With reverence, the assembled gods gave their permission, and by their command, he entered. Thus, accompanied by them, the god proceeded into the illustrious assembly of Hari. Within that celestial hall, a wondrous sight unfolded: all present bore the very form of Nārāyaṇa, each adorned with the luminous Kaustubha gem upon their breast. The assembly hall itself was a marvel, constructed from the purest essence of precious jewels and radiating with the dazzling brilliance of diamonds. Rows of ruby garlands hung in splendor, while lines of pearls added their gentle luster. The entire space was embellished with intricate designs and marvelous patterns of every kind, displaying the handiwork of divine artistry. A hundred stairways, each crafted by the legendary Syamantaka jewel, graced the hall, while pillars of deep blue indranīla gems encircled the space, lending it extraordinary beauty. Fragrant garlands and clusters of pārijāta blossoms filled the air with sweetness, and the hall was exquisitely prepared in every detail, perfumed by gentle, fragrant breezes. Vast beyond comprehension, it stretched a thousand yojanas in length and was entirely filled with devoted attendants. At the very center of this radiant assembly dwelled the Lord, resplendent like Indra surrounded by the stars. He wore a crown and earrings, and his form was adorned with a garland of forest flowers. His complexion was dark as a fresh raincloud, enchanting and beautiful, his entire body anointed with sandalwood paste, and in his hand he gracefully held a lotus, a symbol of playful delight. By his side, Gaṅgā served him with supreme devotion, gently waving white fly-whisks. Beholding this distinguished, utterly complete Lord, those present were overwhelmed—their bodies thrilled with joy, their eyes filled with tears, and their voices trembled with emotion. The very creator of worlds approached, hands joined in reverence. Hari, who knows all hearts and hears all words, listened. Then, the Blessed Lord spoke: “Once, my devotee, the mighty Gopa, became the foremost among my attendants. Listen, O gods, to this ancient tale. His name was Sudāmā, a Gopa, chief among my companions. “There was a time when I journeyed from my own abode to the sacred circle of Rāsa. There, one learned from the attendants that I was together with Virajayā. Recognizing me as Virajā in the form of a river, she saw that I had disappeared from her sight. Later, the goddess beheld me in the palace, together with Sudāmā. At that moment, Sudāmā became greatly angered with both you and her. “Hearing this, she too was seized with rage, her eyes flushing red like lotus petals. She rose up with all her companions, her radiance blazing and unstoppable. In her anger, she spoke harsh words and cursed him. ‘O child, stay, do not go! Where are you going?’ she called again and again. “All the gopīs wept, and the gopas too, their hearts deeply distressed. Yet, it was said, ‘He will return in half a moment, after fulfilling the curse.’ But know this: in Goloka, half a moment is equal to one manvantara. “That very Śaṃkhacūḍa will return there again. Now, take up my trident and quickly go to Bhārata. Wear my own auspicious armor around your neck. O Brahman, while that armor is upon you, no one will be able to harm you. “There will come a time, however, when his wife’s chastity will be broken.