Small Story 569.

 Small Story 569

ID Encounter in the Temple

Ramappa, a retired high school teacher from Vijayawada, now lived in Bangalore with his son after losing his wife three years ago. He had always wished to have darshan of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala Tirupati Temple. With great effort, his son managed to book a senior citizens’ darshan ticket for him.

On the day of darshan, Ramappa reached the counter. When the clerk asked for his ID proof, his heart sank—he had left his mobile phone, which had his ID, back in the hotel nearly 3 kilometers away.

“I’m sorry, sir. Without ID, you cannot proceed,” the clerk said firmly.

Worried and helpless, Ramappa realized that going back to the hotel and returning would make him miss his slot. With a heavy heart, he turned to leave.

Just then, a man approached him.

“Sir, how are you?” the man asked warmly.

Ramappa looked at him, puzzled. He couldn’t recognize the face.

“Sir, I am Sanjeev Reddy—your student from 10th standard. You always encouraged me to study well.”

Ramappa’s face lit up. “Oh yes! How are you, my boy?”

Sanjeev smiled. “I’m here for duty. Don’t worry, sir. I’ll help you.”

He was now an officer working with the temple administration. Without delay, he guided Ramappa inside and took him close to the sanctum.

For a few precious minutes, Ramappa stood before the Lord, completely immersed in devotion. Tears streamed down his face.

Folding his hands, he turned to Sanjeev and said, “I am truly blessed today. Because of my student, I could have such a peaceful and close darshan. In my class, you were always first… and today, you have proved again—not just in studies, but as a wonderful human being.”

His voice choked with emotion. “If I hadn’t met you today, I might not have seen the Lord at all… but you made it possible.”

Sanjeev humbly bowed his head.

Ramappa, with tears in his eyes, simply nodded—grateful, fulfilled, and deeply moved.

K.Ragavan 

3-4-26