The gods gathered, and a resolve was made: “If I should become lord of the rains, then I will go, O gods,” was declared. In that sacred assembly, Purandara, pleased and filled with devotion, offered a rice-ball to the ancestors, honoring them with reverence. The ancestors, gratified by his act, spoke affectionately to their own daughter. Joy blossomed within her, and she lived as she wished, her heart content. In time, she gave birth to three daughters, each radiant with extraordinary beauty, their grace likened to that of the divine women themselves. A fourth child was also born, a son known as Sunābha. The eldest daughter, born to Menā, received the name Rāgiṇī, while another, adorned in white garlands and garments, was called Kuṭilā. The youngest, Kālī, was unmatched in beauty, shining with a brilliance beyond compare. These auspicious goddesses resolved to undertake severe austerities, and as they set out, the gods themselves beheld their determination. Kuṭilā, shining like the moon, was taken to the world of Brahmā. O Brahmin, you are called to speak of the son destined to slay the buffalo demon. “Let this unfortunate one be released, so she may bear the energy of Śarva,” was the plea. The response came: “O Lord, I will strive accordingly, though the energy of Śarva is exceedingly hard to bear. By severe austerity, I will propitiate Janārdana. Truly, truly I have spoken.” At this, the blessed Brahmā, the primeval lord of all, spoke as well. “Therefore, burned by my curse, you shall become all waters.” Thus compelled, she, composed of water, surged forth, flooding Brahmā’s world with her current. The mighty bonds of the Ṛk, Sāman, Atharvan, and Yajus Vedas, by their very words, were invoked, and the pure, watery locks of Brahmā overflowed, inundating all. Having offered this to Brahmā, the Lord of Creatures addressed her: “By being mixed with my essence, you shall become the destroyer of the buffalo.” Yet, even though her command was untransgressable by the gods, it was forcefully transgressed. Again it was said: “You, whose command is untransgressable even by the gods, are forcefully transgressed.” Then, receiving the conjunction with Kṛttikā, the daughter of the mountain assumed a firm, resolute form. She attempted to restrain her austerities, but someone approached and spoke to her. Thus approached, the maiden journeyed to the forest of austerities. There, fixing Rudra in her mind, she undertook exceedingly difficult penances. A command was given: “Bring here that Kālī, who is performing austerities in the Himalayas.” Yet, overpowered by her radiance, none could approach her. They reported to Brahmā that her brilliance was superior, and he stood, contemplating the marvel. “Surely, you have been scattered and your brilliance destroyed by her radiance,” he observed. “Indeed, arrange for the buffalo, along with the stars, to be slain in battle.” With their distress relieved, the gods returned to their own abodes. Turning from austerities, he and his wife went home. The great-minded one wandered among the lofty mountains with their excellent peaks, finding solace in their majesty. Honored by him with faith, the Lord spent that night in peace. A gentle voice urged, “Remain here, O Lord, for the purpose of accomplishing austerities.” Obedient, he stayed, seeking refuge in the hermitage, having abandoned his former dwelling and all shelter. And to that place came Kālī, the auspicious daughter of the mountain king, her presence a blessing upon the sacred land.