The Religion that is Bridge

V N Ramamoorthy

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Recently, I came to know that it was Mahatma Gandhi who said 'Bridge is a religion'.

The full quote is : "Bridge is like a religion. You should strive to do your best with the cards Karma gave you".

How true! Comparing the game to religion, any religion for that matter, is simply brilliant. Bridge is a religion, sans any rituals!

All religions, without exception, teach you the principles of life which includes discipline, devotion, compassion, concentration and dharma. All of these and more are required on the bridge table!

For want of adequate and in-depth knowledge in other religions, I will limit my discourse to Hindu religion.

The epics of Ramayan, Mahabharat and Gita contain guidance to bridge players, in plenty 🙂

Take for example : Ramayan teaches you unconditional devotion and trust for your partner .

Mahabharat illustrates the need for justice ( Dharmaraj), speed with accuracy ( Arjun), power of strength ( Bhima), cunningness & clairvoyance ( Sakuni). Above all, the wisdom of planning ( Sri Krishna).

When you are at war, be it Kurukshetra or bridge table, your focus should be on winning, irrespective of who is against you!

And Gita is the essence of Dharma. Just do your duty ( with the cards served to you by Karma or his representative SRC Sekar 😆). Do not worry about the results when doing your duty. ( Bridge-mates and TD will take care of that 🙂).

Sometimes, you have to "Carry the Cross" for your partner or team. Some other times you may have to observe "Moun Vrat" or "Ramadan" for the overall benefit of your side!

Even when you are provoked by opponents or your own partner, sit like a "Tibetan Monk" without the beads of prayer!

Yes, bridge is very much like a religion ( sans any rituals, caste or creed).

You must endeavour to "Club" your strength with your partner, put "Heart " and soul into the board, call a "Spade" a spade ( unless you are employing a transfer bid).

When you diligently do all these, religiously, you are sure to shine like a Diamond on and off the table!

Have faith in your religion - the game of Bridge 😌

Happy bridging ,

VNR

Disclaimer : All opinions are entirely those of the author and are no reflection of the views of the BridgeFromHome Team.