For the destruction of the Shakas and the flourishing of noble dharma, a great soul was born. His father, filled with joy, named him Vikramaditya. Even as a child, at the tender age of five, Vikramaditya sought the forest to practice austerity, dedicating himself to spiritual discipline. Afterward, he journeyed to the divine city of Ambavati, a place radiant with prosperity. There, by Shiva’s will, Vikramaditya accepted the position destined for him. Once, this heroic king visited the sacred site of Mahakaleshvara. At that holy place, a grand hall was built—spacious and filled with righteousness, adorned with a variety of trees, creepers, and blossoming vines. The foremost Brahmins, skilled in the Vedas and their branches of knowledge, were summoned to this hall. Amidst them, a deity named Vetala appeared. A Brahmin took his seat and addressed the king, saying, “I will narrate to you a great tale, a collection of ancient stories.” Having established Shiva firmly in his heart, the Brahmin spoke to the king: “The delightful city of Varanasi is where Mahesha, Lord Shiva, abides. There, people of all four castes dwell, and the king rules with a crown of glory. His son, Vajramukuta, is cherished by the ministers and their sons. Among them, the minister’s son, Buddhidaksha, is renowned for his wisdom and skill.” One day, Buddhidaksha saw a charming forest, vibrant with animals and birds. Within this forest was a divine and delightful lake, echoing with the calls of many birds. When Vajramukuta and Buddhidaksha arrived at this enchanting place, they felt supreme joy. Nearby, Padmavati, the esteemed daughter of King Dantavaktra, played games with her companions in the midst of the lake. Vajramukuta beheld Padmavati, a maiden of equal beauty and virtue. Awakened by her presence, he prayed, “Protect me, Shiva Shankara.” Padmavati took a lotus flower from Vajramukuta’s head and placed it at her ears, then took it again and held it to her heart. Later, Vajramukuta, accompanied by his father, went to the forested mountain on pilgrimage. There, he was overcome with mental anguish and fell into delusion, meditating constantly on young Padmavati and taking a vow of silence. People everywhere lamented, “What has become of the prince?” Buddhidaksha spoke to Vajramukuta, “O king, speak the truth.” Hearing this, Buddhidaksha laughed and addressed the king, “She is Padmavati, daughter of Dantavaktra, king of Karnata. Recognizing you by the sign of the flower, I will bring you to her presence. Give the order, O king; I will go to Karnata. I will go—there is no doubt—if you wish your son to live.” Mounted on horses, they swiftly traveled to the city of Dantavaktra. Buddhidaksha, wise and resourceful, gave much wealth to an old woman. In the morning, she went to the royal palace. Privately, she reached Padmavati and delivered Buddhidaksha’s message: “A handsome man, seen for your sake, has come here.” Padmavati, angered, spoke while her fingers were moist with sandalwood.