Śāṃśapāyana said: I wish to hear about the remaining Manvantaras in the proper sequence and also about the rulers of the Manvantaras as well as those whose leaders are Śakra (Indra) and (other) Devas.

Sūta said:: Understand even as I recount succinctly and in detail about those Manvantaras which have gone by and which are yet to come.

Sūta said:: The following six are the Manus of the past viz. Svāyambhuva Manu at the outset; then Svārociṣa Manu, then Uttama, Tāmasa, Raivata and Cākṣuṣa. I shall mention the eight (Manus) of the future (four of whom are) Sāvarṇi, Raucya, Bhautya and Vaivasvata. I shall narrate these (later on) before Vaivasvata Manu. The five Manus of the past—know them to be Mānasas (Mental Sons).

Sūta said:: The following six are the Manus of the past viz. Svāyambhuva Manu at the outset; then Svārociṣa Manu, then Uttama, Tāmasa, Raivata and Cākṣuṣa. I shall mention the eight (Manus) of the future (four of whom are) Sāvarṇi, Raucya, Bhautya and Vaivasvata. I shall narrate these (later on) before Vaivasvata Manu. The five Manus of the past—know them to be Mānasas (Mental Sons).

Sūta said:: The following six are the Manus of the past viz. Svāyambhuva Manu at the outset; then Svārociṣa Manu, then Uttama, Tāmasa, Raivata and Cākṣuṣa. I shall mention the eight (Manus) of the future (four of whom are) Sāvarṇi, Raucya, Bhautya and Vaivasvata. I shall narrate these (later on) before Vaivasvata Manu. The five Manus of the past—know them to be Mānasas (Mental Sons).

Sūta said:: I have already recounted to you the Manvantara of Svāyambhuva Manu. Henceforth, I shall mention succinctly the creation of the subjects by the second noble-souled Manu Svārociṣa. In the Manvantara of Svārociṣa the Tuṣitas were the gods.

Sūta said:: I have already recounted to you the Manvantara of Svāyambhuva Manu. Henceforth, I shall mention succinctly the creation of the subjects by the second noble-souled Manu Svārociṣa. In the Manvantara of Svārociṣa the Tuṣitas were the gods.

Sūta said:: So also the scholars Pārāvatas. Thus two groups are remembered.

Sūta said:: So also the scholars Pārāvatas. Thus two groups are remembered.

Sūta said:: So also the scholars Pārāvatas. Thus two groups are remembered.

Sūta said:: So also the scholars Pārāvatas. Thus two groups are remembered.

Sūta said:: So also the scholars Pārāvatas. Thus two groups are remembered.

Sūta said:: The Pārāvatas were as follows:

Sūta said:: The Pārāvatas were as follows:

Sūta said:: The Pārāvatas were as follows:

Sūta said:: The twenty-four gods were the Somapās (Imbibers of Soma juice) then. Their Indra then was Vipaścit, well-known all over the worlds.

Sūta said:: The seven sages were—(1) Ūrja son of Vasiṣṭha,. (2) Stambha son of Kaśyapa, (3) Prāṇa son of Bhṛgu, (4) Ṛṣabha son of Aṅgiras, (5) Datta son of Pulastya, (6) Niścala Ātreya son of Atri and (7) Arvarīvān son of Pulaha.

Sūta said:: The seven sages were—(1) Ūrja son of Vasiṣṭha,. (2) Stambha son of Kaśyapa, (3) Prāṇa son of Bhṛgu, (4) Ṛṣabha son of Aṅgiras, (5) Datta son of Pulastya, (6) Niścala Ātreya son of Atri and (7) Arvarīvān son of Pulaha.

Sūta said:: The following are declared as the nine sons of Svārociṣa Manu, viz. Caitra, Kimpuruṣa, Kṛtānta, Vibhṛta, Ravi, Bṛhaduktha, Nava, Satu and Śruta. They were the perpetuators of the line of lord Manu. They have been thus enumerated in the Purāṇas. This is the second Manvantara.

Sūta said:: The following are declared as the nine sons of Svārociṣa Manu, viz. Caitra, Kimpuruṣa, Kṛtānta, Vibhṛta, Ravi, Bṛhaduktha, Nava, Satu and Śruta. They were the perpetuators of the line of lord Manu. They have been thus enumerated in the Purāṇas. This is the second Manvantara.

Sūta said:: These four viz. Manu, the seven sages, the Devas and the Pitṛs—constitute the root (the basis) of a Manvantara, and their descendants are the subjects.

Sūta said:: The following is the conclusion in the scriptural texts—The deities are the sons of the sages; the Pitṛs are the sons of the Devas, and the sages are the sons of the Devas.

Sūta said:: The Kṣatriyas and the Vaiśyas (were born) of Manu and the Brāhmaṇas of the seven sages. Thus the Manvantara has been recounted succinctly and not in details.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta said:: The Vaṃśavartins (Vaśavartins) are mentioned as follows: Sahasradhāra, Viśvāyu, the two Samitāras, Bṛhat, Vasu, Viśvadhā, Viśvakarman, Mānasa, Virājasa, Jyoti and Vibhāsa.

Sūta said:: The Vaṃśavartins (Vaśavartins) are mentioned as follows: Sahasradhāra, Viśvāyu, the two Samitāras, Bṛhat, Vasu, Viśvadhā, Viśvakarman, Mānasa, Virājasa, Jyoti and Vibhāsa.

Sūta said:: The Vaṃśavartins (Vaśavartins) are mentioned as follows: Sahasradhāra, Viśvāyu, the two Samitāras, Bṛhat, Vasu, Viśvadhā, Viśvakarman, Mānasa, Virājasa, Jyoti and Vibhāsa.

Sūta said:: There are twelve other (Devas) worthy of partaking of their shares in theYajña viz. Haṃsasvara, the liberal-minded Pratardana and Yaśaskara, Sudāna, Vasudāna, Sumañjasa, Viṣa, Yama, Vahni, Yati, Sucitra and Sutapas. They are to be known as Śivas.

Sūta said:: There are twelve other (Devas) worthy of partaking of their shares in theYajña viz. Haṃsasvara, the liberal-minded Pratardana and Yaśaskara, Sudāna, Vasudāna, Sumañjasa, Viṣa, Yama, Vahni, Yati, Sucitra and Sutapas. They are to be known as Śivas.

Sūta said:: Understand the names of the Satya group of gods as they are viz. Dikpati, Vākpati, Viśva, Śambhu, Svamṛḍīka, Divi, Varcodhāman, Bṛhadvapus, Aśva, Sadaśva, Kṣema and Ānanda. These twelve Devas who are worthy of partaking of their shares in the Yajña are recounted as Satyas.

Sūta said:: Understand the names of the Satya group of gods as they are viz. Dikpati, Vākpati, Viśva, Śambhu, Svamṛḍīka, Divi, Varcodhāman, Bṛhadvapus, Aśva, Sadaśva, Kṣema and Ānanda. These twelve Devas who are worthy of partaking of their shares in the Yajña are recounted as Satyas.

Sūta said:: Understand the names of the Satya group of gods as they are viz. Dikpati, Vākpati, Viśva, Śambhu, Svamṛḍīka, Divi, Varcodhāman, Bṛhadvapus, Aśva, Sadaśva, Kṣema and Ānanda. These twelve Devas who are worthy of partaking of their shares in the Yajña are recounted as Satyas.

Sūta said:: . They were the sons of Uttama, the Prajāpati, the Aṅgiras (?). The Indra (leader) of those Devas was well-known by the name Suśānti.

Sūta said:: Vasiṣṭha had seven sons well known as Vāsiṣṭhas. All those were the seven sages in the Manvantara of Uttama,

Sūta said:: Uttama the noble-souled Manu had thirteen sons viz. Aja, Paraśu, Divya, Divyauṣadhi, Naya, Devāmbuja, the unequalled Mahotsāha, Gaja, Vinīta, Suketu, Sumitra, Sumati and Śruti.

Sūta said:: Uttama the noble-souled Manu had thirteen sons viz. Aja, Paraśu, Divya, Divyauṣadhi, Naya, Devāmbuja, the unequalled Mahotsāha, Gaja, Vinīta, Suketu, Sumitra, Sumati and Śruti.

Sūta said:: These were the progenitors of the race of Kṣatriyas. This is the third Manvantara. Thus the creation of Uttama has been recounted along with that of Svārociṣa.

Sūta said:: Understand the creation of Tāmasa in detail and in due order. In the fourth Manvantara of Tāmasa, the Manu, the sets (of Devas) proclaimed are viz. Satyas, Surūpas, Sudhīs and Haris. Those Devas in the Manvantara of Tāmasa were the sons of Pulastya.

Sūta said:: Understand the creation of Tāmasa in detail and in due order. In the fourth Manvantara of Tāmasa, the Manu, the sets (of Devas) proclaimed are viz. Satyas, Surūpas, Sudhīs and Haris. Those Devas in the Manvantara of Tāmasa were the sons of Pulastya.

Sūta said:: Each of those sets of Devas consisted of twenty-five (Devas). (Defective text) In that Manvantara the Indriyas (? sense-organs) are remembered as the Devas. It is through the sense-organs that people understand things. The sages affirm (about the sense-organs). They have their testimonies. Manas (the Mind) the eighth one (?) is that at the head.

Sūta said:: Each of those sets of Devas consisted of twenty-five (Devas). (Defective text) In that Manvantara the Indriyas (? sense-organs) are remembered as the Devas. It is through the sense-organs that people understand things. The sages affirm (about the sense-organs). They have their testimonies. Manas (the Mind) the eighth one (?) is that at the head.

Sūta said:: Each of those sets of Devas consisted of twenty-five (Devas). (Defective text) In that Manvantara the Indriyas (? sense-organs) are remembered as the Devas. It is through the sense-organs that people understand things. The sages affirm (about the sense-organs). They have their testimonies. Manas (the Mind) the eighth one (?) is that at the head.

Sūta said:: Each of those sets of Devas consisted of twenty-five (Devas). (Defective text) In that Manvantara the Indriyas (? sense-organs) are remembered as the Devas. It is through the sense-organs that people understand things. The sages affirm (about the sense-organs). They have their testimonies. Manas (the Mind) the eighth one (?) is that at the head.

Sūta said:: Each of those sets of Devas consisted of twenty-five (Devas). (Defective text) In that Manvantara the Indriyas (? sense-organs) are remembered as the Devas. It is through the sense-organs that people understand things. The sages affirm (about the sense-organs). They have their testimonies. Manas (the Mind) the eighth one (?) is that at the head.

Sūta said:: The following were the sons of Tāmasa, the Manu viz. Jānujaṅgha, Śānti, Nara, Khyāti, Śubha, Priyabhṛtya, Parīkṣit, Prasthala, Dṛḍheṣudhi, Kṛśāśva and Kṛtabandhu.

Sūta said:: The following were the sons of Tāmasa, the Manu viz. Jānujaṅgha, Śānti, Nara, Khyāti, Śubha, Priyabhṛtya, Parīkṣit, Prasthala, Dṛḍheṣudhi, Kṛśāśva and Kṛtabandhu.

Sūta said:: They were Amitābhas, Ābhūtarayas, Vikuṇṭhas and Sumedhas.

Sūta said:: They were Amitābhas, Ābhūtarayas, Vikuṇṭhas and Sumedhas.

Sūta said:: They were Amitābhas, Ābhūtarayas, Vikuṇṭhas and Sumedhas.

Sūta said:: They were Amitābhas, Ābhūtarayas, Vikuṇṭhas and Sumedhas.

Sūta said:: They know that the names of the set (called) Ābhūtarayas are as follows:—Mati, Sumati, Ṛta, Satya, Edhana, Adhṛti, Vidhṛti, Dama, Niyama, Vrata, Viṣṇu, Sahas, Dyutimān and Suśravas.

Sūta said:: They know that the names of the set (called) Ābhūtarayas are as follows:—Mati, Sumati, Ṛta, Satya, Edhana, Adhṛti, Vidhṛti, Dama, Niyama, Vrata, Viṣṇu, Sahas, Dyutimān and Suśravas.

Sūta said:: Vṛṣa, Bhettṛ, Jaya, Bhīma, Śuci, Dānta, Yaśas, Dama, Nātha, Vidvān, Ajeya, Kṛśa, Gaura and Dhruva. These have been glorified as Vikuṇṭha (class of gods).

Sūta said:: Vṛṣa, Bhettṛ, Jaya, Bhīma, Śuci, Dānta, Yaśas, Dama, Nātha, Vidvān, Ajeya, Kṛśa, Gaura and Dhruva. These have been glorified as Vikuṇṭha (class of gods).

Sūta said:: Vṛṣa, Bhettṛ, Jaya, Bhīma, Śuci, Dānta, Yaśas, Dama, Nātha, Vidvān, Ajeya, Kṛśa, Gaura and Dhruva. These have been glorified as Vikuṇṭha (class of gods).

Sūta said:: Vṛṣa, Bhettṛ, Jaya, Bhīma, Śuci, Dānta, Yaśas, Dama, Nātha, Vidvān, Ajeya, Kṛśa, Gaura and Dhruva. These have been glorified as Vikuṇṭha (class of gods).

Sūta said:: Vibhu of great exploits and manliness was their Indra.

Sūta said:: Vibhu of great exploits and manliness was their Indra.

Sūta said:: The sons of Raivata were:—Mahāvīrya, Susambhāvya, Śatyaka, Harahā, Śuci, Balabandhu, Nirāmitra, Kambu, Śṛṅga and Dhṛtavrata.

Sūta said:: The sons of Raivata were:—Mahāvīrya, Susambhāvya, Śatyaka, Harahā, Śuci, Balabandhu, Nirāmitra, Kambu, Śṛṅga and Dhṛtavrata.

Sūta said:: Svārociṣa, Uttama, Tāmasa and Raivata—these four Manus are considered as belonging to the family of Priyavrata.

Sūta said:: In the sixth Manvantara viz. Cākṣuṣa Manvantara, the five sets of Devas are remembered viz. Ādyas, Prasūtas, Bhāvyas, Pṛthukas and the Lekhas of great majestic lustre. All of them were heaven-dwellers. They are called after the names of their mothers (?).

Sūta said:: In the sixth Manvantara viz. Cākṣuṣa Manvantara, the five sets of Devas are remembered viz. Ādyas, Prasūtas, Bhāvyas, Pṛthukas and the Lekhas of great majestic lustre. All of them were heaven-dwellers. They are called after the names of their mothers (?).

Sūta said:: They were the grandsons of Āraṇya (?) the Prajāpati, who was the son of Atri. Each of these groups is remembered as comprising of eight Devas.

Sūta said:: Antarīkṣa, Vasu, Havya, Atithi, Priyavrata, Śrotā, Mantā and Anumantā—these are glorified as Ādyas.

Sūta said:: Śyenabhadra, Śvetacakṣus, Mahāyaśas, Sumanas, Pracetas, Vanenas, Supracetas and Muni of great inherent strength—these are mentioned Prasūtas.

Sūta said:: Śyenabhadra, Śvetacakṣus, Mahāyaśas, Sumanas, Pracetas, Vanenas, Supracetas and Muni of great inherent strength—these are mentioned Prasūtas.

Sūta said:: Śyenabhadra, Śvetacakṣus, Mahāyaśas, Sumanas, Pracetas, Vanenas, Supracetas and Muni of great inherent strength—these are mentioned Prasūtas.

Sūta said:: Ojiṣṭha, god Śakuna, Vānahṛṣṭa, Satkṛta, Satyadṛṣṭi, Jigīṣu, Vijaya and Ajita of great fortune—these are the heaven-dwellers (named) Pṛthukas. I shall mention the (group of gods called) Lekhas also by name. Understand.

Sūta said:: Ojiṣṭha, god Śakuna, Vānahṛṣṭa, Satkṛta, Satyadṛṣṭi, Jigīṣu, Vijaya and Ajita of great fortune—these are the heaven-dwellers (named) Pṛthukas. I shall mention the (group of gods called) Lekhas also by name. Understand.

Sūta said:: Manojava, Praghāsa, Pracetas of great fame, Dhruva, Dhruvakṣiti, Acyuta of great vigour, Yuvanas and Bṛhaspati—(thus) the Lekhas have been gloriously recounted. Manojava of great virility became their Indra then.

Sūta said:: Manojava, Praghāsa, Pracetas of great fame, Dhruva, Dhruvakṣiti, Acyuta of great vigour, Yuvanas and Bṛhaspati—(thus) the Lekhas have been gloriously recounted. Manojava of great virility became their Indra then.

Sūta said:: The following were the seven sages in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara viz. Uttama the son (descendant) of Bhṛgu; Haviṣmān the son of Aṅgiras; Sudhāman the son of Kaśyapa; Virajas the son of Vasiṣṭha; Atināman the son of Pulastya; Sahiṣṇu the son of Pulaha and Madhu the son of Atri.

Sūta said:: The following were the seven sages in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara viz. Uttama the son (descendant) of Bhṛgu; Haviṣmān the son of Aṅgiras; Sudhāman the son of Kaśyapa; Virajas the son of Vasiṣṭha; Atināman the son of Pulastya; Sahiṣṇu the son of Pulaha and Madhu the son of Atri.

Sūta said:: The following ten were the sons of Cākṣuṣa Manu born of Nadvalā viz. Ūru, Pūru, Śatadyumna, Tapasvin, Satyavāk, Kṛti, Agniṣṭut, Atirātra, Sudyumna and Abhimanyu the tenth. This is the sixth Manvantara.

Sūta said:: The following ten were the sons of Cākṣuṣa Manu born of Nadvalā viz. Ūru, Pūru, Śatadyumna, Tapasvin, Satyavāk, Kṛti, Agniṣṭut, Atirātra, Sudyumna and Abhimanyu the tenth. This is the sixth Manvantara.

Sūta said:: His creation is reckoned on the basis of Vaivasvata Manvantara the current one. Thus the Manvantara of Cākṣuṣa Manu (has been recounted) in detail and in the due order.

The sages said: Whose successor and heir was Cākṣuṣa? In whose family was he born? Recount factually unto us all other persons born of his family.

Sūta said:: Listen to the succinct account, O Brāhmaṇas of the creation of Cākṣuṣa in whose family was born Pṛthu the valorous son of Vena.

Sūta said:: There are other lords of subjects (such as) Dakṣa, the son of Pracetas.

Sūta said:: There are other lords of subjects (such as) Dakṣa, the son of Pracetas.

Sūta said:: There are other lords of subjects (such as) Dakṣa, the son of Pracetas.

Sūta said:: Sūnṛtā, the beautiful lady of excellent hips, the daughter of Dharma, gave birth to the four sons of Uttānapāda. That lady, well-known by the name Sūnṛtā, was the splendid mother of Dhruva. That lady of sparkling smiles was born of Lakṣmī, the wife of Dharma.

Sūta said:: Sūnṛtā, the beautiful lady of excellent hips, the daughter of Dharma, gave birth to the four sons of Uttānapāda. That lady, well-known by the name Sūnṛtā, was the splendid mother of Dhruva. That lady of sparkling smiles was born of Lakṣmī, the wife of Dharma.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta said:: Bhūmi (the queen of Dhruva) gave birth to the two kings, Sṛṣṭi and Bhavya, (the sons of) Dhruva.

Sūta said:: Since he was a man of truthful speech, the shadow became a woman immediately with a divine body. She was embellished with divine ornaments.

Sūta said:: Sṛṣṭi begot of Chāyā (His spouse, the shadow) five sons devoid of sins viz. Prācīnagarbha, Vṛṣabha, Vṛka, Vṛkala and Dhṛti.

Sūta said:: Suvarcā, the wife of Prācīnagarbha, gave birth to a son named Udāradhī who was Indra in his previous birth. This lord attained the status of Indra by practising Yogic feats for the period of a Manvantara, by taking food once at the end of a thousand years.

Sūta said:: Suvarcā, the wife of Prācīnagarbha, gave birth to a son named Udāradhī who was Indra in his previous birth. This lord attained the status of Indra by practising Yogic feats for the period of a Manvantara, by taking food once at the end of a thousand years.

Sūta said:: Bhadrā gave birth to Divañjaya, the son of Udāradhī. Varāṅgī gave birth to Ripu (the son) of Divañjaya who was a conqueror of his enemies.

Sūta said:: Bṛhatī gave birth to Cakṣus with all splendour (as the son) of Ripu. Manu, the great scholar, who made the race of Brāhmaṇas and Kṣatriyas function, was his son. Puṣkariṇī (otherwise known as) Vāruṇī gave birth to Cākṣuṣa Manu.

The sages said:: Wherefore is the daughter of Prajāpati, O sinless one, is called Vāruṇī? Mention this along with the underlying fact. Indeed, you are an adept in detailed narration.

Sūta replied:: Udaka, the son of Araṇya, attained the status of Varuṇa. Therefore, she was known as Vāruṇī. She became well-known thus, on account of her brother.

Sūta replied:: Ten splendid sons were born of Manu and Nadvalā, the daughter of Viraja, the Prajāpati. They were of great vigour and vitality.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: There was a great commotion on account of the fault and crime of Vena. For the sake of a progeny, the sages churned his right hand.

Sūta replied:: When his hand was churned, the handsome Pṛthu was born. After producing his son Pṛthu of famous valour, the sages said—“O subjects (be) joyous. This is your king. He is born with an armour, wielding a bow. He appears (as if) burning on account of his splendour. This king will bestow sustenance on you all”. Pṛthu, file son of Vena, the ancestor of all Kṣatriyas protected all the worlds then.

Sūta replied:: When his hand was churned, the handsome Pṛthu was born. After producing his son Pṛthu of famous valour, the sages said—“O subjects (be) joyous. This is your king. He is born with an armour, wielding a bow. He appears (as if) burning on account of his splendour. This king will bestow sustenance on you all”. Pṛthu, file son of Vena, the ancestor of all Kṣatriyas protected all the worlds then.

Sūta replied:: When his hand was churned, the handsome Pṛthu was born. After producing his son Pṛthu of famous valour, the sages said—“O subjects (be) joyous. This is your king. He is born with an armour, wielding a bow. He appears (as if) burning on account of his splendour. This king will bestow sustenance on you all”. Pṛthu, file son of Vena, the ancestor of all Kṣatriyas protected all the worlds then.

Sūta replied:: That king was the first among those who were crowned and anointed after the Rājasūya sacrifice. Two clever bards Sūta, Māgadha were also born for the purpose of eulogising [?] him.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: This cow (viz. the earth) was milked by that intelligent great king (for the sake of) vegetables for the subjects who were desirous of sustenance. He was accompanied by the Devas, the groups of sages, the Pitṛs, the Dānavas, the Gandharvas, the groups of celestial damsels, the serpents, the Puṇyajanas (the demons and goblins), the mountains, the trees and the creepers.

Sūta replied:: Being milked in the different vessels, Vasundharā (the Earth containing rich deposits) yielded them milk as desired by them. The subjects sustained their lives thereby.

Śāṃśapāyana requested:: O sage of great noble rites, recount the birth (and life-story) of Pṛthu in detail, how formerly the Earth was milked by that noble-souled (Pṛthu), how (he was accompanied) by the Devas, the Nāgas (serpents) the Brahmanical sages, the Yakṣas, the Rākṣasas, the Gandharvas and the celestial damsels formerly, how and by what means (he milked them). Even as we ask, tell us about their different special vessels, the milker, the milk, as well as the different calves used hy them. Tell us in due order the special types of milk (yielded by her). For what reason was the hand of Vena churned formerly by the infuriated great sages of yore? Mention that reason unto us.

Śāṃśapāyana requested:: O sage of great noble rites, recount the birth (and life-story) of Pṛthu in detail, how formerly the Earth was milked by that noble-souled (Pṛthu), how (he was accompanied) by the Devas, the Nāgas (serpents) the Brahmanical sages, the Yakṣas, the Rākṣasas, the Gandharvas and the celestial damsels formerly, how and by what means (he milked them). Even as we ask, tell us about their different special vessels, the milker, the milk, as well as the different calves used hy them. Tell us in due order the special types of milk (yielded by her). For what reason was the hand of Vena churned formerly by the infuriated great sages of yore? Mention that reason unto us.

Śāṃśapāyana requested:: O sage of great noble rites, recount the birth (and life-story) of Pṛthu in detail, how formerly the Earth was milked by that noble-souled (Pṛthu), how (he was accompanied) by the Devas, the Nāgas (serpents) the Brahmanical sages, the Yakṣas, the Rākṣasas, the Gandharvas and the celestial damsels formerly, how and by what means (he milked them). Even as we ask, tell us about their different special vessels, the milker, the milk, as well as the different calves used hy them. Tell us in due order the special types of milk (yielded by her). For what reason was the hand of Vena churned formerly by the infuriated great sages of yore? Mention that reason unto us.

Śāṃśapāyana requested:: O sage of great noble rites, recount the birth (and life-story) of Pṛthu in detail, how formerly the Earth was milked by that noble-souled (Pṛthu), how (he was accompanied) by the Devas, the Nāgas (serpents) the Brahmanical sages, the Yakṣas, the Rākṣasas, the Gandharvas and the celestial damsels formerly, how and by what means (he milked them). Even as we ask, tell us about their different special vessels, the milker, the milk, as well as the different calves used hy them. Tell us in due order the special types of milk (yielded by her). For what reason was the hand of Vena churned formerly by the infuriated great sages of yore? Mention that reason unto us.

Śāṃśapāyana requested:: O sage of great noble rites, recount the birth (and life-story) of Pṛthu in detail, how formerly the Earth was milked by that noble-souled (Pṛthu), how (he was accompanied) by the Devas, the Nāgas (serpents) the Brahmanical sages, the Yakṣas, the Rākṣasas, the Gandharvas and the celestial damsels formerly, how and by what means (he milked them). Even as we ask, tell us about their different special vessels, the milker, the milk, as well as the different calves used hy them. Tell us in due order the special types of milk (yielded by her). For what reason was the hand of Vena churned formerly by the infuriated great sages of yore? Mention that reason unto us.

Sūta Narrated: I shall recount to you, O Brāhmaṇas, the birth of Pṛthu, the son of Vena. Listen to it with concentration and purity of mind, O excellent Brāhmaṇas.

Sūta Narrated: This Brahman (i.e. the story as sacred as the Vedas) should not be communicated to one who is not pure, to one who is a sinner, to one who is not a disciple, to one who is antagonistic and under no circumstances to one who does not observe holy rites.

Sūta Narrated: The origin of Pṛthu the son of Vena is conducive to the acquisition of wealth, fame, longevity and merit. It is on a par with the Vedas. It is an esoteric secret mentioned by the sages. If any person who is free from jealousy listens to this story or recounts this to others after making obeisance to the Brāhmaṇas, he will never have an occasion to repent over h is omissions and commissions of acts.

Sūta Narrated: The origin of Pṛthu the son of Vena is conducive to the acquisition of wealth, fame, longevity and merit. It is on a par with the Vedas. It is an esoteric secret mentioned by the sages. If any person who is free from jealousy listens to this story or recounts this to others after making obeisance to the Brāhmaṇas, he will never have an occasion to repent over h is omissions and commissions of acts.

Sūta Narrated: There was a king named Aṅga. The lord was on. a par with Atri and was born of the family of Atri. He was a Prajāpatī and a zealous protector of Dharma.

Sūta Narrated: Vena was his son. He was not very much devoted to pious activities. This lord of the subjects was born of Sunīthā the daughter of Mṛtyu.

Sūta Narrated: That Vena was the son of the daughter of Kāla (god of death). Hence, on account of a (hereditory) default of his maternal grandfather, he turned his back on Dharma (Virtue) and carried on his activities in the world as he pleased.

Sūta Narrated: That king brought to a standstill (prohibited) holy rites and devout practice. Transgressing the (injunction of the) Vedas, and scriptures he became engaged in sinful activities.

Sūta Narrated: He was devoid of practice of self-study of the Vedas and the chanting of Vaṣaṭkāra. While he was ruling over the kingdom, the gods never drank the Soma juice in great Yajñas.

Sūta Narrated: “No Yajña should be performed. No monetary or other gifts should be offered”, this was the cruel solemn declaration of that Prajāpati, when his (utter) ruin was imminent.

Sūta Narrated: (He declared) “I should be worshipped and honoured in the Yajña by the gods and the twice-born ones. Yajñas should be performed (untome) and Homas should be offered on my behalf (i.e. with me as the object of worship)”.

Sūta Narrated: As he exceeded the bounds of decency (because) he had many heroic acts to his credit, all the great sages with Marīci as their leader spoke to him then.

Sūta Narrated: “O king, we are going to initiate a religious rite lasting for a hundred years. Do not commit any sinful deed. This is not the eternal Dharma.

Sūta Narrated: You are born in the family of the god of death. Undoubtedly you are a Prajāpati. Formerly, you had entered into a contract stipulating, “I shall protect the subjects.”

Sūta Narrated: As all those Brāhmaṇa sages said thus, Vena, of evil intellect, laughed and said—“Who else is an expert on account of the things understood by me? Who else is the creator of the dharma whom (whose words) should I listen to (obey)? Who is equal to me on the Earth in regard to heroism, power of penance and truthfulness? You are all slow-witted souls. Certainly, you do not know me factually. I am the source of origin of all the worlds and particularly of all righteous acts. If I so wish I may burn the entire Earth or floud it with water. I may create or swallow (destroy) it. No doubt need be entertained in this respect”.

Sūta Narrated: As all those Brāhmaṇa sages said thus, Vena, of evil intellect, laughed and said—“Who else is an expert on account of the things understood by me? Who else is the creator of the dharma whom (whose words) should I listen to (obey)? Who is equal to me on the Earth in regard to heroism, power of penance and truthfulness? You are all slow-witted souls. Certainly, you do not know me factually. I am the source of origin of all the worlds and particularly of all righteous acts. If I so wish I may burn the entire Earth or floud it with water. I may create or swallow (destroy) it. No doubt need be entertained in this respect”.

Sūta Narrated: As all those Brāhmaṇa sages said thus, Vena, of evil intellect, laughed and said—“Who else is an expert on account of the things understood by me? Who else is the creator of the dharma whom (whose words) should I listen to (obey)? Who is equal to me on the Earth in regard to heroism, power of penance and truthfulness? You are all slow-witted souls. Certainly, you do not know me factually. I am the source of origin of all the worlds and particularly of all righteous acts. If I so wish I may burn the entire Earth or floud it with water. I may create or swallow (destroy) it. No doubt need be entertained in this respect”.

Sūta Narrated: As all those Brāhmaṇa sages said thus, Vena, of evil intellect, laughed and said—“Who else is an expert on account of the things understood by me? Who else is the creator of the dharma whom (whose words) should I listen to (obey)? Who is equal to me on the Earth in regard to heroism, power of penance and truthfulness? You are all slow-witted souls. Certainly, you do not know me factually. I am the source of origin of all the worlds and particularly of all righteous acts. If I so wish I may burn the entire Earth or floud it with water. I may create or swallow (destroy) it. No doubt need be entertained in this respect”.

Sūta Narrated: Vena was thus defiled excessively on account of h is ignoble behaviour. When he could not be dissuaded from h is arrogance, the great sages became infuriated.

Sūta Narrated: Even as he was struggling, the extremely infuriated great sages seized him by means of both the arms. They twisted and churned the left hand of that very powerful king.

Sūta Narrated: It is reported that at the outset an extremely short person was born of that hand that had been crushed and churned. He was dark in colour too.

Sūta Narrated: He was extremely frightened. With all his sense-organs in utter confusion, he stood there with joined palms. On seeing him distressed and bewildered they said—“Niṣīda” (sit down).

Sūta Narrated: He became a person endowed with endless exploits and established the community of Niṣādas (tribal people, hunters). Moreover he created the Dhīvaras (fishermen) originating from the sins of Vena.

Sūta Narrated: Other tribal people who have their abodes on the Vinḍhya, viz. the Tamburas, the Tuburas, the Khaśas and others with special interest in sinful activities—Understand them as persons born of the sins of Vena.

Sūta Narrated: Again the infuriated great sages whose anger had been aroused, churned the right hand of Vena as though it was the Araṇi (the piece of wood used to kindle the sacred fire by means of attrition).

Sūta Narrated: Pṛthu was born of that hand that resembled a lotus. He was called Pṛthu because he was born of the big (Pṛthu) palm of hand.

Sūta Narrated: He shone with his body (as if) blazing like fire. He wielded the primordial bow of loud report named Ajagava. For the sake of security and protection, he held arrows and the coat of mail of great lustre. When he was born all the living beings everywhere became extremely delighted. They approached the great King. Vena went to heaven (like a) saintly king on account: of the birth of a noble-souled good son.

Sūta Narrated: He shone with his body (as if) blazing like fire. He wielded the primordial bow of loud report named Ajagava. For the sake of security and protection, he held arrows and the coat of mail of great lustre. When he was born all the living beings everywhere became extremely delighted. They approached the great King. Vena went to heaven (like a) saintly king on account: of the birth of a noble-souled good son.

Sūta Narrated: He shone with his body (as if) blazing like fire. He wielded the primordial bow of loud report named Ajagava. For the sake of security and protection, he held arrows and the coat of mail of great lustre. When he was born all the living beings everywhere became extremely delighted. They approached the great King. Vena went to heaven (like a) saintly king on account: of the birth of a noble-souled good son.

Sūta Narrated: That tiger among men was saved from the hell named put by his noble son. Rivers and the seas took gems and jewels as well as water for the sacred sprinkling (at the time) of coronation and all of them approached him. Lord Grandfather (god Brahmā) came along with Aṅgiras and the immortal ones (gods).

Sūta Narrated: That tiger among men was saved from the hell named put by his noble son. Rivers and the seas took gems and jewels as well as water for the sacred sprinkling (at the time) of coronation and all of them approached him. Lord Grandfather (god Brahmā) came along with Aṅgiras and the immortal ones (gods).

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Sūta Narrated: Thenceforth, he was named Rājā (king) on account of his Anurāga (Affection, love). When he wished to march against the ocean, the waters became stunned and paralysed. Even the mountains crumbled down. But (none of his) flagstaffs got broken. The Earth bore rich harvest without being ploughed. The cows yielded plenty of milk as desired by everyone (or yielded everything desired). There was honey in every cluster of flowers.

Sūta Narrated: Thenceforth, he was named Rājā (king) on account of his Anurāga (Affection, love). When he wished to march against the ocean, the waters became stunned and paralysed. Even the mountains crumbled down. But (none of his) flagstaffs got broken. The Earth bore rich harvest without being ploughed. The cows yielded plenty of milk as desired by everyone (or yielded everything desired). There was honey in every cluster of flowers.

Sūta Narrated: Thenceforth, he was named Rājā (king) on account of his Anurāga (Affection, love). When he wished to march against the ocean, the waters became stunned and paralysed. Even the mountains crumbled down. But (none of his) flagstaffs got broken. The Earth bore rich harvest without being ploughed. The cows yielded plenty of milk as desired by everyone (or yielded everything desired). There was honey in every cluster of flowers.

Sūta Narrated: Thenceforth, he was named Rājā (king) on account of his Anurāga (Affection, love). When he wished to march against the ocean, the waters became stunned and paralysed. Even the mountains crumbled down. But (none of his) flagstaffs got broken. The Earth bore rich harvest without being ploughed. The cows yielded plenty of milk as desired by everyone (or yielded everything desired). There was honey in every cluster of flowers.

Sūta Narrated: He was born while the Sāmagas (those who sing the Sāman hymns very well) were singing and when Śubhāṇḍa (?) pertaining to the Viśve-Devas had arrived. Hence he is called Māgadha.

Sūta Narrated: The Havis offerings of Bṛhaspati got mingled with those of Indra. He invoked Indra by means of the Daiva (divine) Mantra. It was then that Sūta was born. Thereby a default occurred there and therefore an expiation too in the holy rites (became due). For the Havis offering of the preceptor got mixed and therefore over-powered by the Havya of the disciple.

Sūta Narrated: The Havis offerings of Bṛhaspati got mingled with those of Indra. He invoked Indra by means of the Daiva (divine) Mantra. It was then that Sūta was born. Thereby a default occurred there and therefore an expiation too in the holy rites (became due). For the Havis offering of the preceptor got mixed and therefore over-powered by the Havya of the disciple.

Sūta Narrated: On account of the (mingling) activity of the lower and the upper, the progeny became one mixed in caste as in the case of one born of the womb of a Brāhmaṇa lady from a source of origin belonging to a lower caste viz. from a Kṣatriya. The Sūta has similarity with the previous earlier one and hence it is mentioned that he has the same duties as the previous one (i.e. the Brahman). It is the middle dharma of Sūta, the duties of Kṣatriyas. (He has these duties also) viz. looking after and maintaining chariots, elephants and horses. Practice of medicine is the lowliest duty. It was for the sake of eulogising Pṛthu that both of them were called there by the great sages.

Sūta Narrated: On account of the (mingling) activity of the lower and the upper, the progeny became one mixed in caste as in the case of one born of the womb of a Brāhmaṇa lady from a source of origin belonging to a lower caste viz. from a Kṣatriya. The Sūta has similarity with the previous earlier one and hence it is mentioned that he has the same duties as the previous one (i.e. the Brahman). It is the middle dharma of Sūta, the duties of Kṣatriyas. (He has these duties also) viz. looking after and maintaining chariots, elephants and horses. Practice of medicine is the lowliest duty. It was for the sake of eulogising Pṛthu that both of them were called there by the great sages.

Sūta Narrated: On account of the (mingling) activity of the lower and the upper, the progeny became one mixed in caste as in the case of one born of the womb of a Brāhmaṇa lady from a source of origin belonging to a lower caste viz. from a Kṣatriya. The Sūta has similarity with the previous earlier one and hence it is mentioned that he has the same duties as the previous one (i.e. the Brahman). It is the middle dharma of Sūta, the duties of Kṣatriyas. (He has these duties also) viz. looking after and maintaining chariots, elephants and horses. Practice of medicine is the lowliest duty. It was for the sake of eulogising Pṛthu that both of them were called there by the great sages.

Sūta Narrated: All the sages told those two—“Let this king be eulogised. This is a job befitting you and this ruler of men is a deserving person”.

Sūta Narrated: The Sūta and Māgadha thereafter said to all those sages,—“We shall please the Devas and the sages by means of our activities. But we do not know anything about the performance, characteristic features and reputation of this king. Wherefore can we eulogise him? Then the brilliant Brāhmaṇas spoke:

Sūta Narrated: The Sūta and Māgadha thereafter said to all those sages,—“We shall please the Devas and the sages by means of our activities. But we do not know anything about the performance, characteristic features and reputation of this king. Wherefore can we eulogise him? Then the brilliant Brāhmaṇas spoke:

Sūta Narrated: “This (king) is always devotedly engaged in his duty. He is truthful in speech. He has perfect control over his sense-organs. He is habituated to the wise pursuit of knowledge. He is liberal-minded and charitably disposed. He is never defeated in battles.

Sūta Narrated: Those two (i.e. Sūta and Māgadha) were engaged by the sages (with the following instructions) viz. “Let him be eulogised for his future activities”.

Sūta Narrated: Those two (i.e. Sūta and Māgadha) were engaged by the sages (with the following instructions) viz. “Let him be eulogised for his future activities”.

Sūta Narrated: Those two (i.e. Sūta and Māgadha) were engaged by the sages (with the following instructions) viz. “Let him be eulogised for his future activities”.

Sūta Narrated: Those two (i.e. Sūta and Māgadha) were engaged by the sages (with the following instructions) viz. “Let him be eulogised for his future activities”.

Sūta Narrated: “This ruler of men, the son of Vena, shall offer you means of sustenance”. Thereupon, the subjects eagerly rushed to the highly fortunate son of Vena.

Sūta Narrated: “Give us the means of sustenance as per promise by the great sages”. On being approached (and requested) thus by the subjects, the mighty ruler with a desire for the welfare of the subjects, seized his bow and arrows and rushed at the Earth. Thereupon, afraid of the son of Vena, the Earth assumed the form of a cow and began to flee.

Sūta Narrated: “Give us the means of sustenance as per promise by the great sages”. On being approached (and requested) thus by the subjects, the mighty ruler with a desire for the welfare of the subjects, seized his bow and arrows and rushed at the Earth. Thereupon, afraid of the son of Vena, the Earth assumed the form of a cow and began to flee.

Sūta Narrated: Taking the bow with him, Pṛthu pursued her (i.e. the Earth in the form of a cow) as she ran. Afraid of the son of Vena, she went to Brahmā’s world and other worlds as well (but eventually) saw the son of Vena in front of her with the bow in his raised hand. He was shining brilliantly on account of the refulgent sharp arrows. He never failed in his aim (in hitting the target). He was noble-souled with great yogic power. He could not be assailed even by the immortal ones. Unable to get succour from elsewhere, she resorted to the son of Vena himself.

Sūta Narrated: Taking the bow with him, Pṛthu pursued her (i.e. the Earth in the form of a cow) as she ran. Afraid of the son of Vena, she went to Brahmā’s world and other worlds as well (but eventually) saw the son of Vena in front of her with the bow in his raised hand. He was shining brilliantly on account of the refulgent sharp arrows. He never failed in his aim (in hitting the target). He was noble-souled with great yogic power. He could not be assailed even by the immortal ones. Unable to get succour from elsewhere, she resorted to the son of Vena himself.

Sūta Narrated: Taking the bow with him, Pṛthu pursued her (i.e. the Earth in the form of a cow) as she ran. Afraid of the son of Vena, she went to Brahmā’s world and other worlds as well (but eventually) saw the son of Vena in front of her with the bow in his raised hand. He was shining brilliantly on account of the refulgent sharp arrows. He never failed in his aim (in hitting the target). He was noble-souled with great yogic power. He could not be assailed even by the immortal ones. Unable to get succour from elsewhere, she resorted to the son of Vena himself.

Sūta Narrated: She who was worthy of always being honoured by the three worlds, joined her palms in reverence and said to the son of Vena:—“You are not able to see any sin in killing a woman. How can you sustain the subjects who had been nurtured and brought up by me? O king, all the worlds are stationed in me. This universe is being supported by ṃe.

Sūta Narrated: She who was worthy of always being honoured by the three worlds, joined her palms in reverence and said to the son of Vena:—“You are not able to see any sin in killing a woman. How can you sustain the subjects who had been nurtured and brought up by me? O king, all the worlds are stationed in me. This universe is being supported by ṃe.

Sūta Narrated: The subjects who have been nurtured by me should not perish for my sake, O king. It does not behove you to kill me. You wish to do something conducive to the welfare of the subjects. O protector of the Earth, listen to these words of mine. All enterprises begun methodically with proper means become fruitful.

Sūta Narrated: The subjects who have been nurtured by me should not perish for my sake, O king. It does not behove you to kill me. You wish to do something conducive to the welfare of the subjects. O protector of the Earth, listen to these words of mine. All enterprises begun methodically with proper means become fruitful.

Sūta Narrated: Even after killing me, O king, you cannot protect the subjects (If you kill me, you will become incompetent to protect the subjects). I shall be present within. O lustrous one, get rid of your anger.

Sūta Narrated: O protector of the Earth, they say that females, even from among the lower categories of animals, should not be killed. It does not behove you to abandon righteous behaviour, in the case of living beings”.

Sūta Narrated: On hearing these diverse statements of the Earth the magnanimous noble-souled king controlled his anger and spoke to the Earth thus:—

Sūta Narrated: “If anyone were to kill one or more for the sake of one whet her it be himself or another, then his action is sinful.

Sūta Narrated: But O gentle, splendid lady, in case many flourish happily when a single person is killed, there is neither major nor minor sin in the act of his killing.

Sūta Narrated: Therefore, O Vasundharā (Earth), I will kill you for the sake of subjects, if you do not carry out my request that is conducive to the welfare of the world.

Sūta Narrated: If you turn your face against my behest, I will till you presently with a single arrow. Establishing my prestige thus, I shall myself sustain the subjects.

Sūta Narrated: In compliance of my instructions, O the most excellent one among the up-holders of Dharma (piety), enliven and nourish the subjects perpetually. Indeed, you are capable of it. There is no doubt about it.

Sūta Narrated: Adopt also the status of my daughter. In that case I shall withdraw this terrific-looking arrow which I have raised up for slaying you”.

Sūta Narrated: Thereupon the Earth who had been told thus, replied to the son of Vena:—

Sūta Narrated: Find out that calf unto me whereby I shall pour out milk out of affection. O the most excellent one among the upholders of Dharma, make me flat and level everywhere so that the milk that flows out shall spread everywhere equally”.

Sūta said-.: Thereupon, he removed the heaps or collections of rocks everywhere. The son of Vena removed with the tip of his bow all the mountains that had risen up. In the Manvantaras that had gone by, the Earth had been uneven. (Now) all her uneven parts became even naturally. In the previous creation when the surface of the Earth was uneven, there had been no distinction between cities and villages. There were no plants or crops. There was neither agriculture nor breeding of cattle. There was no market place or trade route. Such had been the condition formerely in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara. All these had been possible (or created) (only) in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.

Sūta said-.: Thereupon, he removed the heaps or collections of rocks everywhere. The son of Vena removed with the tip of his bow all the mountains that had risen up. In the Manvantaras that had gone by, the Earth had been uneven. (Now) all her uneven parts became even naturally. In the previous creation when the surface of the Earth was uneven, there had been no distinction between cities and villages. There were no plants or crops. There was neither agriculture nor breeding of cattle. There was no market place or trade route. Such had been the condition formerely in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara. All these had been possible (or created) (only) in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.

Sūta said-.: Thereupon, he removed the heaps or collections of rocks everywhere. The son of Vena removed with the tip of his bow all the mountains that had risen up. In the Manvantaras that had gone by, the Earth had been uneven. (Now) all her uneven parts became even naturally. In the previous creation when the surface of the Earth was uneven, there had been no distinction between cities and villages. There were no plants or crops. There was neither agriculture nor breeding of cattle. There was no market place or trade route. Such had been the condition formerely in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara. All these had been possible (or created) (only) in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.

Sūta said-.: Thereupon, he removed the heaps or collections of rocks everywhere. The son of Vena removed with the tip of his bow all the mountains that had risen up. In the Manvantaras that had gone by, the Earth had been uneven. (Now) all her uneven parts became even naturally. In the previous creation when the surface of the Earth was uneven, there had been no distinction between cities and villages. There were no plants or crops. There was neither agriculture nor breeding of cattle. There was no market place or trade route. Such had been the condition formerely in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara. All these had been possible (or created) (only) in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.

Sūta said-.: Thereupon, he removed the heaps or collections of rocks everywhere. The son of Vena removed with the tip of his bow all the mountains that had risen up. In the Manvantaras that had gone by, the Earth had been uneven. (Now) all her uneven parts became even naturally. In the previous creation when the surface of the Earth was uneven, there had been no distinction between cities and villages. There were no plants or crops. There was neither agriculture nor breeding of cattle. There was no market place or trade route. Such had been the condition formerely in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara. All these had been possible (or created) (only) in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.

Sūta said-.: Thereupon, he removed the heaps or collections of rocks everywhere. The son of Vena removed with the tip of his bow all the mountains that had risen up. In the Manvantaras that had gone by, the Earth had been uneven. (Now) all her uneven parts became even naturally. In the previous creation when the surface of the Earth was uneven, there had been no distinction between cities and villages. There were no plants or crops. There was neither agriculture nor breeding of cattle. There was no market place or trade route. Such had been the condition formerely in the Cākṣuṣa Manvantara. All these had been possible (or created) (only) in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.

Sūta said-.: We have heard that at that time their sustenance was maintained with great difficulty. Everything was made available in this world even since the days of the soil of Vena.

Sūta said-.: After adopting Cākṣuṣa Manu as the calf, lord Pṛthu milked plants and vegetables from the Earth on its own surface.

Sūta said-.: Those virtuous subjects began to sustain themselves, by means of that food ever since then. It is heard that the Earth was once again milked by the sages.

Sūta said-.: Soma (The Moon) was the calf in their case. Bṛhaspati (Jupiter) was the milkman. Gāyatrī and other (Vedic) Metres carried out the function of the Utensil (milk-pot). Penance and the eternal Brahman (Vedas) was their milk (the yield).

Sūta said-.: Soma (The Moon) was the calf in their case. Bṛhaspati (Jupiter) was the milkman. Gāyatrī and other (Vedic) Metres carried out the function of the Utensil (milk-pot). Penance and the eternal Brahman (Vedas) was their milk (the yield).

Sūta said-.: Soma (The Moon) was the calf in their case. Bṛhaspati (Jupiter) was the milkman. Gāyatrī and other (Vedic) Metres carried out the function of the Utensil (milk-pot). Penance and the eternal Brahman (Vedas) was their milk (the yield).

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