Recognizing the formidable power of the demons, the well-wishers of the gods gathered and devised a plan to overcome them. In this moment of divine resolve, Brahma, the creator, manifested the auspicious seat of the swan, a symbol of purity and wisdom. Meanwhile, Kumara, the son of Shiva, brought forth Kaumari, a radiant goddess whose splendid mount was the peacock. Not once, but twice did Kumara create Kaumari, this time with the lord of birds as her vehicle, empowering her to crush the bodies of demons with club and mace. Shiva himself fashioned Chamunda, a fierce form clad in lion skin, dark in complexion, adorned with ornaments, her body composed of hide, bone, and hair. Near a sacred banyan tree, the Mothers of the world were created in ages past. Whoever, after bathing and purifying themselves, beheld these Mothers there would be blessed. At that very place, the god produced the mighty roar of the lion, and by witnessing this divine manifestation, one would gain the strength and courage of a lion. The god Kaṇṭeśvara, ever generous, bestows blessings upon his devotees, ensuring they are never troubled by planets, spirits, or ghosts. In the midst of this celestial assembly, a command was given: “Drink quickly the blood of the fierce, blind demon.” Shankara, the compassionate, reassured Shakra, “Do not fear; here is safety.” The gods, Gandharvas, Siddhas, Vidyadharas, and serpents all praised this divine presence. Those who worship the Lord of gods at this sacred site obtain the merit of an Ashvamedha sacrifice and are transported to Shiva’s realm in a chariot drawn by lions. A great battle ensued, and the destructive goddess swiftly fought alongside the Mothers, bringing ruin to their foes. The Mothers attained supreme satisfaction, yet the one born from Shiva’s forehead remained unsatisfied. The powerful Andhaka seized the north-facing trident, and thus, O sage, he became renowned throughout the world as Mahāvināyaka. Every month, on the fourth day, those who are twice-born and worship Ganesha receive his blessings. At this time, a drop of sweat fell from Shiva’s forehead onto the earth, and in the region of Avanti, the son of the earth was born, his body glowing red. Brahma, honoring him with sacred names, placed him among the planets. The linga established by Brahma, attended by hosts and Gandharvas, became a place of liberation; seeing Aṅgāreśvara there frees one from all sins. As long as all four rituals are complete, they should be performed with dedication: offerings made of jaggery cakes, accompanied by red cloth, and preparations filled with sesame and rice. The fourth and fifth offerings, too, should be made with northern roots. These rituals are for Kuja, Lohitāṅga, and the one situated among the planets—born from Shiva’s forehead, born from the womb of the earth, blazing with the hue of burning coal and the luster of smooth coral. Born in Avanti, established upon the earth by Shiva, Bhauma (Mars) is thus worshipped on the fourth day, O best of sages. Whoever dies then attains heaven for the duration of fourteen Indras’ reigns. Then, from Chamunda, blood appeared, and her face shone with a brilliant radiance. She was black, resembling the end of time, with fierce teeth and lips, terrible to behold. Her voice thundered, roaring with wild cries, swelling with the fury of battle.