Small Story 527.

Small Story 527: The Dindigul Encounter Ram came to Dindigul after many long years to attend his friend’s son’s wedding. Sadly, his old friend was no more. Decades ago, both of them had worked in the pharmaceutical industry and had covered the Dindigul region together. After enjoying a delicious wedding lunch with three varieties of sweets, Ram told his wife, Roshani, “You talk with your friends. I’ll be back soon.” Roshani looked surprised but did not question him. Ram slowly walked towards Abhirami Sannadhi Street, lost in memories. Suddenly, a young man approached him. “Excuse me, sir. Can you tell me where the famous Laxmi Vilas Hotel near the temple is?” Ram was startled. He too had been searching for the same hotel. “Where are you from?” Ram asked. “I live in the US. I came for my cousin’s marriage and wanted to see this hotel. My grandfather retired as Marketing Director from Parke-Davis. He passed away last year. When he worked here, he used to have his meals at this hotel. He spoke about it many times. I was curious to see it.” Ram felt a sudden wave of emotion. “What is your name? And your grandfather’s name?” “My name is Easwar. My grandfather was Viswanathan.” Ram was overwhelmed. Viswanathan was his close friend and colleague. They had watched many Vithalacharya movies together in Dindigul during their younger days. Looking at Easwar, Ram could see the resemblance — the same sharp features, the same warmth in his smile. “I too worked in the pharma field,” Ram said gently. “Your grandfather and I were very close.” They both searched for Laxmi Vilas Hotel but could not find it. Perhaps it had shifted, or perhaps time had erased it. Though they could not locate the hotel, Ram had discovered something far more precious — a living connection to his dear departed friend. There was another surprise. Easwar belonged to the bride’s side, while Ram had come from the groom’s side. Destiny had brought them together in an unexpected way. They returned to the wedding hall, and Ram introduced Easwar to Roshani. The meeting felt special, almost magical. The next day, Ram and Roshani left Dindigul and returned to Bengaluru. Before parting, Easwar warmly invited them to visit him in the US. Though Laxmi Vilas Hotel could not be found, it had rekindled an old friendship and created a new bond. Ram smiled to himself. Some places may disappear with time — but memories and relationships never do. K.Ragavan 20-2-26