The Bridge of Faith

There are always two sides of any argument. It happens to me quite often that I do see a valid point in both sides of an argument. But then there are some arguments which are just in a class of their own. On listening to one side of the argument, I think to myself, now anything that the other side says can beat this ridiculous point. But then like on numerous other occasions I clearly underestimate human stupidity and the other side actually comes up with something that leaves me aghast and very much bemused!

The latest in line in the controversy over Ram's Setu. Well... if it doesn't interest you don't bother to read further.

My thoughts on the topic (Not in any particular order):

• It doesn't make such a big deal if we have to modify a structure created by anyone in the past (God included). If you're a believer then the whole world was created by God not just the bridge so we shouldn't be doing anything anywhere!
• Environmental factors have to given priority over convenience. I don't think it's a huge loss to the nation, which is losing a lot more in many other avoidable things, to circumnavigate Sri Lanka. It's not the same as the Panama Canal scenario with the US ships. Has a check been done from an environmental standpoint? Will it be worth 2500 crore?
• The bridge itself which was actually a walkable piece of land connecting the two countries as late as the 15th century should be preserved as far as possible. The reason is not that it's been built by Lord Ram but because it's quite clearly a wonder and the geographical formations in and around that area are unique. So the ocean canal should be constructed ensuring minimum possible modification.
• Why is the Indian government not considering some 6 other routes suggested for the canal? What is the adamant stand on the canal going through Ram's Setu all about? Is it now just a prestige issue?
• If the construction of the canal is okay from all points of view then the general public must be explained the facts, it's importance, precautions being taken etc etc...
• The people's faith in anything should not be questioned. Let it be God, existence of super human beings or even themselves. It's a question of faith and no one has the right to decide it for some other individual. It should not be subjected to an acid test. Why stop at Lord Ram then? There are such miracle figures in literature of every religion in the world. Should all of that be subjected to scientific evidence and proofs?
• It's wrong to term those who reacted on the govt's statement challenging the existence of Ram himself as Hindu Fundamentalists. It's a very natural reaction which would've been evoked from any believer of any religion. How about questioning the conception of Jesus to the Virgin Mary? In order to prove the modern mindset and all it's not necessary to criticize those who believe or have faith in God. No one is forcing it on anyone so if you dont believe it... Take a walk!
• I do believe that a rational, God believing, Hindu would understand the explanation furnished for the project but, quite naturally, cannot tolerate his faith being questioned/ ridiculed/ put to test. That is exactly the case at the moment but no one seems to putting any thought in approaching the problem with the right mindset.
• This is my version of Ramayan's occurence. I believe Ram did exist. He wasn't heralded as God during his times. He was just a great king who went thorugh the incidents depicted in the Ramayan. The story over the years became an epic and a lot of things may have been added into it like in a game of Chinese whispers. The existence of such a being is a very plausible possibility, as is the occurence of Mahabharat. Again, Krishna may not have been termed as God during his time but over the years these figures achieved the God-ly status.

Cheers!