King Dasharatha, surrounded by eminent Brahmins and his assembled court, spoke with deep purpose: “Therefore, after consulting these wise Brahmins who are gathered here, I wish to rest from the burdens of rule, having installed my son for the welfare of the people. For my son, Rama—superior to me in every virtue—has been born; a conqueror of enemy cities, equal in strength to Indra himself. Tomorrow morning, when the constellation Puṣya is ascendant and the moon is joined with it, I shall appoint Rama, the foremost upholder of righteousness and the best among men, as crown prince. He, the elder brother of Lakshmana, adorned with fortune, is a fitting lord for you all; under his lordship, even the three worlds would enjoy greater protection. By this excellent act, I shall unite the earth with prosperity, and, entrusting it to my son, become free from toil. If my well-considered and fitting plan pleases you, let it be approved by all; or tell me if there is another course that should be taken. Even though this is my desire, let us consider any other beneficial course, for impartial deliberation in the midst of discussion brings forth greater clarity.” As Dasharatha spoke thus, the kings gathered responded with joyful enthusiasm, their voices rising like peacocks calling to a rain-laden cloud. A gentle, approving sound arose, filled with joy and echoing among the multitude, as if shaking the very earth. Understanding the king’s intent—who was wise in righteousness and wealth—the Brahmins, chiefs of the army, citizens, and country folk gathered with unified minds to deliberate. After considering in their hearts, 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. We wish to see the mighty-armed, heroic, and powerful Rama, riding a great elephant, his face shaded by the royal parasol.” Hearing these words, which were pleasing to their hearts, Dasharatha, as if unaware and wishing to know more, spoke again: “Hearing your statement, that you desire Raghava as your lord, I have this doubt—speak truthfully. Why is it, while I still rule the earth righteously, that you wish to see the mighty prince as crown prince?” Those great souls, together with the citizens and country folk, replied: “O king, your son possesses many auspicious qualities. We shall now recount all the virtues—dear, delightful, and complete—of your son, who is virtuous, godlike, and wise; listen to them. Rama, equal to Indra in divine qualities and steadfast in truth and valor, surpasses all the Ikṣvākus, O lord of the people. He is a noble man, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma itself, along with prosperity, has arisen directly from Rama. In bringing happiness to his subjects, he is like the moon; in patience, like the earth; in wisdom, equal to Bṛhaspati; and in strength, like the lord of Śacī. 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 in mind, always worthy, without envy; Raghava speaks kindly to all beings and speaks only the truth. He serves learned elders and Brahmins; thus, his unmatched fame, honor, and brilliance grow ever greater. He is skilled in all weapons among gods, demons, and humans; properly initiated in knowledge and vows, and thoroughly versed in the Vedas with their branches. The elder brother of Bharata became foremost in Gandharva arts on earth; of noble lineage, virtuous, undistressed in spirit, and of great intellect. He has been trained by distinguished Brahmins, experts in Dharma and Artha; whenever he goes to battle for the sake of a village or city, he goes with Saumitri and never returns without victory, whether on an elephant or in a chariot. He always inquires about the welfare of the citizens as if they were his own kin, regarding their sons, fires, wives, servants, and students. He asks in detail and in order, 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, is 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. He is capable even of enjoying the three worlds—what then of this earth? His anger and favor are never without purpose. Indeed, he puts to death those who must be punished, yet does not grow angry with the innocent; he gives wealth with joy, and is pleased where there is righteousness. Rama shines with virtues—self-controlled, beloved by all people, and a source of joy—like the radiant sun with its rays. The earth herself desires Rama, endowed with such qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, and a protector like the guardians of the world. Child, you are blessed with a son who excels in virtue; by fortune, this Raghava is yours, endowed with the qualities of a son, like Marīca to Kaśyapa.” Thus, the assembled people and elders spoke, their hearts full of reverence and admiration for Rama, affirming Dasharatha’s noble intention and the virtues of his beloved son.