Mahadev’s older son Kartike is heavy-hearted because he has killed the fondest devotee of his father and cannot be at peace till he has done penance. Lord Vasudev tells Kartike that the only way to conquer his karma is to create Shivling and lay the foundation of a new shrine with his own hands.
Ganesha decides to accompany Kartike on his mission and promises his mother that he will only return to Kailash with his brother. The duo walk miles tired and hungry before they find the ideal rock that can be sculpted into a Shivling but their struggle is far from over because Mahadev tests all his devotees and makes no concession for his son. He encounters Kartike in the disguise of an old man, longing to possess a Shivling but incapable of making one himself. Kartike feels sorry for him and hands over his Shivling to the stranger.
Ganesha is supportive of his brother’s decision and keeps up his spirit as they go hunting for another rock. They are challenged by the emperor of a mountain who will not allow Kartike to touch the stone until he proves himself a warrior. Kartike explains that violence is not his goal so the emperor has another option for Kartike. He must answer all his questions and if he fails he will be cursed to transform into a rock. Kartike agrees.
Mahadev in the avtaar of emperor asks: Who is your best companion in journey of life? Kartike: Patience. If I’m patient I’m able to endure everything. Mahadev: What is that color that cannot be robbed but can be lost? Kartike: Knowledge, nobody can rob my wisdom but if I’m not careful then arrogance can cloud it. Mahadev: What is that you sacrifice and feel peaceful? Kartike: Pride, dropping it makes me lighter. Mahadev: What is in your possession that you lose and rejoice? Kartike: Anger is a destructive emotion and we are better without it. Mahadev: What defines you as a superior existence – genes or genius? Kartike: Compassion because without empathy all is futile. Mahadev: Final question, of all the virtues which is the most superior? Kartike: For me it is my bonding with my family.
The emperor is impressed and Kartike is allowed to borrow a rock from the mountain.