Sati saw the beautiful aerial cars of various patterns passing through the sky, while heavenly nymphs sang songs so melodiously their sound would disturb the meditation of ascetics.

When she questioned Shiva (about the stir in the air), he explained the whole thing. When she heard of the sacrifice her father had decreed, she was somewhat gladdened and thought, ‘If Mahadeva will allow me, I will make it an excuse for going to stay a few days with my father.’

But because she was still sore grieving that her husband had abandoned her, and conscious of her sin, she would not utter a word. At last in persuasive tones, overflowing with awe and modesty and affection, Sati said.

There is great rejoicing at my father’s house; if my lord be graciously pleased to allow me, I will duteously go and see it.’

‘Your suggestion is good’, said Shiva, ‘and it would please me as well, but what is improper is that you father has not invited you. Daksha has invited all his daughters, but because of his quarrel with me he has left you out.

Once he took offence at my behaviour in Brahma’s court, and that is why he slights me to this day. If, Bhavani, you go there uninvited, there will be loss of all self-respect, affection and honour.

One may certainly go uninvited to the house of a friend, a master, a father, or a guru; but no good can result from going where someone nurses a grudge against you.’