In that sacred time, the forest was so densely filled with kokanada lotuses that it resembled a radiant lake blossoming with lotuses at every turn. Into this enchanting wilderness, the travelers entered, their hearts uplifted and delighted, just as graceful swans glide joyfully into a great, welcoming lake. O brāhmaṇa, as they journeyed, they beheld the land facing west, its expanse covered with forests rich in treasures. Turning north, their eyes were drawn to a region shining with the pure, crystal-like brilliance that promised liberation to those who sought it. It was at the end of the Dvāpara age, at the auspicious beginning of Tiṣya, that an āśrama dedicated to dharma was established there, for the sake of the āśrama itself. Within that unbroken, water-filled sanctuary, they found deep joy. Here, the Lord of the universe had already been established in four sacred forms. Through service, austerity, and the discipline of celibacy, O Nārada, the seekers devoted themselves to spiritual practice. Yet, as the threat of asuras loomed, they sought refuge within the unbroken mountain, seeking its protection. After bathing in the holy waters of the Kalindi, they proceeded southward. By the grace of Vishnu, even the mightiest asuras found it difficult to enter this sacred realm. The celibates took shelter among the hosts of Rudra, remaining steadfast in their vows. O sage, it was then that Shukra, the illustrious descendant of Bhrigu, led them all in the performance of a great sacrifice. Shukra himself performed the sacrificial initiation for Bali, who was draped in a deerskin upon his back and adorned with a variety of darbha grass. With Hayagriva, Pralamba, and others, and with Maya and Bana at the forefront, the assembly gathered. Among a thousand maidens present, the chief was the sage’s own daughter. Released to wander the earth, Tarakaksha followed her wherever she went. When three months had passed, and the sacred fire was being offered, the mother of the gods gave birth to Madhava in the divine form of Vamana. At that moment, Brahma, accompanied by the great sages, approached and offered their hymns to the mighty Lord. They chanted: “Homage to you, O fire that consumes the fuel of enemies; homage to you, O fire that burns away the great forest of sin. Salutations to you, supporter of the universe, supreme person. Clad in yellow garments, beloved of Shri, Janardana, salutations to you. Bearer of all, sustainer of the earth, bearer of many forms—salutations to you. O lord of the gods, please wipe away the tears of Indra.” The blessed one then spoke to me, O mighty one, regarding the bringing of the Kurus. Bharadvāja, radiant son of Bṛhaspati and rich in austerity, was present among them. Filled with affection, all the sages in turn granted boons. Kumbhayoni offered a deerskin, Bharadvāja gave a sacred girdle, Varuṇi bestowed a string of beads, and Aṅgirā presented silk along with the Veda. Bṛhaspati, resplendent among sages, gave a water pot to Vishnu. Praised by the sages, he studied the Veda in all its branches, along with great narratives, and was accompanied by Gandharvas. He became deeply skilled in the Vedas to understand the ways of the world and the duties of action. Then, he addressed these words to Bharadvāja, foremost among Brahmins: “There, the holy horse sacrifice of the lord of the Daityas is being performed. By this I declare: Bali has gone to Kurukṣetra. Let us go, O Vishnu, to Bali’s sacrifice; do not be troubled. Tell me of your presence—I wish to know it truly.