Rama, renowned throughout the three worlds for his immense forbearance—steadfast as the very earth—was revered by all. In wisdom, he rivaled Brihaspati, the preceptor of the gods, and in strength, he was the equal of the mighty lord of Shachi himself. With such virtues, beloved by all and especially pleasing to his father, Rama shone forth brilliantly, radiant as the sun surrounded by its rays. His conduct was noble and his prowess unconquerable, befitting a sovereign of the world; even the earth herself longed for Rama to be her protector. Witnessing his son endowed with so many rare and incomparable qualities, King Dasharatha, the vanquisher of foes, was filled with deep contemplation. In his old age, after a long and illustrious reign, the king wondered, “How might Rama become king while I am still alive?” A supreme affection for Rama filled his heart, and he mused constantly, “When shall I behold my beloved son anointed as king?” For Rama, with his compassion for all beings and his desire for the world’s welfare, was dearer to the people than Dasharatha himself, as the rain-bringing cloud is to the earth. In strength, Rama was like Yama and Indra; in wisdom, like Brihaspati; in steadfastness, like the king of mountains; and in virtue, he surpassed even his own father. “If only I could see my son ruling this entire earth in my lifetime,” Dasharatha thought, “it would be as if I had attained heaven.” With these and countless other rare and immeasurable virtues—difficult to find even among other princes and surpassing all in the world—Rama stood unparalleled. Seeing him thus, the king, after consulting with his ministers, began to consider the installation of Rama as crown prince. But as Dasharatha resolved upon this, he perceived ominous signs—dreadful portents appeared in the sky, in the atmosphere, and upon the earth. He also noticed the unmistakable signs of old age within his own body. Yet, he understood well that great-souled Rama, whose face shone like the full moon and who dispelled all his sorrows, was deeply loved by all people. For the welfare of himself and his subjects, and recognizing that the time was right, the righteous king, filled with devotion and affection, acted swiftly. He summoned the chiefs from all the cities and diverse regions of his realm. Adorned and resplendent, Dasharatha received them with fitting honors and gifts, just as the lord of creatures welcomes his subjects. In his haste, however, he did not summon the rulers of Kekaya or Janaka, knowing they would hear the joyous news soon enough. When the king, the conqueror of enemy cities, had taken his seat, the other renowned kings entered the assembly. After the various seats had been distributed by the king, all the assembled rulers, observing proper decorum, sat facing him. Surrounded by honored and disciplined kings, citizens, and country folk, all respectfully seated, Dasharatha shone like the thousand-eyed Indra among the immortals. Now begins the second sarga. Listen. Having convened the entire assembly, the lord of the earth spoke words both well-known and beneficial, uplifting to all present. Addressing the gathered rulers in a voice full of feeling, marked by royal dignity and charm, Dasharatha began: “You all know how this excellent kingdom of mine has been protected by my royal ancestors, as one would guard a beloved son. I, too, wish to dedicate this well-governed world—safeguarded by all the kings of the Ikshvaku line—to the pursuit of the highest good and happiness. Following the path set by my forebears, I have always guarded my people with unwavering vigilance, never allowing myself rest. “But as I have labored for the welfare of the world, I have grown old beneath the shade of the white royal umbrella. Having lived for many thousands of years, my body is now worn out, and I desire rest. The burden of righteousness, though fitting for kings, is heavy and difficult to bear, especially for those who have not mastered their senses. Therefore, after consulting these eminent Brahmins gathered here, I wish to install my son for the welfare of the people, so that I may finally take my rest. “For my son Rama, who surpasses me in every virtue and is the conqueror of enemy cities, has been born. In strength, he is equal to Indra. Joined with the constellation Pushya, like the moon, he is foremost among upholders of righteousness and the best among men. Tomorrow morning, I shall appoint him as crown prince. “He, the elder brother of Lakshmana, adorned with fortune, is a fitting lord for you all; under his rule, even the three worlds would be better protected. By this excellent act, I will unite this earth with prosperity, and, entrusting it to my son, I shall be freed from toil. “If this plan of mine, well considered and fitting, pleases you, let it be approved by all. Or, if you see another beneficial course, tell me how else I should act. Even if this is my desire, let us consider other good counsel, for impartial deliberation brings greater clarity.” As Dasharatha spoke thus, the delighted kings responded with joy, like peacocks calling to a great rain-cloud full of rain. A gentle, approving sound arose, filled with happiness, echoing among the multitude and as if shaking the very earth. Understanding the king’s intent, the Brahmins, the chiefs of the army, and the citizens and country folk, having gathered with unified minds, considered his words. Then, having reflected in their hearts, they spoke to the aged King Dasharatha.