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