Because of the power of a mighty being, the hosts of gods were forced to wander the earth like mortals, deprived of their celestial abodes. O noble Brahmin, the gods themselves had been cast down from heaven by this formidable one, their strength overcome, their glory diminished. Seeking a solution, the wise were advised, “You all should go to the beautiful city of Padmavati, the foremost of all cities. There lies the supreme and most excellent holy place, known as Uttaramānasa. There, O noble one, the nine treasures also reside, bestowing prosperity on those who are worthy.” It was further revealed, “At that sacred site, after bathing in its purifying waters, one may behold Siddheśvarī, the goddess who grants excellent success to her devotees. Especially on the tenth day of the bright fortnight of Āśvina, those who worship there will be victorious in all worlds—of this, there is no doubt.” The guidance continued, “A man should always worship Gaṇeśa, the fulfiller of all desires. Therefore, with all effort, journey to the great Kālavana. There, O best of gods, worship the radiant Viṣṇu.” Having received these assured words from Brahmā, the gods and sages went to the sacred places as instructed. There, they purified themselves, performing acts of bathing and giving, their minds focused on righteousness. Then, with due respect, they approached Brahmā and asked, “O best knower of Brahman, please teach us the proper procedure. We wish to hear all this from you.” Brahmā instructed them, “Meditate upon the god who wears white garments, moon-colored and four-armed, whose face is serene. By meditating on him, all obstacles will be removed. In the hearts of those who hold Janardana—dark as a blue lotus—there abides peace and protection. To him, the remover of all obstacles, the lord of the hosts, offer your homage.” He continued, “One devoted to meditation on Viṣṇu becomes incapable of harming living beings. Such a devotee is the lord of all accomplishments, self-controlled, long-lived, and master of his senses.” With eyes blossoming with reverence, the gods respectfully greeted one another. Seated comfortably, the best of the gods inquired after each other's supreme well-being. One asked, “O Lord, by what means may my subjects remain free from affliction?” Brahmā replied, “There is a practice which destroys all sin, is supremely meritorious, and bestows every happiness. This is the great Brāhmī knowledge, not to be given to just anyone—never to one who is envious, harsh, or driven by desire. This is the most secret teaching, the destroyer of all sins.” He then revealed, “It is the thousand names of Viṣṇu, auspicious and fostering deep devotion to the Lord. Om. For this hymn of the thousand names of Śrī Viṣṇu, the seer is Mārkaṇḍeya, the deity is Viṣṇu, the meter is Anuṣṭubh, and its recitation fulfills all desires. The Lord is dark as a rain-laden cloud, noble in character, holding a mountain in his hand, delighting in the music of the flute.” Brahmā began to recite: “Om. Viśva, Viṣṇu, Hṛṣīkeśa, the soul of all, the creator of all beings; the god without beginning or end, all-knowing, the origin of all; the seed of the universe, the creator, the lord and master of all; Janārdana, who assumes all forms, who is the embodiment of the universe; he who is many-formed and one-formed, who bears all forms—Hara; the great ocean, the great cloud, the origin of water bubbles; Ananta, Vāsuki, Śeṣa, Varāha, the supporter of the earth; Hayagrīva, wide-eyed, horse-eared, horse-formed; sleepless and yet sleeping, Nandī, Sunanda, beloved of Nandana; devoted to Prajāpati, Dakṣa, creator of creation, maker of beings; Vāmana, performer of left-handed deeds, of vast form.” Thus, Brahmā imparted the sacred knowledge, and the gods, filled with devotion and hope, prepared to regain their lost glory through worship, meditation, and the recitation of Viṣṇu’s thousand names.