#raati

Santhosh’s ‘Raati’ is here – The Hindu

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Growing up in the Nineties, Rahman’s songs were a big influence on Santhosh Dhayanidhi’s life. So much that it helped him choose a career.

“When I was in Class VI, I remember watching his live shows on TV. I was listening to all his film songs at that time, and I was so inspired that I pestered my parents to get me a keyboard,” recalls Santhosh Dhayanidhi. That moment would kickstart a…

“Lucy?”

“Lucy, are you in here? Oi.”

“Lucille?”

No sisters. The hideout was empty. What could be more elusive than a constant, oppressive presence when you’re actually looking for it? Harvard huffed. Back out the tower he’d go. Inconvenient. But he’d found it himself, and he was proud of it. At least it was private and free. Besides, Chet seemed to approve of it, and he always knew, right?

– When Harvard did find Lucille, it was by nearly stepping on her face when he vaulted too quickly and too carelessly on to the rope ladder leading down from the hideout. The gesture was appreciated the usual amount.  “-Hello-, Harvard,” were her exact words.

– Lucille was storing the day’s groceries in the supply corner. Her scores were characteristically humble. “Hey, Lucy.”

“Mmhm?”

“Uh…Nice finds today.”

Lucille laughed. Praise was unusual. Usually he teased her modesty. “Well, -thank- you, Harvey.”

“I picked up some money today!”

Uh-oh. Here came the boasting, she figured.

“Oh?”

“Yeah! And I made sure this guy wouldn’t miss it. He was one of those old guys who screw waiters and waitresses out of tips and half the regular pay, you know, acting like the food was all messed up. Well, he ate fecking most of it, didn’t he.”

“And you robbed him?”

“Yeah. He’ll find out later.”

Lucille giggled. “I actually like it.” She deigned. “I just wish the worker got the money they deserved.”

“Well, they could, yeah? I was thinking we could go to dinner there. And pay. And just chat, like? We haven’t done that in a while. We can try and get that waitress. I did the math. We’ve got enough to tip half.”

Lucille paused. She put down her work. She turned to her brother, palms on her hips. “-Harvard-. This is unexpected.”

“Yeah. Shut up. Are you in?”

Lucille laughed. She hugged him. It was good to see him trying. “Of course! I always have time for you. I think it’s a wonderful idea. Let me just put on a shirt with less holes in it.”