Small Story 324.

Small Story 324. Never Take It for Granted Suhail arrived at his maternal uncle's house in Nanganallur, Chennai, near the famous Anjaneya temple. His uncle, Mr. Muthuswamy, was a retired headmaster, now enjoying a peaceful life there. Suhail pressed the calling bell, and a sweet voice replied from inside, "Coming!" Moments later, the door opened, and a graceful woman welcomed him in. "Is Mr. Muthuswamy here?" Suhail asked politely. "Yes, please come in," she replied with a warm smile. Suhail entered and took a seat. After a couple of minutes, his uncle walked in. They hadn’t seen each other since Suhail’s family moved to Vijayawada years ago after his father's job transfer. "Mama, I’m Suhail, your sister Lakshmi's son. I’ve come from Vijayawada," he introduced himself. "Oh, Suhail! Of course. I remember you now. You were studying when I last saw you. You’ve grown up," Mr. Muthuswamy said, pleasantly surprised. Just then, Lalitha aunty came from the kitchen. "Hey, how are you, Suhail? Just now your mother called and told me you've been transferred to Chennai. Come, let’s have lunch." "No, aunty, thank you. I had a heavy breakfast with a friend. I'm now staying in Anna Nagar, close to my office. I joined last week," Suhail responded politely. "That’s nice. How are your parents—your mother Lakshmi and your father Lakshman?" his uncle asked. "They’re doing fine," whispered Suhail, still curious about the woman who had opened the door. She had disappeared inside. Meanwhile, Lalitha aunty called out, "Swapna, come here for a minute." A moment later, the same woman who had welcomed Suhail returned. "This is Swapna, my friend’s daughter from Tirunelveli. She came last week and is staying with us. Her office is also in Anna Nagar." Suhail was stunned—this was the "dream girl" who had opened the door. Swapna smiled and said, "I’m working as a Project Manager in [Company Name]." Suhail’s jaw dropped. "That’s the company I work for! You're my boss?" "Nice to meet you again," she said warmly. "Where are you staying now?" "I’m staying at my dad's friend’s house near our office. I joined duty on Saturday." "Good to know! Happy to see you here, Suhail," she said, her tone friendly and professional. After spending an hour with the family, Suhail took his leave, his thoughts lingering on Swapna. The next day, he saw her at work and greeted her. She returned the greeting with a smile. A month passed, during which she praised his work in meetings, making Suhail feel proud and happy. Their daily greetings became a small joy for Suhail. But one day, Swapna gathered the team and said cheerfully, "Dear friends, I’m getting married next month in my hometown Tirunelveli. I’d love for all of you to attend. My fiancé is a physician working at a private hospital here in Chennai." She handed out the invitation cards. Suhail felt a wave of sadness, though he hid it well. The realization hit him—it was just his feelings; she had never shown anything more than kindness and professionalism. As he left the room, he recalled his father’s words: > “Never take anything for granted.” K.Ragavan 1-8-25

MyL etter in New india Abroad USA

https://www.newindiaabroad.com/english/letters-to-the-editor/trump-tariff-on-india-has-sparked-concernMy Letter Published in NewIndiaAbroad USA on 31 July 25 Dear Sir, Trump Announces 25% Tariff on India Over Russian Arms and Energy Deals. In a recent development, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports in response to India's continued purchase of weapons and energy resources from Russia. This move has sparked concern and drawn sharp reactions from several countries, including India. While the official response from New Delhi is still awaited, the tariff is being viewed as a politically charged and economically aggressive step. Analysts believe that India may explore diplomatic channels to negotiate or push back against the decision, especially given its strategic autonomy in foreign policy and defense procurement. The announcement has not been well received internationally either, with many countries criticizing the unilateral nature of the tariff. Critics argue that such measures could harm global trade relations and escalate tensions among major economies at a time when global cooperation is crucial. India’s response to this tariff will be closely watched, as it could set the tone for future engagements between the two nations, especially in areas of defense, trade, and strategic K.Ragavan Bengaluru

Small Story 323.

Small Story 323. The Unexpected Lesson on Risk Suresh reached Mrs. Mallika's apartment and rang the doorbell. The door opened, and Mallika greeted him warmly, inviting him inside. “Madam, I am extremely sorry to hear about your nephew’s accident in Mumbai,” Suresh said sincerely. “Here is the cheque for ₹20 lakhs from his insurance claim.” “Yes,” Mallika replied with a sigh. “No one anticipated Shyam’s unexpected accident during his short trip to Mumbai to attend a friend’s wedding. Since my brother and sister-in-law are bedridden in our native town, Kumbakonam, they have authorized me to receive the cheque on their behalf.” Suresh nodded. “I remember when I suggested the policy to Shyam, he was initially reluctant. But finally, he agreed to take a short-term insurance plan for ₹20 lakhs.” “He told me about it,” Mallika said, handing him a cup of tea with some biscuits. “My brother had requested that the cheque be delivered here, as they will be moving to Chennai next week.” Suresh took a sip of tea and continued, “Many people still hesitate to take insurance. They think death or accidents won’t happen to them. But being in this profession, I’ve seen time and again that no one knows what the future holds. Taking a policy doesn’t mean you’re expecting the worst—it means you’re preparing responsibly.” Mallika nodded thoughtfully. “You're right. Covering one’s risk is important—not only for oneself but for the dependents as well. Your explanation has made the concept of risk and insurance much clearer to me. One should accept life’s uncertainties but not live in fear of them. Insurance truly is a boon for every individual.” Suresh smiled, feeling satisfied. “Thank you, madam. I’m happy you understood the real value behind it.” He departed with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that the message had been received well. K.Ragavan 31-7-25

Small Story 322.

Small Story 322 Destiny at Forum Mall Aravind missed the second train—again. He had been waiting for his favorite friend, Nirupa, who hadn’t shown up. Just as he sighed in frustration, a familiar voice called out, “I’m extremely sorry, Aravind.” He turned around to see Nirupa, and instantly his mood lifted. She looked elegant in a green saree with a matching blouse, the image of a corporate executive. “Hey, what’s the matter with you? You’re usually so punctual,” Aravind said, smiling. Nirupa sighed. “I was about to leave when Dad called from Chennai. He attended a relative’s wedding and met a family with a boy whose horoscope matches mine. I wanted to tell him about us—twice—but couldn’t bring myself to.” “Don’t worry,” Aravind reassured her. “My parents already know about us and they’ve agreed.” They took the next train to Forum Mall, a beautifully arranged place, almost a replica of Dubai’s famous malls, drawing more visitors every day. After spending two hours roaming and having lunch, they sat on a bench to rest. Suddenly, Nirupa’s phone rang. It was her father, Chary. “Hey Nirupa, where are you? Hope you’re in the office,” he said. Nirupa hadn’t told her parents she stayed back in Bengaluru while they went to Chennai. “Dad, why did you call again?” “Just to inform you—the boy’s horoscope didn’t match. They’re very particular, so it won’t work out. Even though your mom and I liked him.” “Okay, Dad. I’ll tell you my decision when you return to Bengaluru.” “Tell me now if you have someone in mind,” Chary pressed. “Yes, Dad,” she admitted. “There’s someone. He’s from a respected family. The first time we met, I lost my bag at a restaurant, and he returned it to me. He works as a Quality Control Manager in a leading pharma company. His name is Aravind, and he’s the grandson of the late lawyer Rangachary, now settled in Bengaluru.” Chary paused. “Wait, what’s his mother’s name?” “Vasanthy,” Nirupa replied. “I’ll call you back in two minutes,” Chary said. When he called again, he was elated. “Yes! Rangachary was my mother’s uncle. Your late grandmother, Ambujam, always wanted a connection with that family. Looks like her wish is finally coming true.” The next day, Chary and his wife visited Aravind’s house. His mother, Vasanthy, immediately recognized the connection. Everyone welcomed the alliance with joy, including Aravind’s father, Ram, who worked as a General Manager at a leading film distribution company. One month later, Aravind and Nirupa were married in a grand ceremony at Sindoor Mahal, attended by a large gathering of guests—including several film personalities. K.Ragavan 30-7-25

Small Story 321.

Small Story 321 Frankly Franklin At their usual evening meeting spot, Franklin noticed that Athma wasn’t in his usual mood. “Hey, what’s the problem? You don’t seem like yourself today,” Franklin asked with concern. Both were close friends, retired from the same private company, and now settled in Coimbatore. Athma sighed and shook his head. “Nothing... It’s just that people think I retired with a huge amount of money and keep asking me for short-term help. I honestly can’t afford to help them.” Franklin smiled gently. “Ah, you're worrying too much. We shouldn’t pretend or live under false prestige.” He continued, “You know, I enjoy interacting with people on social media. And there, I’ve written the truth about myself in my profile. Want to hear it?” Athma nodded. Franklin recited, “I’m Franklin, retired from a private company. I’m 73 years old, a non-pensioner. I only wish to connect with like-minded friends—those who are genuine and not out to betray or take advantage of others. If someone likes me for who I am, they’re welcome to be my friend.” Athma was delighted by the honesty and strength in those words. It made him realize that being open and genuine matters more than living up to others’ expectations. “One should be frank and honest,” he said thoughtfully. “And not worry about what people think.” Franklin nodded and smiled. “If you can help, help. If not, at least pray for them,” he whispered before they parted for the night. Athma left, feeling lighter and inspired by Franklin’s frank and open heart. K.Ragavan 29-7-25

Tribute to My Friend Murugappan 883

Tribute to My Friend Murugappan Whenever I recollect the past, my memory always goes to my dear friend Murugappan. It’s truly amazing how a brief meeting during a short journey turned into a strong friendship that has lasted over four decades. At the time we met, he was working as the Branch Manager of a leading finance company. He had a great rapport with his clients and was well known in that area for his integrity and professionalism—qualities I deeply admired. We became close friends, and every Sunday we would visit the Ramakrishna Vedanta College in Mysore. We listened to Swamiji's inspiring 45-minute lectures through our Ramakrishna Seva Sangh. I still cherish those sessions and remember one of the powerful mantras: "Asato Ma Sad Gamaya." Apart from visiting the Ramakrishna Institute, we also watched a few movies together. Our similar way of thinking further strengthened our bond. He left Mysore around 1990 upon his promotion and transfer to the Madurai office. I left Mysore in 1993 and returned to India in 2009. In 2010, I had the opportunity to meet him again in Chennai—and to this day, our friendship and bond remain strong. Murugappan is known for his simplicity, his kind and helpful nature, and his deep-rooted values. He is blessed with a wonderful son who is doing well in business. I fondly remember sitting behind him on his powerful Rajdoot motorcycle between 1984 and 1990. I always admired his careful driving. With his characteristic smile, he would say, “Don’t worry, Sayaburey, I will take you carefully.” He hails from the famous Chettinad town of Karaikudi, where he is now settled. Sadly, he lost his beloved wife a few years ago. Today, I remember this wonderful and generous friend with great affection. I wish him continued peace, good health, and happiness—and all the very best to his son and family as well K.Ragavan 28-7-25

Good Clip.

https://youtu.be/qzjJtnodN3w?si=R6F4Heu7iwrrFzMbAnother wonderful clip from the award-winning director Nagabharana beautifully explains his experience with the making of Janumada Jodi. The film was born out of his deep passion and commitment—he took the story rights from the late writer Pannalal and waited nearly a decade before starting the project. This long wait is a testament to his careful calculation, unwavering confidence in the story, and belief in its potential success. Sitting with his team members and discussing the nuances of the film, he emphasized how much late Dr. Rajkumar's suggestion and encouragement instilled further confidence in the project. Based on the team's deliberation and Rajkumar's insight, they made a bold choice to shoot the film in the Mandya region instead of other areas—a decision that rooted the story in its authentic cultural setting. In my strong opinion, the success of a film cannot be predicted solely by external opinions. When the content is powerful, the director’s vision is clear, and the presentation is sincere—with talented artists and a committed crew—the result is almost always success. The story’s craft, the director's insight, and the collective effort of technicians such as the editor, cinematographer, music director, and many others all play a vital role in shaping the film’s impact. I wholeheartedly applaud Director Nagabharana for his patience, deep listening, and observational strength—qualities that have contributed significantly to his successful journey in cinema. K.Ragavan