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Tsunami Hits Paramankeni
PARAMANKENI (Paraman – The Almighty; Keni – Pond) It is a land that thirsts for
the spring of living waters that flows from the Father Almighty.
A quiet hamlet on the coast off Chennai, between Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry.
The simple people of this village are all fishermen. The sea was their
fascination, friend, livelihood and their own private back yard.
The 26th of December, 2004 started just like any other day for Paramankenians.
The fishing trips, auctions and sales were all over. It was an unusual day
though. The sea seemed to be playing games with them, or so they thought –
coming in and receding much farther than usual. Was it just an exciting game or
an ominous sign? At around half past eight, the first deadly waves struck,
swiftly sweeping the village in a whirl pool of water. The men were the first to
sense the danger. They ran to anchor the boats, their only means of livelihood.
The women were quick to grab the children and swim to safety. The men followed
realizing the futility of their efforts. In seconds the village was immersed in
nearly six feet of water. The second and the third waves struck at around two
hour intervals. By then they were on higher, safer ground. Except for a 35 year
old man, who was perhaps struggling to save his boat, the lives of others were
spared. He was later found buried in the sand. When we talk to the people, we
realize that in their hearts they are grateful to God for the Hand that guided
the waters that fateful day, making it come in a swirl from the west to the east
and around the village which helped them escape the ferocity of the waves. Had
it instead come straight in and out the same way, they would all have been
devoured by the deadly sea. They believe that there is a purpose in their being
alive and so do we. |
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