Small Story 627.

 Small Story 627

The Singer’s Encounter

Ram had returned from his aunt’s house after meeting her regarding a marriage alliance for her son, Subbu. The prospective bride was the daughter of Ram’s friend, a doctor, while Subbu was also a doctor. Both were working in Dubai. Unfortunately, their horoscopes did not match, and Ram’s aunt was disappointed because Ram’s friend was a well-respected and kind person.

When Ram came home, his wife, Mallika, said, “Just now, I received a call on your mobile. It was from your friend Mani, who worked with you in the Middle East. Before I could answer, the call got disconnected.”

Ram immediately remembered Mani. During his days in the Middle East, Ram worked for a pharmaceutical company, while Mani, a renowned insurance professional, worked for a leading insurance company. They often met during morning walks and at Tamil Association events. Mani was known not only for his professional success but also for his rich singing voice. He had thousands of followers on YouTube and Smule.

Ram called him back.

“Ram! What a pleasant surprise!” Mani exclaimed. “It’s been almost ten years!”

After exchanging greetings, Mani said, “I am in Bangalore. I came seeking a marriage alliance for my daughter, but it could not be finalized because I arrived too late.”

“Don’t worry,” Ram replied. “Tell me about your daughter.”

“She is a Hospital Administrator working in Dubai,” said Mani.

“Wonderful. Why don’t you come to my house right away? I’ll send you my location,” Ram suggested.

After the call, Ram contacted his aunt and asked her to come to his house with the astrologer who lived nearby. Within half an hour, his aunt arrived with the astrologer. Around the same time, Mani also reached Ram’s house.

Ram introduced Mani to his aunt. “He is an old friend and a versatile singer. He has a huge following on YouTube and Smule.”

The astrologer examined the horoscopes of Subbu and Mani’s daughter, Radhika. After careful study, he smiled and said, “The match is excellent. Their horoscopes are well aligned, and they will have a happy married life.”

Excited, Ram immediately sent Radhika’s photograph to Subbu. Within seconds, a reply came: “I like her.”

At the same time, Mani received Radhika’s response regarding Subbu: “I like him.”

Everyone was delighted.

Three months later, the wedding was celebrated grandly in Chennai. One of the highlights of the event was a magnificent musical performance by Mani and his troupe. The guests were mesmerized by his singing.

Ram’s aunt was overjoyed. Not only had her son found a beautiful bride, but his father-in-law was also a talented and celebrated singer.

Ram and Mallika felt especially happy. A chance phone call had reunited them with a dear old friend from their morning-walking group and Tamil Association days, and that reunion had led to a wonderful marriage alliance.

Sometimes, life’s greatest blessings arrive through unexpected encounters.

— K. Ragavan

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