In the sacred narrative, it is said that one who recites this hymn with purity of action, or who listens to it with unwavering devotion to Shiva, receives great blessings. After a full hundred years had passed in such devotion, Śaṃkara—Lord Shiva—was pleased and spoke to his devotee: “Son, I am satisfied; may you be blessed. You are now born pure.” Shiva, ever compassionate, assured the devotee that whatever fruit he desired, whether conceived in the mind or otherwise, was known to him. Yet the devotee replied, “I do not wish for even the slightest thing. If you are pleased, O Lord of gods, grant me lordship over the Gaṇas.” Shiva, smiling, granted the boon: “You shall become chief of the Gaṇas, honored by all worlds. You will possess any form you wish, be a great yogi, resolute and strong.” Having received Shiva’s blessing, the devotee became the leader of the great gods and vanished from sight. When Andhaka departed, the goddesses led by Brahmāṇī gathered together and offered praises to the great god. Maheśvara, pleased by their devotion, stood before them, and they bowed in reverence. Those blood-eating goddesses, calmed and joyful by Śambhu’s presence, were born anew in the region of Avanti. There in Avanti, filled with delight, they became destroyers of all sins. On the new moon day of the month of Śrāvaṇa, they remained absorbed in meditation. It is said that a childless person gains children, and one seeking wealth finds riches. Such a blessed soul is honored in the world of ancestors, riding in a chariot drawn by swans. Having spoken thus, the Lord of gods departed for Mount Kailāsa. Whoever listens with faith to the noble deeds of the leader of gods and demons attains great merit. Among all holy places, this one is supreme, increasing all virtue. Vyāsa inquired, “How many holy places are here, and how many liṅgas as well?” In the great forest of Mahākāla, the number of liṅgas is beyond count. Whether one is free of desire or filled with longing, anyone born here finds their wishes fulfilled. All the holy places and temples grant merit and accomplishment. Whoever listens with great devotion attains the highest state. The abode of the Lord has been described as extending a yojana in every direction. In that sacred place, mortals who die there, if virtuous, become exalted. Even insects and moths that die there attain the highest state. Vyāsa then asked, “Tell me truthfully, how did the name Kuśasthalī arise, and why is it remembered as Avantī? O best of sages, tell me the reason for these names.” This ancient tale was told to Vāmadeva in the age of Gaurī, explained by Maheśa and also by Vidhi. Those who dwell there as they wish, moving freely, attain heaven. Vyāsa asked further, “How is the mind restrained, and where does it arise for those who dwell there? O blessed one, tell me this for the welfare of all embodied beings.” The Lord, pleased, Pitāmaha, spoke to the beloved of Pārvatī, “As if not knowing, you, O Eternal One, ask me everything. Indeed, you yourself are Mahākāla; all is known by you.” Thus, the story unfolds, revealing the glory of Mahākāla, the sanctity of Avanti, and the boundless blessings bestowed by Shiva.