King Dasharatha, filled with joy and pride, addressed his assembled counselors and citizens. He spoke of his son Rama, who surpassed him in every virtue and was renowned for conquering enemy cities. Dasharatha declared that Rama’s strength was equal to Indra’s, the king of the gods. He announced his intention: “Rama, who shines like the moon when joined with the constellation Puṣya, foremost in righteousness and the best among men, shall be appointed crown prince tomorrow morning.” Dasharatha praised Rama, the elder brother of Lakshmana, adorned with fortune, as the rightful lord for his people—a ruler under whose protection even the three worlds would thrive. With this noble act, Dasharatha hoped to unite the earth with prosperity and, entrusting its care to his son, become free from the burdens of rule. He sought the approval of all present, inviting their counsel: “If this plan pleases you, let it be approved; or tell me what else I should do. Even though this is my desire, let us consider any other beneficial course, for impartial deliberation brings clarity.” As Dasharatha spoke, the kings responded with delight, their voices rising like peacocks calling to a rain-laden cloud. A gentle, joyful sound echoed among the gathered multitude, as if shaking the earth itself. The Brahmins, army chiefs, citizens, and country folk, understanding the king’s intent and his knowledge of righteousness and wealth, gathered with unified minds to deliberate. After careful consideration, they addressed the aged king Dasharatha. “O king,” they said, “you have lived many thousands of years and are advanced in age. Therefore, anoint Rama as crown prince, O ruler of the earth. We long to see the mighty-armed, heroic, and powerful Rama riding a great elephant, his face shaded by the royal parasol.” Hearing these words, which pleased their hearts, Dasharatha, as if unaware and wishing to know more, asked: “You desire Raghava as your lord, but I must ask—why, while I still rule the earth righteously, do you wish to see Rama as crown prince?” The people, together with the citizens and country folk, replied: “O king, your son possesses many auspicious qualities. We shall recount the virtues—dear, delightful, and complete—of your son, who is virtuous, godlike, and wise. Please listen.” They spoke of Rama, equal to Indra in divine qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, surpassing all the Ikṣvākus. Rama was a noble man, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma itself and prosperity seemed to have arisen directly from him. In bringing happiness to his subjects, he was like the moon; in patience, like the earth; in wisdom, equal to Bṛhaspati; and in strength, like the lord of Śacī. Rama knew Dharma, was true to his word, virtuous, free from malice, patient, gentle in speech, grateful, and master of his senses. He was gentle, steadfast in mind, always worthy, and without envy. Rāghava spoke kindly to all beings and only spoke the truth. He served learned elders and Brahmins, and thus his unmatched fame, honor, and brilliance grew ever greater. Skilled in all weapons among gods, demons, and humans, properly initiated in knowledge and vows, Rama was thoroughly versed in the Vedas and 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 had been trained by distinguished Brahmins, experts in Dharma and Artha. Whenever he went to battle for the sake of a village or city, accompanied by Saumitri, he never returned without victory, whether on an elephant or in a chariot. Rama always inquired about the welfare of the citizens as if they were his own kin, regarding their sons, fires, wives, servants, and students. He asked 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 addressed his people, and in their misfortunes, he was deeply afflicted. In all celebrations, Rama rejoiced like a father; he spoke the truth, was a mighty archer, served elders, and had mastered his senses. He spoke with a smile, was wholly devoted to Dharma, spoke rightly and for the good, and had no taste for contentious speech. In answering and questioning, he spoke like Bṛhaspati; with beautiful brows and wide coppery eyes, he was like Viṣṇu himself. Rama, beloved by the world, excelled in courage, strength, and valor; devoted to protecting the people, his senses were never overcome by passion. He was capable even of enjoying the three worlds—what then of this earth? His anger and favor were never without purpose. He punished those who deserved it but never grew angry with the innocent; he gave wealth with joy and was pleased where there was righteousness. Rama shone with virtues—self-controlled, beloved by all people, and a source of joy—like the radiant sun with its rays. The earth herself desired Rama, endowed with such qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, and a protector like the guardians of the world. “O king,” they concluded, “you are blessed with a son who excels in virtue. By fortune, this Rāghava is yours, endowed with the qualities of a son, like Marīca to Kaśyapa. The strength, health, and life of Rama, who knows himself, are renowned among gods, asuras, humans, gandharvas, and serpents.” Thus, the people praised Rama’s virtues and urged Dasharatha to fulfill their wish, confident that under Rama’s rule, the earth would flourish and all would be protected.