When King Daśaratha asked the assembled citizens and elders why, while he still ruled the earth justly, they wished to see his mighty son Rāma installed as crown prince, those noble souls—together with the people of the city and countryside—replied with reverence. “O King,” they said, “your son possesses countless auspicious qualities.” They continued, “Permit us to recount the virtues—dear and delightful—of your son, who is righteous, godlike, and wise. Listen, O Lord, as we speak of him. Rāma is equal to Indra in his divine qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, and he surpasses all the Ikṣvākus before him, O lord of the people. He is noble in the world, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma itself, along with prosperity, seems to arise from Rāma. “In bringing happiness to his subjects, Rāma is like the moon; in patience, like the earth; in wisdom, he is the equal of 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 utters only the truth. “He serves the learned elders and Brahmins, and thus his unmatched fame, honor, and brilliance grow ever greater. He is skilled in all weapons—among gods, demons, and humans alike; he is properly initiated in knowledge and vows, thoroughly versed in the Vedas and their branches. The elder brother of Bharata is foremost in the Gandharva arts on earth; of noble lineage, virtuous, undisturbed 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, especially when accompanied by Saumitri. After returning from battle, whether on elephant or 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, like a father about his own sons: ‘Do your students serve you? Are you well protected by armor?’ Thus, Rāma, the tiger among men, always addresses you; and he is deeply afflicted by the misfortunes of the people. In all celebrations, he rejoices like a father; he speaks truthfully, 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. Rāma, 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 only those who deserve it, never the innocent; he gives wealth with joy and delights in righteousness. Rāma shines with virtues—self-controlled, beloved by all, and a source of joy—like the radiant sun with its rays. “The earth herself desires Rāma, 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 all the qualities of a son, like Marīca to Kaśyapa. The strength, health, and life of Rāma, who knows himself, are renowned among gods, asuras, humans, gandharvas, and serpents. All the people, both within the city and outside, in the kingdom and the capital, place their hope in him. “Women, elders, and young maidens, focused in mind, worship the gods morning and evening for Rāma’s sake. May their prayers, O King, be fulfilled by your grace. May we see Rāma, dark as a blue lotus and destroyer of all enemies, established as crown prince, your excellent son. O bestower of boons, you should quickly anoint your son, who is like the lord of gods, devoted to the welfare of all people, and endowed with noble virtues, for our happiness.” At this, the narration of the glorious Vālmīki Rāmāyaṇa, Ayodhyā Kāṇḍa, enters its third sarga. The king, having received all their lotus-like joined palms, spoke to them words both pleasing and beneficial. “Ah,” he exclaimed, “I am supremely delighted and my power is unmatched, since you wish my eldest beloved son to be installed as crown prince.” He continued, “This auspicious month of Caitra has come, holy and with blossoming groves; let everything be prepared for Rāma’s installation as crown prince.” When the king finished speaking, a great clamor of joy arose among the people; and when that noise gradually subsided, the king turned to Vasiṣṭha, the foremost sage, and said, “Whatever is required for Rāma’s consecration, with all its arrangements—today, O venerable one, you should command everything.” Hearing the king’s words, Vasiṣṭha, best of sages, ordered those standing before the king with joined hands to bring gold and other jewels, tributes, and all medicinal herbs. He instructed them to gather white garlands, parched grains, honey and clarified butter separately, unworn garments, a chariot, and all kinds of weapons as well. “Let the fourfold army be prepared,” he said, “along with an elephant of auspicious marks, both fly-whisks, the white umbrella, and the banner.” Thus, the preparations for Rāma’s installation as crown prince began, with joy and devotion filling the hearts of all.