drove home, Ranjitha asked about Ram and Smitha. "They're fine," Chandini replied with a smile. At Ranjitha’s house, her parents—Desikan and Ambujam—welcomed Chandini warmly. Ram was Ambujam's nephew, and it was she who had arranged Chandini’s marriage when she was just 21. Chandini handed over some sweets she had made, and after a delicious lunch, she took a rest with Ranjitha. At 4 PM, Ranjitha had to head to the office for an important discussion, so Chandini stayed back. The next evening brought an unexpected highlight. Chief OO1, the internationally acclaimed investigator, visited Ranjitha’s home for tea. Chandini, who had watched many of his interviews, was thrilled to meet him in person. His humble demeanor paired with his brilliant mind left her speechless. After enjoying tea and sweets, OO1 praised Chandini’s efforts in building a bridge between Karnataka’s leading dairy brand and her homeland. Chandini couldn't contain her admiration and asked him a few questions, to which he replied with grace and wisdom. Meeting OO1, a world-renowned figure whose investigative academy had put Mysore on the global map, was an unforgettable experience for Chandini. She later remarked, “My country will be proud of this new collaboration, and my visit will be forever remembered for the great meeting with the legendary OO1.” Hearing her words, OO1 smiled majestically, his presence radiating the quiet power of true greatness. K.Ragavan 12-5-25

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Small Story 242.

Small Story 242. Royal Encounter in the City of Dreams Vivek landed at Dubai International Airport, where his relative Ram was waiting to receive him. Ram, a chief executive at a leading pharmaceutical company in Dubai, lived with his wife Vasanthy and their only daughter Namratha, who was in her final year of a Master's in Visual Communication. After collecting his luggage, as they drove home, Ram asked, “How was your journey? How are Dad and Mum?” “The journey was fine,” Vivek replied. “Both Dad and Mum are doing well.” They soon arrived at Ram’s independent villa in a beautiful neighborhood near Satwa. Vasanthy welcomed Vivek warmly. “You’ve grown so tall! When you left Dubai 15 years ago, you were just a boy—and now you look like a hero.” “Thank you, aunty,” Vivek whispered with a shy smile. Namratha walked in from another room. “Hey! How are you?” she said with excitement. They all spent the morning reminiscing about old times. Over a hearty breakfast that included Vivek’s favorite—badam cake—Vasanthy nodded and said, “We always remember your mother's help. Without her support, Ram wouldn’t be where he is today.” Vivek’s father had moved to the U.S. 15 years ago, while Vivek had returned to India. Now, he had come back to Dubai for higher studies at a reputed university near Ram's home. “You spent five years at our own English school here,” Vasanthy continued, “and your return for further studies shows how much your mother loved this place.” Vivek smiled. “Not just my mum—I have many fond childhood memories here, too. I’m amazed at how dramatically the city has developed in the past 15 years, aunty.” Later in the afternoon, Vivek’s mother, Harini called from India and thanked Ram and Vasanthy for welcoming Vivek so warmly. Vasanthy responded kindly, “This is nothing, Harini it was you and your husband Shekhar who helped us come to the UAE. Where we are today is all thanks to you.” Harini replied, “Please don’t say that. One must always help those who are capable and deserving. Ram has proven himself, and I’m proud he’s my cousin.” After the call, life settled into a happy rhythm. Vivek began college and enjoyed the royal treatment from Ram and Vasanthy in the Royal City of Dubai. As Vivek reflected on the warm welcome and support he received, he realized—when you help others selflessly, life has a way of returning that kindness in the most timely and meaningful ways. K.Ragavan 11-5-25

Friday, May 9, 2025

Small Story 241.

Story 241 Sanctum of the Same Divine Sunitha had been longing for a visit to Guruvayur to worship Sri Guruvayurappan. But due to various reasons, her trip had been postponed multiple times. One morning, after sending her husband and daughter off to work, she settled down with the newspaper when the phone rang. It was her old classmate Ranjitham calling from Chennai. “Hey, how are you?” Ranjitham asked cheerfully. Hearing her old friend’s voice brought immense joy to Sunitha. Ranjitham shared that she would be attending a wedding in Bengaluru in three days and, since she was coming alone, asked if she could stay with Sunitha. “My dear, this is your home. You are always welcome!” replied Sunitha warmly. Ranjitham arrived that Thursday morning. At 50, she was majestic, respectable, and beautiful. Sunitha had sent her the location, and she reached comfortably by cab. After reminiscing about school days, they enjoyed a hearty breakfast of poori, chutney, and tea. Ranjitham had also brought sweets from Chennai, which Sunitha’s husband and daughter happily accepted before leaving for work. Later, Ranjitham shared her wish: “I came not just for the wedding or to meet you, but also to visit the Guruvayurappan Temple on Kanakapura Road. My friend Ambujam highly recommended it.” Sunitha’s heart filled with joy. “I’ve been longing to go to Guruvayur, and now, through you, it seems the Lord Himself has come to me!” The next day, Friday morning, they left Sunitha’s Jayanagar home by cab and reached the temple by 11 AM—just as Ambujam had advised. They had a blissful darshan of the deity and felt the divine presence akin to the original Guruvayur temple. After buying prasadam, they returned home for lunch. The following day, Ranjitham attended the wedding and left for Chennai by evening train. Sunitha was overwhelmed with gratitude. Through her beloved friend Ranjitham, her long-cherished wish to experience the divine presence of Guruvayurappan was fulfilled—right in her own city. K.Ragavan 10-5-25

Kudos to Prakash Belawadi.

Prakash Belawadi is truly one of the most versatile personalities in the Sandalwood film industry and theatre—an undeniable fact. His recent adaptation of the renowned writer B.L. Byrappa’s iconic novel Parva into a live performance, both in Kannada and English, is not only admirable but also awe-inspiring. By bringing to life the lesser-told perspectives of the Mahabharata characters, Prakash has given audiences a fresh and thought-provoking experience. With his distinct directorial touch, Prakash Belwadi has undoubtedly reached yet another milestone in his illustrious career—this is no exaggeration. Wishing him and his entire team tremendous success for the upcoming performance, scheduled for May 16 at Prestige Auditorium (if I’m correct), where both long-time fans and new admirers will surely be captivated by this compelling concept. Kudos to PrakashBelawadi and team! Warm regards, K. Ragavan 9-5-25 ---

Thursday, May 8, 2025

Letter.

Letter Published in The National UAE on 9 May 25 A doyen passes on The demise of the Indian space scientist K Kasturirangan late last month is a profound loss to his country and the global scientific community. A visionary leader, Dr Kasturirangan played a pivotal role in shaping India’s space programme and taking the Indian Space Research Organisation to great heights. Under his leadership, several landmark missions were conceptualised and executed, laying the foundation for future advancements. He was a brilliant scientist as well as an exemplary administrator, and known for his humility, integrity and unwavering commitment to scientific excellence. Admired and respected by colleagues, students and leaders alike, his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His passing is an irreparable loss to the world of science, education and space exploration. India has lost one of its finest minds and a true son of the soil. K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India

Small Story 240.

Small Story 240 "Saved by a Detour: A Blessing in Disguise" Revathy was deeply worried about her son Arvind’s whereabouts. He had left Chennai for a tour of Kashmir on April 20, but there had been no word from him since. News of recent tragic incidents and government crackdowns in the region only heightened her fears. His mobile phone had been switched off for days, adding to her anxiety. Ram, Arvind’s father, was equally distraught. He considered filing a police complaint, but without any concrete information, he felt helpless. With heavy hearts, both he and Revathy turned to prayer, seeking the blessings of their family deity for Arvind’s safe return. That evening, Ram’s phone rang. To his immense relief, it was Arvind on the line. Whispering reassuringly, Arvind said, “Don’t worry, Dad. I’m on my way home. I’ll be there in about two hours.” True to his word, Arvind arrived two and a half hours later—cheerful, unharmed, and in his usual spirits. The family, overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, embraced him tightly and offered fervent prayers of thanks to their deity. As they settled down, eager to hear what had happened, Arvind began to recount the unexpected turn of events. He explained that after leaving Chennai with his friend Vishnu on April 20, they had made a spontaneous decision to stop in Tirupati for a darshan of Lord Balaji before heading to Kashmir. On the morning of April 21, just after their darshan, they unexpectedly ran into their old schoolmate Murthy—now a successful Telugu film director. Delighted by the reunion, Murthy insisted they accompany him to the shooting location of his upcoming film, which he described as his dream project. He urged them to postpone their Kashmir trip and stay in Tirupati for a few days. Intrigued and excited, Arvind and Vishnu agreed. Back in Chennai, Ram sat silently for a moment, his eyes moist. “I’m lucky my son came back safely,” he whispered. “So many sons and daughters never return…” He bowed his head in silent respect for the families of those who hadn’t been so fortunate. Arvind nodded thoughtfully and offered the sacred prasadam of Lord Srinivasa to his parents—a divine reminder that their detour had not just altered their plans, but may very well have saved their lives. Indeed, what seemed like a mere change of itinerary turned out to be a blessing in disguise. K.Ragavan 9-5-25 ---

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Small Story 239.

Small Story 239 "The Power of the Mind" Raman and his wife Lakshmi arrived at the Bengaluru railway station. They were warmly greeted by their grandson Adithya, who took them to his car. Adithya is the only son of Smitha, their daughter, who works in a leading company that deals with pharmaceutical equipment. As they drove, Adithya asked, "How was your journey, Grandpa and Grandma?" "It was fine," replied Raman. "We had a comfortable journey from Madurai. But it feels strange to leave after living there for 40 years." "Don't worry, Grandpa," said Adithya. "There was no other option. You both have to stay with us permanently now. Dad doesn't want you staying alone in Madurai anymore, and Mom is also very particular about it." They soon reached their destination—a beautiful four-bedroom posh apartment in the prime area of Jayanagar. Smitha and her husband Ram greeted them warmly. Smitha took their luggage to their room, which had been specially prepared for their stay. Most of Raman’s belongings had been donated to a senior citizens' home; he had moved with only a limited luggage from Madurai. At 77, Raman knew his daughter had made the right decision to ask them to leave the ancestral home in Madurai. Lakshmi was especially happy to see their well-furnished room with all modern facilities. Within a few days, Raman and Lakshmi became popular in the apartment complex. Raman, a retired Finance Manager from the TVS Group, and Lakshmi, a retired bank employee, were liked by all. Initially, they had difficulty hearing Smitha calling them, as the apartment was built over 4,000 square feet. But soon, they adapted to the routine and became comfortable in their new home. After a year had passed, Raman told Smitha, "Before leaving Madurai, I thought I wouldn’t enjoy living here after spending four decades there. But after settling in, I remembered the words of my Guru, Swami Vivekananda: ‘If you feel you are happy, you are happy. If you feel you are not, you are not.’ It is the mind that matters. I’m very happy with your decision to bring us here." Smitha was touched and deeply satisfied. Her mission had succeeded—her parents were happy, and all it took was a change in mindset. K.Ragavan 8-5-25

Good Operation.

Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian government against terror camps in Pakistan, marks a significant and dramatic development in the global fight against terrorism. The recent Pahalgam attack, which tragically targeted innocent tourists, sent shockwaves around the world and underscored the grave threat terrorism continues to pose to safety and peace. Following extensive deliberations with various authorities, the Indian government took a firm and commendable step through this operation. In today’s world, the security and safety of citizens, as well as the protection of national interests, must be the highest priorities for any nation. India, traditionally known for its calm and patient stance, has demonstrated a resolute shift in approach—reflecting the deep pain and severity caused by such acts of brutality. This operation sends a clear message: terrorism will not be tolerated. We hope this strong action brings some solace to the families of the victims and assures the country that justice is being pursued with unwavering commitment. Jai Hind. K.Ragavan Bengaluru -

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Small Story 238.

Small Story 238. An Old Dream Fulfilled After settling down in his seat and fastening his seatbelt, Sanjay glanced at the person next to him and smiled. A lady in her mid-twenties returned the smile. "I'm Sanjay, going to Singapore," he introduced himself. She replied warmly, "I'm Radhika. I'm also headed to Singapore to attend a wedding." "Do you have relatives there?" Sanjay asked. "Yes, my brother lives there. I’ll be staying with him," she answered. "Nice. I’m going to meet a friend and will be staying at a hotel," said Sanjay. Radhika added, "I work for Microsoft in the U.S. I came to India on holiday and now visiting my brother in Singapore." "Nice. Microsoft is an old and reputed company," he said appreciatively. She smiled. "True." "What about you?" she asked. "I'm a cinematographer. I've done many art and ad films. I’m in Singapore for a new film contract and location scouting." She perked up. "I think you're the one who did the ad film with Sachin Tendulkar and for Binny's Marlborough suits. The visuals were amazing!" Sanjay nodded, “Thank you for the compliment—and for remembering my work.” Radhika admitted, “Though I don’t know much about camera work, I do admire good photography.” "Interesting," he said. "Many women cinematographers have made a mark in the film industry." They continued their conversation and didn’t even realize when they had reached Singapore. They parted ways at the airport. It was only later that Radhika realized she had forgotten to take Sanjay’s phone number. Three days later, Radhika attended a wedding with her brother’s family—it was her brother’s friend’s sister who was getting married. While observing the elegant gathering and the charming bride and groom, she suddenly spotted Sanjay filming the event with his camera. He saw her too. “I forgot to take your number—God is great!” he greeted her warmly. “I forgot too!” Radhika smiled back. After lunch, Sanjay said, “I never knew you were Ram’s sister!” “Ram went into RAW, and I went into Visual Communication and Cinematography,” Sanjay reminisced. Ram, her brother, smiled and said, “Simple Sanjay from our college days is now a renowned, award-winning cinematographer—my good old buddy!” Sanjay added, “My mission is complete. I’ve found good locations for my upcoming movie with a big multistar cast. I’ll be back in Singapore in fifteen days for the shoot. Thank you, Radhika, for your interest in cinematography.” Observing their interaction, Ram said thoughtfully, “I’ve been thinking about this for a while. I’m openly asking—would it be okay if you both considered each other for something more?” Both Sanjay and Radhika smiled gently, signaling their acceptance. Ram’s long-held dream was finally fulfilled—at the perfect moment. K.Ragavan 7-5-25 -

Good Honour.

Satya Nadella Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at TiEcon 2025 In a momentous recognition of his visionary leadership and transformative contributions to the global tech landscape, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at TiEcon 2025, held on May 3. This prestigious honor celebrates Nadella's remarkable journey and his profound impact on the technology industry over the decades. The award, regarded as one of the highest accolades in the entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem, was an apt tribute to a true giant of the tech world. Nadella, who has been at the helm of Microsoft since 2014, is widely credited with reshaping the company into a cloud-first, AI-powered global leader, while also fostering a culture of empathy, collaboration, and continuous innovation. TiEcon, hosted by The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from around the world. This year's recognition of Nadella is not only a celebration of his personal and professional accomplishments but also an acknowledgment of the lasting legacy he continues to build in the world of technology and leadership. The event was attended by several influential figures from the global tech and business communities, who praised Nadella for his commitment to driving inclusive growth and empowering organizations and individuals through digital transformation. K.Ragavan

Monday, May 5, 2025

Small Story 237.

--- Small Story 237. “Code Word 237 : A Reunion After 12 Years” Sandeep never expected to meet an old buddy in a restaurant at Dindigul. He had just been transferred to the Dindigul branch of his bank as Manager. One afternoon, while visiting a local restaurant for lunch, he noticed a familiar face taking orders. To his shock, it was his old friend, Damu—working there as a server. “Hey, Damu! You remember me? I’m Sandeep!” he said, surprised. Damu smiled warmly. “How could I forget you, buddy? Lunch is available with mango curry today. I’ll bring you something special.” Damu went inside and returned five minutes later with a plate of food and a sweet dish. Sandeep expected Damu to talk about how he ended up in this job, but he said nothing. After finishing his meal and paying, Sandeep returned to the bank. He was busy with work until 4 PM, when his peon, Swamy, informed him that someone had come to see him. To his surprise, it was Damu—this time with a flask of hot tea. Sandeep asked, “What happened to your old job? Weren’t you working in a private company ten years ago?” Damu nodded, a pained expression on his face. “That’s an old, bitter story. I lost my reputation when the management falsely accused me of stealing three lakhs. No matter how much I pleaded, they fired me and blacklisted me. Even my parents didn’t believe me. I left home and wandered from place to place, but no one was ready to hire me because of the stigma.” His eyes welled with tears. “After eight years of suffering, it was discovered that a relative of our company’s director had actually taken the money and disappeared. The truth came too late.” Sandeep, moved by his friend’s pain, said, “Damu, I always knew you were an honest man. Time has been cruel to you. But your life is about to change. You're now 37, just a year younger than me. I married your former director’s daughter, Vasanthy. Before he passed away last year, he made me promise I would find you, clear your name, and make sure you marry his younger daughter, Sandhya. He wanted you to lead the company again.” Damu was speechless, overwhelmed with emotion. Sandeep continued, “From tomorrow, you’ll be the Managing Director of your old company. And next month, your marriage will be held in Chennai. Your mother-in-law is alive and looking forward to meeting you. Forget the pain of the last 12 years.” With tears of gratitude, Damu hugged his old friend. “Thank you for believing in me when no one else did.” K.Ragavan 6-5-25 -

Tribute 871.

A Tribute to the Versatile Speaker and Anchor – Bhuvana Venkat 871. Today, I wish to pen a heartfelt tribute to the multifaceted and talented speaker and anchor, Bhuvana Venkat, who has firmly established her name in the field of debates and compering. I have had the pleasure of hearing many of her brilliant speeches, particularly in debates, as well as her exceptional anchoring in events—especially those centered around songs and film music. As a member of the Mukthafilms 60 group, I have been continually astonished by her deep knowledge and authentic explanation of songs, especially in the realm of Tamil film music. Though I had seen her programs earlier, our association truly began three years ago during a debate event within the Mukthafilms 60 group, in which I had the honor of participating twice. Most recently, on May 4, she conducted an outstanding program in the group, organized by Maya Srinivasan. It was a remarkable session where she beautifully compared the lyrics of the legendary lyricist Kaviarasu Kannadasan with verses from the Ramayanam and devotional hymns of the Nayanmars. Her ability to draw such profound and meaningful parallels thrilled everyone present. It was a true testament to her command of Tamil, her literary depth, and her devotion to the art. Bhuvana Venkat is truly a rare talent—her magical voice, insightful commentary, and unmatched ability to connect themes across genres leave a lasting impression. The recent program on May 4 not only stood out as an amazing presentation but also served as strong evidence of her dedication, intellect, and passion. Wishing her continued success and many more such wonderful opportunities to showcase her incredible talent in the days to come! K.Ragavan 5-5-25 ---

Sunday, May 4, 2025

Small Story 236.

Small Story 236 – A Twist of Joyful Surprises Chander came to the newly opened restaurant opposite Panagal Park to meet his friend Nandhitha, who had just returned from the USA. They had been college friends, and two years ago, Nandhitha had gone to the US to pursue her Master’s degree in Advanced Chartered Management. After completing her studies, she secured a job at a leading pharmaceutical company in New Jersey. Now, after four years, she had returned to her parents' home in the charming locality of T. Nagar near Pondy Bazaar. Chander knew her parents, Kalyani and Murali—a warm, broad-minded couple. Murali was a retired program executive from a well-known studio, while Kalyani was a devoted homemaker. As Nandhitha entered the restaurant, she greeted Chander warmly and hugged him. “Hey, you haven’t changed at all!” she said with a smile. “You too! No weight gain even after all that American food,” he replied teasingly. They ordered their favorite dishes—Gulab Jamun and Masala Dosa. Chander, a gold medalist, was now working as a Production Manager at a leading pharmaceutical company. "Nandhitha, despite all my efforts to get you to join our company, you refused," she said with a grin. "Being the only son, you preferred to stay close to your parents. I really respect that," she replied. They began discussing the current uncertain job scenarios for Indian students abroad. “Many have come back,” Nandhitha said. “Even my cousin is now against sending her son to the US, despite him getting into a reputed university with a good scholarship.” "That's a good decision," Chander agreed. "Safety and stability are important." Then, lowering her voice, Nandhitha whispered, “Now it’s your turn to be surprised.” Chander looked puzzled. She smiled and said, “I’ve quit my job. I’m joining your company soon. But that’s not all—our parents have fixed our wedding. It’s happening in August, just two months from now.” Chander was stunned. He had never expected this. For someone who believed in action over expectation, life had just handed him a beautiful surprise. Looking at Nandhitha now, he saw her in an entirely new light—his future partner, both in life and work. K.Ragavan 5-5-25

Saturday, May 3, 2025

Small Story 235.

Small Story 235 A Brush with Destiny: Nikil's Talent Finds a New Home Madhav had finally applied for his tourist visa to Dubai, and it was approved for one month, with the option to extend. Though his childhood friend Nikil couldn't join him, he was genuinely happy for Madhav. Nikil had been a well-wisher and a true friend since their school days. Unfortunately, due to family circumstances, Nikil had to discontinue his studies after PUC. However, his passion for art—especially drawing portraits of various personalities—helped him earn a living through magazine contributions. Madhav had always admired Nikil’s artistic talent. Before leaving for Dubai, he took some of Nikil’s drawings with him. In Dubai, Madhav was to stay with another friend, Shankar, who had been working there for over five years and lived in the Bur Dubai area. On the day of departure, Nikil came to the airport to see Madhav off. By afternoon, Madhav had landed in Dubai, where Shankar warmly welcomed him and took him to his flat. Along the way, Madhav was amazed by the towering buildings and sprawling malls. During his 25-day stay, Madhav thoroughly enjoyed exploring Dubai and the other Emirates. One evening, Shankar invited his friends for dinner at a restaurant. Among them was Yamini, a colleague, accompanied by her husband Sathish, a cartoonist at a leading daily newspaper. When Shankar introduced Madhav to Sathish, Madhav opened his wallet to hand over his business card. Sathish noticed a sketch of a well-known leader tucked into the wallet’s front pocket and was immediately intrigued. Madhav proudly showed him more of Nikil’s artwork and explained his friend’s exceptional talent. Impressed, Sathish asked Madhav to send Nikil’s bio-data. Curious but hopeful, Madhav emailed Nikil’s details and picture the next day. Sathish, who headed the cartoon division at his newspaper, was looking to add a new artist and saw immense potential in Nikil. A week later, Madhav returned to Bengaluru. When he reached home, he found Nikil waiting eagerly, eyes brimming with emotion. With tears of joy, Nikil shared the news—Sathish had sent him an appointment letter, offering him a position at the newspaper. He was to join within a month. Madhav was overjoyed. His short trip to Dubai had unexpectedly paved the way for his talented friend’s new life and career. Nikil’s future was finally secure, thanks to the perfect blend of talent, timing, and friendship. K.Ragavan 4-5-25

Friday, May 2, 2025

Small Story 234.

Small Story 234: Confidence and the Power of Delivery Padma was worried. Tomorrow was the last day to pay her son Ganesh’s final year B.Com exam fees. Including arrears, the amount came to ₹6,500, though the college had given a small concession because Ganesh was a bright student with excellent academic records. Since her husband's untimely demise, Padma had been managing everything on her own, using her cooking talent to run a small home-based eatery. Initially, she had to sell her marriage gold to set up the business, which she named Dakshin Café—a tribute to her late husband Dakshinamurthy, who had been an accounts clerk in a private company earning a modest salary. Tragically, he passed away from a massive heart attack, and since the company shut down soon after, no benefits or insurance money came her way. With sheer dedication and hard work, Padma had managed to educate Ganesh up to this point. However, the COVID-19 pandemic had hit her small business hard, and it was only now beginning to recover. That’s why she was unable to pay Ganesh’s fees until the last moment. Still, she had faith in her work and the blessings of her family deity. That evening, Ganesh returned from college and reminded her, “Mummy, tomorrow is the last day to pay the fees. I asked my friend Swamy for help, but his father met with an accident and is in the hospital. They are struggling with medical expenses.” Padma silently prayed for Swamy’s father’s recovery as well. Around 7 PM, a woman arrived in a car and inquired about Padma. Introducing herself as Vasanthy, she said, “I’ve heard about your cooking and sweets. I want you to cater for my son’s birthday next week—lunch and sweets for 200 guests. I’ll pay ₹1,00,000.” She handed Padma an advance of ₹50,000 and added, “Your sweets were famous among my friends before the pandemic. I’m glad you’re back.” Padma was overwhelmed with gratitude. She immediately called her three assistants to begin planning for the big order. The next day, she paid Ganesh’s college fees and also gave ₹10,000 to support Swamy’s father’s medical expenses. Padma thanked her deity for sending help through Vasanthy. She knew this was not just a one-time opportunity—Vasanthy could become a significant part of her future success, especially if the birthday event went well. Padma believed in her skills, not with overconfidence, but with the quiet strength of someone who trusts her hard-earned abilities and the power of good delivery. K.Ragavan 3-5-25 -

Letter.

Letter Published in The National UAE on 2 May 25,A young cricketer's historic innings In regard to Paul Radley's report IPL: Enjoy 14-Year-Old Vaibhav Suryavanshi's Glorious Ton (April 29): The latest 14-year-old IPL sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi of the Rajasthan Royals, played an innings of a lifetime. The report captured the inspirational nature of the knock well. Vaibhav stunned cricket fans with a century off just 35 balls, showcasing extraordinary talent and composure beyond his years. His innings against some of the league’s most versatile and experienced bowlers marked a shift in the IPL. It has set a new benchmark for young cricketers and made Vaibhav the youngest player to achieve such a feat in the tournament’s history. K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India

Thursday, May 1, 2025

Small Story 233.

Small Story 233. A Place in the Heart Shyam reached the address given by his mother and rang the doorbell. A young woman opened the door. "What do you want?" she asked politely. "I’m looking for Mridula," Shyam replied. "Mummy's gone to the library. Please come inside," she said, stepping aside. "I'm your mother's cousin's daughter, Nirosha. I'm in my final year of architecture. You must be Shyam from Palayamkottai. I remember meeting you at a relative's wedding." "Yes, that's me," Shyam smiled. "I just got transferred to Bengaluru. I'm looking for a room or a single-bedroom house for rent. My parents won't be joining since both are working." "Would you like tea or coffee?" "Tea would be great. Where's your dad?" "Dad's gone to Mysore to visit a friend. He'll be back by evening," Nirosha replied as she served Shyam tea and a piece of Mysorepak. "Today is Suma aunty’s birthday — mummy's library friend," Nirosha explained. "Mummy made sweets and took them to distribute among her library friends. She’s always helping people — just like your mother said." "Your mother is Vasanthy, right?" she asked. "Yes," Shyam nodded. Just then, Mridula returned home and immediately recognized Shyam. "Vasanthy just called and told me you were transferred to Bengaluru. Come, let me show you your room. This is your home now." She led Shyam upstairs to a well-furnished room. "Your office is just ten minutes away from here." That evening, Shyam met Ram, Mridula’s husband — a dignified man in his fifties who worked as a RAW officer on a secret mission. Shyam gradually settled into their warm household. Nirosha,Ram and Mridula’s daughter, was friendly and intelligent, much like her mother. Shyam enjoyed spending time with her, often exchanging stories and advice. Over time, he began to feel like a true part of the family. One day, he noticed Nirosha was unusually quiet. Concerned, he asked, “Are you okay?” “I love Vivek, my cousin — dad’s sister’s son,” she confessed. “But dad isn’t agreeing because Vivek’s sister married a foreigner.” That evening, Ram returned from work with sweets. “Shyam, I’ve been promoted. I’m being posted to the U.S. — to Washington “Congratulations, Uncle!” Shyam said. “And if you don’t mind, I’d like to make a small request on this happy occasion. Please consider Nirosha'smarriage to Vivek. He’s a good man, working for a reputed firm.” Ram hesitated. Shyam continued, “Also, you’ll be meeting Davidson in the U.S. — Manjula’s husband. He’s your sister’s son-in-law, right? I met him during my training in the U.S. A kind-hearted man who respects our traditions and supports Manjula. Your judgment about Vivek might also need a second look.” “I hope I’m not interfering. I just feel strongly because I don’t have a sister of my own. Nirosha deserves a loving partner and a happy life.” Ram was touched. Shyam's sincerity and love for the family melted away his doubts. He realized he had been too rigid. Mridula, who had given Shyam a place to stay, smiled. In time, Shyam had not only found a home but had captured a permanent place in their hearts. K.Ragavan 2-5-25 -