Small Story 263.

Small Story 263 An Evening of Surprises at the Reception Rajesh took his reserved seat at the restaurant, feeling a mix of nostalgia and excitement. It had been three years since his transfer to Bengaluru, and this visit to Mysore brought back many memories. He was now the District Manager for a leading multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Germany. His wife, Anjali, couldn’t accompany him as she couldn’t get leave from her bank job. He had come alone to represent her at the wedding reception of Mr. Paul's son. Mr. Paul was a close friend of Anjali’s father. The event was being held at the prestigious Southern Star Hotel, where Rajesh also had a room booked. After visiting the Mysore Palace and other attractions, Rajesh returned to his room to freshen up. By 6 PM, he was at the reception hall, which was already buzzing with guests — including several VIPs and VVIPs. The prominence was understandable, as Mr. Paul was a retired Inspector General and currently the Director of the famous OO1 Investigation Academy in Mysore, renowned internationally. Rajesh felt honored to attend such a high-profile event. Around 7 PM, the legendary OO1 and his assistant Ranjitha arrived. While enjoying the evening snacks, Mr. Paul inquired about Anjali and introduced Rajesh to the Chief Investigator of OO1, emphasizing Rajesh’s background as a gold medalist in M.Pharm. Rajesh was thrilled to meet such an internationally respected figure. He was also introduced to OO1's wife, Ambujam, a well-known name in the world of philanthropy. The evening took an even more surprising turn when Ranjitha shared that her uncle was the Technical Director at the German headquarters of Rajesh’s company. This unexpected connection delighted Rajesh. He had come simply to attend a wedding reception, but he left having met stalwarts in the field of investigation and discovered influential links to his professional life. As he made his way back to his room, he couldn’t help but replay the day’s remarkable events in his mind — an evening truly beyond expectations. K.Ragavan 1-6-25

Great loss.

The passing of the versatile and multifaceted actor Rajesh is a profound loss to the film industry. He carved a unique identity through a wide range of roles and was admired and respected by all in the film fraternity. His contributions to cinema will always be remembered and cherished. May his soul rest in peace. Our heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time. May they find the strength to bear this irreparable loss. K Ragavan 31-5-25

Small Story 262.

Small Story 262. Temple Encounter – A Bond Beyond Blood After Chander’s retirement, he and his wife Madhavi decided to move into their newly bought apartment. At 60 and 56 respectively, Chander and Madhavi were a couple made for each other — understanding, loving, and content. Their peaceful life together was nothing short of a blessing. Settling into the new apartment brought fresh joy — new neighbors, a refreshing atmosphere, and a renewed sense of life. One evening, their daughter Vasanthy called from New Jersey. Curious about the new home, she asked her father to show her around. Chander happily gave her a video tour, and she complimented his choice warmly. After a pleasant chat with Vasanthy and his son-in-law Rishi, Chander hung up the call. His thoughts drifted back to his last visit to New Jersey — especially the serene moments spent at the New Jersey temple. It was there that he and Madhavi had met a young woman named Roshani. Roshani, just 23, had lost her parents early in life and was raised by her uncle in Bengaluru. She now lived and worked in New Jersey. During their temple visit, she had been a kind guide to Chander and Madhavi, and a warm friendship blossomed instantly. Touched by their kindness, Roshani invited them to her home, where they met her again along with Vasanthy and Rishi. As they were leaving, Roshani hesitated for a moment and then said with emotion, “I don’t know how or why, but I feel a deep attachment to both of you. Can I call you Dad and Mum?” Madhavi smiled warmly and said, “Of course, you can.” From that day, Roshani called them every week without fail. For the past two years, she had remained in close contact. That day, Vasanthy messaged Chander with joyful news — Roshani was getting married in Bengaluru and would soon visit. Later that evening, Roshani called. “Dad,” she said excitedly, “My marriage is fixed and will be held in Bengaluru. You and Mum must bless me.” “Of course,” Chander replied with a smile. Twenty days later, Roshani’s wedding was celebrated in grand style. Her groom, Anand, was also from Bengaluru and worked in New Jersey. On the wedding day, Vasanthy called to wish Roshani and said, “Even though I couldn't come, you're lucky to have Dad and Mum there to bless you.” Roshani shed happy tears. “Yes, I am very lucky,” she whispered. After the wedding, Roshani visited Chander and Madhavi on Father’s Day. She brought them gifts — a beautiful watch for Chander and a delicate chain for Madhavi. “I’m giving this to my loving Dad and Mum,” she said. “The day I met you both at the New Jersey temple, I was truly blessed.” Chander and Madhavi hugged her tightly, and with emotion in their voices, whispered, “We are blessed too, Roshani — to have another daughter.” K.Ragavan 31-5-25

Letter.

Letter Published in The National UAE on 30 May 25 ,Trump's University move. will damage America's brand I write in reference to Ahmed S Almansoori and Shireena Al Nowais's article Emirati Harvard alumni criticise Trump plan to block overseas students (May 28): the Trump administration's recent plan to bar foreign students from attending Ivy League universities was unexpected and may have significant negative consequences. Experts suggest that it could adversely affect the US economy, particularly in sectors that benefit from international talent, such as technology, research and academia. Moreover, critics argue that the policy sends a discouraging message to global students, undermines the US’s long-standing reputation for educational excellence, and potentially drives international talent to other countries like Canada, the UK and Australia. Emirati Harvard alumni, among others, voiced concern over the decision, stressing that such measures could harm not only international relations but also the academic and cultural diversity that fuels innovation in US institutions. K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India

Small Story 261.

Small Story 261. Sweet Affection, Sugarless Tea Ram, after finishing his regular morning walk, stepped into the familiar setting of his beloved group—a gathering of friends he had been meeting for over three years. Their warmth and camaraderie were always accompanied by sweet tea, served faithfully by the nearby restaurant. Despite his diabetic condition, Ram often accepted the tea, not for its taste but for the affection behind the gesture. The tea was brewed in bulk, sweetened beforehand, and served from a common flask. While Ram hesitated to speak against it, he also couldn’t ignore the thoughtful hospitality of his friends. One day, however, things changed. Upon noticing Ram’s quiet reluctance, several group members decided to act. They approached the restaurant staff with a heartfelt request: could they prepare a separate sugarless tea just for Ram? After repeated appeals and genuine persistence, the restaurant—honoring the long-standing presence of the group that had gathered there for over two and a half decades—agreed to change their policy. Ram was deeply touched. The gesture was more than a cup of unsweetened tea—it was a symbol of thoughtful affection and respect. Holding the warm cup in his hands, Ram smiled and said, “I’m lucky to be part of this group.” K.Ragavan 30-5-25

Small Story 260.

Small Story 260 The Unexpected VIP Encounter Today, Seshan had planned to meet his old friend Chander, but he was disappointed as heavy rains poured in his area. Chander had come all the way from New Zealand with his wife. Seshan and Chander had served in the same firm that manufactured pharmaceutical machinery, both working as technical engineers. After retirement, Seshan chose to settle in Bengaluru, while Chander moved to New Zealand with his wife, following their only daughter Aditi, who had migrated there with her husband and son. Now, after three years, Chander was visiting Bengaluru, staying at his uncle’s house on Kanakapura Road. He had invited Seshan to meet him. Although Seshan had already invited them for lunch earlier, Chander and his uncle’s family insisted that Seshan should visit them first. There was still no sign of the rain stopping. Suddenly, Seshan received a call from his son in Sydney. His son was delighted to hear that Uncle Chander was in town and fondly recalled playing chess with him during childhood. After chatting for a few minutes, he wished that the rain would stop soon so his father could meet his old friend. Miraculously, within ten minutes, the rain ceased. Seshan called out to his wife Anjali to get ready, and together they headed to Chander's place. On arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Chander, his wife, and his uncle Swamy and his wife. After enjoying delicious sweets and snacks, Swamy asked Seshan how long he had been in Bengaluru. "It's my eighth year, sir. I really enjoy the culture and traditional values here," Seshan replied. Swamy nodded in agreement. “Yes, people here are deeply rooted in faith and tradition. I’ve been living here for thirty years since I retired as Chief Director of RAW.” Seshan was taken aback. “You are the Swamy of RAW? The one who cracked several high-profile cases and was honored by the government 25 years ago? I remember! My late father was your admirer, and so am I. What an honor to meet you—thanks to my old friend Chander.” Chander smiled modestly. “I’ve heard about Swamy’s remarkable career from my mother too. She admired his service deeply.” After spending quality time reminiscing and sharing stories, Seshan and his wife left with hearts full of joy—not only from reuniting with an old friend, but also from unexpectedly meeting a national hero. Swamy warmly promised to visit Seshan s K.Ragavan 29-5-25 .

Kudos to AnantNag.

The recent announcement of the Padma Bhushan Award for the year 2025, bestowed upon the versatile actor of the Sandalwood film industry, Anant Nag, is truly amazing and well-deserved. With a remarkable career spanning over five decades, Anant Nag has contributed to more than 300 films, portraying a wide range of characters with exceptional depth and authenticity. His unique presence and acting prowess have carved a distinct identity for him in the Kannada film industry—an image that no one can deny. Now at the age of 76, receiving this prestigious national honor, although long overdue, is a fitting recognition of his immense contributions to Indian cinema and culture. Kudos to Anant Nag—a true legend of Sandalwood! K.Ragavan 28-5-25