In a time long past, a tale unfolded that was well known among the people and often recounted by the learned Brahmins. It was during this time that the illustrious king Romapada was serving the sacred fire and honoring his father, when the destined moment arrived, heralding the emergence of a mighty king from the land of Anga. This king, however, was foretold to bring forth a dreadful calamity due to a grave transgression. In his desperation, the king summoned the learned Brahmins, those well-versed in sacred rites and worldly customs, seeking their guidance on the proper discipline and expiation to avert disaster. The eminent Brahmins, accomplished in the Vedas, advised him to bring forth Rishyasringa, the son of Vibhandaka, to the kingdom. They instructed the king to honorably invite Rishyasringa and, with due rites, to give him his daughter, Shanta, in marriage. Upon hearing this, the king became anxious, pondering how to summon such a powerful sage from his distant hermitage. After careful deliberation with his ministers, he resolved to send his priests and counselors, treating them with the utmost respect. Yet, when tasked with this daunting mission, the priests hesitated, troubled by the thought of approaching the sage, fearing his formidable powers. After much consideration, they finally agreed to undertake the task, assuring the king that they would successfully bring the sage to him. Thus, the king of Anga devised a plan that involved sending courtesans to entice Rishyasringa. With their beauty and allure, they would draw him from his secluded life of austerity and study. The king, resolute in his decision, instructed his ministers and priests to carry out this plan. The chief courtesans ventured into the great forest, not far from Rishyasringa’s hermitage, where the young sage resided, ever content and devoted to his father, Vibhandaka. Unbeknownst to him, he had never encountered a woman or any being from the outside world. The courtesans, adorned in their resplendent attire and singing sweet melodies, approached him with curiosity. “Who are you, O Brahmin? What brings you to this desolate forest?” they inquired, intrigued by his solitary existence. Rishyasringa, captivated by their beauty, felt compelled to share his identity. “I am the son of Vibhandaka, known as Rishyasringa. Our hermitage lies nearby, and I would be honored to offer you hospitality.” Delighted by his invitation, the courtesans decided to visit his hermitage, where Rishyasringa welcomed them with traditional hospitality, providing water for washing, roots, and fruits. However, sensing the presence of his father’s strictness, the courtesans soon grew anxious and prepared to leave. They offered him their finest fruits, urging him to partake without delay. As Rishyasringa tasted the fruits, he marveled at their sweetness, for in his secluded life, he had never experienced such delights. After exchanging farewells and informing him of their intentions, the courtesans departed, leaving Rishyasringa troubled and wandering, his heart heavy with confusion. On the following day, as the valiant son of Vibhandaka reflected on the previous encounter, he found himself drawn back to the place where he had first seen the courtesans. To his delight, he spotted them once more, their hearts filled with joy upon seeing him. They approached him with inviting words, saying, “Gentle one, come to our hermitage.” Thus began the tale of Rishyasringa, a story that would weave together destinies and lead to unforeseen blessings for the kingdom.