After the mighty demon Tāraka, terror of the gods, was slain, a question arose: How was Skanda, the great commander, born? To this, Sanatkumāra replied, recounting the events of ancient times. During a fierce battle between gods and demons, the gods suffered defeat at the hands of their adversaries. In their distress, the king of the gods, Śakra, undertook intense austerities, seeking a solution to their plight. Pleased by Śakra’s devotion, Mahādeva—lord of all beings—appeared before him. Śakra humbly entreated the Supreme Lord, “Grant the gods a great commander. Among all commanders, bestow upon us Mahāsena, who removes the fears of the gods.” Hearing these words, Lord Hara, the master of all, vanished from sight and withdrew to the Devadāru forest, where he remained absorbed in deep knowledge and meditation. There, those of disciplined mind devoted themselves to meditation and the practice of breath control, yet none could discern the purpose of Mahādeva’s meditation, for he was absorbed in the highest truth, beyond ordinary understanding. Meanwhile, in the prime of her youth, Sati, daughter of Daksha, lived. She became angry, lamenting, “My husband was not invited.” In her heart, she wished for no other than Bhava as her husband, longing only to be united with him. She pondered, “How indeed will Lord Shankara become my husband?” At this time, the gods assembled, placing the destroyer of armies at their forefront. After offering their praises, they spoke together. Brahma addressed them, saying, “The purpose is known and has been considered. O lords of the gods, act so that the Lord of the gods may desire Parvati.” Gathering at Mount Meru, the gods performed a ritual once more. The god resolved to create the commander of the army from his own being. With this decision, the Lord of the gods quickly summoned Kama, the god of love, instructing him, “O Kama, arrange it so that the god may desire the goddess.” Hearing Hari’s words, Kama smiled and replied. Then, at that very moment, prompted by Kama’s words, Śakra acted. Kama, accompanied by Madhu and Mitra and his wife, set out to the place where the Lord of the gods dwelled in the Devadāru forest. There, sheltered by a mango tree, Kama readied his most enchanting arrow. As the god abandoned his meditation and vows, he became joyful, yet without true delight or awareness. He saw Desire, concealed beneath the mango tree, and was filled with anger. In an instant, the god vanished from that place along with his attendants. Witnessing her husband Kama reduced to ashes, his wife was overwhelmed by deep sorrow and lamented bitterly. Those around her consoled her with compassion, as one would comfort a deeply distressed friend. Though Ananga—Kama, now bodiless—was absent from all actions, he continued to accomplish the work of friends according to divine order. It was said that through contemplation of Shambhu, fulfillment would certainly come. “That son will be born, possessing a body, named Pradyumna—your husband,” was foretold. At that time, the goddess Uma, dwelling in the house of Himavat, reflected upon these events. She wondered, “How will the god become my husband? How will Kama be restored?” With such thoughts, she gathered her companions. During the rainy season, she remained exposed to the open sky; in winter, she lay upon water, undertaking great austerities in her devotion.