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Srilanka Ramayanam Story
The recently discovered bridge currently named as Adam's
Bridge made of chain of shoals, c.18 mi (30 km) long, in the
Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, reveals a mystery
behind it. The bridge's unique curvature and composition by
age reveals that it is man made. The legends as well as
Archeological studies reveal that the first signs of human
inhabitants in Sri Lanka date back to the a primitive age,
about 17,50,000 years ago and the bridge's age is also almost
equivalent. This information is a crucial aspect for an
insight into the mysterious legend called Ramayana, which was
supposed to have taken place in tredha yuga (more than
17,00,000 years ago). In this epic, there is a mentioning
about a bridge, which was built between Rameshwaram (India)
and Sri lankan coast under the supervision of a dynamic and
invincible figure called Rama who is supposed to be the
incarnation of the supreme. This information may not be of
much importance to the archeologist s who are interested in
exploring the origins of man, but it is sure to open the
spiritual gates of the people of the world to have come to
know an ancient history linked to the Indian mythology.
Tell us what do you think about Rama's Bridge
Courtesy : NASA Digital Image Collection
The Story Begins - Very Interesting if you read it
Looking at the sea, Rama questioned how it was proposed to cross it.
Many among the Vanaras suggested means and methods. At last
Vibhishana rose from his place and addressed Rama thus: "Lord! The
Ocean owes its origin to your forefathers, Sagara and his sons It is
the family 'preceptor' of your line. If only you resolve that it
should be crossed, the Vanaras can easily go across".
Meanwhile, a messenger sent by Ravana was sighted by Vibhishana and
the Vanaras bound him and took him to where Sugriva, their Ruler
was. Sugriva ordered that his limbs be cut off; when the Vanaras
prepared themselves for the execution of that order, the fellow
raised a hue and cry. He shouted in his pain, "O Vanaras! I swear by
Rama! Do not cut off my nose and ears". His pathetic cry was heard
by Lakshmana; he asked that the Rakshasa be brought to his presence;
he spoke softly to him, and admonished the Vanaras for torturing a
Messenger deputed by Ravana. He wrote a letter and placed it in his
hand, with the words: "Give this missive to Ravana. And, repeat to
him the words I now utter: O, Demolisher of the fortunes of your own
clan! Change your heart at least this day, and fall at the feet of
Rama. Rama will pardon you. Do not decimate and destroy the Rakshasa
tribe, in order to prop up your wiles. Know there is no other means
available to you to avoid the Death that is imminent." With these
hard and heavy warnings, the Messenger was sent back to his master!
The fellow was overjoyed that he could escape alive; he shouted "Jai
to Lord Ramachandra," and fell at Rama's feet before he hied back
home.
At the Court of Ravana, he related the events that had ensued
and started describing with uncontrollable delight the
majestic charm of Rama. He gave Ravana the letter Lakshmana
had entrusted him with. Ravana enquired about his brother,
Vibhishana, and asked how he fared. "Fie upon him", he
ejaculated, "his days are numbered; death will swallow him
soon. He is a pest, bred in this granary. He left this Lanka
and joined the camp of my foe. Misfortune will haunt him until
he dies". He turned to the fellow and asked him, "Under this
pretext, you visited their camp. Did you not tell them of our
military might and adamantine resolve? Tell me also what you
learnt about their resources and capabilities". The messenger,
Suka, stood before the throne with folded palms, and said,
"Lord! I pray that you extend some grace to me and listen
calmly and with forbearance to what I say. The very moment
your brother sealed friendship with Rama he was crowned
Emperor of Lanka by him! Knowing that I reached their camp as
your messenger, the Vanaras caught hold of me and tortured me
in various ways. I swore in Rama's name and called upon him to
save me; therefore, they allowed me to come away unmutilated,
with my nose and ears intact. Had I a thousand tongues, I
cannot describe the might of those Vanara armies. What a
galaxy of heroic warriors are they! There are Vanaras of many
different colours, of all ages and grades, of gigantic stature
and strength. One shakes in terror when one casts his eyes at
them; why, even to picture them in the mind or think about
them is a terror-striking experience. Imagine the night of
that one Vanara who killed your son (Akshayakumara and reduced
the City to ashes! It is all the result of their being
reflections and echoes of the invincible might of Rama
himself. Even the tiniest brat among the monkeys becomes, by
that token, a horrifying monster. There are monkey warriors
with various names, and each of them is endowed with the
strength of many herds of elephants.
Dwivida, Mainda, Nila, Nala, Angada, Vikata, Dadhimukha, Kesari,
Kumuda, Daja, Gavaksha, Jambavantha - these are the generals.
Everyone of them is equal in might and military skill to their
Ruler, Sugriva. And, there are hundreds of thousands more among
them, who are of equal might. Their number is beyond calculation.
Their fury and ferocity can destroy earth, heaven and the nether
regions, as if these were but heaps of straw. Lord, I heard that
their number is 18 Padmas. And, each Padma has a valiant general at
its head. Emperor! I did not find a single Vanara, from the highest
to the lowest, who doubted their victory; nor was there anyone who
had the least trace of nervousness on the eve of the march. They are
all tightening their muscles to pound this City; they are only
waiting for the signal from Rama. They have not had it so far.
"Whether the ocean yields to them and gives the right of way or not,
they are determined to build a causeway of stones, and succeed in
their venture. They are baring teeth and gnashing them, boasting
that they would squeeze Ravana out of shape and reduce him into a
handful of pulp. Fear strikes everyone who listens to their exultant
roar and challenging call. The instant they hear the name Ravana
uttered within earshot, they get so enraged that they pluck giant
trees root and branch, and brandish them in angry demonstration of
hate. They are swaying and swinging, surging and shouting, in their
eagerness to consume this City. They have equally redoubtable bears
too among them. And, to crown all, they have Rama as their leader,
capable of overwhelming millions of 'Death-deities'. Hundreds of
thousands of Adi-seshas, each of which is blessed with a thousand
heads and tongues, cannot do full justice, if asked to describe the
heroism and military skill of Rama. With one arrow shot from his
bow, he can dry up even the Ocean."
The reaction of Ravana to this report of the spy and messenger was a
peal of wild laughter. He said, "Fie on you. Giving ear to the
pratings of the monkeys that surround him and of that arch coward,
Vibhishana, you are extolling that fool so high. It is sheer
nonsense to describe the strength and heroism of mere monkeys.
Enough. Enough! Can monkeys be ever so strong! I have heard enough,
long ago, of the power and might of this Sugriva; and, what can this
poltroon Vibhishana, who has become his minister now, do? Can he
contribute any wealth, victory or resources to Rama?"
The messenger could only pine within himself and bewail the lack of
intelligence that Ravana was exhibiting. He folded his palms in
obeisance and stood silent. Then Ravana tore the envelope of the
missive that Lakshmana had sent, and, after perusing it, handed it
over to his Minister. He said, "You are like the thithiri bird
afraid that the sky will fall upon its young fledglings! Poor thing!
It covers the little one holding its head over them as a cover! Can
the sky ever fall and kill the birds! Can these anchorites, these
ritual-ridden priests, who try to frighten me by a shower of words,
ever succeed? "Suka, the messenger, watched the heroics of Ravana
for some time. Then, he intercepted with the words, "Lord! What I
have now said is the full truth. Read well and carefully the
contents of that letter and act, without any sense of resentment or
pride. Listen! Give up the hostility you have developed. Rama is
very tender of heart and compassionate. He is the master of the
three worlds. If only you approach him, he will take you under his
protection and guard you from harm. He will pardon all your wrongs.
Surrender Sita to Him. Give heed to my prayer." The envoy pleaded
plaintively that Ravana save himself from ruin.
While he was pouring out his pleas, Ravana's eyes reddened with
anger and shame. He roared in protest, "what! do you take me to be a
criminal! Did I send you, o fool, to go and surrender at the feet of
those prattling babies of the forest? Audacity and impertinence
cannot go further," and, rising from the throne, he kicked the
fellow out of the Hall. The Rakshasa, Suka, fled to the camp of Rama
and sought refuge. But, the Vanaras seeing him again amidst them
were moved into revenge; however they restrained themselves, and
awaited the orders of Rama. Sugriva led Suka to the presence of
Rama. Suka prostrated before Rama and related in detail his story
and fate. He prayed that he might be accepted as Vibhishana was
accepted, and that he might be protected by his new Master. Rama, as
the very embodiment of compassion, called to his presence the
leaders of the Vanaras, and directed them to welcome their new
brother, Suka. He too was overcome by gratitude and he declared that
his life had reached its goal.
Then, Rama directed Lakshmana to bring him the bow and arrow,
and when he brought them, Rama said, "Haughty persons deserve
no kindness; mischievously cruel persons deserve no softness;
misers by nature deserve no moral teaching; egotistic persons
deserve no advice, greedy persons cannot benefit from
insistence on renunciation; persons stricken with anger
deserve no counsel on being at peace; lust-crazy victims
deserve no scriptural readings; saline fields deserve no seeds
of grain. So too this Ocean that does not yield to soft
request deserves no mercy." So saying, he fitted an arrow to
his bow; at this, Lakshmana was afraid what the consequence
would be for the Ocean. The Ocean too was rendered hot at the
mere preparation to shoot the arrow into its depths. The
denizens of the deep suffered extreme agony. As if
terror-stricken, the waves began screaming. Wave after wave
rolled towards the place where Rama stood and, gently lapped
his feet, as if praying for mercy. At that time, a Voice was
heard as if from the sky, "Lord! There are two generals in the
campus, Nala and Nila, who are targets of a curse pronounced
by a sage. That curse can now be used as a blessing. Listen.
The story can now be told". The Ocean itself communicated the
details of that dire incident to Rama.
"There were many hermits living on a river bank in cottages. While
young, these two entered these hermitages; while the sages were
immersed in deep meditation, seizing the holy icons called saligrams
which they worshipped, they used to cast them into the waters of the
river. The sages were enraged at this sacrilege and they cast a
curse on them, in this manner. 'Boys! May all things that you throw
on water never sink; may they float instead. And, may they remain
just where you have thrown them, even if the waters flow fast in
floods.' Therefore, every rock they throw will float at the very
place; have your Name inscribed on every slab and rock. Your Name is
light, not heavy at all. Thus, even huge mountain peaks when thrown
would float and form a bridge. I shall also contribute my share of
help, for, when the search is for Truth, all Nature must serve the
seeker." Rama decided not to let go the arrow he had fitted; but,
since, his arrow, once fixed had to find a target, he aimed it at a
forest area in the far distance and, as a result, it became a dry
desert.
Rama called together the ministers and directed them to construct
the bridge across the Ocean. Hanuman said, "Lord! Your Name is the
bridge that can safely transport man across the Ocean of Life. Which
bridge can be stronger and safer than that?" Jambavan, the aged
General, said, "Lord! Your prowess, which is a raging conflagration,
can dry up this mass of water; it is sure to be filled to the brim
again by the tears of the women widowed in Lanka during the coming
battle with Ravana and his armies."
Rama smiled at the simple sincere loyalty and valour of these
devotees. Jambavan reminded Nala and Nila of the assurance given by
the unseen source, which was no other than the Ocean itself, about
the use that can now be made of curse they had drawn upon themselves
while young. He directed them to install Rama in their hearts and
throw hills, hillocks, mountains and rocks into the sea. At this,
the Vanara heroes ran in all directions, and brought back entire
hills on their heads and shoulders, as if they were as light as
balls used for games. They stood in one long line and passed the
hills from shoulder to shoulder, all the while repeating aloud the
name of Rama. Off and on, they also uprooted huge trees, and passed
them onward to the bridge site, where Nala and Nila were casting the
materials into the water.
The whole of that day they worked without rest and with no thought
of food or sustenance. They built a length of 14 yojanas in one day.
Refreshed by a good night's sleep, they rose before dawn, during the
Brahma Muhurtha itself, and resumed work. They acclaimed with
cheers, "Jai to Sri Ramachandra, our Lord," and hurried to the
various corners of the land in search of hills and mountains. They
brought them on to the shore and piled them there for being used by
Nala and Nila.
The second day, the bridge was extended by another twenty yojanas;
the next day, they were able to build it for a further length of
twenty-one yojanas; the fourth day saw the bridge extending over a
further twenty-two yojanas. And, on the fifth day, by constructing a
further twenty-three yojanas, they completed the 100-yojana bridge
in another successful spurt.
Thus, Nala and Nila, unconcerned with exhaustion or the need for
rest, intent on fulfilling the task assigned by Rama for the
completion of his mission, were able to announce in the presence of
Rama that the bridge was ready, because his Name and Form were ever
before those who toiled for its completion.
Rama was informed through Sugriva that the hundred-yojana bridge, he
had resolved upon was finished and ready to be used. Rama and
Lakshmana were pleased at the devotion and sense of duty of the
Vanaras, who finished the job so soon and so well. Rama directed the
Ruler of the Monkeys, Sugriva, to pass along the long line of
Vanaras the order that each one should deposit the hill he was
transporting at the time, at the very place he stood, and take a
little rest before returning to base. Sugriva conveyed the order to
those who were engaged in passing from shoulder to shoulder, the
boulders and peaks for the bridge. Hanuman was at that moment
transporting a huge hill from the far north. When he heard that Rama
had ordered that it be deposited, he cast it down, near Brindavana
where he was at the time. He was surprised to hear a loud wail from
the fallen peak. "Alas", it cried, "I have lost the chance of
service to Rama." It could not be consoled or comforted. When
Hanuman brought its condition to the notice of Rama, Rama smiled in
appreciation. He said, "Ah! Even mountains are yearning anxiously to
participate in this task!" He expressed joy at their enthusiasm. He
told Hanuman, "Go quick. Console the hill. Tell it not to be sad.
During the coming Dwapara Age, I shall hold that hill high on my
palm, for seven days and nights. On hearing this, the peak will be
happy". That assurance made it the Govardhana Hill [see Bagavatha
Vahini, Chapter 38], which the Lord held aloft as promised in the
Tretha Age.
On the fifth day, Rama sat on the seashore, and was delighted when
he saw the bridge. "0 Vanaras!", he said, "Your devotion and skill
in service are beyond description. By your sense of dedication you
have won my heart." At that time, Vibhishana came into the presence
and said, "Lord! We have to enter Lanka tomorrow; so, I have a
prayer to place before you." Rama replied, "What is it? Tell me."
Vibhishana continued, "Ravana is a devout worshipper of Siva. He has
intense attachment towards that aspect of Godhead. Yet, it is
certain he will meet death at your hands. I pray that, to
commemorate his devotion to Siva, you may, on the eve of moving
towards Lanka and entering it through this bridge, install a
Sivalinga here, so that in coming centuries, when people enter Lanka
along this route, they can worship the Sivalinga and remember these
events. They would indeed be fortunate to have such experience. The
Linga would be extolled by them as Rama Lingeswara, the Idol
installed by Rama. And, even when the bridge is eroded and crumbled
by time, the spot could be identified by future generations by means
of the Idol worshipped here." Rama was happy at the suggestion. He
said, "I shall fulfill your wish. You are the future Ruler of Lanka,
and in order to please you, I am ready to carry out your wishes,
whatever is involved." At this, Sugriva directed the Vanaras to get
all the requisites for the installation; he procured an impressive
Linga sending Hanuman himself for the purpose. Rama performed the
ceremonial ablution for the Linga with water from the sea and
invoked Vitality and Grace into It. Rama's words had the effect of
manthra or sacred formula; so, nothing more was needed to sanctify
the Linga. The Vanaras uttered hymns and their ecstatic shouts
echoed from the heavens. Amidst the Jai Jai of the hordes standing
around, Lakshmana and Sugriva helped Rama to plant the Linga in
position and to complete the ceremony of Consecration.
Then, the Vanaras started marching over the bridge in regular
formation, with the picture of Rama in their minds and the name of
Rama on their tongues. The scene was inexpressibly sublime. Rama and
Lakshmana stood on the bridge and looked at the sea surging on both
sides. The presence of Rama, the Ocean of Compassion, raised the
spirits of the Ocean below. Waves rose to catch a glimpse of Rama;
the denizens of the sea peeped over the waters and frolicked in joy
at the sight of Rama. They discarded their natures and stared long
and hungrily at the Divine Form of Rama. The Vanaras had prepared a
camp on the Lanka end of the bridge; so, when the vanguard reached
the heights, the news spread throughout the island. Very soon, Rama,
Lakshmana, Sugriva and Vibhishana, who crossed at a slow pace, also
reached the main gate of the fort of Lanka. Accepting the orders of
Rama, the Vanaras plucked entire trees, and dancing in joy, they ate
the fruits and cast the branches and twigs over the battlements into
the City itself. They heaved huge boulders over the wall and dropped
them into the streets beyond. They sought out Rakshasas moving about
alone outside the fort; they teased and tormented them, threatening
to wring their necks. Such pranks of the monkeys could not be
restrained.
Very soon, news reached Ravana that the enemy was at the gate.
Though possessed of ten throats, Ravana was using only one throat so
far to communicate with others; but, now, he roared through all the
ten, in anger and hate. He did not remember that it was a bad omen
to speak through the ten throats! There was a curse laid on him long
ago, that when he spoke through all the ten his end would draw near.
Within a few seconds of the roar, he recollected the curse and was
frightened at the fact. But, however much he attempted to control
the other throats, his voice came out of all the ten. The Rakshasas
who noted this strange occurrence inferred that his destruction was
imminent, now that Rama and his Vanara armies had entered Lanka.
They sat amidst their wives and children and lamented that their
lives would end that day or the next. They decided to use the little
time they had at their disposal in merry-making and pleasure. When
calamity approaches, discrimination departs, says the proverb.
Even when he knew that the curse was coming true, Ravana dismissed
the warning, and told himself that nothing evil would happen to him.
He moved into the Queen's apartments, for, he was afraid the
Ministers might read from his fallen face that he was overcome by
the awareness of the curse. Ravana sank with himself through anxiety
and agony. "Will they, as when my sister fell into their hands,
slice off the noses and ears of my ten heads? Or, will they slice
off the heads themselves?" These fears haunted him.
He saw Mandodari, the Queen, in the apartment. Her eyes discovered
that Ravana had become forlorn. She decided to administer wise
counsel to him. She held his hands in hers and, in a soft, smooth
and sweet voice, she said "Lord! Please listen to me, give up your
anger; pay heed to my words. Think over them carefully. Those whom
we can win over by reverence and devotion, we should not plan to win
over by hatred and opposition. In such circumstances, we have to
resort to intelligent reasoning. It will not bring any good, if we
oppose such sacred persons. You cannot achieve victory if you
encounter Rama; the glow-worm cannot vanquish the Sun. Listen to me.
Take Sita, at least this moment, and, while returning her safe,
prostrate before him and pray for pardon. Do not ruin your life and
destroy Lanka and sacrifice the lives of its women and children.
Persisting in your resolve to fight is not in line with the devotion
and dedication to God that you are famous for. If you hold fast to
this horrid decision, even Siva, whom you have pleased hitherto, is
sure to give you up. Good deeds alone can win the grace of God; how
can God reward and appreciate such heinous acts?"
Mandodari spoke in this strain for a long time trying to mend his
ways and to save him from destruction. "Lord! You are as dear to me
as my own life. Pay heed. Rama is no ordinary human prince. He is
the very person who destroyed Madhu and Kaitabha come again! He
killed Hiranyaksha [see SB: C3-13] and Hiranyakasipu [see SB:
C3-17]. He is the Lord who trampled on the head of Emperor Bali. He
demolished the pride of the thousand-armed Karthaviryarjuna. Then
why boast of the prowess of your mere twenty? He is worshipped by
the entire world; he is of the most auspicious form. A long time
ago, you had yourselves told me that Brahma had told you that God
would incarnate as Rama in order to relieve the earth of the burden
of cruelty and vice. Do you not remember? Aware of all this, how is
it that you do not give up this path, and recognize the truth?
Return to Rama the Acme of Chastity, the Diadem of the Virtuous, the
Incomparable Jewel of beauty, Sita; then let us crown our son as
Emperor of this realm and spend the rest of our days in peace and
plentiful joy in the immediate presence of Rama. Ah! How fortunate
is your brother! He is moving in the cool shade of Rama's grace. It
is not too late. At this very moment, hasten towards Rama who is at
the very entrance of Lanka and fall at his feet, praying for
pardon".
Mandodari was in tears when she spoke thus; she rolled at the feet
of her lord, appealing to him to be warned in good time and to take
immediate measures to rescue himself and his empire, his people and
his fame. Ravana raised her to her feet and wiped her eyes. He said,
"Dear one! Why are you agitated thus? Wherefrom all this fear, this
lack of courage? There is no one more powerful than me in the world.
The rulers of the eight directions have been defeated by the might
of my arm. Death dare not step near me. Do not yield to fear. You
are extolling that weakling Rama in my hearing unaware of the depth
and extent of my might". With these words, he left the Queen and
entered the Audience Hall, where he promptly sat on the throne.
Mandodari noticed his movements and the trend of his thoughts; she
said to herself, "What a fool! This is the inevitable fate of
persons who do not give up their false pride. Good counsel cannot
enter their minds. When one is suffering from fever, sweet things
taste bitter. He is now having the poisonous fever of pride;
therefore, nectarine counsel is rejected by him, as if it is poison.
What more can I do now?" She pictured in her mind the calamities and
sorrows that were in store for Lanka. She felt that, before
witnessing and sharing in all that misery and grief, it would be
better to end life itself. With a heavy heart and with thoughts of
Rama filling her, she went into her room and threw herself on the
bed.
Meanwhile, Ravana sent for his ministers and set about making
preparations for the battle that was imminent. "Rakshasas!", he
accosted, "The Vanaras, the Jambavanthas, and the men who are now
attacking us are not even a morsel for our maws. Do not lose
courage, hesitate or argue. Plunge into the fight. Get ready", he
yelled. But, Prahastha stood up from his seat, and with folded
palms, he said, "Rakshasas! Let us not desert the right path. Lord!
These ministers of yours speak words that are in line with your
desire. But, that will not ensure success. One solitary monkey
crossed the ocean and coming into our City performed many a
wonderful feat. At that time, these ministers and these armies could
not put an end to his destructive antics. You say monkeys are but
morsels for our maws. Well, when that monkey was here, where were
those maws? Did they have no hunger? When it burnt the City into a
heap of ashes, these ministers had evidently no appetite to eat it!
Lord! The words that fall from the lips of these ministers might
appear very pleasant to you now but they will bring about dire
calamities as time moves on. Think about all this in the quiet
hours. Rama has struck camp on our Suneela Mountain; he came over
the sea through a bridge they constructed; he has with him an army
of uncounted numbers of Vanaras. Can such a person be a mere man?
Give up that surmise if you believe so. Do not prattle as the
tongue, that is let loose, talks. Do not welcome into your ears the
rhetoric of these ministers. Do not also condemn me as a coward,
afraid of battle. Believe in me and in the aptness and urgency of my
advice. Take Sita with you now itself and surrender her to him,
praying for pardon. That step will save us and save Lanka. We can
then claim that we have rescued our tribe from destruction. This is
the triumph we can achieve. Or else, face defeat and disaster. Get
ready this very moment; your renown will last until the Sun and Moon
endure. Do not acquire a name that will be execrated so long as the
Sun and Moon endure".
Bridge made of chain of shoals, c.18 mi (30 km) long, in the
Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, reveals a mystery
behind it. The bridge's unique curvature and composition by
age reveals that it is man made. The legends as well as
Archeological studies reveal that the first signs of human
inhabitants in Sri Lanka date back to the a primitive age,
about 17,50,000 years ago and the bridge's age is also almost
equivalent. This information is a crucial aspect for an
insight into the mysterious legend called Ramayana, which was
supposed to have taken place in tredha yuga (more than
17,00,000 years ago). In this epic, there is a mentioning
about a bridge, which was built between Rameshwaram (India)
and Sri lankan coast under the supervision of a dynamic and
invincible figure called Rama who is supposed to be the
incarnation of the supreme. This information may not be of
much importance to the archeologist s who are interested in
exploring the origins of man, but it is sure to open the
spiritual gates of the people of the world to have come to
know an ancient history linked to the Indian mythology.
Tell us what do you think about Rama's Bridge
Courtesy : NASA Digital Image Collection
The Story Begins - Very Interesting if you read it
Looking at the sea, Rama questioned how it was proposed to cross it.
Many among the Vanaras suggested means and methods. At last
Vibhishana rose from his place and addressed Rama thus: "Lord! The
Ocean owes its origin to your forefathers, Sagara and his sons It is
the family 'preceptor' of your line. If only you resolve that it
should be crossed, the Vanaras can easily go across".
Meanwhile, a messenger sent by Ravana was sighted by Vibhishana and
the Vanaras bound him and took him to where Sugriva, their Ruler
was. Sugriva ordered that his limbs be cut off; when the Vanaras
prepared themselves for the execution of that order, the fellow
raised a hue and cry. He shouted in his pain, "O Vanaras! I swear by
Rama! Do not cut off my nose and ears". His pathetic cry was heard
by Lakshmana; he asked that the Rakshasa be brought to his presence;
he spoke softly to him, and admonished the Vanaras for torturing a
Messenger deputed by Ravana. He wrote a letter and placed it in his
hand, with the words: "Give this missive to Ravana. And, repeat to
him the words I now utter: O, Demolisher of the fortunes of your own
clan! Change your heart at least this day, and fall at the feet of
Rama. Rama will pardon you. Do not decimate and destroy the Rakshasa
tribe, in order to prop up your wiles. Know there is no other means
available to you to avoid the Death that is imminent." With these
hard and heavy warnings, the Messenger was sent back to his master!
The fellow was overjoyed that he could escape alive; he shouted "Jai
to Lord Ramachandra," and fell at Rama's feet before he hied back
home.
At the Court of Ravana, he related the events that had ensued
and started describing with uncontrollable delight the
majestic charm of Rama. He gave Ravana the letter Lakshmana
had entrusted him with. Ravana enquired about his brother,
Vibhishana, and asked how he fared. "Fie upon him", he
ejaculated, "his days are numbered; death will swallow him
soon. He is a pest, bred in this granary. He left this Lanka
and joined the camp of my foe. Misfortune will haunt him until
he dies". He turned to the fellow and asked him, "Under this
pretext, you visited their camp. Did you not tell them of our
military might and adamantine resolve? Tell me also what you
learnt about their resources and capabilities". The messenger,
Suka, stood before the throne with folded palms, and said,
"Lord! I pray that you extend some grace to me and listen
calmly and with forbearance to what I say. The very moment
your brother sealed friendship with Rama he was crowned
Emperor of Lanka by him! Knowing that I reached their camp as
your messenger, the Vanaras caught hold of me and tortured me
in various ways. I swore in Rama's name and called upon him to
save me; therefore, they allowed me to come away unmutilated,
with my nose and ears intact. Had I a thousand tongues, I
cannot describe the might of those Vanara armies. What a
galaxy of heroic warriors are they! There are Vanaras of many
different colours, of all ages and grades, of gigantic stature
and strength. One shakes in terror when one casts his eyes at
them; why, even to picture them in the mind or think about
them is a terror-striking experience. Imagine the night of
that one Vanara who killed your son (Akshayakumara and reduced
the City to ashes! It is all the result of their being
reflections and echoes of the invincible might of Rama
himself. Even the tiniest brat among the monkeys becomes, by
that token, a horrifying monster. There are monkey warriors
with various names, and each of them is endowed with the
strength of many herds of elephants.
Dwivida, Mainda, Nila, Nala, Angada, Vikata, Dadhimukha, Kesari,
Kumuda, Daja, Gavaksha, Jambavantha - these are the generals.
Everyone of them is equal in might and military skill to their
Ruler, Sugriva. And, there are hundreds of thousands more among
them, who are of equal might. Their number is beyond calculation.
Their fury and ferocity can destroy earth, heaven and the nether
regions, as if these were but heaps of straw. Lord, I heard that
their number is 18 Padmas. And, each Padma has a valiant general at
its head. Emperor! I did not find a single Vanara, from the highest
to the lowest, who doubted their victory; nor was there anyone who
had the least trace of nervousness on the eve of the march. They are
all tightening their muscles to pound this City; they are only
waiting for the signal from Rama. They have not had it so far.
"Whether the ocean yields to them and gives the right of way or not,
they are determined to build a causeway of stones, and succeed in
their venture. They are baring teeth and gnashing them, boasting
that they would squeeze Ravana out of shape and reduce him into a
handful of pulp. Fear strikes everyone who listens to their exultant
roar and challenging call. The instant they hear the name Ravana
uttered within earshot, they get so enraged that they pluck giant
trees root and branch, and brandish them in angry demonstration of
hate. They are swaying and swinging, surging and shouting, in their
eagerness to consume this City. They have equally redoubtable bears
too among them. And, to crown all, they have Rama as their leader,
capable of overwhelming millions of 'Death-deities'. Hundreds of
thousands of Adi-seshas, each of which is blessed with a thousand
heads and tongues, cannot do full justice, if asked to describe the
heroism and military skill of Rama. With one arrow shot from his
bow, he can dry up even the Ocean."
The reaction of Ravana to this report of the spy and messenger was a
peal of wild laughter. He said, "Fie on you. Giving ear to the
pratings of the monkeys that surround him and of that arch coward,
Vibhishana, you are extolling that fool so high. It is sheer
nonsense to describe the strength and heroism of mere monkeys.
Enough. Enough! Can monkeys be ever so strong! I have heard enough,
long ago, of the power and might of this Sugriva; and, what can this
poltroon Vibhishana, who has become his minister now, do? Can he
contribute any wealth, victory or resources to Rama?"
The messenger could only pine within himself and bewail the lack of
intelligence that Ravana was exhibiting. He folded his palms in
obeisance and stood silent. Then Ravana tore the envelope of the
missive that Lakshmana had sent, and, after perusing it, handed it
over to his Minister. He said, "You are like the thithiri bird
afraid that the sky will fall upon its young fledglings! Poor thing!
It covers the little one holding its head over them as a cover! Can
the sky ever fall and kill the birds! Can these anchorites, these
ritual-ridden priests, who try to frighten me by a shower of words,
ever succeed? "Suka, the messenger, watched the heroics of Ravana
for some time. Then, he intercepted with the words, "Lord! What I
have now said is the full truth. Read well and carefully the
contents of that letter and act, without any sense of resentment or
pride. Listen! Give up the hostility you have developed. Rama is
very tender of heart and compassionate. He is the master of the
three worlds. If only you approach him, he will take you under his
protection and guard you from harm. He will pardon all your wrongs.
Surrender Sita to Him. Give heed to my prayer." The envoy pleaded
plaintively that Ravana save himself from ruin.
While he was pouring out his pleas, Ravana's eyes reddened with
anger and shame. He roared in protest, "what! do you take me to be a
criminal! Did I send you, o fool, to go and surrender at the feet of
those prattling babies of the forest? Audacity and impertinence
cannot go further," and, rising from the throne, he kicked the
fellow out of the Hall. The Rakshasa, Suka, fled to the camp of Rama
and sought refuge. But, the Vanaras seeing him again amidst them
were moved into revenge; however they restrained themselves, and
awaited the orders of Rama. Sugriva led Suka to the presence of
Rama. Suka prostrated before Rama and related in detail his story
and fate. He prayed that he might be accepted as Vibhishana was
accepted, and that he might be protected by his new Master. Rama, as
the very embodiment of compassion, called to his presence the
leaders of the Vanaras, and directed them to welcome their new
brother, Suka. He too was overcome by gratitude and he declared that
his life had reached its goal.
Then, Rama directed Lakshmana to bring him the bow and arrow,
and when he brought them, Rama said, "Haughty persons deserve
no kindness; mischievously cruel persons deserve no softness;
misers by nature deserve no moral teaching; egotistic persons
deserve no advice, greedy persons cannot benefit from
insistence on renunciation; persons stricken with anger
deserve no counsel on being at peace; lust-crazy victims
deserve no scriptural readings; saline fields deserve no seeds
of grain. So too this Ocean that does not yield to soft
request deserves no mercy." So saying, he fitted an arrow to
his bow; at this, Lakshmana was afraid what the consequence
would be for the Ocean. The Ocean too was rendered hot at the
mere preparation to shoot the arrow into its depths. The
denizens of the deep suffered extreme agony. As if
terror-stricken, the waves began screaming. Wave after wave
rolled towards the place where Rama stood and, gently lapped
his feet, as if praying for mercy. At that time, a Voice was
heard as if from the sky, "Lord! There are two generals in the
campus, Nala and Nila, who are targets of a curse pronounced
by a sage. That curse can now be used as a blessing. Listen.
The story can now be told". The Ocean itself communicated the
details of that dire incident to Rama.
"There were many hermits living on a river bank in cottages. While
young, these two entered these hermitages; while the sages were
immersed in deep meditation, seizing the holy icons called saligrams
which they worshipped, they used to cast them into the waters of the
river. The sages were enraged at this sacrilege and they cast a
curse on them, in this manner. 'Boys! May all things that you throw
on water never sink; may they float instead. And, may they remain
just where you have thrown them, even if the waters flow fast in
floods.' Therefore, every rock they throw will float at the very
place; have your Name inscribed on every slab and rock. Your Name is
light, not heavy at all. Thus, even huge mountain peaks when thrown
would float and form a bridge. I shall also contribute my share of
help, for, when the search is for Truth, all Nature must serve the
seeker." Rama decided not to let go the arrow he had fitted; but,
since, his arrow, once fixed had to find a target, he aimed it at a
forest area in the far distance and, as a result, it became a dry
desert.
Rama called together the ministers and directed them to construct
the bridge across the Ocean. Hanuman said, "Lord! Your Name is the
bridge that can safely transport man across the Ocean of Life. Which
bridge can be stronger and safer than that?" Jambavan, the aged
General, said, "Lord! Your prowess, which is a raging conflagration,
can dry up this mass of water; it is sure to be filled to the brim
again by the tears of the women widowed in Lanka during the coming
battle with Ravana and his armies."
Rama smiled at the simple sincere loyalty and valour of these
devotees. Jambavan reminded Nala and Nila of the assurance given by
the unseen source, which was no other than the Ocean itself, about
the use that can now be made of curse they had drawn upon themselves
while young. He directed them to install Rama in their hearts and
throw hills, hillocks, mountains and rocks into the sea. At this,
the Vanara heroes ran in all directions, and brought back entire
hills on their heads and shoulders, as if they were as light as
balls used for games. They stood in one long line and passed the
hills from shoulder to shoulder, all the while repeating aloud the
name of Rama. Off and on, they also uprooted huge trees, and passed
them onward to the bridge site, where Nala and Nila were casting the
materials into the water.
The whole of that day they worked without rest and with no thought
of food or sustenance. They built a length of 14 yojanas in one day.
Refreshed by a good night's sleep, they rose before dawn, during the
Brahma Muhurtha itself, and resumed work. They acclaimed with
cheers, "Jai to Sri Ramachandra, our Lord," and hurried to the
various corners of the land in search of hills and mountains. They
brought them on to the shore and piled them there for being used by
Nala and Nila.
The second day, the bridge was extended by another twenty yojanas;
the next day, they were able to build it for a further length of
twenty-one yojanas; the fourth day saw the bridge extending over a
further twenty-two yojanas. And, on the fifth day, by constructing a
further twenty-three yojanas, they completed the 100-yojana bridge
in another successful spurt.
Thus, Nala and Nila, unconcerned with exhaustion or the need for
rest, intent on fulfilling the task assigned by Rama for the
completion of his mission, were able to announce in the presence of
Rama that the bridge was ready, because his Name and Form were ever
before those who toiled for its completion.
Rama was informed through Sugriva that the hundred-yojana bridge, he
had resolved upon was finished and ready to be used. Rama and
Lakshmana were pleased at the devotion and sense of duty of the
Vanaras, who finished the job so soon and so well. Rama directed the
Ruler of the Monkeys, Sugriva, to pass along the long line of
Vanaras the order that each one should deposit the hill he was
transporting at the time, at the very place he stood, and take a
little rest before returning to base. Sugriva conveyed the order to
those who were engaged in passing from shoulder to shoulder, the
boulders and peaks for the bridge. Hanuman was at that moment
transporting a huge hill from the far north. When he heard that Rama
had ordered that it be deposited, he cast it down, near Brindavana
where he was at the time. He was surprised to hear a loud wail from
the fallen peak. "Alas", it cried, "I have lost the chance of
service to Rama." It could not be consoled or comforted. When
Hanuman brought its condition to the notice of Rama, Rama smiled in
appreciation. He said, "Ah! Even mountains are yearning anxiously to
participate in this task!" He expressed joy at their enthusiasm. He
told Hanuman, "Go quick. Console the hill. Tell it not to be sad.
During the coming Dwapara Age, I shall hold that hill high on my
palm, for seven days and nights. On hearing this, the peak will be
happy". That assurance made it the Govardhana Hill [see Bagavatha
Vahini, Chapter 38], which the Lord held aloft as promised in the
Tretha Age.
On the fifth day, Rama sat on the seashore, and was delighted when
he saw the bridge. "0 Vanaras!", he said, "Your devotion and skill
in service are beyond description. By your sense of dedication you
have won my heart." At that time, Vibhishana came into the presence
and said, "Lord! We have to enter Lanka tomorrow; so, I have a
prayer to place before you." Rama replied, "What is it? Tell me."
Vibhishana continued, "Ravana is a devout worshipper of Siva. He has
intense attachment towards that aspect of Godhead. Yet, it is
certain he will meet death at your hands. I pray that, to
commemorate his devotion to Siva, you may, on the eve of moving
towards Lanka and entering it through this bridge, install a
Sivalinga here, so that in coming centuries, when people enter Lanka
along this route, they can worship the Sivalinga and remember these
events. They would indeed be fortunate to have such experience. The
Linga would be extolled by them as Rama Lingeswara, the Idol
installed by Rama. And, even when the bridge is eroded and crumbled
by time, the spot could be identified by future generations by means
of the Idol worshipped here." Rama was happy at the suggestion. He
said, "I shall fulfill your wish. You are the future Ruler of Lanka,
and in order to please you, I am ready to carry out your wishes,
whatever is involved." At this, Sugriva directed the Vanaras to get
all the requisites for the installation; he procured an impressive
Linga sending Hanuman himself for the purpose. Rama performed the
ceremonial ablution for the Linga with water from the sea and
invoked Vitality and Grace into It. Rama's words had the effect of
manthra or sacred formula; so, nothing more was needed to sanctify
the Linga. The Vanaras uttered hymns and their ecstatic shouts
echoed from the heavens. Amidst the Jai Jai of the hordes standing
around, Lakshmana and Sugriva helped Rama to plant the Linga in
position and to complete the ceremony of Consecration.
Then, the Vanaras started marching over the bridge in regular
formation, with the picture of Rama in their minds and the name of
Rama on their tongues. The scene was inexpressibly sublime. Rama and
Lakshmana stood on the bridge and looked at the sea surging on both
sides. The presence of Rama, the Ocean of Compassion, raised the
spirits of the Ocean below. Waves rose to catch a glimpse of Rama;
the denizens of the sea peeped over the waters and frolicked in joy
at the sight of Rama. They discarded their natures and stared long
and hungrily at the Divine Form of Rama. The Vanaras had prepared a
camp on the Lanka end of the bridge; so, when the vanguard reached
the heights, the news spread throughout the island. Very soon, Rama,
Lakshmana, Sugriva and Vibhishana, who crossed at a slow pace, also
reached the main gate of the fort of Lanka. Accepting the orders of
Rama, the Vanaras plucked entire trees, and dancing in joy, they ate
the fruits and cast the branches and twigs over the battlements into
the City itself. They heaved huge boulders over the wall and dropped
them into the streets beyond. They sought out Rakshasas moving about
alone outside the fort; they teased and tormented them, threatening
to wring their necks. Such pranks of the monkeys could not be
restrained.
Very soon, news reached Ravana that the enemy was at the gate.
Though possessed of ten throats, Ravana was using only one throat so
far to communicate with others; but, now, he roared through all the
ten, in anger and hate. He did not remember that it was a bad omen
to speak through the ten throats! There was a curse laid on him long
ago, that when he spoke through all the ten his end would draw near.
Within a few seconds of the roar, he recollected the curse and was
frightened at the fact. But, however much he attempted to control
the other throats, his voice came out of all the ten. The Rakshasas
who noted this strange occurrence inferred that his destruction was
imminent, now that Rama and his Vanara armies had entered Lanka.
They sat amidst their wives and children and lamented that their
lives would end that day or the next. They decided to use the little
time they had at their disposal in merry-making and pleasure. When
calamity approaches, discrimination departs, says the proverb.
Even when he knew that the curse was coming true, Ravana dismissed
the warning, and told himself that nothing evil would happen to him.
He moved into the Queen's apartments, for, he was afraid the
Ministers might read from his fallen face that he was overcome by
the awareness of the curse. Ravana sank with himself through anxiety
and agony. "Will they, as when my sister fell into their hands,
slice off the noses and ears of my ten heads? Or, will they slice
off the heads themselves?" These fears haunted him.
He saw Mandodari, the Queen, in the apartment. Her eyes discovered
that Ravana had become forlorn. She decided to administer wise
counsel to him. She held his hands in hers and, in a soft, smooth
and sweet voice, she said "Lord! Please listen to me, give up your
anger; pay heed to my words. Think over them carefully. Those whom
we can win over by reverence and devotion, we should not plan to win
over by hatred and opposition. In such circumstances, we have to
resort to intelligent reasoning. It will not bring any good, if we
oppose such sacred persons. You cannot achieve victory if you
encounter Rama; the glow-worm cannot vanquish the Sun. Listen to me.
Take Sita, at least this moment, and, while returning her safe,
prostrate before him and pray for pardon. Do not ruin your life and
destroy Lanka and sacrifice the lives of its women and children.
Persisting in your resolve to fight is not in line with the devotion
and dedication to God that you are famous for. If you hold fast to
this horrid decision, even Siva, whom you have pleased hitherto, is
sure to give you up. Good deeds alone can win the grace of God; how
can God reward and appreciate such heinous acts?"
Mandodari spoke in this strain for a long time trying to mend his
ways and to save him from destruction. "Lord! You are as dear to me
as my own life. Pay heed. Rama is no ordinary human prince. He is
the very person who destroyed Madhu and Kaitabha come again! He
killed Hiranyaksha [see SB: C3-13] and Hiranyakasipu [see SB:
C3-17]. He is the Lord who trampled on the head of Emperor Bali. He
demolished the pride of the thousand-armed Karthaviryarjuna. Then
why boast of the prowess of your mere twenty? He is worshipped by
the entire world; he is of the most auspicious form. A long time
ago, you had yourselves told me that Brahma had told you that God
would incarnate as Rama in order to relieve the earth of the burden
of cruelty and vice. Do you not remember? Aware of all this, how is
it that you do not give up this path, and recognize the truth?
Return to Rama the Acme of Chastity, the Diadem of the Virtuous, the
Incomparable Jewel of beauty, Sita; then let us crown our son as
Emperor of this realm and spend the rest of our days in peace and
plentiful joy in the immediate presence of Rama. Ah! How fortunate
is your brother! He is moving in the cool shade of Rama's grace. It
is not too late. At this very moment, hasten towards Rama who is at
the very entrance of Lanka and fall at his feet, praying for
pardon".
Mandodari was in tears when she spoke thus; she rolled at the feet
of her lord, appealing to him to be warned in good time and to take
immediate measures to rescue himself and his empire, his people and
his fame. Ravana raised her to her feet and wiped her eyes. He said,
"Dear one! Why are you agitated thus? Wherefrom all this fear, this
lack of courage? There is no one more powerful than me in the world.
The rulers of the eight directions have been defeated by the might
of my arm. Death dare not step near me. Do not yield to fear. You
are extolling that weakling Rama in my hearing unaware of the depth
and extent of my might". With these words, he left the Queen and
entered the Audience Hall, where he promptly sat on the throne.
Mandodari noticed his movements and the trend of his thoughts; she
said to herself, "What a fool! This is the inevitable fate of
persons who do not give up their false pride. Good counsel cannot
enter their minds. When one is suffering from fever, sweet things
taste bitter. He is now having the poisonous fever of pride;
therefore, nectarine counsel is rejected by him, as if it is poison.
What more can I do now?" She pictured in her mind the calamities and
sorrows that were in store for Lanka. She felt that, before
witnessing and sharing in all that misery and grief, it would be
better to end life itself. With a heavy heart and with thoughts of
Rama filling her, she went into her room and threw herself on the
bed.
Meanwhile, Ravana sent for his ministers and set about making
preparations for the battle that was imminent. "Rakshasas!", he
accosted, "The Vanaras, the Jambavanthas, and the men who are now
attacking us are not even a morsel for our maws. Do not lose
courage, hesitate or argue. Plunge into the fight. Get ready", he
yelled. But, Prahastha stood up from his seat, and with folded
palms, he said, "Rakshasas! Let us not desert the right path. Lord!
These ministers of yours speak words that are in line with your
desire. But, that will not ensure success. One solitary monkey
crossed the ocean and coming into our City performed many a
wonderful feat. At that time, these ministers and these armies could
not put an end to his destructive antics. You say monkeys are but
morsels for our maws. Well, when that monkey was here, where were
those maws? Did they have no hunger? When it burnt the City into a
heap of ashes, these ministers had evidently no appetite to eat it!
Lord! The words that fall from the lips of these ministers might
appear very pleasant to you now but they will bring about dire
calamities as time moves on. Think about all this in the quiet
hours. Rama has struck camp on our Suneela Mountain; he came over
the sea through a bridge they constructed; he has with him an army
of uncounted numbers of Vanaras. Can such a person be a mere man?
Give up that surmise if you believe so. Do not prattle as the
tongue, that is let loose, talks. Do not welcome into your ears the
rhetoric of these ministers. Do not also condemn me as a coward,
afraid of battle. Believe in me and in the aptness and urgency of my
advice. Take Sita with you now itself and surrender her to him,
praying for pardon. That step will save us and save Lanka. We can
then claim that we have rescued our tribe from destruction. This is
the triumph we can achieve. Or else, face defeat and disaster. Get
ready this very moment; your renown will last until the Sun and Moon
endure. Do not acquire a name that will be execrated so long as the
Sun and Moon endure".
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