This chapter describes how Krishna killed Arishtasura and how Kamsa reacted when he learned from Narada that Krishna and Balarama were the sons of Vasudeva.

The demon Arishta wanted to kill Krishna and Balarama, and thus he assumed the form of a huge bull with sharp horns. Everyone in Krishna's cowherd village became terrified when Arishtasura approached it, but the Lord pacified them, and when the bull demon charged Him He seized him by the horns and threw him about six yards. Though weakened, Arishta still wanted to attack Krishna. Thus, dripping with sweat, he charged the Lord once again. This time Krishna grabbed his horns, threw him to the ground and thrashed him like a pile of wet clothing. The demon vomited blood and gave up his life. Then Krishna and Rama, while being honored by the demigods and cowherd boys, returned to the village.

A short time later Narada Muni, the great sage among the demigods, came to see King Kamsa. He informed the King that Krishna and Balarama were not Nanda's sons but rather Vasudeva's. It was out of fear of Kamsa that Vasudeva had put the two boys under Nanda's care. Furthermore, said Narada, Kamsa would meet his death at Their hands.

Kamsa shook with fear and anger when he heard all this, and in great agitation he began thinking of how to destroy Krishna and Balarama. He called for the demons Canura and Mushtika and instructed them to kill the two brothers in a wrestling match. Then he spoke to Akrura, who was expert at executing his duties. Taking Akrura by the hand, Kamsa persuaded him to go to Vraja to bring the two boys to Mathura. Akrura agreed to carry out Kamsa's order and then returned home.