In the sacred land, there existed many holy sites, each radiant with spiritual merit: Sārasvata, Prabhāsa, and the auspicious lake Bhadrakarṇa; Hiraṇyagarbha, Goprekṣya, and the renowned Vṛṣadhvaja Tīrtha; Trilocana, the great tīrtha, and Lolārka, also called Uttara; Śukreśvara, celebrated for its great merit, and Ānandapura, the supreme. Indeed, their numbers and glories are beyond detailed description, O best of the twice-born. At these revered places, the great sage Pārāśarya observed a rigorous fast. When his vows were complete, he journeyed once more to the abode of Lord Śiva, the Lord of All. There, the righteous sage addressed his disciples, instructing them, “You ought to return to your own lands.” Having thus guided them, Pārāśarya chose to dwell in Vārāṇasī, living a life of strict discipline. He sustained himself solely on alms, maintaining purity of mind and steadfast devotion to celibacy. Yet, as he wandered in search of alms, O best of the twice-born, he received nothing. It was I who created this obstacle, hindering all from success, for reasons of my own. Then, moved by affection, the goddess herself appeared before him, having assumed a human form. She said, “Take alms from me,” and thus Śivā graciously offered him sustenance. Yet she admonished him, saying, “In this place, you must not dwell; you are always ungrateful.” The sage, bowing with reverence, praised her with excellent hymns. Pleased, the goddess granted her permission and vanished from sight. Understanding the virtues of that sacred place, the sage chose to remain near her, honoring her presence. Therefore, it is declared that one should make every effort to dwell in Vārāṇasī. Or, if not, he should have these sacred accounts recited to peaceful, twice-born men, for such a one too attains the highest state. On the banks of rivers and in temples of the gods, one should bow and recite the Lord’s name; in doing so, he surely reaches the supreme goal. Now, O virtuous one, let me recount the greatness of Prayāga. O Sūta, knower of all meanings, speak to us of Prayāga’s glory, where the god, the Grandfather Brahmā, resides. As it was once told to Yudhiṣṭhira, so shall I relate it to you. Yudhiṣṭhira, burdened by immense sorrow, fainted. When he recovered, he journeyed to Hastināpura and stood at the royal gate. There, the sage Markandeya awaited him, desiring an audience. Yudhiṣṭhira welcomed him with deep respect, saying, “Welcome, O greatly wise one; welcome, O great sage. Today my ancestors are satisfied, for you, O great sage, are pleased.” Honoring the sage, Yudhiṣṭhira asked, “Why are you troubled, O learned one? I have come, knowing all that has transpired. Tell me, I pray, by what means can one be freed from sins? Together with us Kauravas, O foremost of sages, in various circumstances, how can we be freed from this sin? You ought to declare that.” Markandeya replied, “The journey to Prayāga is supreme for men; it destroys all sins. There, the blessed Brahmā, the self-born, abides with the gods.” Yudhiṣṭhira then inquired, “What is the destiny of those who die there? What is the fruit for those who bathe? This is known to you; please tell me this. Salutations to you.” Thus, the greatness of these sacred places and the means to liberation were revealed, guiding all who seek the highest good.