Nārada had an all knowing smile on his face. He let out a loud twang on his Vīṇā each time Devahūti posed a question about Kardama. She had been smitten ever since his last visit when he had regaled her with tales of Kardama’s vast knowledge, exceptional good looks, love for penance and austerity. Her two brothers were busy with their own affairs and had left their younger sister alone. She, instead of wallowing in self pity, would take every opportunity to befriend all the guests of her father, especially Nāradamuni, who apart from being a good gossip was also genuinely interested in her welfare and future. Unlike her big brothers. And so he would bring her news of the various eligible bachelors around the universe. Unfortunately for her, most of them were taken but when she heard about this learned brāhmaṇa her interest was piqued. She could not hear enough of him. Did not Nala and Damayantī fall in love with one another in this manner? By listening to each other’s praise from afar. Did not Dushyanta and Shakuntalā fall in love at first sight? She was convinced that too would find her husband in this manner. Well, Nārada did not disappoint. He described Kardama exactly as...