The story "Athithi Devo Bhava – A calling bell, a fond remembrance" by C.P. Hariharan reflects on the general apathy and rudeness people exhibit towards guests. It highlights how many individuals delay answering the doorbell, respond with hostility, or even ignore visitors altogether, often prioritizing their personal tasks over the needs of others. The narrative points out that while some may be suspicious of visitors, it is important to recognize that guests could be in genuine need. The author emphasizes that contemporary society often lacks basic courtesy, with many individuals believing that attending to guests diminishes their own value or prestige. The principle of "Athithi Devo Bhava," which translates to "The guest is God," is invoked to remind readers of the importance of treating visitors with respect and kindness. A poignant example in the story illustrates a tragic situation where a woman, absorbed in her daily routine, fails to open the door to a man conveying the news of her husband's accident, highlighting the potential consequences of neglecting our responsibilities to others. The story concludes with a reminder that life is unpredictable, and we should always treat our guests with the care they deserve.

by c P Hariharan in English Short Stories

Writen by c P Hariharan

Category Short Stories