When the newly married Vasudeva and Devaki were ready to start for home, conchshells, bugles, drums and kettledrums all vibrated in concert for their auspicious departure. But while Kamsa, controlling the reins of the horses, was driving the chariot along the way, an unembodied voice addressed him, "You foolish rascal, the eighth child of the woman you are carrying will kill you!"

Upon hearing this omen from the sky, the envious and sinful Kamsa caught hold of his sister's hair with his left hand and took up his sword with his right hand to sever her head from her body.

Wanting to pacify Kamsa, who was so cruel that he was shamelessly ready to kill his sister, the great soul Vasudeva, who was to be the father of Krsna, spoke to him pleasant words.