Surrounded by a radiant host of Apsarases, Indra approached Brihaspati and spoke with reverence, “O Lord, what was the nature of creation in the past kalpa of Brahma? What actions took place then? Please describe them properly. Even the events of the present day seem difficult for me to know. But there is one who knows, and about him I shall tell you today—listen carefully.” Indra continued, “Having enjoyed divine pleasures, he has come here from the world of Brahma.” Thus addressed by his teacher, Indra, accompanied by Brihaspati and surrounded by hosts of deities, went to the splendid abode of Sudharma. There, seeing the sage as was proper, Indra worshipped him with respect. Filled with wonder in his mind, Indra spoke with humility, “Tell me, O sage, who has come here with the sacrificial priests to ask these questions. Explain to me, why is he so superior, dwelling in heaven, even beyond us? Is it by charity or by austerities, O Lord, that he has attained such greatness?” The sage, filled with humility, began to recount the former events as prescribed. He said, “On a certain day, O Indra, there were fourteen Manus. And likewise, O Vasava, all the Indras and the progenitors beginning with Manu. I shall tell you their names; listen attentively. The Manus were Uttama, Tāmasa, Raivata, and also Ākṣuṣa. The ninth is Dakṣa Sāvarṇi, devoted to the welfare of all the gods. Then comes Rudra Sāvarṇi, and after him Rocamāna is remembered. Now, I shall tell you about the gods and Indras; listen, O foremost among the wise. Śacīpati is named as their Indra, the great lord. Vipascin is the name of the lord of the gods, endowed with all prosperity. Among them, Suśānti is named as the Indra in the third cycle. Vibhāna is named as the fifth lord of the gods. The noble ones beginning with Ārya are called the gods; among them, Indra is swift as the mind. Indra, known as Purandara, is said to possess all desires. By the power of worshipping Viṣṇu, among them Indra is remembered as Bali. The gods beginning with Suvāsana are described in the tenth cycle. The gods beginning with Vihṝṅgṝmā; among them, Indra is remembered as Vṛṣa. Krabhuvana is named as the king of the gods, and Harinābha and other deities likewise. Divaspati, of great might, is declared as Indra among them. Thus, the Manus and the Indras and gods have been described in truth. In one day of Brahmā, they exercise their respective authority. There are many creators; the learned know their number. I am not able to enumerate their number today, O best of twice-born. Four Manus have passed, and my glory is exceedingly vast. After that, I shall proceed to the realm of action; listen to me. For those who speak and listen to these sacred accounts, it destroys all sins.