The Skanda-Purana Part XXI, Book VII: Prabhasakhanda, Section II: Vastrapathaksetra-Mahatmya

The purest gems lie hidden in the bottom of the ocean or in the depth of rocks. One has to dive deep into the ocean or delve into the rocks to find them out. Similarly, truth lies concealed in the language which keeps on changing with the passage of time. Man has to lean that language before the discovers that truth. But he has neither the means nor the leisure to embark on that course. This series of Ancient Indian Tradition and Mythology is a voluminous translation work by eminent scholars, and will help the readers to acquire that eternal knowledge of truth. This present volume deals with the Prabhasa Khanda of Skanda Purana. The reader will come across a number of interesting legends in this section which comprises the stories on the greatness of Damodara, the greatness of Bhava, principal holy places in Vastrapatha, the greatness of Dunnavillahrdgiri, the greatness of Gangesvara, seven previous births of the deer-faced lady and King Bhoja, the greatness of Svarnarekha, propitiation of Rudra by Brahma, the rise of Bhava, Sarasvata's advice to King Bhoja, pilgrimage to Vastrapatha, the importance of Sraddha Dana, the birth of Somesvara, the great efficacy of Sivaratri, the efficacy of Bali's sacrifice, subjugation of Bali, and dialogue between Sarasvata and Bhoja.