04-12-2007, 10:48 PM
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->Textual evidences for Rama Setu (or Setu bandha)
Mirrored at: http://hinduthought.googlepages.com/setuband.doc
Declare Rama Setu as a protected monument
Apart from the Ramayana which has emphatic references to the construction of Setu bandha in 85 s'lokas in a separate sarga in Yuddha kanda, Mahabharata also refers to the continued protection of Nala Setu following the command of Sri Rama. Sri Rama refers in Kalidasa's Raghuvams'a also refers to the Setu of mountains. So does Skanda Purana ( III.1.2.1-114), Vishnu Purana (IV.4.40-49), Agni Purana (V-XI), Brahma Purana (138.1-40) refer to the construction of Rama Setu.
<b>Epics and classics</b>
·    Valmiki describes the construction of Sethu in detail. For an exquisite rendering of Valmiki's descriptions see: http://ramasetu.blogspot.com/2007/03/setu-...i-ramayana.html Also: http://bridgeofram.com/
hastimaatraan mahaakaayaaH paaSaaNaamshca mahaabalaaH parvataamshca samutpaaTya yantraiH parivahanti ca Valmiki Ramayana 2-22-58
Vaanara having huge bodies, with mighty strength uprooted elephant-sized rocks and mountains and transported them by mechanical contrivances (yantraih).
Vedavyasa refers to Nalasetu and notes how the setu was protected during Mahabharata times
nalasetur iti khyÄto yo 'dyÄpi prathito bhuvi rÄmasyÄjñÄá¹ puraská¹ tya dhÄryate girisaá¹ nibhaḥ MBh. 3.267.45
.... which even today, popular on earth as Nala's bridge, mountain-like, is sustained out of respect for [Lord] Rama's command. (Nala was son of Vis'wakarma)
Kalidasa's Raghuvams'a (sarga 13): Rama, while returning from SriLanka in pushpaka vimaana: "Behold, Sita, My Sethu of mountains dividing this frothy ocean is like the milky way dividing the sky into two parts"
There is a kavya in Prakrit by King Pravarasena II (550-600 CE) called "Setu bandha or Ravanavaho." "Dasamuha Vadha" (Setubandha Kavya) was written by the King Damodara Sen (5th Century).
<b>Epigraphs</b>
"â¦the most common reference to Rama in early inscriptions is in a verse that begins to appear commonly at the end of land-grants from the early 9th century onwards in Rashtrakuta regions. "Common to all kings is the setu of dharma: you should abide by it moment by moment. Again and again Ramabhadra implores all future kings to do the same ( Epigraphica Indica 23.212 â a record of AD 807)⦠Tiruvalangadu plates of Rajaraja Cola I (AD 985-1014) describe the king as surpassing Rama in military prowess and crossing the ocean with his powerful army and subduing the king of Lanka⦠The concept of a hill-top imprinted by the feet of Visnu is repeatedly found in the Mahabharata24 and it is suggested that a column on the hill may have enshrined Visnupada. (Vishnupadam in Srilanka was renamed as Adam's peak just as Ramar bridge was renamed as Adam's Bridge by James Rennel in 1804 when he was the first surveyor general of British India)⦠In the temples of Orissa dated from 7 th to 10th centuries, Rama is represented both as an avatara of Visnu as also the hero of the Ramayana narrative. In a dasavatara group, the image of Rama is sculpted along with Balarama and Parasurama at the entrance of Manibhadresvara and also at Simhanatha. Ramayana friezes occur on several temples, such as Svarnajalesvara, Sisiresvara, Varahi and Panca-Pandava. These include scenes of Rama shooting through seven trees, killing the golden deer, abduction of Sita, fight between Bali and Sugriva and building the bridge across the ocean." http://www.ochs.org.uk/publications/multim..._HPRay_1006.docÂ
Hampi inscription of Krishnaraya Saka 1430 (1508 CE) in Epigraphica Indica refers to Rama Setu
Skanta Purana (VI.101.1-44) describes the installation of threee Shiva linga at the end, middle and beginning of Rama Setu and making the same bridge submerged and thereby creating Setu-Teerth. This is also related in Kurma Purana ( 21.10-61). Garuda Purana (1.81.1-22) lists sacred places including Setubandh and Rameswar. Narada Purana (Uttara Bhag 76.1-20) extols the greatness of Rama-Setu.
Adam's Bridge also called Rama's Bridge, chain of shoals, between the islands of Mannar, near northwestern Sri Lanka, and Rameswaram, off the southeastern coast of India. The bridge is 30 miles (48 km) long and separates the Gulf of Mannar (southwest) from the Palk Strait (northeast). Some of the sandbanks are dry, and nowhere are the shoals deeper than 4 feet (1 m); thus, they seriously hinder navigation. Dredging operations, now abandoned, were begun as early as 1838 but never succeeded in maintaining a channel for any vessels except those of light draft. Geologic evidence suggests that Adam's Bridge represents a former land connection between India and Sri Lanka. Traditionally, it is said to be the remnant of a huge causeway constructed by Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, to facilitate the passage of his army from India to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) for the rescue of his abducted wife, Sita. According to Muslim legend, Adam crossed there to Adam's Peak, Ceylon, atop which he stood repentant on one foot for 1,000 years.
http://www.britannicaindia.com/duk_det_i...?art_id=28
Using search terms: India, Ceylon, bridge, the Google search produces the following links.
A book by Alexander Hamilton, 1744, A New Account of the East Indies: Giving an Exact and Copious Description of the Situation, P. 338 describes his visit to 'zeloan' (alt. spelling for Ceylon) by walking on the bridge.
An article in: Asiatic Society, 1799, Asiatick Researches: Or, Transactions of the Society Instituted in Bengal, P. 52 refers to the bridge called Setband (alt. spelling, setuband like Allahband; setu-bandha), broken in 3 places. It also notes "The people call it a bridge; or otherwise it appears to have wood growing on it, and to be inhabited."
"On the north-west side of the Island, where the currents are checked by the obstruction of Adam's Bridge and still water prevails in the Gulf of Manaar, these deposits have been profusely heaped, and the low sandy pains have been proportionally extended; whilst on the south and east, where the current sweeps unimpeded along the coast , the line of the shore is bold and occasionally rocky. The explanation of the accretion and rising of the land is somewhat opposed to the popular belief that Ceylon was torn from the main land of India by a convulsion, during which the Gulf of Manaar and the narrow channel at Paumbam were formed by the submission of the adjacent land. The two theories might be reconciled by supposing the sinking to have occurred at an early period, and to have been followed by the uprising still in progress." http://www.lankaweb.com/news/features/ceylon3.html Source: Ceylon - an account of the island by Sir James Emmerson Tennent, KCS, LLD Compiling exclusively to LankaWeb by Tilak S. Fernando, London
Rama Sethu construction -- Valmiki Ramayana
Book VI : Yuddha Kanda - Book Of War Chapter [Sarga] 22
When Rama is about to release a missile presided over by Brahma from his bow, the sea-god appears in person before him with joined palms and advises him to get a bridge constructed by Nala across the ocean. The ocean god disappears after giving this advice to Rama. Nala accordingly constructs a bridge across the sea with the help of other monkeys.
athovaaca raghushreSThaH saagaram daaruNam vacaH |
adya tvaam shoSayiSyaami sapaataalam mahaarNava || 2-22-1
Then, Rama spoke these harsh words to the ocean: "O, ocean! I will make you dry up now along with your nethermost subterranean region."
sharanirdagdhatoyasya parishuSkasya saagara |
mayaa nihatasattvasya paamsurutpadyate mahaan || 2-22-2
"O, Ocean! A vast stretch of sand will appear, when your water gets consumed by my arrows; when you get dried up and the creatures inhabiting you get destroyed by me."
matkaarmukanisR^iSTena sharavarSeNa saagara |
param tiiram gamiSyanti padbhireva plavaN^gamaaH || 2-22-3
"By a gush of arrows released by my bow, our monkeys can proceed to the other shore even by foot; O, ocean!"
vichinvannaabhijaanaasi pauruSam vaapi vikramam |
daavnavaalaya samtaapam matto naama gamiSyasi || 2-22-4
"O, Sea the abode of demons! You are not able to recognize my valor or prowess through your intelligence .You will indeed get repentance at my hands."
braahmeNaastreNa samyojya brahmadaNDanibham sharam |
samyojya dhanuSi shre SThe vicakarSa mahaabalaH || 2-22-5
"Fixing an arrow resembling the Rod of Brahma (the creator) charged with a missile (presided over by Brahama) to his excellent bow, the exceedingly powerful Rama stretched it towards the sea."
tasminvikR^iSTe sahasaa raaghaveNa sharaasane |
rodasii sampaphaaleva parvataashca chakampire || 2-22-6
While Rama was stretching that bow, both the heaven and earth suddenly seemed to be split asunder. Mountains also were shaken.
tamashca lokamaavavre dishashca na chakaashire |
praticukshubhire caashu saraamsi saritastadaa || 2-22-7
Darkness enveloped the world. All the quarters were obscured. Lakes and rivers were soon agitated.
tiryak ca saha nakshatraiH samgatau candrabhaaskarau |
bhaaskaraamshubhiraadiiptam tamasaa ca samaavR^itam || 2-22-8
pracakaashe tadaakaashamulkaashatavidiipitam |
antarikshaachcha nirghaataa nirjagmuratulasvanaaH || 2-22-9
The moon sun and the stars moved obliquely and though the sun's rays lighted the sky, it was enveloped by darkness and shined with a blaze of hundreds of meteors while thunders reverberated with an unparalleled sound in the sky.
vapuHprakarSeNa vavurdivyamaarutapaN^ktyaH |
babhaJNja cha tadaa vR^ikshaan jaladaanudvahan muhuH || 2-22-10
Series of celestial winds blew in their colossal form and the winds, then sweeping away the clouds, tore up the trees again and again.
aarujamshcaiva shailaagraan shikharaaNi babhaJNja ca |
divi ca sma mahaavegaaH samhataaH samahaasvanaaH || 2-22-11
mumucurvaidyutaanagniimste mahaashanayastadaa |
The wind, shattering the mountain peaks, broke off the points of the rocks. Winds of great velocity struck together in the sky and emitted flashes of radiance proceeding from lightning with a great sound and then there were great thunders.
yaani bhuutaani dR^ishyaani chukrushushcaashaneH samam || 2-22-12
adR^ishyaani ca bhuutaani mumuchurbhairavasvanam |
shishyare caabhibhuutaani samtrastaamyadvijanti ca || 2-22-13
sampravivyathire caapi na ca paspandire bhayaat |
The visible creatures cried out along with the thunders. The invisible beings too gave off a terrific noise. The creatures were overpowered, frightened, agitated, lied down and also very much anguished. They did not move due to fear.
sahabhuutaiH satoyormiH sanaagaH saharaakshasaH || 2-22-14
sahasaabhuuttato vegaadbhiimavego mahodadhiH |
yojanam vyaticakraama velaamanyatra samplavaat || 2-22-15
The great ocean with its waves and water, along with its living creatures including snakes and demons soon became possessed of a terrific velocity. Due to that speed and swelling of waters, the ocean crossed beyond the other shore to the extent of a Yojana (eight miles).
tam tathaa samatikraantam naaticakraama raaghavaH |
samuddhatamamitraghno raamo nadanadiipatim || 2-22-16
Rama born in Raghu dynasty and the annihilator of enemies, did not retreat before that ocean, which swelled and crossed its limits.
tato madhyaat samudrasya saagaraH svayam utthitaH |
udayan hi mahaashailaan meror iva divaa karaH || 2-22-17
Then, Sagara (the ocean god) himself rose from the middle of the ocean as the sun rises at dawn from the huge mountain of Meru.
pannagaiH saha diipta aasyaiH samudraH pratyadR^ishyata |
snigdha vaiduurya samkaasho jaambuu nada vibhuuSitaH || 2-22-18
That ocean along with snakes of flaming jaws appeared with a hue of glossy emerald adorned with gold.
ratna maalya ambara dharaH padma patra nibha iikSaNaH |
sarvapuSpamayiim divyaam shirasaa dhaarayan srajam || 2-22-19
jaataruupamayaishcaiva tapaniiyavibhuuSito bhuuSaNottamaiH |
aatmajaanaam ca ratnaanaam bhuuSito bhuuSaNottamaiH || 2-22-20
dhaatubhirmaNDitaH shailo vividhairhamavaaniva |
ekaavaliimadhyagatam taralam paaNDaraprabham || 2-22-21
vipulenorasaa bibhratkaustubhasya sahodaram |
aaghuurNitataraN^gaughaHkaalikaanilasamkulaH || 2-22-22
gaN^gaasindhupradhaanaabhiraapagaabhiH samaavR^itaH |
devataanaam saruupaabhirnaanaaruupaabhiriishvaraH || 2-22-23
saagaraH samatikramya puurvam aamantrya viiryavaan |
abraviit praanjalir vaakyam raaghavam shara paaNinam || 2-22-24
The valiant ocean, the lord of rivers, wearing a wreath of pearls, with his eyes resembling lotus leaves, bearing a beautiful garland made of all kinds of flowers on his head, with ornaments of refined gold, adorned with excellent jewels made of pearls from his domain, decorated with different kinds of gems and metals, resembling Himavat mountain, wearing on his broad chest a locket shedding a white luster, resembling a Kaustubha gem (adorning the blossom of Lord Vishnu) and hanging in the middle of a single string of pearls, with a multitude of waves whirled around him, encircled by the clouds and winds, escorted by rivers mainly the Ganga and Sindhu, endowed with diverse forms resembling various deities, approached Rama with joined palms, who stood with arrows in hand, addressing him first as 'Rama!' and spoke the following words:
pR^ithivii vaayur aakaasham aapo jyotiH ca raaghavaH |
svabhaave saumya tiSThanti shaashvatam maargam aashritaaH || 2-22-25
"O, beloved Rama! Earth, wind ether, water and light remain fixed in their own nature, resorting to their eternal path."
tat svabhaavo mama api eSa yad agaadho aham aplavaH |
vikaaras tu bhaved raadha etat te pravadaami aham || 2-22-26
"Therefore, I am fathomless and my nature is that it is impossible of being swum across. It becomes unnatural if I am shallow. I am telling you the following device to cross me."
na kaamaan na ca lobhaad vaa na bhayaat paarthiva aatmaja |
raagaannakraakulajalam stambhayeyam kathamcana || 2-22-27
"O, prince! Neither from desire nor ambition nor fear nor from affection, I am able to solidify my waters inhabited by alligators."
vidhaasye yena gantaasi viSahiSye hyaham tathaa |
na graahaa vidhamiSyanti yaavatsenaa tariSyati || 2-22-28
hariiNaam taraNe raama kariSyaami yathaasthalam |
"O, Rama! I shall make it possible to see that you are able to cross over. I will arrange a place for the monkeys to cross me and bear with it. As far as the army crosses me, the crocodiles will not be aggressive to them."
tamabraviittadaa raamaH shR^iNu me varuNaalaya || 2-22-29
amogho.ayam mahaabaaNaH kasmin deshe nipaatyataam |
Then, Rama spoke to that ocean as follows: "Listen to me. This great arrow should not go in vain. In which region should it be descended?"
raamasya vachanam shrutvaa tam ca dR^iSTvaa mahaasharam || 2-22-30
mahodadhirmahaatejaa raaghavam vaakyamabraviit |
Hearing Rama's words and seeing that powerful arrow, the large splendid Ocean spoke the following words to Rama:
uttareNaavakaasho.asti kashchitpuNyataro mama || 2-22-31
drumakulya iti khyaato loke khyaato yathaa bhavaan |
"Towards my northern side, there is a holy place. It is well known as Drumatulya, in the same way as you are well known to this world."
ugradarshanakarmaaNo bahavastatra dasyavaH || 2-22-32
aabhiirapramukhaaH paapaaH pibanti salilam mama |
"Numerous robbers of fearful aspect and deeds, having the sinful Abhiras as their chief, drink my waters there."
tairna tatsparshanam paapam saheyam paapakarmabhiH || 2-22-33
amoghaH kriyataam raama tatra teSu sharottamaH |
"I am not able to bear that touch of those wicked people, the evil doers, O, Rama! Let this excellent arrow with out vain be released over them there."
tasya tadvacanam shrutvaa saagarasya mahaatmanaH || 2-22-34
mumoca tam sharam diiptam param saagaradarshanaat |
Hearing those words of the high-soled Ocean, Rama released that excellent and splendid arrow towards that place as directed by the ocean.
tena tanmarukaantaaram p^ithivyaam kila vishrutam || 2-22-35
vipaatitaH sharo yatra vajraashanisamaprabhaH |
The place where the arrow, whose splendor was akin to that of a thunder and a thunder bolt, was descended by Rama- that place is indeed famous as desert of Maru* on this earth.
nanaada ca tadaa tatra vasudhaa shalyapiiDitaa || 2-22-36
tasmaadbaaNamukhaattoyamutpapaata rasaatalaat |
The earth there, pierced by the dart, then emitted a sound . The waters of the penultimate subterranean region gushed forth from the mouth of that cleft.
sa babhuuva tadaa kuupo vraNa ityeva vishrutaH || 2-22-37
satatam cotthitam toyam samudrasyeva dR^ishyate |
Then the hollow became known as Vrana. Water constantly seen, gushing forth from it resembled seawater.
avadaaraNashabdashca daaruNaH samapadyata || 2-22-38
tasmaattadbaaNapaatena apaH kukshiSvashoSayat |
A terrific splitting sound was born in that place. Water was dried up in those cavities, as a result of hurling of that arrow by Rama.
vikhyaatam triSu lokeSu madhukaantaarameva ca || 2-22-39
shoSayitvaa tu tam kukshim raamo dasharathaatmajaH |
varam tasmai dadau vidvaanmarave.amaravikramaH || 2-22-40
That desert of Maru became famous in the three worlds. Rama (the son of Dasaratha), a wise man and a valiant man resembling a celestial, made that cavity dried up and gave a boon to that desert of Maru.
pashavyashcaalparogashca phalamuularasaayutaH |
bahusneho bahukshiiraH sugandhirvividhauSadhiH || 2-22-41
evametairguNairyukto bahibhiH samyuto maruH |
raamasya varadaanaacca shivaH panthaa babhuuva ha || 2-22-42
Due to granting of a boon by Rama, that desert of Maru became the most congenial place for cattle rearing, a place with a little of disease, producing tasty fruits and roots, with a lot of clarified butter, a lot of milk and various kinds of sweet- smelling herbs. Thus it became an auspicious and suitable move, bestowing these merits.
tasmin dagdhe tadaa kukshau samudraH saritaam patiH |
raaghavam sarvashaastrajJNamidam vacanambraviit || 2-22-43
While that cavity was burning, Ocean the lord of rivers spoke these words to Rama who knew all scientific treatises.
ayam saumya nalo naama tanujo vishva karmaNaH |
pitraa datta varaH shriimaan pratimo vishva karmaNaH || 2-22-44
"O, excellent man! This one, named Nala, a glorious person, is the son of Vishvakarma; who was given a boon by his father and is equal to Visvakarma."
eSa setum mahaautsaahaH karotu mayi vaanaraH |
tam aham dhaarayiSyaami tathaa hi eSa yathaa pitaa || 2-22-45
"Let this greatly energetic monkey build a bridge across me. I can hold that bridge. He is just the same as his father."
evam uktvaa udadhir naSTaH samutthaaya nalas tataH |
abraviid vaanara shreSTho vaakyam raamam mahaabalaH || 2-22-46
Thus speaking, the god of Ocean disappeared from that place. Then Nala, the more distinguished among monkeys stood up and spoke the following words to Rama of great power:
aham setum kariSyaami vistiirNe varuNa aalaye |
pituH saamarthyam aasthaaya tattvam aaha mahaaudadhiH || 2-22-47
"The great Ocean disclosed a truth. I will construct a bridge across this large Ocean, taking recourse to the skill and ability of my father."
asau tu saagaro bhiimaH setukarmadidR^ikshayaa |
dadau daNDabhayaadgaadham raaghavaaya mahodadhiH || 2-22-48
"This Sagara, the formidable mass of water, in fear of punishment, gave a passage to Rama, wishing to see a bridge constructed on it."
mama maatur varo datto mandare vishva karmaNaa |
aurasas tasya putro aham sadR^isho vishva karmaNaa || 2-22-49
"On the mountain of Mandara, the following boon was given by Visvakarma to my mother: "O, god like lady! A son equal to me will be born to you."
aurasastasya putro.aham sadR^isho vishvakarmaNaa|
smaarito.asmyahametena tattvamaaha mahodadhiH || 2-22-50
na ca api aham anukto vai prabruuyaam aatmano guNaan |
"I am a son born of Visvakarma's own loins. I am equal to Visvakarma. This god of Ocean has reminded me. The great ocean spoke the truth. Being unasked, I have not told you my details earlier."
samarthshcaapyaham setum kartum vai varuNaalaye || 2-22-51
tasmaadadyaiva badhnantu setum vaanarapuN^gavaaH |
"I am capable of constructing a bridge across the ocean. Hence, let the foremost of monkeys build the bridge now itself."
tato nisR^iSTa raameNa sarvato hari yuuthapaaH || 2-22-52
abhipetur mahaaaraNyam hR^iSTaaH shata sahasrashaH |
Then, being sent by Rama, hundreds and thousands of monkey heroes jumped in joy on all sides towards the great forest.
te nagaan naga samkaashaaH shaakhaa mR^iga gaNa R^iSabhaaH || 2-22-53
babhanjur vaanaraas tatra pracakarSuH ca saagaram |
Those army-chiefs of monkeys, who resembled mountains, broke the rocks and trees there and dragged them away towards the sea.
te saalaiH ca ashva karNaiH ca dhavair vamshaiH ca vaanaraaH || 2-22-54
kuTajair arjunais taalais tikalais timishair api |
bilvakaiH saptaparNaishca karNikaaraishca puSpitaiH || 2-22-55
cuutaiH ca ashoka vR^ikSaiH ca saagaram samapuurayan |
Those monkeys filled the ocean with all types of trees like Sala and Asvakarna, Dhava and bamboo, Kutaja, Arjuna, palmyra,Tilaka, Tinisa, Bilva, Saptaparna, Karnika, in blossom as also mango and Asoka.
samuulaamH ca vimuulaamH ca paadapaan hari sattamaaH || 2-22-56
indra ketuun iva udyamya prajahrur harayas taruun |
The excellent monkeys, the forest animals lifted and brought, like Indra's flag posts, some trees with roots intact and some others without roots.
taalaan daaDimagulmaamshca naarikelavibhiitakaan || 2-22-57
kariiraan bakulaannimbaan samaajahruritastataH |
From here and there the monkeys brought Palmyra trees, pomegranate shrubs, coconut and Vibhitaka, Karira, Bakula and neem trees.
hastimaatraan mahaakaayaaH paaSaaNaamshca mahaabalaaH || 2-22-58
parvataamshca samutpaaTya yantraiH parivahanti ca |
The huge bodied monkeys with mighty strength uprooted elephant-sized rocks and mountains and transported them by mechanical contrivances.
prakSipyamaaNair acalaiH sahasaa jalam uddhatam || 2-22-59
samutpatitam aakaasham apaasarpat tatas tataH |
The water, raised up due to sudden throwing of mountains in the sea, soured upward towards the sky and from there again, gushed back.
samudram kshobhayaamaasurnipatantaH samantataH || 2-22-60
suutraaNyanye pragR^ihNanti hyaayatam shatayojanam |
The rocks befalling on all sides perturbed the ocean. Some others drew up strings a hundred Yojanas long (in order to keep the rocks in a straight line.)
nalaH cakre mahaasetum madhye nada nadii pateH || 2-22-61
sa tadaa kriyate seturvaanarai rghorakarmabhiH |
Nala on his part initiated a monumental bridge in the middle of the ocean. The bridge was built at that time with the cooperation of other monkeys, of terrible doings.
daNDananye pragR^ihNanti vicinvanti tathaapare || 2-22-62
vaanaraiH shatashastatra raamasyajJNaapuraHsaraiH |
meghaabhaiH parvataabhashca tR^iNaiH kaaSThairbabandhare || 2-22-63
Some monkeys were holding poles for measuring the bridge and some others collected the material. Reeds and logs resembling clouds and mountains, brought by hundreds of monkeys, lead by the command of Rama, fastened some parts of the bridge.
puSpitaagraishcha tarubhiH setum badhnanti vaanaraaH |
paaSaaNaamshca giriprakhyaan giriiNaam shikharaaNi ca || 2-22-64
dR^ishyante paridhaavanto gR^ihya daanavasamnibhaaH |
Monkeys constructed the bridge with trees having blossom at the end of their boughs. Some monkeys looking like demons seized rocks resembling mountains and peaks of mountains and appeared running hither and thither.
shilaanaam kSipyamaaNaanaam shailaanaam tatra paatyataam || 2-22-65
babhuuva tumulaH shabdas tadaa tasmin mahaaudadhau |
Then, a tumultuous sound occurred when the rocks were thrown into the sea and when mountains were caused to fall there.
kR^itaani prathamenaahnaa yojanaani caturdasha || 2-22-66
prahR^iSTaijasamkaashaistvaramaaNaiH plavaN^gamaiH |
On the first day, fourteen Yojanas of bridge were constructed by the monkeys speedily, thrilled with delight as they were, resembling elephants.
dvitiiyena tathaivaahnaa yojanaani tu vishatiH || 2-22-67
kR^itaani plavagaistuurNam bhiimakaayairmahaabalaiH |
In the same manner, on the second day twenty Yojanas of bridge were constructed speedily by the monkeys of terrific bodies and of mighty strength.
ahnaa tR^itiiyena tathaa yojanaani tu saagare || 2-22-68
tvaramaaNairmahaakayairekavimshatireva ca |
Thus, on the third day twenty-one Yojanas of the bridge were constructed in the ocean speedily by the monkeys with their colossal bodies.
caturthena tathaa caahnaa dvaavimshatirathaapi vaa || 2-22-69
yojanaani mahaavegaiH kR^itaani tvaritaistataH |
On the forth day, a further of twenty-two Yojanas were constructed by the dashing monkeys with a great speed.
paJNcamena tathaa caahnaa plavagaiH kshiprakaaribhiH || 2-22-70
yojanaani trayovimshatsuvelamadhikR^itya vai |
In that manner, on the fifth day, the monkeys working quickly constructed twenty-three yojanas of the bridge up to the other seashore.
sa vaanaravaraH shriimaan vishvakarmaatmajo balii || 2-22-71
babandha saagare setum yathaa caasya tathaa pitaa |
That Nala, the strong and illustrious son of Visvakarma and an excellent monkey built the bridge across the sea as truly as his father would have built it.
sa nalena kR^itaH setuH saagare makara aalaye || 2-22-72
shushubhe subhagaH shriimaan svaatii patha iva ambare |
That beautiful and lovely bridge constructed by Nala across the ocean the abode of alligators, shone brightly like a milky way of stars in the sky.
tato devaaH sagandharvaaH siddhaaH ca parama R^iSayaH || 2-22-73
aagamya gagane tasthurdraSTukaamaastadadbhutam |
With a desire to behold that marvel, celestials along with Gandharvas, the heavenly musicians, Siddhas (semi-divine beings of great purity and perfection, possessing super natural qualities) and great sages came then and stood up in the sky.
dashayojanavistiirNam shatayojana maayatam || 2-22-74
dadR^ishurdevagandharvaa nalasetum suduSkaram |
The celestials and Gandharvas, the heavenly musicians saw Nala's bridge, having a width of ten yojanas and a length of hundred yojanas and which was very difficult to be built.
aaplavantaH plavantaH ca garjantaH ca plavam gamaaH || 2-22-75
tam acintyam asahyam ca adbhutam loma harSaNam |
dadR^ishuH sarva bhuutaani saagare setu bandhanam || 2-22-76
The monkeys taking long leaps and short leaps shouted in joy. All other beings saw that construction of the bridge across the ocean as unimaginable, impossible and wonderful, causing their hair to stand on end in amazement.
taani koTi sahasraaNi vaanaraaNaam mahaaojasaam |
badhnantaH saagare setum jagmuH paaram mahaaudadheH || 2-22-77
Those thousand crores of monkeys in a great spectacle reached the other shore of the great ocean soon after building that bridge across the sea.
vishaalaH sukR^itaH shriimaan subhuumiH susamaahitaH |
ashobhata mahaasetuH siimanta iva saagare || 2-22-78
That colossal bridge, which was broad, well-constructed, glorious, well postured and held together firmly, looked beautiful like a separating straight line in the ocean.
tataH pare samudrasya gadaa paaNir vibhiiSaNaH |
pareSaam abhighata artham atiSThat sacivaiH saha || 2-22-79
Vibhishana, wielding a mace in his hand, stood up on the seashore along with his ministers, for the purpose of invading the enemies.
sugriivastu tataH praaha raamam satyaparaakramam |
hanumantam tvamaaroha aN^gadam tvatha lakshmaNaH || 2-22-80
ayam hi vipulo viira saagaro makaraalayaH |
vaihaayasau yuvaametau vaanarau dhaarayiSyataH || 2-22-81
Thereafter, Sugriva on his part spoke to Rama, the truly brave man as follows: "O, valiant man! This ocean, the abode of alligators, is indeed vast. You ascend the shoulder of Hanuman and let Lakshmana ascend the shoulder of Angada. These monkeys can hold both of you while flying in the sky."
agratas tasya sainyasya shriimaan raamaH salakshmaNaH |
jagaama dhanvii dharma aatmaa sugriiveNa samanvitaH || 2-22-82
Rama the glorious and righteous man, wielding a bow along with Lakshmana together with Sugriva, went in front of that army.
anye madhyena gacchanti paarshvato anye plavam gamaaH |
salile prapatanti anye maargam anye na lebhire || 2-22-83
kecid vaihaayasa gataaH suparNaa iva pupluvuH |
83. anye= some; plavaNgamaaH= monkeys; gachchhanti= went; madhyena= through the middle(of the bridge); anye= some others; paarshvatah= went through the sides of the bridge. Anye= some others; prapatanti= were jumping into; salilam= water; anye= some others; prapedire= went forward; maargam= on the path; kechit= some others; vaihaayasagataaH= entered the sky; pupluvuH= and aviated; suparNaaH iva= like Garuda, the eagle.
Some monkeys went along the middle of the bridge. Some others went along the sides. Some others were jumping into water. Some others marched forward on the path. Some monkeys entered the sky and aviated like Garuda the eagle.
ghoSeNa mahataa ghoSam saagarasya samucchritam || 2-22-84
bhiimam antar dadhe bhiimaa tarantii hari vaahinii |
The highly terrific sound of the ocean was covered up by the great sounds of the terrific monkeys who were crossing the sea.
vaanaraaNaam hi saa tiirNaa vaahinii nala setunaa || 2-22-85
tiire nivivishe raaj~naa bahu muula phala udake |
That army of monkeys, which crossed the ocean by the bridge constructed by Nala, was encamped by Sugriva at a shore having many fruits tubers and water.
tad adbhutam raaghava karma duSkaram |
samiikSya devaaH saha siddha caaraNaiH |
upetya raamam sahitaa maharSibhiH |
samabhyaSincan sushubhiar jalaiH pR^ithak || 2-22-86
Seeing that Rama's accomplishment, which was amazing and arduous; celestials, Siddhas (semi-divine beings possessing supernatural faculties) and Charanas (celestial bards) along with great sages, forthwith approached Rama and consecrated him with very splendid waters separately.
jayasva shatruun nara deva mediniim |
sasaagaraam paalaya shaashvatiiH samaaH |
iti iva raamam nara deva satkR^itam |
shubhair vacobhir vividhair apuujayan || 2-22-87
The celestials, Siddhas and others exalted Rama, who was duly respected by kings with their auspicious -words as follows: " O, king! Defeat the enemies. Rule the earth and ocean eternally for years."
ityaarSe shriimadraamaayaNe aadikaavye yuddhakaaNDe dvaavimshaH sargaH
Thus completes 22nd Chapter of Yuddha Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Source: http://www.valmikiramayan.net/yuddha/sarga...dhaitrans22.htm
<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Mirrored at: http://hinduthought.googlepages.com/setuband.doc
Declare Rama Setu as a protected monument
Apart from the Ramayana which has emphatic references to the construction of Setu bandha in 85 s'lokas in a separate sarga in Yuddha kanda, Mahabharata also refers to the continued protection of Nala Setu following the command of Sri Rama. Sri Rama refers in Kalidasa's Raghuvams'a also refers to the Setu of mountains. So does Skanda Purana ( III.1.2.1-114), Vishnu Purana (IV.4.40-49), Agni Purana (V-XI), Brahma Purana (138.1-40) refer to the construction of Rama Setu.
<b>Epics and classics</b>
·    Valmiki describes the construction of Sethu in detail. For an exquisite rendering of Valmiki's descriptions see: http://ramasetu.blogspot.com/2007/03/setu-...i-ramayana.html Also: http://bridgeofram.com/
hastimaatraan mahaakaayaaH paaSaaNaamshca mahaabalaaH parvataamshca samutpaaTya yantraiH parivahanti ca Valmiki Ramayana 2-22-58
Vaanara having huge bodies, with mighty strength uprooted elephant-sized rocks and mountains and transported them by mechanical contrivances (yantraih).
Vedavyasa refers to Nalasetu and notes how the setu was protected during Mahabharata times
nalasetur iti khyÄto yo 'dyÄpi prathito bhuvi rÄmasyÄjñÄá¹ puraská¹ tya dhÄryate girisaá¹ nibhaḥ MBh. 3.267.45
.... which even today, popular on earth as Nala's bridge, mountain-like, is sustained out of respect for [Lord] Rama's command. (Nala was son of Vis'wakarma)
Kalidasa's Raghuvams'a (sarga 13): Rama, while returning from SriLanka in pushpaka vimaana: "Behold, Sita, My Sethu of mountains dividing this frothy ocean is like the milky way dividing the sky into two parts"
There is a kavya in Prakrit by King Pravarasena II (550-600 CE) called "Setu bandha or Ravanavaho." "Dasamuha Vadha" (Setubandha Kavya) was written by the King Damodara Sen (5th Century).
<b>Epigraphs</b>
"â¦the most common reference to Rama in early inscriptions is in a verse that begins to appear commonly at the end of land-grants from the early 9th century onwards in Rashtrakuta regions. "Common to all kings is the setu of dharma: you should abide by it moment by moment. Again and again Ramabhadra implores all future kings to do the same ( Epigraphica Indica 23.212 â a record of AD 807)⦠Tiruvalangadu plates of Rajaraja Cola I (AD 985-1014) describe the king as surpassing Rama in military prowess and crossing the ocean with his powerful army and subduing the king of Lanka⦠The concept of a hill-top imprinted by the feet of Visnu is repeatedly found in the Mahabharata24 and it is suggested that a column on the hill may have enshrined Visnupada. (Vishnupadam in Srilanka was renamed as Adam's peak just as Ramar bridge was renamed as Adam's Bridge by James Rennel in 1804 when he was the first surveyor general of British India)⦠In the temples of Orissa dated from 7 th to 10th centuries, Rama is represented both as an avatara of Visnu as also the hero of the Ramayana narrative. In a dasavatara group, the image of Rama is sculpted along with Balarama and Parasurama at the entrance of Manibhadresvara and also at Simhanatha. Ramayana friezes occur on several temples, such as Svarnajalesvara, Sisiresvara, Varahi and Panca-Pandava. These include scenes of Rama shooting through seven trees, killing the golden deer, abduction of Sita, fight between Bali and Sugriva and building the bridge across the ocean." http://www.ochs.org.uk/publications/multim..._HPRay_1006.docÂ
Hampi inscription of Krishnaraya Saka 1430 (1508 CE) in Epigraphica Indica refers to Rama Setu
Skanta Purana (VI.101.1-44) describes the installation of threee Shiva linga at the end, middle and beginning of Rama Setu and making the same bridge submerged and thereby creating Setu-Teerth. This is also related in Kurma Purana ( 21.10-61). Garuda Purana (1.81.1-22) lists sacred places including Setubandh and Rameswar. Narada Purana (Uttara Bhag 76.1-20) extols the greatness of Rama-Setu.
Adam's Bridge also called Rama's Bridge, chain of shoals, between the islands of Mannar, near northwestern Sri Lanka, and Rameswaram, off the southeastern coast of India. The bridge is 30 miles (48 km) long and separates the Gulf of Mannar (southwest) from the Palk Strait (northeast). Some of the sandbanks are dry, and nowhere are the shoals deeper than 4 feet (1 m); thus, they seriously hinder navigation. Dredging operations, now abandoned, were begun as early as 1838 but never succeeded in maintaining a channel for any vessels except those of light draft. Geologic evidence suggests that Adam's Bridge represents a former land connection between India and Sri Lanka. Traditionally, it is said to be the remnant of a huge causeway constructed by Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, to facilitate the passage of his army from India to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) for the rescue of his abducted wife, Sita. According to Muslim legend, Adam crossed there to Adam's Peak, Ceylon, atop which he stood repentant on one foot for 1,000 years.
http://www.britannicaindia.com/duk_det_i...?art_id=28
Using search terms: India, Ceylon, bridge, the Google search produces the following links.
A book by Alexander Hamilton, 1744, A New Account of the East Indies: Giving an Exact and Copious Description of the Situation, P. 338 describes his visit to 'zeloan' (alt. spelling for Ceylon) by walking on the bridge.
An article in: Asiatic Society, 1799, Asiatick Researches: Or, Transactions of the Society Instituted in Bengal, P. 52 refers to the bridge called Setband (alt. spelling, setuband like Allahband; setu-bandha), broken in 3 places. It also notes "The people call it a bridge; or otherwise it appears to have wood growing on it, and to be inhabited."
"On the north-west side of the Island, where the currents are checked by the obstruction of Adam's Bridge and still water prevails in the Gulf of Manaar, these deposits have been profusely heaped, and the low sandy pains have been proportionally extended; whilst on the south and east, where the current sweeps unimpeded along the coast , the line of the shore is bold and occasionally rocky. The explanation of the accretion and rising of the land is somewhat opposed to the popular belief that Ceylon was torn from the main land of India by a convulsion, during which the Gulf of Manaar and the narrow channel at Paumbam were formed by the submission of the adjacent land. The two theories might be reconciled by supposing the sinking to have occurred at an early period, and to have been followed by the uprising still in progress." http://www.lankaweb.com/news/features/ceylon3.html Source: Ceylon - an account of the island by Sir James Emmerson Tennent, KCS, LLD Compiling exclusively to LankaWeb by Tilak S. Fernando, London
Rama Sethu construction -- Valmiki Ramayana
Book VI : Yuddha Kanda - Book Of War Chapter [Sarga] 22
When Rama is about to release a missile presided over by Brahma from his bow, the sea-god appears in person before him with joined palms and advises him to get a bridge constructed by Nala across the ocean. The ocean god disappears after giving this advice to Rama. Nala accordingly constructs a bridge across the sea with the help of other monkeys.
athovaaca raghushreSThaH saagaram daaruNam vacaH |
adya tvaam shoSayiSyaami sapaataalam mahaarNava || 2-22-1
Then, Rama spoke these harsh words to the ocean: "O, ocean! I will make you dry up now along with your nethermost subterranean region."
sharanirdagdhatoyasya parishuSkasya saagara |
mayaa nihatasattvasya paamsurutpadyate mahaan || 2-22-2
"O, Ocean! A vast stretch of sand will appear, when your water gets consumed by my arrows; when you get dried up and the creatures inhabiting you get destroyed by me."
matkaarmukanisR^iSTena sharavarSeNa saagara |
param tiiram gamiSyanti padbhireva plavaN^gamaaH || 2-22-3
"By a gush of arrows released by my bow, our monkeys can proceed to the other shore even by foot; O, ocean!"
vichinvannaabhijaanaasi pauruSam vaapi vikramam |
daavnavaalaya samtaapam matto naama gamiSyasi || 2-22-4
"O, Sea the abode of demons! You are not able to recognize my valor or prowess through your intelligence .You will indeed get repentance at my hands."
braahmeNaastreNa samyojya brahmadaNDanibham sharam |
samyojya dhanuSi shre SThe vicakarSa mahaabalaH || 2-22-5
"Fixing an arrow resembling the Rod of Brahma (the creator) charged with a missile (presided over by Brahama) to his excellent bow, the exceedingly powerful Rama stretched it towards the sea."
tasminvikR^iSTe sahasaa raaghaveNa sharaasane |
rodasii sampaphaaleva parvataashca chakampire || 2-22-6
While Rama was stretching that bow, both the heaven and earth suddenly seemed to be split asunder. Mountains also were shaken.
tamashca lokamaavavre dishashca na chakaashire |
praticukshubhire caashu saraamsi saritastadaa || 2-22-7
Darkness enveloped the world. All the quarters were obscured. Lakes and rivers were soon agitated.
tiryak ca saha nakshatraiH samgatau candrabhaaskarau |
bhaaskaraamshubhiraadiiptam tamasaa ca samaavR^itam || 2-22-8
pracakaashe tadaakaashamulkaashatavidiipitam |
antarikshaachcha nirghaataa nirjagmuratulasvanaaH || 2-22-9
The moon sun and the stars moved obliquely and though the sun's rays lighted the sky, it was enveloped by darkness and shined with a blaze of hundreds of meteors while thunders reverberated with an unparalleled sound in the sky.
vapuHprakarSeNa vavurdivyamaarutapaN^ktyaH |
babhaJNja cha tadaa vR^ikshaan jaladaanudvahan muhuH || 2-22-10
Series of celestial winds blew in their colossal form and the winds, then sweeping away the clouds, tore up the trees again and again.
aarujamshcaiva shailaagraan shikharaaNi babhaJNja ca |
divi ca sma mahaavegaaH samhataaH samahaasvanaaH || 2-22-11
mumucurvaidyutaanagniimste mahaashanayastadaa |
The wind, shattering the mountain peaks, broke off the points of the rocks. Winds of great velocity struck together in the sky and emitted flashes of radiance proceeding from lightning with a great sound and then there were great thunders.
yaani bhuutaani dR^ishyaani chukrushushcaashaneH samam || 2-22-12
adR^ishyaani ca bhuutaani mumuchurbhairavasvanam |
shishyare caabhibhuutaani samtrastaamyadvijanti ca || 2-22-13
sampravivyathire caapi na ca paspandire bhayaat |
The visible creatures cried out along with the thunders. The invisible beings too gave off a terrific noise. The creatures were overpowered, frightened, agitated, lied down and also very much anguished. They did not move due to fear.
sahabhuutaiH satoyormiH sanaagaH saharaakshasaH || 2-22-14
sahasaabhuuttato vegaadbhiimavego mahodadhiH |
yojanam vyaticakraama velaamanyatra samplavaat || 2-22-15
The great ocean with its waves and water, along with its living creatures including snakes and demons soon became possessed of a terrific velocity. Due to that speed and swelling of waters, the ocean crossed beyond the other shore to the extent of a Yojana (eight miles).
tam tathaa samatikraantam naaticakraama raaghavaH |
samuddhatamamitraghno raamo nadanadiipatim || 2-22-16
Rama born in Raghu dynasty and the annihilator of enemies, did not retreat before that ocean, which swelled and crossed its limits.
tato madhyaat samudrasya saagaraH svayam utthitaH |
udayan hi mahaashailaan meror iva divaa karaH || 2-22-17
Then, Sagara (the ocean god) himself rose from the middle of the ocean as the sun rises at dawn from the huge mountain of Meru.
pannagaiH saha diipta aasyaiH samudraH pratyadR^ishyata |
snigdha vaiduurya samkaasho jaambuu nada vibhuuSitaH || 2-22-18
That ocean along with snakes of flaming jaws appeared with a hue of glossy emerald adorned with gold.
ratna maalya ambara dharaH padma patra nibha iikSaNaH |
sarvapuSpamayiim divyaam shirasaa dhaarayan srajam || 2-22-19
jaataruupamayaishcaiva tapaniiyavibhuuSito bhuuSaNottamaiH |
aatmajaanaam ca ratnaanaam bhuuSito bhuuSaNottamaiH || 2-22-20
dhaatubhirmaNDitaH shailo vividhairhamavaaniva |
ekaavaliimadhyagatam taralam paaNDaraprabham || 2-22-21
vipulenorasaa bibhratkaustubhasya sahodaram |
aaghuurNitataraN^gaughaHkaalikaanilasamkulaH || 2-22-22
gaN^gaasindhupradhaanaabhiraapagaabhiH samaavR^itaH |
devataanaam saruupaabhirnaanaaruupaabhiriishvaraH || 2-22-23
saagaraH samatikramya puurvam aamantrya viiryavaan |
abraviit praanjalir vaakyam raaghavam shara paaNinam || 2-22-24
The valiant ocean, the lord of rivers, wearing a wreath of pearls, with his eyes resembling lotus leaves, bearing a beautiful garland made of all kinds of flowers on his head, with ornaments of refined gold, adorned with excellent jewels made of pearls from his domain, decorated with different kinds of gems and metals, resembling Himavat mountain, wearing on his broad chest a locket shedding a white luster, resembling a Kaustubha gem (adorning the blossom of Lord Vishnu) and hanging in the middle of a single string of pearls, with a multitude of waves whirled around him, encircled by the clouds and winds, escorted by rivers mainly the Ganga and Sindhu, endowed with diverse forms resembling various deities, approached Rama with joined palms, who stood with arrows in hand, addressing him first as 'Rama!' and spoke the following words:
pR^ithivii vaayur aakaasham aapo jyotiH ca raaghavaH |
svabhaave saumya tiSThanti shaashvatam maargam aashritaaH || 2-22-25
"O, beloved Rama! Earth, wind ether, water and light remain fixed in their own nature, resorting to their eternal path."
tat svabhaavo mama api eSa yad agaadho aham aplavaH |
vikaaras tu bhaved raadha etat te pravadaami aham || 2-22-26
"Therefore, I am fathomless and my nature is that it is impossible of being swum across. It becomes unnatural if I am shallow. I am telling you the following device to cross me."
na kaamaan na ca lobhaad vaa na bhayaat paarthiva aatmaja |
raagaannakraakulajalam stambhayeyam kathamcana || 2-22-27
"O, prince! Neither from desire nor ambition nor fear nor from affection, I am able to solidify my waters inhabited by alligators."
vidhaasye yena gantaasi viSahiSye hyaham tathaa |
na graahaa vidhamiSyanti yaavatsenaa tariSyati || 2-22-28
hariiNaam taraNe raama kariSyaami yathaasthalam |
"O, Rama! I shall make it possible to see that you are able to cross over. I will arrange a place for the monkeys to cross me and bear with it. As far as the army crosses me, the crocodiles will not be aggressive to them."
tamabraviittadaa raamaH shR^iNu me varuNaalaya || 2-22-29
amogho.ayam mahaabaaNaH kasmin deshe nipaatyataam |
Then, Rama spoke to that ocean as follows: "Listen to me. This great arrow should not go in vain. In which region should it be descended?"
raamasya vachanam shrutvaa tam ca dR^iSTvaa mahaasharam || 2-22-30
mahodadhirmahaatejaa raaghavam vaakyamabraviit |
Hearing Rama's words and seeing that powerful arrow, the large splendid Ocean spoke the following words to Rama:
uttareNaavakaasho.asti kashchitpuNyataro mama || 2-22-31
drumakulya iti khyaato loke khyaato yathaa bhavaan |
"Towards my northern side, there is a holy place. It is well known as Drumatulya, in the same way as you are well known to this world."
ugradarshanakarmaaNo bahavastatra dasyavaH || 2-22-32
aabhiirapramukhaaH paapaaH pibanti salilam mama |
"Numerous robbers of fearful aspect and deeds, having the sinful Abhiras as their chief, drink my waters there."
tairna tatsparshanam paapam saheyam paapakarmabhiH || 2-22-33
amoghaH kriyataam raama tatra teSu sharottamaH |
"I am not able to bear that touch of those wicked people, the evil doers, O, Rama! Let this excellent arrow with out vain be released over them there."
tasya tadvacanam shrutvaa saagarasya mahaatmanaH || 2-22-34
mumoca tam sharam diiptam param saagaradarshanaat |
Hearing those words of the high-soled Ocean, Rama released that excellent and splendid arrow towards that place as directed by the ocean.
tena tanmarukaantaaram p^ithivyaam kila vishrutam || 2-22-35
vipaatitaH sharo yatra vajraashanisamaprabhaH |
The place where the arrow, whose splendor was akin to that of a thunder and a thunder bolt, was descended by Rama- that place is indeed famous as desert of Maru* on this earth.
nanaada ca tadaa tatra vasudhaa shalyapiiDitaa || 2-22-36
tasmaadbaaNamukhaattoyamutpapaata rasaatalaat |
The earth there, pierced by the dart, then emitted a sound . The waters of the penultimate subterranean region gushed forth from the mouth of that cleft.
sa babhuuva tadaa kuupo vraNa ityeva vishrutaH || 2-22-37
satatam cotthitam toyam samudrasyeva dR^ishyate |
Then the hollow became known as Vrana. Water constantly seen, gushing forth from it resembled seawater.
avadaaraNashabdashca daaruNaH samapadyata || 2-22-38
tasmaattadbaaNapaatena apaH kukshiSvashoSayat |
A terrific splitting sound was born in that place. Water was dried up in those cavities, as a result of hurling of that arrow by Rama.
vikhyaatam triSu lokeSu madhukaantaarameva ca || 2-22-39
shoSayitvaa tu tam kukshim raamo dasharathaatmajaH |
varam tasmai dadau vidvaanmarave.amaravikramaH || 2-22-40
That desert of Maru became famous in the three worlds. Rama (the son of Dasaratha), a wise man and a valiant man resembling a celestial, made that cavity dried up and gave a boon to that desert of Maru.
pashavyashcaalparogashca phalamuularasaayutaH |
bahusneho bahukshiiraH sugandhirvividhauSadhiH || 2-22-41
evametairguNairyukto bahibhiH samyuto maruH |
raamasya varadaanaacca shivaH panthaa babhuuva ha || 2-22-42
Due to granting of a boon by Rama, that desert of Maru became the most congenial place for cattle rearing, a place with a little of disease, producing tasty fruits and roots, with a lot of clarified butter, a lot of milk and various kinds of sweet- smelling herbs. Thus it became an auspicious and suitable move, bestowing these merits.
tasmin dagdhe tadaa kukshau samudraH saritaam patiH |
raaghavam sarvashaastrajJNamidam vacanambraviit || 2-22-43
While that cavity was burning, Ocean the lord of rivers spoke these words to Rama who knew all scientific treatises.
ayam saumya nalo naama tanujo vishva karmaNaH |
pitraa datta varaH shriimaan pratimo vishva karmaNaH || 2-22-44
"O, excellent man! This one, named Nala, a glorious person, is the son of Vishvakarma; who was given a boon by his father and is equal to Visvakarma."
eSa setum mahaautsaahaH karotu mayi vaanaraH |
tam aham dhaarayiSyaami tathaa hi eSa yathaa pitaa || 2-22-45
"Let this greatly energetic monkey build a bridge across me. I can hold that bridge. He is just the same as his father."
evam uktvaa udadhir naSTaH samutthaaya nalas tataH |
abraviid vaanara shreSTho vaakyam raamam mahaabalaH || 2-22-46
Thus speaking, the god of Ocean disappeared from that place. Then Nala, the more distinguished among monkeys stood up and spoke the following words to Rama of great power:
aham setum kariSyaami vistiirNe varuNa aalaye |
pituH saamarthyam aasthaaya tattvam aaha mahaaudadhiH || 2-22-47
"The great Ocean disclosed a truth. I will construct a bridge across this large Ocean, taking recourse to the skill and ability of my father."
asau tu saagaro bhiimaH setukarmadidR^ikshayaa |
dadau daNDabhayaadgaadham raaghavaaya mahodadhiH || 2-22-48
"This Sagara, the formidable mass of water, in fear of punishment, gave a passage to Rama, wishing to see a bridge constructed on it."
mama maatur varo datto mandare vishva karmaNaa |
aurasas tasya putro aham sadR^isho vishva karmaNaa || 2-22-49
"On the mountain of Mandara, the following boon was given by Visvakarma to my mother: "O, god like lady! A son equal to me will be born to you."
aurasastasya putro.aham sadR^isho vishvakarmaNaa|
smaarito.asmyahametena tattvamaaha mahodadhiH || 2-22-50
na ca api aham anukto vai prabruuyaam aatmano guNaan |
"I am a son born of Visvakarma's own loins. I am equal to Visvakarma. This god of Ocean has reminded me. The great ocean spoke the truth. Being unasked, I have not told you my details earlier."
samarthshcaapyaham setum kartum vai varuNaalaye || 2-22-51
tasmaadadyaiva badhnantu setum vaanarapuN^gavaaH |
"I am capable of constructing a bridge across the ocean. Hence, let the foremost of monkeys build the bridge now itself."
tato nisR^iSTa raameNa sarvato hari yuuthapaaH || 2-22-52
abhipetur mahaaaraNyam hR^iSTaaH shata sahasrashaH |
Then, being sent by Rama, hundreds and thousands of monkey heroes jumped in joy on all sides towards the great forest.
te nagaan naga samkaashaaH shaakhaa mR^iga gaNa R^iSabhaaH || 2-22-53
babhanjur vaanaraas tatra pracakarSuH ca saagaram |
Those army-chiefs of monkeys, who resembled mountains, broke the rocks and trees there and dragged them away towards the sea.
te saalaiH ca ashva karNaiH ca dhavair vamshaiH ca vaanaraaH || 2-22-54
kuTajair arjunais taalais tikalais timishair api |
bilvakaiH saptaparNaishca karNikaaraishca puSpitaiH || 2-22-55
cuutaiH ca ashoka vR^ikSaiH ca saagaram samapuurayan |
Those monkeys filled the ocean with all types of trees like Sala and Asvakarna, Dhava and bamboo, Kutaja, Arjuna, palmyra,Tilaka, Tinisa, Bilva, Saptaparna, Karnika, in blossom as also mango and Asoka.
samuulaamH ca vimuulaamH ca paadapaan hari sattamaaH || 2-22-56
indra ketuun iva udyamya prajahrur harayas taruun |
The excellent monkeys, the forest animals lifted and brought, like Indra's flag posts, some trees with roots intact and some others without roots.
taalaan daaDimagulmaamshca naarikelavibhiitakaan || 2-22-57
kariiraan bakulaannimbaan samaajahruritastataH |
From here and there the monkeys brought Palmyra trees, pomegranate shrubs, coconut and Vibhitaka, Karira, Bakula and neem trees.
hastimaatraan mahaakaayaaH paaSaaNaamshca mahaabalaaH || 2-22-58
parvataamshca samutpaaTya yantraiH parivahanti ca |
The huge bodied monkeys with mighty strength uprooted elephant-sized rocks and mountains and transported them by mechanical contrivances.
prakSipyamaaNair acalaiH sahasaa jalam uddhatam || 2-22-59
samutpatitam aakaasham apaasarpat tatas tataH |
The water, raised up due to sudden throwing of mountains in the sea, soured upward towards the sky and from there again, gushed back.
samudram kshobhayaamaasurnipatantaH samantataH || 2-22-60
suutraaNyanye pragR^ihNanti hyaayatam shatayojanam |
The rocks befalling on all sides perturbed the ocean. Some others drew up strings a hundred Yojanas long (in order to keep the rocks in a straight line.)
nalaH cakre mahaasetum madhye nada nadii pateH || 2-22-61
sa tadaa kriyate seturvaanarai rghorakarmabhiH |
Nala on his part initiated a monumental bridge in the middle of the ocean. The bridge was built at that time with the cooperation of other monkeys, of terrible doings.
daNDananye pragR^ihNanti vicinvanti tathaapare || 2-22-62
vaanaraiH shatashastatra raamasyajJNaapuraHsaraiH |
meghaabhaiH parvataabhashca tR^iNaiH kaaSThairbabandhare || 2-22-63
Some monkeys were holding poles for measuring the bridge and some others collected the material. Reeds and logs resembling clouds and mountains, brought by hundreds of monkeys, lead by the command of Rama, fastened some parts of the bridge.
puSpitaagraishcha tarubhiH setum badhnanti vaanaraaH |
paaSaaNaamshca giriprakhyaan giriiNaam shikharaaNi ca || 2-22-64
dR^ishyante paridhaavanto gR^ihya daanavasamnibhaaH |
Monkeys constructed the bridge with trees having blossom at the end of their boughs. Some monkeys looking like demons seized rocks resembling mountains and peaks of mountains and appeared running hither and thither.
shilaanaam kSipyamaaNaanaam shailaanaam tatra paatyataam || 2-22-65
babhuuva tumulaH shabdas tadaa tasmin mahaaudadhau |
Then, a tumultuous sound occurred when the rocks were thrown into the sea and when mountains were caused to fall there.
kR^itaani prathamenaahnaa yojanaani caturdasha || 2-22-66
prahR^iSTaijasamkaashaistvaramaaNaiH plavaN^gamaiH |
On the first day, fourteen Yojanas of bridge were constructed by the monkeys speedily, thrilled with delight as they were, resembling elephants.
dvitiiyena tathaivaahnaa yojanaani tu vishatiH || 2-22-67
kR^itaani plavagaistuurNam bhiimakaayairmahaabalaiH |
In the same manner, on the second day twenty Yojanas of bridge were constructed speedily by the monkeys of terrific bodies and of mighty strength.
ahnaa tR^itiiyena tathaa yojanaani tu saagare || 2-22-68
tvaramaaNairmahaakayairekavimshatireva ca |
Thus, on the third day twenty-one Yojanas of the bridge were constructed in the ocean speedily by the monkeys with their colossal bodies.
caturthena tathaa caahnaa dvaavimshatirathaapi vaa || 2-22-69
yojanaani mahaavegaiH kR^itaani tvaritaistataH |
On the forth day, a further of twenty-two Yojanas were constructed by the dashing monkeys with a great speed.
paJNcamena tathaa caahnaa plavagaiH kshiprakaaribhiH || 2-22-70
yojanaani trayovimshatsuvelamadhikR^itya vai |
In that manner, on the fifth day, the monkeys working quickly constructed twenty-three yojanas of the bridge up to the other seashore.
sa vaanaravaraH shriimaan vishvakarmaatmajo balii || 2-22-71
babandha saagare setum yathaa caasya tathaa pitaa |
That Nala, the strong and illustrious son of Visvakarma and an excellent monkey built the bridge across the sea as truly as his father would have built it.
sa nalena kR^itaH setuH saagare makara aalaye || 2-22-72
shushubhe subhagaH shriimaan svaatii patha iva ambare |
That beautiful and lovely bridge constructed by Nala across the ocean the abode of alligators, shone brightly like a milky way of stars in the sky.
tato devaaH sagandharvaaH siddhaaH ca parama R^iSayaH || 2-22-73
aagamya gagane tasthurdraSTukaamaastadadbhutam |
With a desire to behold that marvel, celestials along with Gandharvas, the heavenly musicians, Siddhas (semi-divine beings of great purity and perfection, possessing super natural qualities) and great sages came then and stood up in the sky.
dashayojanavistiirNam shatayojana maayatam || 2-22-74
dadR^ishurdevagandharvaa nalasetum suduSkaram |
The celestials and Gandharvas, the heavenly musicians saw Nala's bridge, having a width of ten yojanas and a length of hundred yojanas and which was very difficult to be built.
aaplavantaH plavantaH ca garjantaH ca plavam gamaaH || 2-22-75
tam acintyam asahyam ca adbhutam loma harSaNam |
dadR^ishuH sarva bhuutaani saagare setu bandhanam || 2-22-76
The monkeys taking long leaps and short leaps shouted in joy. All other beings saw that construction of the bridge across the ocean as unimaginable, impossible and wonderful, causing their hair to stand on end in amazement.
taani koTi sahasraaNi vaanaraaNaam mahaaojasaam |
badhnantaH saagare setum jagmuH paaram mahaaudadheH || 2-22-77
Those thousand crores of monkeys in a great spectacle reached the other shore of the great ocean soon after building that bridge across the sea.
vishaalaH sukR^itaH shriimaan subhuumiH susamaahitaH |
ashobhata mahaasetuH siimanta iva saagare || 2-22-78
That colossal bridge, which was broad, well-constructed, glorious, well postured and held together firmly, looked beautiful like a separating straight line in the ocean.
tataH pare samudrasya gadaa paaNir vibhiiSaNaH |
pareSaam abhighata artham atiSThat sacivaiH saha || 2-22-79
Vibhishana, wielding a mace in his hand, stood up on the seashore along with his ministers, for the purpose of invading the enemies.
sugriivastu tataH praaha raamam satyaparaakramam |
hanumantam tvamaaroha aN^gadam tvatha lakshmaNaH || 2-22-80
ayam hi vipulo viira saagaro makaraalayaH |
vaihaayasau yuvaametau vaanarau dhaarayiSyataH || 2-22-81
Thereafter, Sugriva on his part spoke to Rama, the truly brave man as follows: "O, valiant man! This ocean, the abode of alligators, is indeed vast. You ascend the shoulder of Hanuman and let Lakshmana ascend the shoulder of Angada. These monkeys can hold both of you while flying in the sky."
agratas tasya sainyasya shriimaan raamaH salakshmaNaH |
jagaama dhanvii dharma aatmaa sugriiveNa samanvitaH || 2-22-82
Rama the glorious and righteous man, wielding a bow along with Lakshmana together with Sugriva, went in front of that army.
anye madhyena gacchanti paarshvato anye plavam gamaaH |
salile prapatanti anye maargam anye na lebhire || 2-22-83
kecid vaihaayasa gataaH suparNaa iva pupluvuH |
83. anye= some; plavaNgamaaH= monkeys; gachchhanti= went; madhyena= through the middle(of the bridge); anye= some others; paarshvatah= went through the sides of the bridge. Anye= some others; prapatanti= were jumping into; salilam= water; anye= some others; prapedire= went forward; maargam= on the path; kechit= some others; vaihaayasagataaH= entered the sky; pupluvuH= and aviated; suparNaaH iva= like Garuda, the eagle.
Some monkeys went along the middle of the bridge. Some others went along the sides. Some others were jumping into water. Some others marched forward on the path. Some monkeys entered the sky and aviated like Garuda the eagle.
ghoSeNa mahataa ghoSam saagarasya samucchritam || 2-22-84
bhiimam antar dadhe bhiimaa tarantii hari vaahinii |
The highly terrific sound of the ocean was covered up by the great sounds of the terrific monkeys who were crossing the sea.
vaanaraaNaam hi saa tiirNaa vaahinii nala setunaa || 2-22-85
tiire nivivishe raaj~naa bahu muula phala udake |
That army of monkeys, which crossed the ocean by the bridge constructed by Nala, was encamped by Sugriva at a shore having many fruits tubers and water.
tad adbhutam raaghava karma duSkaram |
samiikSya devaaH saha siddha caaraNaiH |
upetya raamam sahitaa maharSibhiH |
samabhyaSincan sushubhiar jalaiH pR^ithak || 2-22-86
Seeing that Rama's accomplishment, which was amazing and arduous; celestials, Siddhas (semi-divine beings possessing supernatural faculties) and Charanas (celestial bards) along with great sages, forthwith approached Rama and consecrated him with very splendid waters separately.
jayasva shatruun nara deva mediniim |
sasaagaraam paalaya shaashvatiiH samaaH |
iti iva raamam nara deva satkR^itam |
shubhair vacobhir vividhair apuujayan || 2-22-87
The celestials, Siddhas and others exalted Rama, who was duly respected by kings with their auspicious -words as follows: " O, king! Defeat the enemies. Rule the earth and ocean eternally for years."
ityaarSe shriimadraamaayaNe aadikaavye yuddhakaaNDe dvaavimshaH sargaH
Thus completes 22nd Chapter of Yuddha Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Source: http://www.valmikiramayan.net/yuddha/sarga...dhaitrans22.htm
<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->