The realm described was resplendent, filled with hosts of Prajapatis and the fourteen Manus, and frequented by virtuous people of noble conduct and great merit. Its beauty was enhanced by jeweled gems and elegant steps, and it was further adorned by divine lakes of crystal clarity. This place was untouched by the six waves of suffering, and there, flocks of birds gathered, their melodious voices rising in praise of the Lord of gods, the master of the universe. In that sacred atmosphere, voices rang out in homage: salutations to the fierce one in the form of Narasimha, and to the mighty Varaha, the boar incarnation. Reverence was offered to Vāsudeva as well, the peaceful lord of the Yadus. As these hymns of praise filled the air, a bodiless voice resounded from above. The voice spoke of the delightful great forest of Time, a place attended by hosts of Brahmarshis. Within this forest lay a beautiful city called Kuśasthalī, served by Siddhas and Gandharvas. The voice revealed that, at the end of the age, all beings—both moving and unmoving—would meet destruction. Rivers, oceans, lakes, groves, the luminaries, the moon, and the sun—all the universe—are pervaded by Viṣṇu. When everything is drawn into himself, the blessed Śaṅkara remains, steadfast and serene. The voice declared the Veda to be the essence of all sacrifices, and compassion as the essence of all righteousness. Therefore, it proclaimed, the land of the Kurus is truly beneficial. Yet, Kāśī is said to be ten times greater, and Gayā ten times greater than Kāśī. The merit of giving at the waning of a hundred thousand moons is equal to a thousand gifts at the two solstices, and the city of Kuśasthalī is especially auspicious. The voice assured that all these sacred places, O best of gods, shall indeed become imperishable. However, when their merit is exhausted, even the gods are afflicted by that loss. Thus, it was advised: having come to this holy land, one should perform bathing, giving, and other rites upon the earth. Hearing these words, which echoed through the sky, all the gods returned to the forest of Maheśvara. That forest was filled with people of all four castes, attended by sages and gandharvas. In that place, none suffered from poverty, dullness, foolishness, disease, or envy. Instead, the people were generous, peaceful, virtuous, and free from old age and sickness. Men and devoted women lived there in harmony. Beholding such a wondrous city, the gods were filled with supreme joy. Ever served by the virtuous and blessed with all sacred bathing places, the city bestowed imperishable merit and reward. After receiving these blessings, the gods returned to their celestial abodes. Those fortunate enough to perform bathing, charity, and worship in this city would gain great merit. Therefore, the wise should always strive to do so. In every age, this city is remembered as Avanti. Having thus spoken, the gods departed for their supreme abode. Whoever recites this auspicious, divine, and meritorious tale—which removes all sin—will be blessed: a man without a son will obtain a son; a poor man will acquire wealth. Those who gain merit through these acts are forever honored in the realm of Shiva. Now, let me explain further—listen attentively and with concentration. Tripura, the great demon, stood as the lord of all the demon clans.