Rama, radiant with virtues cherished by all and beloved by his father, shone in Ayodhya like the sun itself, spreading warmth and light to everyone around him. His conduct and prowess were unmatched, making him unconquerable—a true lord of the world. Even the earth longed for Rama as her protector. Witnessing these countless and incomparable qualities in his son, King Dasharatha, the mighty subduer of foes, found himself deep in thought. Now advanced in age and having lived a long, full life, the king pondered, “How might I see Rama crowned as king while I am still alive?” A supreme and constant affection for Rama filled Dasharatha’s heart, and he yearned for the day when he could witness his beloved son anointed as the ruler of the land. For Rama’s heart overflowed with compassion for all beings and a desire for the world’s welfare. He was dearer to the people than Dasharatha himself—like a rain-bearing cloud, bringing relief and joy. In strength, Rama rivaled Yama and Indra; in wisdom, he was the equal of Brihaspati; in steadfastness, he stood firm as the mountain king; and in virtue, he surpassed even his own father. Dasharatha thought, “If I could see my son ruling this entire earth in my lifetime, it would be as if I had attained heaven itself.” Rama possessed rare and immeasurable virtues, difficult to find even in other princes, and he surpassed all others in the world. Seeing Rama endowed with such qualities, Dasharatha, after consulting his trusted ministers, began to consider installing him as the crown prince. Yet, as he prepared for this great decision, the wise king noticed ominous and fearful signs appearing in the sky, the atmosphere, and on earth. He also became aware of the signs of old age in his own body. At the same time, he recognized that Rama, whose face was as radiant as the full moon and who dispelled all his sorrows, was deeply loved by the people everywhere. For the welfare of himself, his subjects, and at the most auspicious time, the righteous king, full of devotion and affection, acted swiftly. He summoned the chiefs from many cities and regions throughout the land. When they arrived, Dasharatha, splendid and adorned, welcomed them with appropriate honors and gifts, just as the lord of all beings receives his subjects. In his haste, however, the king did not summon the ruler of Kekaya or King Janaka, for he thought they would hear the joyous news later. Once Dasharatha, the conqueror of enemy cities, had taken his seat, the remaining renowned kings entered the assembly. After the king had assigned the various seats, all the assembled rulers, observing proper decorum, sat facing him. Surrounded by honored and disciplined kings, as well as citizens and country folk, all properly seated, Dasharatha shone resplendently among them, like Indra, the thousand-eyed lord, among the immortals. Now begins the second chapter. Listen. Having gathered the entire assembly before him, Dasharatha, lord of the earth, addressed them with words that were well-known, beneficial, and uplifting. His voice, full of feeling and marked by regal qualities, charm, and unmatched dignity, filled the hall as he spoke to the assembled rulers: “You all know how this excellent kingdom of mine was guarded by my ancestors, each caring for it as one would protect a beloved son. In the same spirit, I too have wished to dedicate this world, which has been well-governed by all the kings of the Ikshvaku lineage, to the highest good and happiness. Following the path set by my forefathers, I have always protected my people to the best of my ability, ever vigilant and sleepless. But while pursuing the welfare of the world, I have grown old under the shade of the white royal umbrella. Having lived for many thousands of years, and now that my body is worn and weary, I desire rest. The heavy burden of righteousness, though proper for kings, is difficult to sustain for those who have not mastered their senses, and I have grown tired. Therefore, after consulting with all these eminent Brahmins gathered here, I wish to rest, having installed my son for the welfare of the people. For my son, who is superior to me in every virtue, has been born—Rama, the conqueror of enemy cities, equal to Indra in strength. Joined with the constellation Pushya, like the moon, foremost among upholders of righteousness and best among men, I shall appoint him as crown prince tomorrow morning. 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 well protected. By this excellent act, I shall unite this earth with prosperity, and, having entrusted it to my son, I shall be free from toil. If this plan of mine, well considered and fitting, pleases you, let it be approved by all; or tell me how else I should act. Even though this is my wish, let some other beneficial course be considered, for impartial discussion brings greater clarity.” As Dasharatha spoke, the delighted kings responded with joy, their voices rising like peacocks calling to a great rain-cloud heavy with rain. A gentle, approving sound filled with happiness echoed among the multitude, as if the very earth itself trembled with joy. Understanding the king’s intent, the Brahmins, chiefs of the army, citizens, and country folk, all gathered with unified minds to deliberate. After due consideration, they spoke to the aged King Dasharatha: “O king, you are advanced in years, having passed many thousands of years. Therefore, anoint Rama as crown prince, O ruler of the earth!