Whoever worships with true devotion, standing in the southern direction, and there offers libations with the five sacred nectars, attains great merit. At the close of each circumambulation, bowing down in reverence brings blessings beyond measure. There is a wondrous event that occurred at this very place—listen attentively, O wise one, for this is the truth. Long ago, in that sacred region, a parrot made its nest in a tree. But, O great king, this bird was not born there through any devotional act; rather, he had not arisen from the womb of birds by virtue of piety. In truth, he was born from the earthly royal line and is remembered as King Vena. It was the power he gained from circumambulation that lingered with him, even in his avian form. Day and night, O great king, he did nothing but circumambulate the holy presence. He did not offer flowers or incense, but constantly performed circumambulation alone. At that time, the sages—Nārada, Śaunaka, Hārīta, Devala, and many others devoted to divine vows—were present there. Some performed various forms of worship, some recited prayers with deep concentration, others offered oblations, and still others sang hymns of praise. Curious about King Vena’s constant circumambulation, the sages approached him and spoke: “O best of kings, why are you always devoted to circumambulation? You do not pour delightful, abundant water upon the liṅga, though you are capable of giving many other gifts as well.” King Vena replied, “All that happened in my previous existence is entirely true. Formerly, in this very palace, I lived as a parrot. By the compassion and power of the Lord, I was born in this life retaining the memory of my past birth. I do not know what fruit I shall receive today from the god’s grace.” Hearing Vena’s words, the sages, renowned for their vows, were filled with wonder. Thereupon, all those great sages also performed circumambulation at that sacred spot. The blessed King Vena, too, by the grace of Śambhu, continued his devotion. To this day, many stones resembling the Three-Eyed One are seen there. On its western side stands the liṅga of Pinākin. In ancient times, the Bhadrakarṇa Gaṇa, beloved of Śiva, resided there. Once, during a great battle with the Dānavas, calamity struck: Skanda was lost, the army was slain, and Vīrabhadra was defeated. Among the Dānavas was a powerful one named Namuci, mightier than the rest. Bhadrakarṇa, seeing Namuci, rushed forward and, with his mighty sword, cleaved through the demon’s armor. Struck down, Namuci entered deep darkness; slain, he bowed to Hara and remained at that place. Śiva, pleased, spoke: “Choose a boon, good one, you who always dwell in my heart.” Bhadrakarṇa replied, “May your presence be here, and may you remain steadfast in this lake.” Śiva granted the boon, declaring that there would be a special presence in the lake and in the liṅga. Whoever bathes in the Bhadrakarṇa lake with their mind focused on the Three-Eyed One attains great merit. Therefore, bathing there should be performed with diligence above all other places. This sacred site is renowned as Kedāra, the remover of all sins for people.