The Brittle Twins : An Unbreakable Bond by Vijayakumar Thulasilingam

The arrival of twin boys on 6 August 1963, at 8:18 and 8:22 a.m., in Kolar district of Karnataka 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 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. They were named Jai and Vijay. Though only four minutes separated their arrivals, those brief moments made Jai the elder and Vijay the younger—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 their mother, Sulochana, was a housewife. The Brittle Twins began their schooling in Cochin, Kerala. They studied from kindergarten to second standard at Kendriya Vidyalaya School and stayed at Pullaipadi in Cochin.

Cochin, the Queen of the Arabian Sea, unfolded like a timeless painting where history and nature met in graceful harmony.

Every morning, Jai and Vijay’s journey to school in a cycle rickshaw was a small adventure filled with delight. Seated comfortably beside their friends, they watched the world awaken 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 morning in Pullaipadi, 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 fracture of his left femur. The rain continued to fall gently, as if mourning the accident that had interrupted his innocent celebration.

Vijay’s father, Thulasilingam, rushed his injured son to the hospital, his heart weighed down by anxiety and hope in equal measure. After careful examination, the medical team fitted Vijay with a Thomas splint. Because callus formation was slow due to his brittle-bone condition, he recovered over a period of about two months.

The market was a world of wonders for the boys. They delighted in the vibrant sights, the cheerful calls of vendors, and the rich aromas of fresh flowers, spices and snacks that filled the air. Holding tightly to their father’s bicycle, Jai and Vijay felt a special joy during those weekly journeys. To them, the ride was more than a trip to the market—it was an adventure shared with their father, a treasured Sunday ritual that filled their childhood with warmth, laughter and unforgettable memories.

In the gentle glow of the evening, after the day’s heat had faded and a 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 parents, 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 at the horizon.

After the ride, Thulasilingam 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 family togetherness.

On Fridays, Vijay would accompany his mother, Sulochana, to the temple. Holding her hand, they made their way through the bustling streets. The temple, with its soaring gopuram and echoing chants, seemed a world apart from the ordinary. 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, with their foreheads 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, captivated by their gentle presence and regal bearing, while Sulochana offered her prayers in the sanctum. Those Friday visits lingered in the boys’ memories like scenes from a cherished dream, woven with devotion, beauty and the enduring warmth of a mother’s companionship.

After Jai and Vijay completed kindergarten, their father, Thulasilingam, 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 birdsong, and the evenings were bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun.

To the young twins, the move felt like the start of an adventure. Every road invited exploration, every neighbourhood held the possibility of a new friend, and every day revealed something fresh and delightful.

From their early school years, the twin brothers, Jai and Vijay, studied at Kendriya Vidyalaya. Every morning, dressed neatly in their uniforms, they would board the school bus from Girinagar colony and set off on their daily journey, filled with the 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 their 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, a symbol of discipline, the twins would settle down for their lessons.

While Vijay listened attentively, Jai’s mischievous spirit was forever looking for adventure. Whenever the opportunity presented itself, he would quietly whisk 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 demeanour.

Every afternoon, when the school bell announced 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 them each morsel, ensuring that they were well fed. For the twins, those precious moments were 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, vendors would gather in front of Sulochana’s house with baskets brimming with fresh vegetables and fish. Stepping out with a smile, Sulochana would carefully inspect the day’s produce, selecting the freshest greens and the finest catch for her family. The lively chatter of the vendors, the fluttering ducks and the bustle of the neighbourhood combined to create a scene rich with the simple charm of everyday life.

During the summer vacation following their first year of school, Thulasilingam would take his family on a much-awaited trip to Bangalore. The journey began in 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 arrived in Bangalore, where the family was warmly welcomed by Thulasilingam’s 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 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 a keen interest in their well-being and would also escort them to the renowned Minto Eye Hospital for regular eye check-ups, ensuring that their health received the same care and attention as their education.

From Suseela’s 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 headmistress 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 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 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. Their laughter echoed through the neighbourhood 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 gradually recovered over the following 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 homes, turning the farewell into a week of warmth, camaraderie and cherished memories. The generous hospitality and sincere goodwill of his friends made the leave-taking memorable and deeply moving.

A Memorable Journey from Cochin to Chennai

When Thulasilingam 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, Thulasilingam 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 water 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 Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health at Velankanni. The atmosphere of devotion and peace touched every member of the family. They offered prayers, lit 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, Thulasilingam and his family arrived at their 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 the rest of their lives.

After reaching Chennai, the twin brothers, Jai and Vijay, were admitted to Asan Memorial Senior Secondary School in Standard 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 Ten without any major difficulties.

However, fate had a different plan for them when they entered Standard Eleven.

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 care of Dr. Soundrapandian. 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, another blow came 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—one in his right hip, another in his left elbow and a third in his collarbone. 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 of the renowned orthopaedic surgeon 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—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 undergraduate and postgraduate studies at a college in Thorapakkam. The years of higher education passed with determination, hard work and dreams of building successful careers.

Upon completing his studies, Jai secured a position as an Accounts Assistant with Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd., Chennai. The appointment marked the beginning of a promising professional journey. The twins also suffered the loss of their father, Thulasilingam, and the entire family was deeply shocked.

Vijay, too, found success and was appointed as an Assistant with 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 the 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 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 the 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 the Zonal Office in Chennai. After serving there for about a year, he was transferred, on request, 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 Assistant Administrative Officer at City Branch X on Anna Salai. It was a proud milestone reflecting the perseverance and sincerity that had 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 day’s 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 onto 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 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, another challenge soon confronted him.

Barely a month after joining the new branch, Vijay met with a serious accident that resulted in major fractures to his left femur and hip bone. He was rushed by ambulance to Chennai, where he came under the care of Dr. Shanmugasundaram, an orthopaedic 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 the Head Office in 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 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, another challenge was still to come.

A couple of years later, while at work, Vijay accidentally slipped and fell from a rolling chair in his department. The fall was severe and resulted in fractures to both his hands. His colleagues and the 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 his urgent transfer to Prashant Hospital, Velachery.

At the hospital, Vijay came under the care of Dr. Sashidharan, an orthopaedic surgeon. Medical examination revealed the seriousness of his injuries, and he underwent major surgery on both 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 the twin brothers is one of extraordinary endurance. Throughout their lives, Vijay and Jai faced countless hardships associated with 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 the human spirit in the face of relentless challenges.