Prof. Dr. Satya Vrat Shastri's Thai Ramayana 26. Hostility between Hanuman and Nila

The story has substantially deviated from Valmiki Ramayana!  So it makes sense to just narrate the Thai Ramayana.

Lanka situated in the middle of the sea, prosperous, it achieved the highest renown in the three worlds. It was well protected by the ocean, hence it was not possible to reach its shores. Rama thought that a causeway had to be built across the ocean and asked Hanuman and Nila to build one quickly. He told them they were experts in this and so had deputed them.

They got together and started their work. It was decided that one would throw stones into the ocean and the other expert in the work of causeway, would set them together properly.  Soon Nilaphad, foremost of the monkeys and the best among warriors, was throwing the stones, and Hanuman was setting them in order without wasting any time.

But Nilaphad had been upset in the past with Hanuman as he had not behaved well with his uncle Jambu. He considered the present moment the best time for revenge. He started throwing stones at him at a fast rate and Hanuman, though an expert could not cope. Naturally he needed more time to set them well.

As they had to take turns in their work, it was now time for Hanuman to throw stones and Nila to set them. Hanuman already angry and wanting revenge, strung the stones together with his hair and threw them continuously at Nila. Even with great effort Nila could not set these stones in place properly. Very much ashamed he stopped work with his face hung down.

The lord of the Raghus was pained at their behavior. He was also worried that this rivalry could spread and give rise to quarrel among others. To stop this from spreading, he ordered thus, 'The high-minded Nila should leave for the city of  Kiskindha. He should act as the viceroy there on behalf of Sugriva and rule over it according to scriptures. Whatever essential materials are required by the army, he should put in efforts for them'.  

'And wise Hanuman should build the causeway within seven days, so that this army of mine may reach Lanka.' Hearing this command, Nila went to his city and Hanuman whole-heartedly engaged himself in the building of the causeway.'

Now we understand why projects are delayed!

Raghunath said...

Yes the story has deviated but essentially the same. There is no mention of the boon Nila had received that made the stones lighter than water when he touched them