Page 99 - Shri Venkateswara Book

the proceedings. After the celebration was finished,
Bakula devi asked permission of Aksharaj to return
with Srinivasa and His new bride to their home in the
Tirumala Mountain.

Padmavati and Srinivasa chose to live in the ashram
of Agastya muni near the summit of the Tirumala
Mountain. They lived happily together for a period
of time. One day Padmavati noticed that there was
sadness in the eyes of Srinivasa. She said, “I know
why You are sad. You are feeling separation from
Lakshmi. Please bring her back.” Srinivasa replied,
“Will she come back? She is continuing to perform
tapasya (austerity) because of Bhrigu muni’s stepping
on My chest.” “Of course she will come back,” replied
Padmavati. Srinivasa looked at Padmavati, “But what
about you? Will you be satisfied? Padmavati said, “It
will be the greatest honor and joy of my life to share
our home with Lakshmi. Together we will serve You
for all eternity.”

Srinivasa journeyed to Kolapur to bring Lakshmi back
but she could understand that He was coming for
her. She disappeared by descending to Patala (the
underworld kingdom below the Earth’s surface)
where she took shelter in the ashram of Kapila muni,

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