As the scene unfolded, a remarkable presence appeared and stood before them. Observing this, one thought, “Now, indeed, it is coming toward us.” The royal sage, moved by purpose, approached with the intention of taking this being away. He addressed Time itself, declaring, “Give him to me, he is mine.” Angered, he rushed swiftly toward Rudra, and, while Śveta watched, struck him. Yet, the Lord of the gods, the bearer of the Pināka bow, shone resplendent, accompanied by Umā. Witnessing this divine radiance, the foremost of kings bowed reverently to the imperishable Sambhu. With deep devotion, he offered salutations: “Salutations to Śiva, the wise; salutations to the giver of liberation. Salutations to you, O ruler of men, whose form is without division. To the eternal and imperishable one, bearer of the boar’s tusk, I bow. Salutations to you, great dancer; salutations to you, bearer of the bull-banner.” In response to this devotion, Rudra granted him eternal lordship over the Gaṇas and bestowed sameness of form. Honored by sages and perfected beings, Rudra became invisible in a moment. The king then requested a boon from Rudra: “Let this one be alive.” Rudra explained that the being had been appointed by the Lord of Death for that very task. The soul of the universe spoke, “So be it,” and it was fulfilled. Having gone and worshipped Mahādeva, the king attained lordship over the Gaṇas. It is said that this place is the great abode of the great god. Upon the stone surface, a footprint is set as a sign for those who do not believe. Those devoted to Vedic study worship the great god here, and by bowing with the head, one attains nearness to Rudra. This place is renowned as Kedara, the auspicious abode of perfected beings. Drinking the pure water there, one attains the state of Ganesha. Kedara is frequented by the best of the twice-born and by diligent yogis. Here, worshipping Srinivasa, one is honored in the world of Vishnu. Those who journey here, the best among the twice-born, attain imperishable heaven. It was here that Rudra destroyed the sacrifice of Daksha. In this sacred place, one is freed from all sins and, upon dying, attains the world of Brahma. Here, worshipping Hrishikesha leads one to Svetadvipa. Those who relinquish the life-breath in this place become dear to Rudra. Bathing, offering rice-balls, and performing other rites here are imperishable and supreme. With a mind purified from all sins, one obtains the fruit of a thousand cows. Fasting for three nights, or even for one night, a self-restrained celibate, free from greed, attains the fruit of all sacred waters. Skanda is always present here, honored by the immortals. Worshipping the six-faced god, one rejoices together with Skanda. Indeed, even sinful ancestors are delivered here—there is no doubt. The place becomes a sacred ford, and for the departed souls, heaven is assured. Those who, with devotion, perform these rites, O twice-born, never see the abode of Yama.