Hearing the sage’s words, the woman turned to him and spoke with a heavy heart, “O sage, I am unfortunate, for I do not have the happiness of children.” The compassionate sage reassured her, “By the grace of the goddess, you shall have a son.” Overwhelmed with hope, the beautiful-hipped woman bowed low before the sage, seeking his favor and blessings. Her husband, hearing these words, was filled with joy and goodwill. He affirmed, “O lady, my opinion is also the same as what the sage has said.” United in their longing, the couple journeyed to the sacred confluence of the Sarasvati. There, they bathed and worshipped Gokarna with deep devotion. For ten long years, they persisted in their prayers and rituals, yearning for the blessing of a son. At last, their devotion bore fruit—a divine voice assured them, “You two shall have a son, endowed with beauty and virtues. By the grace of the gods, what was spoken shall come to pass.” At dawn, the grateful husband offered endless wealth to the Lord of gods in thanksgiving. In due course, the virtuous woman conceived, and in the tenth month, she gave birth to a radiant boy, shining like the moon. In celebration, the father gifted a thousand cows, adorned with gold and fine garments. He performed all the sacred rites: the birth ceremony, the naming, the first feeding of solid food, the tonsure, and the sacred thread ceremony, always honoring the goddess with gifts and worship. As the boy grew into youth, it became apparent that he was without children of his own. His wives, however, were endowed with youth, beauty, virtues, and lovely eyes. Righteousness flourished under his guidance, for he began many good works for the welfare of the people and service to the gods. He established water-pavilions, arranged for daily food and meals, and provided means of livelihood for all. Every activity was carefully organized, and he caused a grand temple to be built, dedicated to Hari with five shrines. He also introduced the practice of drawing water from wells to irrigate gardens. Bathing, worship, cleaning, and the lighting of lamps were performed regularly and with care. His four sisters were devoted to their husbands and greatly fortunate. The garland-maker always sprinkled water upon the trees, which grew lush, bearing abundant flowers and fruits. Everything was shared and enjoyed by all, just as in the realm of Indra. Yet, as he continued to give generously, his wealth gradually diminished day by day. Still, he provided food for his parents and family, never neglecting his duties. Resolving to restore his fortunes, he set his heart firmly on becoming a merchant. He traveled to distant markets, purchasing excellent goods, including those from the northern regions, always mindful of profit and loss. He acquired precious gems, fine horses, costly cloth, and all manner of suitable wares. One day, as his caravan prepared to rest, they found a beautiful spot on the bank of a river and set up their dwellings. Surrounded by a few trusted servants, he gave instructions for their tasks. While wandering there for amusement, he discovered an excellent place, filled with fruit-laden trees and fragrant flowers. Climbing up, he gazed as far as his sight could reach, his eyes drawn toward the entrance of a mysterious cave.