Haridasa once asked, “When will the age of Kali begin?” The answer was revealed: Kali Yuga would commence when the new king established his rule. From his second wife, a multitude of languages arose, bringing confusion and delusion among the people. As time passed, the dharma described in the Vedas appeared to be reversed, and Kali—ever the companion of unrighteousness—cast aside the gods themselves. Poverty, as Kali’s consort, entered every household. Greed governed the wealthy, while those of humble station unexpectedly rose to greatness. The earth, under Kali’s shadow, turned barren and fruitless. Upon hearing all this, King Hariśchandra responded with generosity, offering a noble gift. At that moment, a brahmin, wise and learned, arrived. The goddess herself bestowed upon him a wondrous flying chariot, swift as thought. Yet, for the sake of a maiden, the brahmin became bewildered. Haridasa’s son, Mukunda, was a learned youth. His teacher called him, saying, “Listen to my words, Mukunda.” Mukunda replied, “So be it,” and quickly returned home. The maiden chose as her husband Vamana, a brahmin skilled in the Vedas. At the same time, three virtuous brahmins came seeking her as a bride. One among them swiftly abducted the great goddess and carried her to the Vindhya mountains. A wise brahmin named Dhiman, renowned for his astrological knowledge, spoke with them. He placed two of the brahmins in his own flying chariot. Then, placing one upon an arrow, he swiftly slew a demon. Desiring the maiden, the suitors began to quarrel among themselves. With humility and bowed head, one addressed the Vetala, servant of Rudra. He who spoke wisely to the maiden was recognized as a brahmin, like a father. He who slew the demon was deemed worthy of the maiden’s hand. In the beautiful village of Dharmapura, bustling with devoted people, there lived a most excellent king, steadfast in righteousness. His minister, Andhaka, was an expert in the science of law. The righteous king built a temple there and installed the goddess Durga. At midnight, Mahagauri herself appeared to the king and said, “Choose a boon, O king.” With a humble heart, the king praised her, bringing Durga great joy. He said, “O Divine Lady, you are present before me; by you, all this world is pervaded. With Mahalakshmi, you have enjoyed pure happiness and, together with her, you protect the universe. With Mahakali, you shine forth, having reduced all to ashes. By your play, O Mother of the Universe, all these beings were born. I bow to you.” The goddess blessed him, saying, “Your son will be of great strength and valor.” Hearing this, the king returned home, free from fear. From that time, O King of Kings, the goddess herself was born in a new form. Accompanied by Kashidasa, the king journeyed to the village of Dharmapura. There, he saw her—weary and afflicted—walking the royal road with her father.