Iyappan, named after the Hindu God Iyappan, once seemed to be a quiet personality, is actually an enthusiastic old man from Theni district in Tamil Nadu, with a powerful story for all of us.
Almost 30 years before, he came with his wife Maniyammai, to his sister’s house in Trichy. He went on to make his living from the polishing of synthetic diamonds for jewelry businesses. The happy couple lived with no kids in a rental apartment for many years. The unconditional love of their nephews filled all the emptiness in their life and they were all together - a happy family.
This lasted until he lost his wife in an awful accident. Ever since, his life had no order and he went wandering the streets of Chennai for many years. Losing someone you love is never easy! He returned to Trichy 10 years back in memory of his loving wife - Maniyammai. He refused my offer to take him back to Theni, where his relatives still live and accepted my request not to smoke tobacco hereafter. One way, I am happy! I am sure he wanted to stay in the same place where he shared most of his time with his dear wife.
He never wishes for money from us and always gets one packet of food for himself. I could not see him one day and I was worried. The next day I was happy to see him again and I was told that he went for a swim in the river the other day. I am glad he is having a little fun-time. I asked him what he wished for. I was ready to help him with anything. But, he just wanted a weather-proof bag to store some belongings of his wife, which he is preserving in her memories. I never imagined that life could be this simple for someone. Sometimes simplicity is the real beauty!
This man has no money and has no lavish wishes in life but just a stomach full of hunger and a heart full of Maniyammai’s memories. I am sure she was very lucky to have him! Iyappan wishes to meet Maniyammai soon and lives everyday hoping to get to her. It was heart-breaking to feel the pain and I was overwhelmed by his love for his wife. PSR will always be there for him and people like him, when they are hungry.
The story of Mr. Iyappan and his Maniyammai are very special and I am sure he will be very excited to know that he is sharing his story with all of you. Seeing him and talking to him made me believe that the biggest happiness is to love and be loved.
