In the sacred realm of storytelling, where the nectar of divine speech flows from the lotus-like mouth of the revered, there arises a gathering of great souls. These wise sages, who dwell in the tranquil forests of Naimiṣāraṇya, Arbudā, Daṇḍaka, and the enchanting Jambū, have come together at the auspicious site of Kurukṣetra, a great field of sacrifice, to engage in profound discussions. Having first bowed in reverence to Nārāyaṇa, the Supreme Being, and to Nara, the best among men, these enlightened beings, each accomplished in the Vedas and their branches, are united in their quest for knowledge. With the esteemed Bhāradvāja, master of the sacred texts, seated at the forefront, they find their place in this gathering, each one having taken refuge in various hallowed spots. As their discussions unfold, the atmosphere is charged with the purity of their minds and the depth of their wisdom. Among them sits Harṣaṇa, a disciple of the venerable Vyāsa, who is known for his mastery of the Purāṇas. This best of sages, Sūta by name, is called upon to share the eternal secrets of the universe. The sages, eager to hear, inquire about the illustrious city of Ayodhyā, which is ever dear to Lord Viṣṇu. They seek to understand its true nature, its rulers, and the fruits that one may reap from serving this sacred city. "O Sūta," they implore, "what merit is gained through bathing and giving gifts in Ayodhyā? You possess the knowledge of all these intricacies, and we long to hear them from your lips." With reverence, the sages bow before the vast intellect of Vyāsa, whose brilliance illuminates the path of wisdom. "Om," they chant, honoring Vyāsa, the knower of the Veda and Vedāṅga, whose tranquil presence inspires all. As the sages, along with their attentive disciples, gather around, the sacred narrative unfolds. What was once spoken to Agastya and later heard from Skanda by Nārada now flows through Sūta, who has received this wisdom from Kṛṣṇa Dvaipāyana himself. With humility, Sūta bows to the Supreme Self and to Rāma, the lotus-eyed one, and begins to describe Ayodhyā—a city that is supreme and pure, nearly unattainable for those with ill intentions. Nestled along the banks of the sacred Sarayū River, it radiates divine beauty and prosperity. The city thrives, resplendent with elephants, horses, chariots, and infantry, a testament to its flourishing state. Ayodhyā is meticulously arranged, divided into four sections, each adorned with shimmering ponds that reflect the beauty of blooming lotuses. The air is filled with the melodious sounds of vīṇā, flute, and mṛdaṅga, creating an ambiance of excellence. The landscape is graced with trees of various kinds—śāla, tāla, coconut, jackfruit, and āmalaka—intertwined with the fragrant blooms of mālatī, jāti, bakula, pāṭalī, nāga, and campaka. Joined by princes whose radiance rivals that of the gods, and accompanied by esteemed poets and learned brahmins, equal to the great sage Bṛhaspati, the city of Ayodhyā stands as a beacon of virtue and prosperity. In the warmth of this gathering, the sages absorb the profound truths of Ayodhyā, their hearts filled with reverence for its eternal glory.