Small Story 594.

 Small Story 594.

Respecting Elders’ Wisdom

Rohini came to the bus stop to take a bus to BSK 3rd Stage, as her car was at the service center. She didn’t want to take an auto since the distance to Malathy’s house was hardly two kilometers. The bus stop was conveniently located in front of her independent house.

Rohini and Malathy had become close friends at a popular gym in JP Nagar. For the past seven years, their friendship had grown stronger. Both were of the same age, maintained good health, and were committed to fitness through regular exercise.

Seeing Rohini at her doorstep, Malathy was delighted.

“Hey! If you were coming, I would have sent Rohan to pick you up, especially since your car is in service,” she said.

“No problem,” Rohini replied with a smile. “I wanted to travel by bus—after many years!”

Malathy served delicious snacks, including her famous rava laddu. Rohini tasted one and nodded appreciatively.

“Amazing taste, Malathy! Where did you learn this?”

“All thanks to my mother-in-law,” Malathy said warmly. “She taught me many recipes. She’s now visiting my brother-in-law in Australia.”

Rohini had a daughter, Reshma, who was in her final year of architecture. Malathy’s son, Rohan, was a smart and handsome young man studying in his final year of medicine. Malathy’s husband, Ram, was an investigative photojournalist who had received many accolades. Rohini’s husband, Ashwin, was a versatile editor working for a leading international online magazine.

When Rohini left, Ram said softly to Malathy,

“Rohini’s daughter Reshma is smart and charming. I was thinking… what if we consider an alliance between Rohan and Reshma?”

Malathy sighed gently.

“I had the same thought. In fact, I already spoke to Rohini about it. But she said it’s not possible—they belong to the same gothra.”

Ram nodded in understanding. He recalled how one of his close friends had married within the same gothra and how their families had faced difficulties afterward.

“Elders speak from experience,” Ram said thoughtfully. “We may choose to follow or not, but their words carry wisdom.”

Though slightly disappointed, Ram accepted the decision. Like many others, he believed in respecting elders’ guidance, understanding that their advice often comes from years of life experience.

K.Ragavan

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