King Dasharatha, ruler of the Ikṣvāku line, gathered his ministers, Brahmins, and assembled people and addressed them with a heart full of purpose. “I, too,” he declared, “wish to dedicate this entire world—so well-governed by the kings of our lineage—to the highest good and happiness. Following the noble path set by my forefathers, I have always sought to protect my people with tireless vigilance, never allowing myself rest or sleep while their welfare was at stake. “Yet, as I have worked for the welfare of all, the years have passed beneath the white royal umbrella, and I have grown old in service. Having lived for many thousands of years, my body is now worn and weary. The burden of righteousness, though proper for a king, is heavy indeed—especially for one whose senses are not fully mastered. I feel the weight of this duty and long for rest. “Therefore, after consulting these eminent Brahmins gathered here, I wish to install my son as the protector of the people, so that I may find repose. For my son Rama, who surpasses me in every virtue, has been born; he is the conqueror of enemy cities, and equal to Indra in strength. Joined with the auspicious constellation Puṣya, like the moon itself, Rama stands foremost among upholders of righteousness and shines as the best among men. Tomorrow morning, I shall appoint him as crown prince. “Rama, the elder brother of Lakshmana, adorned with fortune and virtue, is the most fitting lord for you all. Under his rule, even the three worlds would be protected and flourish. By this noble act, I shall unite the earth with prosperity and, entrusting it to my son, become free from toil. “If this plan, carefully considered and proper, pleases you, then let it be approved by all present. But if there is another beneficial course, let us consider it together, for impartial discussion brings greater clarity.” As Dasharatha spoke, joy spread through the assembly. The kings responded with delight, their voices rising like peacocks calling to a rain-laden cloud. A gentle, approving sound filled the air, echoing among the multitude, so great that it seemed to shake the very earth. Understanding the king’s intent, the Brahmins, chiefs of the army, citizens, and country folk—united in heart and mind—deliberated and addressed the aged monarch: “O king, you are advanced in years, having passed many thousands of years. Therefore, anoint Rama as crown prince, O ruler of the earth. We long to see mighty, heroic, and powerful Rama, riding a great elephant, his face shaded by the royal parasol.” Hearing these words, which pleased his heart, Dasharatha, as if wishing to know more, spoke again: “You have expressed your desire for Raghava as your lord, but I have a doubt. Why, while I still rule the earth righteously, do you wish to see the mighty prince as crown prince?” The great souls, together with the citizens and country folk, replied, “O king, your son possesses many auspicious qualities. Allow us to recount the virtues—dear and delightful—of your son, who is virtuous, godlike, and wise. “Rama, equal to Indra in divine qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, surpasses all the Ikṣvākus, O lord. He is noble, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma and prosperity themselves seem to arise from Rama. In bringing happiness to his subjects, he is like the moon; in patience, like the earth; in wisdom, like Bṛhaspati; in strength, like Indra. “He knows Dharma, is true to his word, virtuous, free from malice, patient, gentle in speech, grateful, and master of his senses. He is gentle, steadfast, worthy, and without envy. Raghava speaks kindly to all and only speaks the truth. He serves learned elders and Brahmins, and thus his unmatched fame, honor, and brilliance ever increase. “Skilled in all weapons among gods, demons, and humans, he is properly initiated in knowledge and vows, and thoroughly versed in the Vedas and their branches. Rama, the elder brother of Bharata, is foremost in the Gandharva arts, of noble lineage, virtuous, steadfast in spirit, and of great intellect. Trained by distinguished Brahmins in Dharma and Artha, whenever he goes to battle for the sake of a village or city, and accompanied by Saumitri, he never returns without victory, whether mounted on elephant or chariot. “He always inquires about the welfare of the citizens as if they were his own kin, asking about their sons, fires, wives, servants, and students. He asks in detail, like a father about his own sons: ‘Do your students serve you? Are you well protected by armor?’ Thus, Rama, the tiger among men, always addresses you; and in the misfortunes of people, he is deeply afflicted. “In all celebrations, he rejoices like a father; he speaks truth, is a mighty archer, serves elders, and has mastered his senses. He speaks with a smile, wholly devoted to Dharma, speaks rightly and for the good, and has no taste for contentious speech. In answering and questioning, he speaks like Bṛhaspati; with beautiful brows and wide coppery eyes, he is like Viṣṇu himself. “Rama, beloved by the world, excels in courage, strength, and valor; devoted to protecting the people, his senses are never overcome by passion.” Thus, the assembly praised Rama’s countless virtues and affirmed their desire to see him as their crown prince, delighting the heart of King Dasharatha and uniting all in joyous anticipation.