Ram Setu Construction Story – Chapter 5: Obstacles and Assistance

Obstacles and Assistance

In the previous chapter, we saw how the Vanara army began constructing the bridge over the ocean with the power of Shri Ram's name. Mountain rocks were thrown into the sea, and the proclamation of 'Jai Shri Ram' echoed in all directions. However, even the gods did not desire that this auspicious task be completed without any obstacles. The Asuras had resolved to hinder this virtuous work.

Deceit of the Asuras

The Asuras, hidden within the sea, began to employ various deceptions to thwart the efforts of the Vanaras. Some Asuras took the form of giant fish and began swallowing the rocks, while others confused the Vanaras and pushed them into the trenches. As darkness fell, the illusion of the Asuras became even more potent, causing the Vanaras to become frightened and hindering the work. The Vanara army began to despair. Their faith began to waver. It seemed as if the ocean was testing the devotees of Shri Ram.

One Vanara said to another, "What kind of construction is this? We carry stones all day, and everything disappears at night! Will we ever be able to build the bridge?" Another Vanara said, "I think this ocean is in league with the gods! It doesn't want us to build a bridge to Lanka." Some Vanaras were trembling with fear, feeling that this task would never succeed.

Resistance of the Vanaras

However, a tide of courage and devotion still remained in the Vanara army. Valiant Vanaras like Angad, Hanuman, and Nal came forward and bravely confronted the Asuras. Hanuman Ji drove away the Asuras with his mace, while Angad crushed many demons with his power. Nal encouraged the Vanaras, saying, "Do not be afraid! Chant the name of Shri Ram! That is our strength."

Gradually, enthusiasm was rekindled in the Vanaras. They clashed with the Asuras, hitting them with stones. Hanuman Ji dived into the sea and began catching the illusory demons and throwing them out. Where the Asuras were spreading despair, Hanuman Ji was infusing the Vanaras with new energy with the slogan "Jai Shri Ram." By the grace of Shri Ram, the morale of the Vanaras remained unwavering.

Encouragement from Jambavan

When the Vanara army began to tire and despair began to creep in with the darkness of night, Jambavan stepped forward to encourage everyone. He said, "O Vanaras! You are no ordinary Vanaras. You have immense power hidden within you. Try once more, taking the name of Shri Ram. You will surely succeed." He reminded Hanuman Ji of his power and said that if he was capable of crossing the ocean, could he not kill these demons?

Jambavan's words filled the Vanaras with new energy. They remembered their powers and engaged in the work with twice the strength. Jambavan explained to them the importance of Shri Ram. He said that this bridge is not just made of stone, but is a bridge of devotion and dedication. Whoever contributes to it will be a partner in the affection of Shri Ram. It was Jambavan's encouragement that inspired the Vanaras to keep moving forward. The Vanaras were certain that by the grace of Shri Ram, this impossible task would also become possible.