The Sundara Sethu — The Beautiful Bridge
In one of the Treta Yugas, there was a Ravana. Today, Ravanas exist in countless forms across the world—starting with India. Back then, there was also a Rama. But it was Hanuman’s intervention that united Rama with Sita. It was Hanuman who brought Rama and the Vanaras together. It was Hanuman who enabled Rama’s alliance with demons who turned toward the good. It was Hanuman who connected Rama with the bears.
He became a beautiful bridge—not just in form, but through his actions, his devotion, and the bonds he forged. That is why he is called Sundara Sethu—the Beautiful Bridge.
Even today, there are people like Rama—good and righteous. But to overcome the many Ravanas of our time, and to unite all beings—to bring the Sita of today to her Rama—we need the spirit of Hanuman once again.
What qualities make Hanuman such an inspiration?
An interesting episode from the Sri Ramayana reveals three great qualities in Hanuman that earned him a special honor — the garlanding with a pearl necklace by Mother Sita herself.
During Rama’s coronation, Indra sent a magnificent pearl necklace as a gift, delivered through Vayu. The necklace was first placed around Rama’s neck, who then gently adorned Sita with it. As she looked at Rama, Sita sensed a deeper meaning behind the gesture. She understood that the necklace was not merely a gift for herself, but a symbol to be passed on — to someone who had played a pivotal role in their union.
While some philosophers advocate renouncing action, seeking only higher knowledge, or abandoning the material journey altogether, Hanuman stood apart by embracing duty in the right spirit. The Vedas prescribe the same:
kurvanne:ve:ha karma:ni jiji:vishe:th sathagum sama:ha
Hanuman gave his full effort without hesitation. He never gave up and consistently applied sharp intellect in all he did. His brilliance was especially evident in the way he spoke — always with truth (satyam), universal benefit (hitam), kindness (priyam), restraint (mitam), and sweetness (madhuram).
In today’s world—plagued by hatred, terrorism, violence, and injustice—all seekers of peace must come together, inspired by Abhaya Hanuman, to reflect deeply and act meaningfully. A day should be dedicated to such collective reflection and action, marked by global brainstorming sessions held at the divine inspiration center: the abode of Abhaya Hanuman, the Statue of Union.
This gathering must welcome all communities — not only Hindus or followers of Vedic traditions, but also people of every faith, as well as those with no religious beliefs, including atheists. For Hanuman’s message transcends all boundaries — of religion, culture, and ideology.
– From the discourse of HH Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji
– 08th Sep 2025, Houston
– Harmony of Traditions, Sammelan
– First Anniversary of the Statue of Union
Hanumat Presaka Swami – ISKCON Temple, Houston
“Rama — acting like an ordinary human being — exhibits exemplary character to teach others how to live. Just as there is a touchstone to test the purity of gold, Rama is the touchstone for all noble qualities.
To establish friendship with Rama, one does not need to perform great austerities or rituals — after all, those who assisted him were monkeys — the Vanaras!”
He remarked with insight and clarity:
“If you want good food, go to Italy.
If you want good machines, go to Germany.
If you want good romance, go to France.
But if you want the depths of philosophy, go to India!
Mr. Amit Misra – Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh
Hanuman ji is the Param Sevak — the ultimate servant of Sri Rama. He exemplified the spirit of selfless service. And what is it that can truly bring all people together? It is this very selfless service — nishkama seva — done without expectation or ego.
Mr. Vijay Pallod – Hindus of Greater Houston
Mr. Duck Tree – Vietnamese Buddhist Center
In the teachings of the Buddha, compassion is not merely a feeling — it is an active wish to alleviate the suffering of others and a deep, boundless commitment to care for all beings as if their pain were our own. It arises from the profound realization that we are all interconnected; no one exists in isolation.
When compassion is paired with loving-kindness, it becomes a powerful force for change. The ability to live with open hearts and open minds is the true spirit of this teaching.
Hanuman exemplified this spirit. He did not use his power for conquest, but to serve. His unwavering loyalty, humility, and dedication to others reflect the very same values that Buddhism holds dear.
Today, we find ourselves at a crossroads of traditions, reminded that the path forward lies not in competition, but in cooperation;
not in judgment, but in understanding;
not in isolation, but in unity.
Let us embrace the spirit of compassion and the power of loving-kindness as we walk this path together.
Mr. Achalesh Amar, Vishabh Hindu Parishad
We are blessed to have among us today a modern-day Hanuman ji — a spiritual leader known for his profound impact on society through numerous Hanuman-like, superhuman initiatives.
From the propagation of Vedic wisdom, the establishment of Vedic University, and the founding of schools for the underprivileged, to disaster relief, healthcare initiatives, animal welfare, promotion of equality and peace, and the creation of iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Equality and now, Abhaya Hanuman here in Houston — his contributions are truly remarkable.
He has also been a tireless advocate for interfaith harmony and has spearheaded countless other initiatives — so many that the list is too long to cover here.
We are deeply honored to welcome him here today, in flesh and blood — His Holiness Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji.
If I may humbly request everyone present to please rise and give him a standing ovation for the incredible service he is doing for the world.
Sri Dilip Shastri, Pasupathinath Temple
You can never receive from anyone else what you receive from a Guru. A Guru helps us understand life in its true essence.
That is the key difference between teachers of various subjects and a Guru — while teachers inform, a Guru transforms.
