King Dasharatha, his heart filled with joy and resolve, addressed the assembled elders and nobles of his court. He announced, “Tomorrow morning, under the auspicious constellation of Puṣya—just as the moon is joined to the stars—I shall appoint Rama, foremost among the righteous and best among men, as crown prince. He, the elder brother of Lakshmana and adorned with every virtue, is truly a fitting lord for you all. Under his rule, even the three worlds would be better protected.” The king continued, “By this excellent act, I shall unite this earth with prosperity, and, having entrusted the kingdom to my son, become free from the burdens of rule. If this plan of mine, well considered and appropriate, pleases you, let it be approved by all. Or, if you think otherwise, tell me how I should act. Even though this is my desire, let us consider if some other beneficial course exists—for impartial deliberation amidst counsel brings greater clarity.” As Dasharatha spoke thus, the assembled kings and elders, delighted, responded with joy, their voices rising like peacocks calling to a rain-filled cloud. At that moment, a gentle and approving sound swelled from the multitude, filled with happiness and echoing so greatly that it seemed to shake the very earth. Perceiving the king’s intent, the Brahmins, the chiefs of the army, and all the citizens and country folk, gathered with one mind to deliberate. Having considered in their hearts, they spoke to the venerable King Dasharatha: “O king, you are advanced in years, having passed many thousands of seasons. Therefore, O ruler of the earth, anoint Rama as crown prince. 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, so pleasing to their hearts, Dasharatha—though inwardly delighted—spoke as if seeking to know more: “Hearing your desire for Raghava as your lord, I have this doubt: Why is it that, while I still rule the earth righteously, you wish to see Rama, the mighty prince, as crown prince?” Then those great souls, together with the citizens and country folk, replied, “O king, your son possesses many auspicious qualities. We shall recount all the virtues—dear, delightful, and complete—of your son, who is virtuous, godlike, and wise; please listen. “Rama, equal to Indra in divine qualities and steadfast in truth and valor, surpasses all the Ikṣvākus, O lord of the people. He is renowned as a noble man, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma itself, along with prosperity, seems to have arisen directly from him. 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; Rāghava 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 has become 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 never returns without victory, always accompanied by Saumitri. Whether returning on an elephant or in a chariot, he brings triumph. “He always inquires about the welfare of the citizens as if they were his own kin, caring for 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. He punishes 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. O king, you are blessed with a son who excels in virtue; by great fortune, this Rāghava is yours, endowed with the qualities of a son, just as Marīca was to Kaśyapa. The strength, health, and life of Rama, who knows himself, are renowned among gods, asuras, humans, gandharvas, and serpents. All the people, both within the city and beyond, in the kingdom and the capital, place their hopes in him.” Thus, with hearts united, the people and elders spoke of Rama’s virtues, affirming their wish for him to be anointed crown prince, and their words filled the king with profound joy and reassurance.