He approached the divine couple and, with deep reverence, fell at their feet, bowing down his whole body like a staff in humble submission. Rising, he spoke words sweet as nectar, his voice resonant and deep as thunder. With heartfelt devotion, he addressed them: “You alone, O Lord, are the giver of all desires for those who seek them in this world. O best of men, there is nothing unattainable for you. O Keśava, great god, supreme yogi—by your own yoga, you accomplish all things. Now, having seen you, the Lord of the Universe, and the goddess, daughter of the snowy mountain, I make a single wish: grant me a son equal to myself, devoted to you—this is my desire, O Śaṅkara.” Keśava, the Lord, having beheld the goddess Girijā, embraced her with affection. Then the goddess, daughter of the king of mountains, addressed Hṛṣīkeśa, saying, “May there be unwavering devotion to the Lord, and likewise within oneself, O Keśava. The son of Devakī, for whom the gods once prayed, has already been born. There is, in truth, no difference between us; so do the sages perceive. Let there be steadfast devotion to the Lord and supreme strength within oneself.” Hearing these words, the great god Maheśvara, with bowed head, uttered his blessing. Thereafter, the Lord of Mountains departed for his abode on Mount Kailāsa. The blessed Soma, Maheśvara, rejoiced in the company of Keśava. Together, they worshipped Kṛṣṇa, the god of gods, the infallible one, who wore a resplendent crown, bore the mighty Śārṅga bow, and whose chest was marked by the auspicious Śrīvatsa. He bore the unrivaled Vaijayantī garland on his chest, and his lotus-like feet and eyes radiated charm. With a gentle smile, he was the bestower of good fortune, his form radiant with divine splendor. Kṛṣṇa wandered amidst the mountain caves, his presence illuminating the dark recesses. Here and there, Siddhas, Yakṣas, and Gandharvas caught sight of him—the one who pervades the entire universe. In adoration, they showered a rain of fragrant flowers upon his head, recognizing the greatness of his soul. The sight of Kṛṣṇa, so enchanting, caused their garments and ornaments to fall into disarray, and they trembled in his presence. The beautiful women, beholding the son of Devakī, were overcome with desire. Some stood transfixed, drinking the nectar of his smile, their hearts captivated. In their passion, these women adorned Kṛṣṇa, the ornament of the world, with their own jewels, and they too adorned themselves for his sake. With innocent, deer-like eyes, they kissed Hari’s lotus face, lost in his enchanting presence. Deluded by his divine illusion, they led him to the world of the gods, where he, assuming many forms, fulfilled their desires in playful sport. Thus did the glorious Nārāyaṇa delight, enchanting all the worlds by his maya. Yet, in his absence, the people became distressed and fearful, pained by separation from Govinda. Seeking him, Kṛṣṇa journeyed to the mountain Himavat, and from there returned to the radiant city of Dvāravatī, to Upamanyu. Soon, thousands gathered at splendid Dvārakā, causing great fear. But in a mighty battle, Kṛṣṇa slew them all and protected the city in all its glory. Later, having seen Kṛṣṇa on the summit of Kailāsa, he made his way to Dvāravatī. There, people inquired, “O Lord Nārāyaṇa, where does the blessed Hari reside?” To this he replied, “Today the great yogi delights; having beheld him, I have come here.