Early Devotees

The first devotees who came to the young sage at Virupaksha Cave were drawn by his silent presence and the profound peace they experienced in his company.

As time passed at Virupaksha Cave, people began to come up the hill in small numbers. Some had heard that a young ascetic was staying there. Others came out of curiosity. They would sit nearby, often for long periods, without speaking.

Among those who came regularly was :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. He began to take an interest in practical matters. He brought food, arranged for simple needs, and remained close by. Over time, he stayed there continuously.

Others also came and went. Some sat quietly in the cave. Some stood at a distance. A few asked questions. He usually remained silent. When he did reply, his answers were brief and to the point.

There was no fixed routine. No one was asked to stay, and no one was asked to leave. Those who came did so on their own and left when they wished.

Thus, days passed at Virupaksha Cave, with a few people gathering from time to time, sitting quietly, and dispersing again, while he remained seated in the cave.