By Vimal Kapoor
Ramesh wiped the sweat off his brow and again bent down to chisel the wood, his eyes completely focused on the block of teakwood. In the sprawling city of Jodhpur, famous for its splendid forts, and centuries-old tradition of fine craftsmanship, lived a master carpenter named Ramesh Prashad. Among the innumerable skilled artisans of Rajasthan, Ramesh was widely hailed as the best. His hands possessed a rare magic that could transform ordinary pieces of timber into awesome works of art. Every beam, door, staircase, and piece of furniture he crafted reflected perfection, patience, and passion.
Ramesh worked for A-Z Construction Company, one of the most respected construction firms of Jaipur. The company was owned by the wealthy and influential builder, Sudip Roy. Although Mr Roy was an astute businessman, he knew very well that the true reason behind his company’s phenomenal success was Ramesh’s exceptional workmanship.
Whenever A-Z Construction announced a new residential project, buyers rushed to book homes even before construction was completed. They trusted the quality associated with Ramesh Prashad’s name.
Ramesh was far more than a brilliant carpenter. Over the years, his experience had made him an expert in almost every phase of construction. He often guided masons, plumbers, electricians, architects, and painters whenever he noticed mistakes in their work. His co-workers admired him deeply, and even experienced engineers valued his practical suggestions.
Years passed, and Ramesh continued to build beautiful homes that earned admiration from clients and connoisseurs alike. However, age had begun to slow him down. The long hours, the physical strain, and the constant responsibility had taken their toll. One evening, while sitting with his wife and two sons, Ramesh quietly shared what had been weighing on his mind.
“I have spent my entire life building homes,” he said softly. “Now I wish to retire and spend the rest of my days in peace with my family.”
His wife smiled warmly, and both his sons immediately supported his decision. They had watched him work tirelessly for decades and believed he had earned a peaceful retirement. Encouraged by their approval, Ramesh decided to speak with Mr Roy the very next morning.
The following day, he visited the magnificent mansion of Sudip Roy—a luxurious residence that, ironically, had been designed and built under Ramesh’s own supervision years earlier. Mr Roy was enjoying breakfast in his garden when he saw his trusted carpenter approaching.
“Good morning, Ramesh!” he greeted cheerfully.
With folded hands and utmost respect, Ramesh replied, “Seth ji, I have had the opportunity of working for you all my life. But age is catching up with me now. I wish to retire and spend the remaining years of my life with my family. I hope you will understand.”
Mr Roy listened patiently before smiling gently. He stood up, placed a reassuring hand on Ramesh’s shoulder, and said, “I completely understand your feelings. But before you retire, I have one final request. Please build one last house for me. Once it is complete, you will be free to enjoy your retirement.”
Ramesh was deeply disappointed. He had expected immediate acceptance, not another assignment. Though he wanted to refuse, years of loyalty and respect prevented him from arguing. Reluctantly, he agreed.
When he returned home, his face reflected disappointment and frustration. He told his family that his retirement had been delayed because Mr Roy insisted that he complete one final project.
The next morning, construction began. However, something had changed within Ramesh. His heart was no longer in his work. The enthusiasm and dedication that was once his characteristic hallmark had vanished. Frequently, he stayed away from the construction site for days and sometimes even weeks.
Without his careful supervision, the entire team became careless. Inferior construction materials were used to save time and effort. Measurements were ignored, finishing work was rushed, and several structural details were overlooked. Even Ramesh himself paid little attention to the carpentry. The elegant wooden doors, polished cabinets, decorative ceilings, and handcrafted furniture that had once been his signature were replaced by rough and sloppy workmanship.
When the house was finally completed, it was a pale shadow of the magnificent homes Ramesh had built throughout his career. The walls lacked precision, the fittings were mediocre, and the woodwork was perhaps the poorest he had ever produced. Those who saw the house found it difficult to believe that it had been built by the legendary Ramesh Prashad.
Feeling strangely satisfied, Ramesh walked into Mr Roy’s office and said with a hint of sarcasm, “Sir, your last house is ready.”
Mr Roy looked at him kindly and smiled.
“Dear Ramesh,” he said, “throughout your life you have helped me build not just houses, but my reputation and fortune. Long ago I decided that when you finally retired, I would present your last project to you as a token of my thanks.”
He reached into his pocket, took out a small bunch of keys, and gently placed them in Ramesh’s trembling hand.
“This house belongs to you,” he said warmly. “It is my gift to you and your family. Thank you for your years of dedication. I now release you from your responsibilities and wish you a long, happy, and peaceful retirement.”
For a few moments, Ramesh stood stunned. Slowly he realised the terrible mistake he had made. The poorly built house he had carelessly constructed was not meant for someone else—it was destined to become his own home.
Overcome with shame and regret, his head hanging low, he wobbled unsteadily towards his ‘new house’!
(Vimal Kapoor, a Dehradun resident, is passionate about literature, creative writing, cricket and exploration through travel)
