The Bridge
The History
Rama's Bridge is a partially submerged 18 mile stretch of shoals linking southeastern India and Sri Lanka. Many see this feature as proof of and tribute to Lord Rama, avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu and star of the India Epic Ramayana. Others view the bridge as an inconvenience, barring faster cargo transit for shipping lines operating along the India coastline. The Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project was first proposed in 1860, and has been a source of controversy ever since.
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The government of India has argued for the implementation of the canal over the protests of scientists, scholars, prime ministers, and religious leaders from Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities. The bridge's origins are still disputed.
While the factual origin of the bridge remains a point of contention between historians and geologists, the fabled origins draw strongly from both Indian and South Asian culture. Rama, legendary hero of the Ramayana, pursues his kidnapped wife Sita. Finding an ocean blocking his passage, he conscripts the local Vanara tribe to construct him a bridge of colossal proportions, allowing his troops to cross over the water. Each of the stories presented at this year's conference highlight the virtues of goodness, dedication, and ambition that Rama's bridge signifies for millions of people today. The speaker lineup will be released March 2018.
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The works you read here come from the latest digital debates regarding the origin, value, and significance of Rama's Bridge, presented by speakers of economic, environmental, historical, and practical motivations.
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Proposed Canal Route
Image Courtesy of India Today
"The Engineers"
The story of Nala and Nila: two determined brothers responsible for the construction and completion of Rama's Bridge. A tale of ambition and skill.
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"Insignificant"
A piquant reminder that all things, no matter how small, can serve a purpose greater than themselves. A squirrel is belittled while attempting to assist with the bridge's construction, and Rama intervenes.
A chain of islands called Adam's Bridge connects India to Sri Lanka. Background Image Source: Boaz Rottem
"The Saboteur"
Suvannamaccha, mermaid daughter of Ravana, is instructed to prevent the bridge's completion. Her efforts earn her the attentions of Hanuman, and a little something extra.
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"The Contest"
Arjuna, hero of the Mahabharata and renowned archer, arrives at the completed bridge and criticizes Rama's choice to use the local Vanara tribe as the labor pool for the bridge's construction. A contest is held, and both sides learn a valuable lesson in pride and humility.