Once before, O Galava, tormented by hunger and pondering what to do, I found here two huge creatures locked in battle, an elephant and a tortoise. Here was born from the Sun the great sage known as Shakradhanu, whom they know as the divine Kapila, by whom the sons of Sagara were consumed. Here dwell the siddhas called the Shivas, brahmins who have gone to the end of the Vedas: having studied the Vedas together with all their appendices, they attain the abode of Yama. Here is the city named Bhogavati, guarded by Vasuki, by the naga Takshaka, and likewise by Airavata. Here, at the hour of departure, a vast darkness sets in, impenetrable even by the Sun himself or by fire." Long ago I strove with all my might, and I shall lay down my life. Until now I have never craved anything even from the gods themselves; for this the deities regard me as a sacrificial ground. I shall go and seek refuge with Vishnu, the divine Lord of the three worlds, with Krishna, the great shelter for all who are blessed with his protection. Bowing before him, I wish to behold that highest of all ascetics, the eternal Krishna, from whom flow all the dominions and enjoyments possessed by both gods and asuras.' And while Galava grieved thus, his friend Garuda, son of Vinata, appeared before his eyes. And Garuda, wishing to do him good, joyfully addressed him, saying: 'You are my dear friend.'