Once, a small wagtail bird was swept away by the powerful waters of the sacred Ganga. Through the mysterious workings of destiny, that bird was reborn in the household of a virtuous merchant, whose family was renowned for their many sacrifices and good deeds. In this new life, the boy grew up wise, pure, and filled with devotion to me, O Earth. One day, as his parents sat together, the virtuous boy approached them with humility. Bowing low until his head touched the ground and joining his palms in reverence, he made a heartfelt request: “Let me not be restrained in any way, neither by you, my father, nor by you, my mother.” Hearing these words, the couple felt their hearts overflow with joy. They replied lovingly, “Whatever you say, dear child, whatever is in your heart—know that it shall be done. We have thirty thousand cows, all yielding auspicious milk. There is more I wish to tell you for your sake, my son. Do as is proper: share your wealth with friends. There are beautiful maidens from good families, of your own caste, should you wish to marry. If you desire to perform more sacrifices, there are eight hundred ploughs, each with a pair of strong oxen. As long as you wish to feed and satisfy the twice-born, you may do so to your heart’s content.” Listening to his parents’ generous words, the righteous boy responded, “I have no concern with giving away cows, nor do I worry about friends. I do not desire trade, or agriculture, or tending cattle. There is only one supreme thought in my mind: I wish to pursue austerity.” His parents, ever devoted to their duties, heard him out with understanding. They said, “Twelve years have now passed since your birth, dear son. When you reach that age, you may consider what is truly auspicious for you. But what is this thought of yours, child, about journeying to the boar? And why do you still call me ‘mother’ today—how has this been considered?” They continued, “No offense arises, son, even in the houses or in the fields. Sometimes, even when angry or fearful, a stick may be taken up, but it is not meant to harm.” Moved by his mother’s words, the delight of the merchant family replied gently, “Indeed, I have dwelt in these limbs, having arisen in your womb as an embryo. These two breasts I have sucked, gently and playfully. Mother, please show compassion to me, as is fitting. Some come and go, others depart and yet others arrive. From where was one born? To whom is one truly bound? Who is mother, who is father? Thousands of mothers and fathers, and hundreds of sons and wives have passed before. With such thoughts, do not grieve at any time, O mother.” Then, turning to his father, he said, “Ah, indeed, what is this great secret? Father, let it be told.” He spoke sweetly to both his mother and father, urging them, “Let this secret regarding the Saukarava be asked by both of you. Having reached the holy place of the Sun, whatever you ask, O father—let it be known.” Thus, having resolved to go and seek the truth regarding the Saukarava, he set out. The lotus-eyed lord of the Ābhīras departed on his journey, filled with purpose and devotion.