Synopsis
St. Mary’s Islands, a set of four small islands off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, Karnataka, is where you will find series of interlocking basalt columns. Millions of years ago, these formations were formed when hot molten lava oozed out from the Earth’s surface and were cooled off by the waters of the Arabian Sea. Because of the unique way how these lavas are cooled, these igneous rocks take the hexagonal shape.
Dilshad Roshan, Creative Commons Attribution LicenceHave you seen the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland? Those tall interlocking basalt columns that look spectacular and otherworldly are also one of nature’s marvels to see. Did you know that we have those in India too?
Not all of the four islands of St. Mary’s Islands have these basalt formations. Out of the four islands – Coconut Island, North Island, Daryabahadurgarh Island and South Island – only Coconut Island has these formations. There are no other places in India where you will find these hexagonal columns.
Coconut Island gets its name from the coconut trees that grow here. A very small island of about 500 m in length and 100 m in width, with prominent coconut trees, curious rock formations and no signs of habitation, Coconut Island sure sounds like an amazing place we need to explore.
Millions of years ago, these formations were formed when hot molten lava oozed out from the Earth’s surface and were cooled off by the waters of the Arabian Sea. Because of the unique way how these lavas are cooled, these igneous rocks take the hexagonal shape. Isn’t that amazing? These are also called columnar basaltic lava.
The beaches on the St. Mary’s Islands are not suitable for swimming as all of them have basaltic rocks. However, on the western side of the island, you will find plenty of colourful seashells scattered everywhere. They make for great souvenirs!
It was then Hanumaan set off to find the life saving Sanjeevani booti. This medicinal herb grew only on top of the Dronagiri mountain. But when Hanumaan reached the mountain he was unable to recognise the plant and he eventually broke off the top of the mountain and carried it back with him to where Laxman was.
Now all this is from the epic; but coincidentally, the mountain has a flat top, which the locals believe that’s what Hanuman broke off. The residents of the village have been upset with Hanuman for breaking a part of their deity.
This is the reason why most of the locals don’t worship Hanuman. Till a few years ago, if the villagers came to know of anyone worshipping Hanuman, they would immediately banish that person/family from the village!
We are hoping that that’s no longer the case but the legend of Dronagiri, Sanjeevani booti and Hanumaan is here to stay.
