In the midst of deep contemplation, it was realized: “I myself have been born for you.” With this understanding, the speaker declared, “You have attained the highest accomplishment, for I, your son, have remained.” Yet, a sense of wonder lingered, prompting the question, “How is it that Hari has not yet appeared to me?” Resolute, he vowed, “Until I behold him, I shall not cease my austerities.” He then instructed, “You too, by means of yoga, go swiftly to Mathurā. Bring Āmuṣyāyaṇa here quickly.” Receiving this command, Nandī departed without delay. Upon reaching Mathurā, Nandī found Āmuṣyāyaṇa and inquired after his name. Āmuṣyāyaṇa, a disciple of Sālaṃkāyana, introduced himself. He asked, “Tell me, is the guru well? Where does that ascetic reside? Tell me this in detail, and let the arghya offering be presented.” Nandī explained the events and the purpose of his journey. After a few days, Āmuṣyāyaṇa arrived at the bank of the Gaṇḍakī river. There, by divine influence, a woman named Devikā was engaged in austerities. Nearby, there was another hermitage, belonging to Pulastya and Pulaha. This sacred place, Kāmika, was greatly cherished by the ancestors. The goddess was told, “By visiting this place, one attains both liberation and enjoyment, and the destruction of great sins.” The Earth herself spoke: “It is known as Śūlaṭaṅka, and also as Someśa. Here, Viṣṇu himself abides under the name Veṇī Mādhava. It is dear to all the gods, sages, and even the lakes. Those who bathe here ascend to heaven, and the departed attain liberation. This alone is renowned as the Triveṇī—why do you praise some unprecedented place?” Urged, “O greatly fortunate one, tell that for the welfare of the worlds,” Śrī Varāha replied, “Here I shall recount to you an auspicious story with history.” Long ago, Viṣṇu performed austerities for the welfare of the worlds. After a long period of practice, the heat of his body caused a flood of sweat to pour from his cheeks. All the beings of Maharloka and beyond were astonished in every direction. The gods, eager to understand, went to Brahmā. Yet even Brahmā, deluded by his own māyā, did not know the cause. Gathering together, the gods approached Brahmā, who bowed and questioned the great god: “By whom was this earth restrained, which brings about disturbances in the world?” Śiva, after a moment of meditation, addressed Brahmā and the others. Soma, the lord, along with the gods and his attendants, joined them. Then Śambhu, supremely pleased and smiling, spoke: “He who is the support of all, the overseer of everything—what is there that is difficult for you? I have undertaken austerities for the sake of the welfare of the worlds. Having attained your vision, O Lord of the world, I am fulfilled.