The Man Who Helped from the Shadows
Roshan’s first day at work changed his life forever—but not in the way he expected.
Roshan was excited and nervous as he stepped into his new office. He had landed a job at a famous tech company, a dream opportunity for him. The office was large and busy, filled with the sound of keyboards and ringing phones.
As Roshan sat at his desk, staring at the computer screen, he felt unsure where to begin. Just then, a kind man with grey hair approached him.
“Hello, I’m Mr. Puri,” the man said warmly.
“Are you the new employee?”
“Yes, I’m Roshan,” he replied. “This is my first day.”
“Don’t worry,” Mr. Puri smiled. “I’ll help you.”
Mr. Puri showed Roshan around the office and explained everything clearly—how to use the software, where to find important files, and even which coffee machine worked best. He seemed to know every corner of the company.
“I’m sure you’ll do well,” Mr. Puri said, patting Roshan’s shoulder.
“If you ever need help, just ask.”
Roshan felt relieved. Having such a helpful guide made everything easier.
Over the next few weeks, Mr. Puri continued to guide Roshan through every task. He answered questions, corrected mistakes, and often noticed problems before they happened. Roshan deeply admired his wisdom and kindness.
However, something strange began to bother him. Whenever Roshan spoke to Mr. Puri, his coworkers stared at him quietly. Sometimes they exchanged confused looks. Roshan ignored it, thinking they simply didn’t like Mr. Puri.
One afternoon, during lunch, a coworker said,
“You’re doing really well. How do you manage everything so smoothly?”
“Oh, it’s because of Mr. Puri,” Roshan replied.
“He’s been helping me since my first day.”
The table fell silent.
“Mr. Puri?” someone asked. “Who is that?”
Roshan laughed nervously.
“You know—Mr. Puri. The kind man with grey hair.”
“There’s no one by that name here,” another coworker said seriously.
Thinking they were joking, Roshan stood up.
“Come, I’ll show you. He sits near the big window.”
They followed him, but the desk was empty. There were no files, no computer, no sign that anyone worked there.
Confused and shaken, Roshan decided to ask a senior employee. He went to Mr. Mehta, who had worked at the company for many years.
“Mr. Mehta,” Roshan asked carefully,
“Do you know Mr. Puri?”
Mr. Mehta’s face grew serious.
“Are you sure you’re talking about Mr. Puri?”
“Yes,” Roshan said. “He helps me every day.”
Mr. Mehta sighed.
“Roshan, Mr. Puri did work here—but he passed away years ago in an accident.”
Roshan felt cold all over.
“But… I talk to him every day,” he whispered.
“You are not the first,” Mr. Mehta said softly.
“Some believe his spirit still stays here. He loved this place and cared deeply about helping others.”
That evening, Roshan stayed late in the office. He wanted to thank Mr. Puri—no matter who or what he was.
“Mr. Puri,” Roshan whispered,
“Are you here?”
The room was silent. Then a gentle cold breeze passed by. Roshan turned and saw Mr. Puri standing near the window, smiling.
“You’ve learned enough now, Roshan,” Mr. Puri said kindly.
“You don’t need me anymore.”
“No, sir,” Roshan replied with emotion.
“Thank you for everything.”
Mr. Puri nodded.
“Work hard. Care for others. That’s all I ever wanted.”
Slowly, he faded away.
Years later, when Roshan became a senior employee, he often thought of Mr. Puri. On quiet evenings, when he felt a cool breeze in the office, Roshan smiled.
Some mentors never truly leave.
True mentors guide us selflessly. Their lessons stay with us forever—even after they are gone.