Within the borders of King Shangal's realm in Hind, a terrifying, bloodthirsty beast known as the Karg laid waste to the land. So massive was this monstrous creature that its looming frame blocked the very winds, and its roar deafened even the sharpest ears. Fierce lions fled the thicket at its approach, and vultures soared high in terror to avoid its dominion. Seeing his kingdom paralyzed, King Shangal turned to Bahram—who dwelt at his court incognito—and declared: 'O noble champion, if by your glorious fortune this land is freed from this devastating terror, your name shall be honored near my throne and immortalized across Hindustan forever.'
Bahram, clean of heart and fear, asked only for a guide to lead him to the beast's lair. The guide escorted Bahram to the edge of the dark, blood-stained forest, described the beast's formidable shape, and departed. When the Iranian companions who had followed Bahram beheld the beast's colossal form and snout from afar, their hearts sank. They pleaded with their leader: 'O King, do not attempt this! No man can do battle with a living mountain of stone and iron. Tell Shangal that this task is impossible, for no monarch would grant permission for such suicide.'
Yet Bahram replied with tranquil resolve: 'If Almighty God has decreed my death upon the soil of Hindustan, worrying over fate is beyond reason; none can outrun what is written.' With these words, the brave hero strung his Kiani bow and cast away all hesitation. Advancing furiously upon the beast, he loosed a torrential hail of poplar arrows like storming hail until the monster groaned in agony and faltered. Knowing the beast's time had come, Bahram drew his gleaming blade, rushed forward, and severed the Karg's colossal head. He praised the unmatched Creator who had bestowed upon him such divine strength and royal glory.
Bahram commanded oxen and heavy wagons to haul the severed head out of the forest into the city. When Shangal saw the immense head brought from afar, he adorned his halls with rich silks and called for a feast. The nobles and knights of Hind showered Bahram with praises and gifts, exclaiming: 'None in the world is capable of such a feat!' Yet amid the celebration, Shangal's heart twisted with mixed emotion—brightening with relief at the monster's end, yet darkening with profound fear at the incomprehensible power of this mysterious champion.