2

Priya returned to Srivilliputhur after a decade, clutching her PAYBO rewards voucher like a precious key. Her grandmother's temple stood unchanged, its towers still catching morning light the same way. She spent her earnings at the local market, buying jasmine flowers and fresh coconut, supporting vendors she'd known since childhood. That evening, preparing pongal together, Priya's hands remembered the motions her grandmother taught her. The turmeric-stained recipes passed down through generations felt suddenly sacred. Her daughter watched, curious, as traditions whispered softly through steam and spice. Small choices, deep roots.