May 19, 2006 10:56 AM
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(Updated May 19, 2006 10:56 AM)
Many are not aware what a great deal of hard work was behind making of the Black Pagoda. And more about the sacrifice of a twelve year old boy Dharama.
Twelve hundred masons were given the task of erecting the structure under the leadership of Bishambhar. It is said that putting the dome on the top of the structure was the most difficult task requiring special skill, which the masons lacked. All attempts to put the dome in place failed and with a nearing deadline, pressure was building up among all the masons as the punishment for not completing the task was death.
On the last day evening, twelve year old Dharama noticed his father Bishambhar heavily tense, not only for his life but for his twelve hundred fellow masons whose heads were to be chopped off by the king the next morning. On repeated requests, Bishambhar described his ordeal to his son. After everybody went to bed, Dharama went to the site of the structure and it is said put the dome in place alone which the twelve hundred masons could not do together.
Dharama wanted to save not only his father's life, but also of all other masons. But soon, Dharama realised that life of the 1200 masons would be saved only if he hides his identity and achievement. So, it is said, after putting the dome on the top, he jumped to the waters and killed himself.
The next morning the king found the structure complete and rewarded all the masons, unaware of the fact who actually put the dome.
The story of Dharama is an exellent example of sacrifice and is very popular in Orissa, particularly among the young mass.
