As the somber moment unfolded, those present reflected on the path before Pandu’s wives. It was acknowledged without doubt that to die alongside one’s husband could indeed bear great fruit; yet, the foremost among the twice-born declared this to be a path difficult to follow. Instead, they spoke of a higher virtue: a woman who, after her husband’s death, remains steadfast in chastity—purified by self-restraint, discipline, and pure thoughts, words, and deeds—brings auspiciousness to all. Such a virtuous woman, ever mindful of her husband, was said to have the power to deliver him, herself, and her son from suffering. Therefore, the wise counseled that both Kunti and Madri should continue to live, for this, they believed, was best. Kunti, recalling the command of Pandu and the assembly of Brahmins, accepted the duty laid upon her and resolved to act accordingly. Even in the face of misfortune, she believed this path to be best for her husband, her sons, and herself, without the slightest doubt. Kunti’s virtues were praised; her wisdom and capacity to ensure the welfare and security of her sons were unmatched—even the revered Arundhati could not compare. The Vrishnis and Kuntibhoja stood as her protectors, but Madri confessed that she herself could not care for the children as Kunti could. Madri, unsatisfied with worldly enjoyment, resolved to follow her husband to the next world, seeking Kunti’s permission, the chief queen among wives, for this final act. With humility, Madri declared her wish to serve at Pandu’s feet in the hereafter, and she entreated Kunti, the noble lady, for leave to do so. Having spoken thus, Madri, the auspicious daughter of the king of Madra, bowed her head before Kunti and entrusted the twins, Nakula and Sahadeva, into her care. She saluted the great sages, embraced the Pandavas, and kissed her two sons repeatedly upon their heads. Taking Yudhishthira by the hand, Madri spoke gently: “Kunti is your mother, I am your nurse, and your father is gone.” She reminded Yudhishthira, eldest and righteous, that he must always act as a father to the younger four. She urged all the brothers to remain devoted to their elders, steadfast in truth and virtue, for such devotion ensures that none perish or meet defeat. After bowing repeatedly to the sages and to Pritha (Kunti), Madri, sorrowful yet resolute, addressed Kunti once more. In the presence of the ascetics, she prayed that her desire to join her husband in heaven not be in vain. She praised Kunti, the daughter of the Vrishnis, as unmatched among women in strength, brilliance, discipline, and greatness. Madri assured Kunti that she would see her five mighty sons flourish, and that she herself, the noble lady, would always be honored and revered. Recognizing Kunti’s seniority and virtue, Madri respectfully sought her permission for her chosen path. She wished that, through Kunti’s blessing, she might attain righteousness, heaven, and fame, urging Kunti not to hesitate in granting her leave. Overcome by emotion, Kunti replied with a voice choked by tears: “You are permitted, blessed one; may your union with Pandu be in heaven. May you, wide-eyed and beautiful, quickly be reunited with your husband in the world of the gods, and enjoy eternal years together.” Then, as the final rites approached, the priest performed the necessary rituals, bringing gold, clarified butter, sesame seeds, curds, and rice grains, as well as water pots, an axe, and the sacred fire, arranging all according to prescription. The sage Kashyapa performed the funeral rites for Pandu, with Yudhishthira assisting as instructed. With the sacred fire, they consigned Pandu’s body, and Yudhishthira, overwhelmed by grief, collapsed to the ground in sorrow. Having taken leave of the sages, the sons, and Pritha, Madri bowed to her husband and, resolute in her vow, mounted the funeral pyre to join him. Clad in pure, untorn garments, Yudhishthira and his brothers performed the water-rite for their departed father, following the priest’s guidance. The ascetics of Shataśṛṅga, along with the sages and Charanas, completed all the proper rites for Pandu. Witnessing Pandu’s passing, the great sages, equal to the gods and versed in sacred knowledge, gathered in council. They recalled how Pandu had renounced his kingdom and embraced austerity, entrusting his sons and wives to their care before departing this world for heaven. The sages agreed it was their duty to take Pandu’s sons, wife, and the remains of his body back to his kingdom. Thus resolved, the sages set out for the city of Nagasahvaya, placing the Pandavas at the forefront. Their hearts full of generosity, they determined to deliver the Pandavas to Bhishma and Dhritarashtra. At that moment, they all departed, taking with them Pandu’s wives and sons, and the ascetics who had dwelled with them. Kunti, once always joyful and devoted to her sons, now began a long journey—though her love made the distance seem short. After much time, the illustrious lady reached the land of the Kurus and arrived at the gate of the city of Vardhamana, bringing her children and the memory of her husband’s sacrifice with her.