Rāma, born into a noble lineage, held the kṣatriya’s duty in the highest regard, cherishing its noble responsibilities and the heavenly rewards it promised. He valued all that was auspicious and shunned anything inauspicious, never taking pleasure in discord or harsh words. His speech was always measured, reasoned, and appropriate—he spoke as though he were a master of eloquence. In the fullness of youth and health, Rāma was eloquent and strikingly handsome, always knowing how to conduct himself according to time and place. Among men, he stood out as the best, his virtues beyond compare. Endowed with the highest qualities, he was as dear to the people as the very breath that sustains life. Having undergone all disciplines and vows, and possessing deep knowledge of the Vedas and their branches, Rāma—Bharata’s elder brother—excelled even his father in the art of archery. Of noble birth and pure character, he was never shaken by adversity, always truthful and upright, and thoroughly trained by wise elders and learned brahmins in the ways of dharma and prosperity. He understood the essence of righteousness, desire, and wealth, and his keen memory and intelligence made him skilled in worldly affairs and proper conduct. Rāma was quiet and reserved in his demeanor, secretive in counsel, and always supported by loyal companions. He never wasted anger or joy, always knowing the right time for restraint or renunciation. His devotion was unwavering, his wisdom steady. He rejected falsehood, spoke kindly, and was tireless and vigilant, ever aware of his own and others’ faults. Learned in the scriptures, Rāma was grateful and discerning, able to judge the character of men. He skillfully balanced restraint and favor, always acting with justice and wisdom. He excelled at gathering and supporting the virtuous, assigning roles, and maintaining discipline. He knew how to acquire and use wealth wisely, always attentive to proper management. In the arts of weaponry—both simple and complex—he was supreme, upholding both prosperity and righteousness. He pursued happiness, never succumbing to idleness. Rāma understood the practical arts and crafts, and he was skilled in the training and management of elephants and horses. Foremost among those who knew the science of archery, Rāma was renowned as a mighty chariot-warrior, adept in attack, combat, and the organization of armies. In battle, he was invincible—even the enraged gods or demons could not defeat him. Free from envy, he had conquered anger, and was never arrogant or jealous. No being could despise him, nor was he subject to the sway of time. Thus, the prince, son of the king, was endowed with the highest virtues. His forbearance was celebrated in all three worlds, equal to the earth in patience; in wisdom, he resembled Brihaspati, and in strength, he was like Indra himself. With such virtues, beloved by all and pleasing to his father, Rāma shone radiant, like the sun surrounded by its rays. His conduct and prowess were unconquerable, befitting a lord of the world; even the earth herself yearned for him as her protector. Seeing his son graced with such incomparable virtues, King Dasharatha, destroyer of foes, was filled with deep contemplation. In his old age, the king wondered how he might see Rāma crowned as king while he was yet alive. This supreme affection for Rāma turned constantly in his heart: “When will I see my beloved son anointed as king?” For Rāma desired the welfare of all beings and was more beloved by the people than even the king himself, like a cloud that brings life-giving rain. In strength, Rāma was the equal of Yama and Indra; in wisdom, he matched Brihaspati; in steadfastness, he was like the mighty Himalayas; and in virtue, he surpassed even his own father. The king thought, “If I could see my son ruling this entire earth at this age, it would be as though I had attained heaven.” For Rāma possessed countless rare and immeasurable virtues, difficult to find even in other princes, and far surpassing those of the world. Seeing Rāma thus endowed, the king, after consulting his ministers, resolved to install him as crown prince. But then, the wise king noticed fearful omens appearing in the sky, the atmosphere, and on earth, and also became aware of his own advancing age. He saw, too, that the great-souled Rāma—whose face shone like the full moon and who dispelled all sorrow—was beloved by people everywhere. For the welfare of himself and his people, and at the proper time, the righteous king acted swiftly with devotion and affection. He summoned the chiefs from all the cities and regions of his realm. When they arrived, he received them with honor and gifts, shining resplendent like the lord of creatures welcoming his subjects. In his haste, however, he did not summon the ruler of Kekaya or Janaka, knowing that they would hear the good news later. When the king, subduer of enemy cities, had taken his seat, the renowned rulers entered. The king distributed the seats among them, and the assembled kings, observing proper decorum, sat facing him. Surrounded by honored and disciplined kings, city-dwellers, and country folk, all seated in their places, King Dasharatha shone like Indra, the thousand-eyed Lord, among the immortals. Now begins the second sarga. Listen. Having gathered the entire assembly, the lord of the earth spoke words that were well-known, beneficial, and uplifting. Addressing the assembled rulers, his voice was filled with feeling, marked by royal dignity, charm, and matchless grace: “You all know how this excellent kingdom of mine was protected by my royal ancestors, as one would protect a beloved son.