As the thirty-fourth chapter in the collection of Kali Yuga histories concluded, the narrative turned to a new account in the Pratisarga Parva of the glorious Bhaviṣya Mahāpurāṇa. In this next tale, the highly wise preceptor Patañjali resided—a sage renowned for his deep understanding of the Vedas and all their branches, and for his steadfast devotion to the teachings of the Gītā. One day, this pure-hearted and noble Brāhmaṇa set out toward another sacred pilgrimage site. It was at the end of the rainy season when, unexpectedly, Patañjali found himself bested by a devotee of the Goddess. In reverent humility, he offered salutations to Śivā, the source of all auspiciousness, and to the power of Viṣṇu, recognizing her as the very embodiment of faith, intellect, memory, knowledge, and the giver of all that is auspicious. In response to his devotion, an incorporeal voice—the voice of the Goddess—spoke to Patañjali, assuring him that by the strength of his character, he would attain true knowledge. She revealed that it was through her own grace and devotion that her follower had prevailed over him. Inspired by these divine words, Patañjali journeyed to the temple of Vindhyavāsinī, where, blessed with knowledge born of grace, he became devoted to Viṣṇu. Transformed, the Brāhmaṇa adorned himself with the upright tilaka mark and a tulasī garland around his neck. In every gathering, he delivered profound commentaries, bringing joy to all who listened. Thus, the supreme recitation among all chants was revealed, bringing auspiciousness to all and ensuring that none would be touched by sorrow. For truly, Lord Viṣṇu is the embodiment of auspiciousness—he whose banner bears Garuda. Those who daily study these sacred histories are purified and uplifted. Thus concluded the thirty-fifth chapter, which celebrated supreme character and greatness within the Kali Yuga histories of the Pratisarga Parva. The narrative then advanced to the next section. It was said that the rule of one hundred and twelve—referring to a particular reign—was equal in virtue to that of the Dvapara age upon the earth. At this time, O fortunate one, the Lord Himself enacted His divine play. At the dawn of this era, it was proper to invoke the blessings of the goddess Sarasvati and the sage Vyāsa, seeking victory and auspiciousness. When the great cycle called Bhavishya arrives in the Vaivasvata interval, momentous events unfold: the Kauravas, intoxicated by the fury of battle, are ultimately defeated by the Pandavas. As the day drew to a close, Lord Krishna, perceiving the misfortune that lay in wait, was ever vigilant. Salutations poured forth to Him—the maker of time, the sustainer of the world, the remover of all sin. The Pandavas, His devoted followers, fearful and in need of protection, were safeguarded by Krishna, who arrived at their camp bearing a spear, ensuring their safety. Obeying the king’s command, Krishna traveled to Gajasāhvaya. But at midnight, Drauni (Ashvatthama), Bhoja, and Kripa arrived there with dark intent. Ashvatthama, powerful and resolute, seized the sword from Shivadatta and, acting as he wished, committed a dreadful slaughter before departing with his companions. Only the charioteer of the Pārṣata was left alive, terrified by the carnage. When Bhima and the others learned that an offense had been committed against Shiva, their hearts burned with wrath. In their anger, they unleashed their weapons and missiles, which, astonishingly, entered into the very body of Shiva himself. In response, Rudra (Shiva) pronounced a curse upon them: "You will become worshippers of Krishna. Having obtained rebirth in the Kali age, you will experience the fruits of your transgression." Stricken by the curse, the warriors sought refuge in Hari (Viṣṇu) to be released from their sin. In their minds, they offered praise to Rudra, and Shiva, moved by their contrition, appeared before them. He spoke to Krishna, acknowledging, "The weapons and missiles that were destroyed upon your body—by your will, O Lord, I gave that terrible curse." Thus, Shiva offered his salutations to Krishna, recognizing the supreme will behind all events. In this way, the intertwined destinies of gods and men, of devotion and consequence, unfolded—each event sanctified by divine grace and cosmic justice, as recorded in the sacred histories of the Bhaviṣya Mahāpurāṇa.