The great sage, accompanied by the virtuous Arundhatī, gathered his thoughts and journeyed to the magnificent Mandara mountain, renowned for its enchanting caves. As they arrived, the mountain itself seemed to rise in reverence, honoring the sage and his wife with words filled with humility and devotion: “By the dust of your lotus feet, I am cleansed of all sin—even these rocks, lotus-hued, smooth, and gentle, are sanctified by your presence.” Together, the sage and Arundhatī entered the mountain’s gentle slopes. There, with focused mind and proper rituals—offering arghya and other tokens of respect—the sage worshipped and paid homage, seeking to increase his own fame. He honored the seven sages, the revered Ṛṣis, who were adorned with humility. Turning to Bharadvāja and Aṅgiras, the sage called for their attention: “Listen, O wise ones. Long ago, Sati gave up her life through the power of yogic vision. O best of the twice-born, for my sake, let us approach the lord of mountains and seek his counsel.” With the sacred utterance, “Om, obeisance to Śaṅkara,” they set forth toward the Himālaya, for noble women know well the path of righteousness among women. With the words, “Salutations to Rudra,” Arundhatī departed, walking beside her husband. Together, they beheld the splendid city of the king of mountains, radiant like the realm of the gods. The tranquil mountains—Sunabha and others—honored them as they entered the shining mansion of Himavat, which gleamed with golden brilliance. Upon reaching the grand entrance, they paused, delayed by the presence of a doorkeeper who held a great staff of padmarāga gem. The sage instructed, “Announce our arrival; we seek an important audience.” Obediently, the doorkeeper went to Himavat, who was surrounded by other mountain lords. Placing his staff under his arm, the doorkeeper spoke: “At your door stand guests, eager for your audience.” Himavat himself came forth, bearing the finest offerings of hospitality. After the sage and Arundhatī had accepted their seats, the wise mountain king addressed them: “Your arrival here is truly unfathomable, beyond all thought. Today, my very body is purified because you have entered my abode. It is as if my house has become a sacred Sarasvata pilgrimage, sanctified by your sight and touch. Whatever purpose has brought you here, instruct me—I am your servant, ready to carry out your command. Let it be spoken.” The sage and his companions then informed the venerable Angiras of their purpose upon the mountain. Angiras, in turn, addressed the king of mountains with profound words: “Together with Arundhatī, the sage has come to your home, O mountain king. Śaṅkara—the trident-bearer, three-eyed, rider of the bull, known variously as Yama’s lord, Śiva, Sthāṇu, Bhava, or Hara—has sent us to you. The lord of the gods desires your daughter; you should grant her to him. In beauty, lineage, and wealth, she is indeed worthy, O best of mountains. You, O goddess, are her mother, and Hara is proclaimed her father. Place your foot, covered in sacred ashes, upon the heads of your enemies.” Thus, the purpose of their visit was revealed, and the mountain king listened with reverence and wonder to their request.