Horegallu by Sudha Murty
Horegallu is a touching story by Sudha
Murty that highlights the importance of kindness, empathy, and emotional
support in human life. The author recalls her childhood days in a village where
a large banyan tree provided shade to travellers. Under the tree stood a horegallu,
a stone bench where tired people could rest, drink water, and regain their
strength before continuing their journey.
The
horegallu is closely associated with the author's grandfather, a retired
schoolteacher. He spent hours sitting near it, listening patiently to the
worries and problems of travellers and villagers. Although he could not solve
their difficulties, his sympathetic listening refreshed them and lightened
their emotional burdens. He explained to the author that everyone carries burdens
in life and occasionally needs a place to rest and recover, just as travellers
need a horegallu during their journey.
Years
later, while working in Mumbai, the author met Ratna, a cheerful senior clerk
who spent her lunch breaks listening to the problems of her colleagues. Ratna
believed that people often need someone to listen to them without judgment. By
listening with sympathy and keeping their secrets confidential, she helped them
feel relieved and regain confidence. Her words reminded the author of her
grandfather and the horegallu of her childhood.
The story concludes that both the grandfather and Ratna acted as human horegallus by providing comfort and emotional support to others. Through this lesson, Sudha Murty emphasizes that simple acts of kindness, understanding, and attentive listening can make a great difference in people's lives. She wishes that there were many more such "horegallus" in the world who could help others carry their burdens and continue their journey with renewed strength.
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