In that sacred region, eminent sages such as Sanandana make their abode, their presence sanctifying the land. Not far from them stands the hermitage of the wise preceptor of the Daityas, a place of deep learning and austerity. Within this holy area also resides the venerable sage Kardama, renowned for his wisdom and discipline. The revered Sanatkumāra, foremost among knowers of Brahman, likewise dwells there, radiating spiritual knowledge. The landscape is adorned with pure lakes and rivers, and the abodes of the gods themselves can be found amidst these divine surroundings. The forests and excellent hermitages are so numerous that they defy counting—indeed, even if one spoke for a hundred years, it would be impossible to describe them all in detail. Encircling the ocean of brine lies the famed island of Plakṣa. Its mountains rise straight and lofty, often visited by assemblies of perfected beings. Among these mountains, the seventh, called Vaibhrāja, is especially beloved of Brahmā. There, the Soul of the Universe—the witness and creator of all—is worshipped with devotion. No evildoers or wicked men are ever found in this land; only the Brahmarṣis reside there, constantly worshipping the Grandfather, Brahmā. These sages are renowned by name, known for their immortality and virtue. In these present ages, however, the people of Plakṣa are not long-lived. The four varṇas—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras—are all mentioned as dwelling on that island. Among them, there is a special union and resemblance with Soma, the Moon, O best of sages. They live for five thousand years, free from disease and suffering. Beyond the ocean of sugarcane juice lies the island of Shalmali. Seven straight, well-jointed rivers flow there, their waters pure and sanctifying. The mountains of this land are named Droṇa, Kaṅka, Mahiṣa, and Kakudvān, among others, making seven in total. The rivers, known as Nivṛtti and by other names, are famous for removing the sins of men. There is no division of ages in Shalmali; its people live without illness. They experience union, resemblance, and share the same world, living in harmony. On this island, the Vaishyas are said to be yellow in complexion, the Shudras black, and the twice-born are considered outcastes. Encircling the ocean of wine is the island of Kusha. Here, the seven mountains are called Kusheśaya, Hari, and Mandara, among others. The principal rivers—Vidyud, Ambha, and Mahī—carry life-giving water through the land. It is here that Brahma, Ishana, and the gods beginning with the Devas are worshipped. The Vaishyas of this island are known as Snehas, and the Shudras as Mandehas. All the inhabitants act as previously described, devoted to the welfare of all beings. For them, there is union with Brahma, resemblance, and sharing of the same world. Beyond this lies the island of Krauncha, encircled by the ocean of clarified butter. The seventh mountain here is known as Dundubhisvana, and the principal rivers are called Khyati and Pundarika. On this island, Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras all dwell together. Through vows, fasts, offerings of gold, and recitations performed for satisfaction, they attain, by divine grace, residence in the same world and closeness to one another. O sages, still farther lies the island of Shaka, surrounded by the ocean of curds. There, the delightful mountains are named Ambikeya and Keshari, adding to the beauty and sanctity of this wondrous land.