Sometimes, a stranger’s kindness can change your life in ways you never imagined. A small gesture or a helping hand when you’re struggling can be enough to make someone unforgettable. And years down the line, that one stranger may be the person who stands out in a crowd and brings back memories of a simpler, more challenging time.
This is exactly what happened when Santosh Patel, a Deputy Superintendent of Police in Madhya Pradesh, recently reunited with an old friend in Bhopal. As he stepped out of his police vehicle, Patel spotted a familiar face – Salman Khan, a vegetable vendor he knew years ago. Although older and a bit weathered, Khan’s smile and the scar on his lip confirmed it was indeed him.
During his college days, Patel struggled to make ends meet as an engineering student. Khan, who ran a vegetable stall, became an unexpected friend. Despite having little himself, Khan saved an eggplant and tomato every night, allowing Patel to make Baingan ka Bharta, a humble meal he looked forward to. In return, Patel would watch over Khan’s cart when he needed a break, reported India Today.
Sharing this reunion on social media, Patel expressed gratitude for Khan’s kindness during those difficult years. To Khan’s surprise, Patel hadn’t forgotten him. They exchanged contact details, promised to stay connected, and hugged.
Have a look at their reunion video here:
सलमान ख़ान से भोपाल में इंजीनियरिंग की पढ़ाई के समय मुलाक़ात हुई थी। ये हमारी भावनाओं को समझकर फ्री में सब्ज़ी दे दिया करते थे।14 साल बाद जब अचानक मिले तो दोनों बहुत खुश हुए।बुरे समय में साथ निभाने वाले को भूल जाना किसी पाप से कम नहीं।बंदे में एक दोष न हो, बंदा ऐहसान फ़रामोश न हो pic.twitter.com/FMTdOW5cBH
— Santosh Patel DSP (@Santoshpateldsp) November 10, 2024
This simple encounter reminds us that genuine kindness creates a lasting impact, no matter where life takes us.