news from Sri Ramanasramam

Mon 02 Dec 2024

Cyclone Fengal, which recently swept through Tamil Nadu, left a significant impact on many districts, including Tiruvannamalai. As Fengal made landfall, Tiruvannamalai experienced heavy rainfall,^[1] strong winds, and power outages. Trees were uprooted, roads were blocked, electricity was shut and homes in low-lying areas faced water-logging. The Girivalam path was temporarily closed due to debris and safety concerns. The agricultural belt surrounding the town, a lifeline for many farmers, bore the brunt of the cyclone. For residents, the disruption of power and water supply added to the challenges. Despite the destruction, no major casualties were reported, thanks to the timely alerts and evacuation measures undertaken by the local administration.

Despite the heavy rains, as shown in the photographs, the ashram sustained only minimal damage to some sections of its compound walls, with no significant harm to its main structures, thanks to the grace of Bhagavan. The initial step toward restoring normalcy involved clearing blocked pathways and reestablishing the power supply, which was successfully achieved in the ashram within a few hours. The ashram's activities continued seamlessly. Daily poojas in Bhagavan's samadhi and Mother's shrine, Vedic chanting, Tamil parayana, and Narayana seva were carried out on schedule without interruption. As usual, the dining hall also served meals to all visiting devotees, a testament to the ever-abiding grace of Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the recovery process was the collective effort of the people. Residents, NGOs, and spiritual organizations came together to assist in relief work. Volunteers distributed food packets and essential supplies to those in need. In the wake of the storm, Tiruvannamalai’s spiritual community played a vital role in bringing solace to the distressed. However, as the storm has subsided, the bustling streets of Tiruvannamalai began to fill again with the sights and sounds of daily life—tea stalls serving customers, shops reopening, and children returning to school. Cyclone Fengal served as a reminder of the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters. However, it also highlighted the strength of collective action, is a testament to the resilience of its people and the enduring spirit of the town. Faith played a pivotal role, offering emotional strength and fostering a sense of unity. The community’s ability to rise above adversity and rebuild underscores the timeless wisdom embedded in its spiritual traditions.

Today, as Tiruvannamalai basks in the serene glow of Arunachala Hill, the scars left by Fengal are gradually fading, replaced by renewed hope and determination. The town stands as a beacon of resilience, proving that even in the face of nature’s fury, the human spirit endures.

< >

#1, fengal-00