Kerala Man Repays 25-Year-Old Debt, Travels to Telangana to Keep Promise

Hyderabad: In a heartwarming story of integrity and friendship, a man from Kerala’s Palakkad travelled all the way to Jagtial to repay a debt he had taken 25 years ago, setting an example in an age where many fail to honour financial commitments.

According to local accounts, Mohammad Ismail, a native of Palakkad in Kerala, had borrowed money from his friend Edla Lachanna, a resident of Dharmapuri town in Jagityal district, during their time working together in Saudi Arabia over two decades ago. Though Ismail had promised to return the money after coming back to India, circumstances prevented him from doing so.

However, the debt remained on his mind. Determined to repay it, Ismail began searching for his old friend despite having no contact details. He only remembered that Lachanna hailed from Dharmapuri in Jagitial district. Using online searches and local inquiries, he eventually traced the town and set out on his journey.

After reaching Dharmapuri, Ismail spent time asking locals before finally locating Lachanna’s residence on Thursday afternoon. His arrival and intention to repay the decades-old loan surprised the family members.

Lachanna, who is currently working in a Gulf country, was contacted over the phone. Though he had forgotten about the amount to be repaid, he immediately recognised his old friend. The two shared an emotional conversation, recalling their past.

Ismail then handed over Rs 25,000 — the amount he had borrowed — to Lachanna’s family members. Overcome with emotion, he said he felt relieved after finally clearing the long-pending debt.

The rare gesture has drawn appreciation locally, with many hailing Ismail as an example of honesty and commitment.