Vyasa, the revered sage, approached the Pandavas with gentle wisdom, his heart filled with compassion. He addressed Yudhishthira, the best among the Bharatas, saying, “O noble one, I already knew in my mind that, through unrighteous means, you would be exiled by the sons of Dhritarashtra. Knowing this, I have come now, wishing to do you the highest good. Do not grieve, for all this will ultimately lead to your happiness.” He continued, comforting the Pandavas: “O subduers of foes, separation from friends is an act rooted in the past; its fulfillment has now come. Do not sorrow, O scorcher of enemies. When this misfortune has passed, you will, without doubt, dwell again in your own kingdom, enjoying life with your kin. Relatives show affection especially to those who are distressed or young; therefore, my affection for you is now even greater.” With deep affection, Vyasa assured them, “I wish to do what is good for you. Listen to my words: remain here in hiding, awaiting my return. This lake was created by the austerity of Shalihotra; its delightful waters will remove the suffering of hunger and thirst. Those who seek to accomplish their purpose should remain here for six months as you please.” Vyasa, the lord, thus comforted the Pandavas, embracing Kunti out of affection and consoling her. He spoke gently to her: “Daughter-in-law, do not weep, do not lament; your son Yudhishthira, steadfast in righteousness, lives. Yudhishthira, king of dharma, will rule all the sons of Pritha on earth, conquering the whole world through righteousness. Having brought under his control the entire beautiful earth with its mountains and forests by the strength of Bhima and Arjuna, he will surely enjoy it. Your sons and Madri’s, these five renowned in the world, will live happily and contentedly in their own kingdom.” He foretold: “These tigers among men, having conquered the earth, will perform sacrifices such as Rajasuya and Ashvamedha, giving abundant gifts. Having favored their friends with wealth and happiness, your sons will regain the ancestral kingdom of their fathers and grandfathers. Your daughter-in-law, lotus-eyed and named Kamalapalika, obedient to Bhima, will bear him a son. By that son you will be rescued from hardships; wait here for a month, I will come again. Knowing the proper time and place, you will experience supreme joy.” When Vyasa had spoken these words, the Pandavas and Kunti, with joined palms, honored him, and the sage departed as he had come. After Vyasa’s departure, the Pandavas, freed from anxiety, dwelled beneath the banyan tree for six months, as they pleased. Sustained by vegetables, roots, and fruits, they practiced austerities. Then, Kamalapalika, the Rakshasi Hidimba, was permitted to join them. Swift as the mind, she delighted Bhima there, adorned with divine ornaments, garments, garlands, and fragrant unguents. For seven months, Hidimba sheltered the Pandavas in the forest for Bhimasena’s sake. Bhima spent this time happily with her, and soon the Rakshasi conceived. After seven months, she gave birth to a son from the mighty Bhimasena, for Rakshasis conceive and give birth instantly, and can assume many forms at will. The child was remarkable: his eyes were deformed, he had a great mouth, ears like winnowing baskets, a terrifying appearance, coppery eyes, sharp fangs, and was a mighty chariot-warrior. He was a great archer, of immense strength and courage, swift, enormous in body, dreadful as death, broad-necked, and strong-armed. Though born of a human, he was not human; his force was terrible, unconquerable by enemies, surpassing all other Rakshasas and men. Even as a child, he displayed valor among humans, was skilled in all weapons, and became exceedingly strong. The boy bowed, grasping the feet of his father and mother. Those two of supreme might gave him his name: his mother called him Ghatotkacha, for his head was shaped like a pot, and thus he became known by that name. Ghatotkacha was devoted to the Pandavas and always dear to them, and they cherished him as their own. The mighty Ghatotkacha, together with Pritha, greeted the Pandavas respectfully and spoke to them after saluting: “What shall I do for you, noble ones? Speak without hesitation, O sinless ones.” Kunti replied, “You are born in the Kuru line and are truly equal to Bhima; you are the eldest of five sons. Aid your brothers, my child.” Thus addressed, Ghatotkacha bowed and replied, “As Ravana and mighty Indrajit were renowned in the world, so am I among men, equal in form and strength, and even distinguished.” He declared, “At the proper time, I will come to serve my fathers,” and then set out toward the northern direction. For he was created by the blessed one, the great soul, for the sake of power—a mighty chariot-warrior, peerless champion of his lineage. Before departing, Ghatotkacha said to his mother, “I have dwelt with you, O lotus-eyed one; you will see me again when you are established in the kingdom.” Thus, Ghatotkacha left, and the Pandavas remained, their hearts comforted, awaiting the fulfillment of Vyasa’s promise and the return of their destiny.