The arrival of the twin boys on the
6th of August 1963 at 8.18 and 8.22 AM in Kolar district of Karnataka state
turned an ordinary day into a festival of joy. They were born at the
American mission hospital in Kolar district. Two tiny cries echoed through
the room like the sweetest music announcing the beginning of a new chapter
in the family's story .Like two bright stars appearing together in the night
sky the brothers brought double the happiness, double the hope and double
the dreams. Their mother Sulochana was served with two eggs in the hospital.
The home once quiet, now pulsed with
laughter, blessings and celebration as family and friends gathered to
welcome the precious twins into the world.
Their
tiny hands seemed to hold endless promise and their innocent eyes reflected
a future filled with wonder. The home once quiet now pulsed with laughter,
blessings and celebration as family and friends gathered together to welcome
the precious twins into the world. They were named as Jai and Vijay. Though
only four minutes separated their arrival into the world, those brief
moments made Jai the elder and Vijay the younger. A mere four minutes on the
clock, yet a distinction that would remain with them throughout their lives.
The twin boys entered the world
together bound by the same first breath and the same tender hopes that
surrounded their birth. Yet fate had written a difficult chapter into their
story. They were born with marble bone disease, a rare condition that made
their bones unusually dense and fragile.
Their father Thulasilingam was a
fisheries scientist and mother Sulochana was a housewife. The Brittle twins
started their Studies at Cochin in Kerala State. They studied from
kindergarten to second standard at Kendriya Vidyalaya School.
They stayed at Pullaipadi in Cochin. Cochin, the queen of the Arabian
Sea unfolds like a timeless painting were history and nature meet in
graceful harmony.
Every morning the Jai and Vijay’s
journey to the school in the cycle rickshaw was a small adventure filled
with delight. Seated comfortably beside friends they watched the world
awakened as the rickshaw rolled gently along the streets. Trees lined the
roads like silent guardians, their leaves dancing in the sunlight. By the
time the school gates came into view, the journey itself had already become
one of the happiest parts of the day.
One daily morning in Pullaipadi when
dark clouds draped the sky and raindrops danced merrily upon the earth.
Vijay stepped outside his house to revel in the season's delight. The cool
rain embraced him as he splashed through puddles, his laughter mingling with
the rhythm of falling water. Lost in the carefree joy of childhood, he ran
and played beneath the grey heavens.
But in a sudden and unexpected
moment, happiness gave way to pain. A fall during the playful frolic left
Vijay with a fractured left femur.
The rain continued to fall gently as
if mourning the accident that had interrupted his innocent celebration.
Vijay's father, Thulasisingam rushed
his injured son to the hospital, his heart weighted down in anxiety and hope
in equal measure. After careful examination, the medical team opening their
shutters, vendors arranging colorful heaps of fruits and vegetables, and
customers beginning their days shopping. The market was a world of wonders
for the boys. They delighted in the vibrant sights, the cheerful call of the
vendors, and the rich aroma of fresh flowers, spices and snacks that filled
the air.
Holding tightly to their father's
bicycle, Jai and Vijay felt a special joy in those weekly journeys. To them
the ride was more than a trip to the market - it was an adventure shared
with their father, treasured Sunday ritual that filled their childhood with
warmth, laughter and the unforgettable memories.
In the gentle glow of the evening,
after a days’ heat had faded and cool breeze drifted in from the sea, their
father, Thulasilingam, would take the twin boys Jai and Vijay on one of
their most cherished outings. Hand in hand with their father and mother, the
boys would make their way to the waterfront, their hearts brimming with
anticipation.
The motorboat ride was always the
highlight of the evening. As the boat skimmed across the water, leaving
silver ripples in its wake, Jai and Vijay would gaze in wonder at the vast
expanse before them. The salty breeze tousled their hair, and their laughter
mingled with the rhythmic hum of the engine. Each ride felt like a small
voyage into a magical world where the sea and sky met in the horizon.
After the ride, Thulasisingam would
lead the boys to the famous Sealord Hotel, where another delight awaited
them. Seated comfortably beside their father and mother, they would savour
tasty snacks, and enjoy scoops of cold creamy ice cream.
For the twins every bite seemed
sweeter, because it was shared in the company of their parents.
Those evenings became treasured
chapters in their childhood - a time of adventure, affection and Vijay would
accompany their mother, Sulochana to the temple, her small hands clasped in
hers, as they made their way into the bustling streets. The temple with its
soaring Gopuram and echoing chants, seemed to the twins a world apart from
the ordinary. There, beneath the shade of ancient trees and amidst the
fragrance of camphor and jasmine, stood the temple elephants resplendent in
their adornments. Draped in richly embroidered caparisons, their forehead
decorated with intricate patterns, and their necks adorned with tinkling
bells, the majestic creatures exuded an air of quiet grandeur. Jai and Vijay
would gaze upon them with wide eyes, wonder captivated, captivated by their
gentle presence and regal bearing, while Sulochana offered her prayers in
the sanctum. Those Friday visits lingered in the boy's memories like scenes
from a cherished dream, woven with devotion, beauty and enduring warmth of a
mother's companionship.
After Jai and Vijay completed their
kindergarten, their father, Thulasisingam moved the family from the
traditional lanes of Pullaipadi to Girinagar, a beautiful and peaceful
colony that seemed to promise new beginnings. Nestled amidst tree lined
streets, and well-kept homes, Girinagar possessed a quiet charm that was
different from the bustling neighbourhood they had left behind.
The mornings were filled with bird
song, and the evenings were bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun.
To the young twins the move felt like
the start of the adventure. Every road invited exploration, every colony
held the possibility of a new friend, and everyday revealed something fresh
and delightful.
From their very first year in school,
the twin brothers, Jai and Vijay studied at Kendriya Vidyalaya. Every
morning dressed neatly in their uniforms, they would board the school bus
from Giri Nagar colony and set off on their daily journey filled with
excitement and wonder of childhood.
When the bus brought them home in the
evening, another joyful ritual awaited them. Their neighbour, Mini Kutty,
would eagerly watch for their arrival, her face lighting up the moment she
saw the twins. With affection and generosity, she welcomed them each day
with chocolates, a small gesture that filled their hearts with delight.
Their imaginary worlds came alive as toy, cars raced across the floor, dolls
and action figures became characters in grand adventures, and every game
unfolded into a new story. The sound of their cheerful voices echoed through
the house, creating memories that would remain treasured long after those
carefree childhood days had passed.
During the school days Jai and Vijay,
attended tuition classes at home for Hindi and social studies. Every evening
as the tuition master arrived carrying his books and his ever-present cane
that symbolized discipline, the twins would settle down for their lessons.
While Vijay listened attentively
Jai’s mischievous spirit was forever seeing adventure. The moment and
opportunity presented itself he would quietly whiskey away the tuition
master’s cane and hide it in some secret corner of the house. When the
teacher later reached for it, he would be greeted by an empty space and a
puzzled expression. All the while, Jai would struggle to suppress his
laughter, his eyes sparkling with amusement as he watched the unfolding
drama. Eventually, the missing cane would be discovered and the room would
erupt in laughter, even as the tuition master tried to maintain his stern
demeanor.
Every afternoon when the school bell
announced during the lunch break, Sulochana would make her way to the school
carrying a tiffin carrier filled with home- cooked food. With a mother’s
affection shining in her eyes, she would search for her twin sons, Jai and
Vijay among the bustling crowd of children. Seating them under the shade of
a tree or along a quiet corridor, she would lovingly serve each morsel,
ensuring they are well. For the twins those precious moments more than just
a meal, they were a daily reminder of their mother’s boundless care and
devotion, a memory that remained etched in their hearts long after their
school days had passed.
In those days ducks were a common
sight in Girinagar, wading leisurely along the lanes and filling the air
with their cheerful quacking.
Every morning vendor would gather in
front of Sulochana’s house with baskets brimming with fresh vegetables and
fish. Steping out with a smile Sulochana would carefully inspect the days
produce selecting the freshest greens and the finest catch for her family.
The lively chatter of the vendors, the fluttering ducks. And bustle of the
neighborhood combined to create a scene rich with the simple charm of
everyday life.
During the summer vacation following
the first year of school Thulasisingam would take his family on a much-
awaited trip to Bangalore. The journey began at Cochin where they boarded an
afternoon train bound for the bustling city. As the train rolled through
lush countryside, crossed rivers, and passed sleepy stations, the twin
brothers Jai and Vijay gazed through the windows, captivated by the ever
changing scenery. Their mother Sulochana lovingly cared for them throughout
the journey serving home packed meals and ensuring their comfort. To the
young boys, the train ride itself was an adventure filled with entertainment
and wonder.
By the following morning the train
would arrive in Bangalore, where the family was warmly welcomed by
Thulasisingam Sister, Suseela A spinster of independent spirit, Suseela
worked as a curator in the state fisheries department and lived in
Gandhinagar. Her modest home soon became a place of joy and discovery for
the twins.
Delighted by the presence of her
nephews Suseela would take Jai and Vijay on excursions to Janatha Bazaar,
where the lively shops and colourful displays fascinated the young boys. On
special occasions she would accompany them to the exhibitions organized by
the fisheries department, where visitors could learn about aquatic life and
sample freshly prepared fish dishes. These outings opened a new world of
sights, sounds, and experiences for the twins.
At home, Jai and Vijay spent many
happy hours playing cricket in the open ground- floor area, their laughter
echoing through the building as they improvised wickets and chased imaginary
victories. Suseela took keen interest in their wellbeing and would also
escort them to the renowned Minto eye hospital for their regular eye
checkups, ensuring that their health received the same care and attention as
their education.
From Suseelas house in Gandhinagar,
the twin brothers, Jai and Vijay, would often accompany their mother,
Sulochana on visits to the home of Saroja aunty. A respected educator,
Saroja served as the head mistress of the local girls’ higher secondary
school and was known for her warm hospitality and affectionate nature.
Saroja aunty took great pleasure in preparing special sweets and delicacies
for her guests. The aroma of freshly made treats would fill the house,
creating an atmosphere of comfort and joy. She would serve every dish
generously adorned with fragrant ghee, believing that food prepared with
love should also be served with abundance.
The twins eagerly looked forward to
these visits, delighting in the delicious sweets and the savoury dishes that
appeared before them. As they sat together around the dining table,
listening to the conversations of the elders and enjoying Saroja aunty’s
culinary creations, they experienced the simple happiness of the family,
friendship and hospitality.
From Saroja aunty's house the family
would often continue their visits to the home of Radhakrishnan, the beloved
brother of both Saroja aunty and Suseela aunty. His house was always filled
with warmth, laughter and the cheerful voices of children. Radhakrishnan
lived there with his two sons Ramesh and Uday, and his daughter Vani.
For the twin brothers Jai and Vijay
these visits were occasions of great entertainment. The moment they arrived,
they would join Ramesh and Uday for spirited games of cricket.
Armed with makeshift bats and
boundless enthusiasm, the boys transformed every open space into a cricket
ground. There laughter echoed through the neighborhood as they bowled,
batted, and chased the ball under the bright Bangalore sun.
One fine afternoon, while a
particularly energetic match was in progress, misfortune struck. In the
midst of the game, Vijay suffered a fall and injured his right elbow. The
pain was immediate and severe, bringing the joyful game to an abrupt halt.
Concerned family members quickly attended to him, and he was taken for
medical treatment.
The doctors confirmed that his right
elbow had been fractured. To ensure proper healing his arm was carefully set
and enclosed in a plaster of Paris cast. Owing to the fragility of his
bones, the healing process was slower than expected, and Vijay had to endure
nearly six weeks with his arm immobilized. For an active young boy who loved
cricket and outdoor play, those weeks seemed endless.
Yet he bore the inconvenience, with
remarkable courage, supported by his parents and his twin brother. He
recovered gradually in six weeks.
After the children completed their
second standard, their father, Thulasilingam was transferred to Chennai.
News of his transfer was received with genuine sadness by his colleagues,
who had come to admire and respect him over the years. As a mark of their
affection, they organized a heartfelt farewell.
In the days leading up to his
departure, each colleague took turns hosting the family for dinner, at their
home turning the farewell into a week of warmth, camaraderie, and cherished
memories. The generous hospitality and sincere good will of his friends made
the leave - taking both memorable and deep living. A memorable journey from
Cochin to Chennai.
When Thulasisingam received orders
for his transfer, the family prepared for a long and memorable road journey
from Cochin to Chennai in their faithful Herald car. The excitement was
especially visible on the faces of the twin boys, Jai and Vijay, who looked
upon the trip as a grand adventure rather than a simple change of residence.
As the Herald rolled out of Cochin in
the soft light of dawn the family waved goodbye to familiar streets and
cherished memories. The winding roads, lined with swaying coconut palms and
emerald- green paddy fields unfolded like scenes from a moving picture. Jai
and Vijay eagerly occupied the rear seat, their eyes fixed on the passing
landscapes, counting bridges, rivers and distant fishing boats.
Their first major halt was at
Mandapam, where they stayed in a comfortable guest house. Here,
Thulasisingam, proudly showed his family the Mandapam camp, home to the
renowned Central marine fisheries research facilities. The boys watched with
fascination as fishermen brought in their catch and learned about the rich
marine life of the region. The cool sea breeze and the endless stretch of
blue waters left a lasting impression on their young minds.
Continuing their journey southward,
the family reached tuticorin. From their guest house they could admire the
bustling harbour, where giant ships stood anchored against the horizon. Jai
and Vijay were thrilled by the sight of cranes lifting cargo and boats
gliding across the sparkling waters. As evening descended, the harbour
lights twinkled like countless stars, creating a magical scene that
captivated the entire family.
The next memorable stop was
Nagapattinam. Here they visited the magnificent Basalica of our lady of good
health at Velankanni. The atmosphere of devotion and peace touched every
member of the family.
They offered prayers, literary
candles, and spent quiet moments reflecting within the sacred surroundings.
Laughter filled the Herald car as
stories were shared, songs were sung and snacks were enjoyed along the way.
After ten unforgettable days on the
road the familiar skyline of Chennai finally appeared before them. Tired yet
happy, Thulasisingam and his family arrived at the new destination carrying
not just luggage but a treasure chest of memories. For Jai and Vijay, the
journey from Cochin to Chennai was more than a relocation - it was an
adventure filled with discovery, wonder, and family togetherness that they
would cherish for rest of their lives.
After reaching Chennai, the twin
brothers Jai and Vijay were admitted to Asan memorial senior secondary
school in std three. The new city, the new school, and the new surroundings
soon became familiar. The brothers grew together, studied together, and
shared countless memories as they progressed through their school years.
Life moved along smoothly, and the twins completed their studies Up to
standard 10 without any major difficulties. However fate had a different
plan for them when they entered standard 11.
One rainy evening, as dark clouds
hung low over the city and heavy showers drenched the streets, Vijay stepped
out of his house. The ground
had become dangerously slippery.
In a moment of misfortune he lost his
footing and fell heavily. The fall resulted in a severe fracture of his
right femur, the strongest bone in the human body.
Vijay was immediately taken to the
hospital, where he came under the expert care of Dr Soundrapanadian.
The injury was serious, and he had to
undergo pin traction, remaining confined to bed for nearly three months. The
once energetic boy now spent his days staring through hospital windows,
watching life move on outside while he patiently endured pain and treatment.
As though one tragedy was not enough,
destiny dealt another blow to the family barely a month later.
During an inter-School cricket match
at Asan memorial school Jai met with a devastating accident. While
attempting an athletic play on the field he fell awkwardly sustaining, three
fractures simultaneously -on in his right hip, another in his left elbow and
a third in his collar bone. The promising cricket match ended abruptly, and
Jai was rushed to the General government hospital, the very hospital where
Vijay was undergoing treatment.
The sight of both twin brothers
occupying hospital beds in the same institution filled their parents with
deep anxiety. Yet the family remained united and hopeful.
Jai came under the care renowned
orthosurgeon Dr Shanmugasundaram whose skill and experience were widely
respected. After careful evaluation surgery was performed successfully. The
road to recovery was long and demanding. Weeks of pain, physiotherapy and
perseverance followed. Yet Jai faced every challenge with remarkable
resilience.
For nearly three months the twins
shared a unique bond forged through adversity. They encouraged one another,
celebrated small improvements, and drew strength from each other's presence.
What could have been a period of despair gradually became a lesson in
courage, patience and determination.
By the grace of God, the dedication
of their doctors, and the loving support of their family, both brothers
eventually recovered. They returned to their studies with renewed confidence
and a deeper appreciation for life. The year that had begun with promise and
ended in hardship became one of the most unforgettable chapters in the story
of the twin brothers, Jai and Vijay- a testament to the strength of the
human spirit in the face of adversity.
After completing their schooling, Jai
and Vijay, stepped into a new chapter of life by pursuing their
undergraduate and postgraduate studies at a college in Thorapakam. The years
of higher education passed with determination, hard work and dreams of
building successful careers. Upon completing their studies Jai secured a
position as accounts assistant in Hindustan antibiotics ltd, Chennai. The
appointment marked the beginning of a promising professional journey. Both
the twins lost their father Thulasisingam. The entire family was deeply
shocked. Vijay, too, found success, and was appointed as assistant, in the
life insurance corporation of India. The twin brothers who had shared
countless experiences, since childhood, were now carving their own paths, in
the bustling city.
For three years Vijay carried out his
duties with sincerity and dedication.
Life seemed to be moving along a
steady course until fate intervened unexpectedly. One busy morning while
boarding a crowded bus on his way to office, he lost his footing and fell
awkwardly. The accident resulted in a severe fracture of his right elbow.
He was immediately rushed for medical
attention and underwent emergency surgery performed by skilled orthopaedic
surgeon Dr Senthil Kumar. The injury proved particularly challenging because
of the brittleness of his bones, which slowed the healing process
considerably. Weeks turned into months as Vijay patiently endured pain,
physiotherapy, and restricted movement.
The road to recovery was long and
demanding. Supported by his family, friends and medical team, he persevered
through every difficulty.
Nearly two months passed before he
gradually regained strength and resumed his normal activities. The
experience tested his resilience, but it also strengthened his resolve,
reminding him that life’s journey is often marked not only by achievements
but also by the courage to overcome unexpected setbacks.
As years passed Vijay's dedication
and efficiency at work earned him recognition and steady advancement in his
career. He was elevated to the post of senior assistant and posted to a
rural branch at Ponneri.
After serving there for two years he
was transferred to zonal office at Chennai. After serving for about a year
on request he was transferred to Chinnamalai branch office near his home.
His hard work and commitment did not go unnoticed, and he was soon elevated
to the position of Asst. Administrative officer at City branch x on
Annasalai. It was a proud milestone reflecting the perseverance and
sincerity that has marked his professional journey from the very beginning.
While serving at branch X Vijay
entered a new chapter in his life through marriage. In due course he and his
wife Kalpana were blessed with a daughter, whose arrival filled their home
with joy and laughter.
One evening, after completing a days’
work at branch X Vijay boarded a bus for his journey home. As he was getting
down from the bus amidst the rush of commuters, he lost his balance and
slipped. In an instant he fell heavily on the road. The accident resulted in
a fracture of his right ankle bone causing severe pain and rendering him
unable to walk.
Medical examination confirmed the
fracture, and his leg was immobilized in a plaster of Paris cast. Once again
Vijay found himself confined to rest and dependent on the care and support
of his family. The injury disrupted his daily routine and professional
commitments, but he faced the setback with patience and courage.
Weeks of rest, careful treatment and
gradual rehabilitation followed. Fortunately the fracture healed steadily,
and within two months he was able to regain normal mobility. Emerging from
yet another physical ordeal, Vijay returned to his duties with renewed
confidence.
After completing three years of
dedicated service, Vijay was transferred to the Adyar branch. His sincerity
and commitment soon earned him another posting to the Velachery branch.
Wherever he worked he won the respect of both colleagues and customers
through his diligence, integrity and tireless efforts.
Recognising his hard work, the
management promoted him to the cadre of Administrative officer and posted
him to the Villupuram branch.
It was a proud milestone in his
career. However, fate had yet another challenge in store for him.
Barely a month after joining the new
branch Vijay met with a serious accident that resulted in major fractures to
left femur and hip bone.
He was rushed by ambulance to Chennai
where he came under the expert care of Dr Shanmugasundaram,
a renowned orthopedic surgeon. After
a successful operation and months of careful treatment, Vijay endured a long
period of recovery. Through patience, determination, and unwavering family
support he gradually regained his strength and returned to normal life after
nearly seven months.
Following his recovery Vijay was
transferred from Villupuram to head office at Chennai. There he continued to
serve with the same dedication that had marked his entire career.
Years passed, after rendering nearly
six years of service, at the Head office, another unexpected tragedy struck.
One morning while hurrying to catch a metro train in Mylapore, Vijay
suffered a severe fall that caused multiple fractures. Once again, an
ambulance rushed him to the hospital, where he was admitted to Bharathiraja
hospital. Under the skilled care of Dr Arumugam he underwent hip replacement
surgery and began yet another arduous journey towards recovery.
The months that followed tested his
resilience, but Vijay's indomitable spirit never wavered. With steadfast
determination and the support of his loved ones he overcame the ordeal and
regained his health after approximately six months.
After serving for nearly two years,
Vijay was transferred to the customer relationship department. He settled
into his new responsibilities with the same dedication and sincerity that
had marked his entire career. However, fate which had tested him,
repeatedly, throughout his life, had yet another challenge in store.
A couple of years later, while at
work, Vijay accidentally slipped and fell on rolling chair in his
department. The fall was severe and resulted in fractures to both his hands.
His colleagues and department Manager immediately rushed to his aid. Since
the department was located on the fourth floor, they carefully carried him
on a stretcher to the ground floor before arranging for his urgent transfer
to Prashant hospital Velachery.
At the hospital Vijay came under the
expert care of Dr Sashidharan, an orthopedic surgeon.
Medical examination revealed the
seriousness of his injuries, and he underwent major surgery in both the
hands. He remained hospitalized for nearly three weeks enduring pain and
uncertainty with remarkable courage.
After being discharged Vijay was
advised complete rest. Months of physiotherapy followed as he carefully
worked to regain strength and movement in his hands. Recovery was slow and
demanding, taking nearly eight months. Yet, true to his resilient nature
Vijay persevered through every. Obstacle.
A month before his retirement, he
finally recovered sufficiently to rejoin the office. His return was warmly
welcomed by his colleagues, who admired his determination and indomitable
spirit.
When the day of retirement arrived he
was given a heartfelt farewell surrounded by friends and coworkers who
celebrated his long years of dedicated service.
Sadly, not long after Vijay's
retirement his beloved twin brother, Jai passed away.
The loss left a deep void in Vijay's
life for the brothers had shared not only a remarkable bond but also a
lifetime of joys, sorrows and struggles.
The story of twin brothers is one of
extraordinary endurance. Throughout their lives Vijay and Jai faced
countless hardships caused by their brittle bones, suffering repeated
fractures and prolonged periods of pain. Yet they never surrendered to
adversity. Their lives stand as a testament to courage, perseverance and the
strength of human spirit in the face of relentless challenges.