As the preparations for the great event unfolded in Ayodhyā, the king’s instructions were carried out with utmost care. Those entrusted with food and gifts were stationed in the second courtyard of the royal residence, as well as at temples and shrines throughout the city. Others, adorned with garlands, were placed separately; while warriors—those bearing long swords and leather belts, fully armed and splendidly attired—stood ready, creating a scene of order and majesty. Valiant men were then admitted into the grand royal hall. The two Brahmins overseeing these arrangements completed every task as directed, ensuring that every detail was attended to. Having fulfilled all their duties, they approached the king, the lord of the world, and reported, “It is done.” King Daśaratha, radiant and pleased by their faithful service, was filled with joy. Turning to Sumantra, his trusted charioteer, he said, “Bring Rāma here quickly—he who is self-controlled and virtuous.” Sumantra, ever obedient, departed at the king’s command and soon returned, bringing Rāma in a chariot befitting the best among charioteers. As Sumantra and Rāma arrived, the prince beheld his father, King Daśaratha, surrounded by kings from every direction—east, north, west, and south—as well as foreign dignitaries, Aryans, and others from distant forests and mountains. All waited upon Daśaratha as the gods attend upon Indra, and among them, the king shone like Indra among the Maruts. Standing on the palace terrace, Daśaratha saw his son approaching, renowned throughout the world for valor, resembling a king of the Gandharvas. Rāma, long-armed and mighty, moved with the grace of a proud elephant; his face shone like the luminous moonstone, and his appearance was exceedingly pleasing to behold. With his beauty, nobility, and virtues, he captivated the eyes and hearts of all, delighting the people as rain delights the earth parched by heat. Even as Rāma drew near, the king could not have his fill of gazing at him. Sumantra respectfully helped Rāghava descend from the excellent chariot. With hands joined in reverence, Sumantra followed behind as Rāma made his way toward his father. The joy of the Raghu line approached the palace, shining like the peak of Mount Kailāsa. Rāghava swiftly entered to see the king. Approaching with joined hands, he bowed low before his father, announcing his name and touching the king’s feet in deep respect. Seeing his beloved son thus bowed, the king drew Rāma close, grasping his joined hands with affection. He offered Rāma a splendid seat, adorned with gems and gold, and directed him to sit upon it. Seated upon that beautiful, highest seat, Rāghava shone forth, his own radiance pure as the sun rising on Mount Meru, illuminating the entire assembly. The gathering glowed, like the autumn sky shining pure with planets and stars around the moon. Seeing his beloved son, the king felt utterly satisfied, as though adorned anew, like a reflection in a spotless mirror. Then, the best of fathers spoke to his well-seated son, his words gentle and full of meaning. “Rāma, you are born of my chief queen, worthy in every way, and a worthy son. You are my beloved, supreme in virtues, and by your own qualities you have won the hearts of all the people. Therefore, under the auspicious star Puṣya, you shall receive the office of heir-apparent; for by nature and by choice, you have been found virtuous. Yet, though you are virtuous, out of affection I will speak for your good, my son: ever maintain humility and always keep your senses under control. Abandon the faults arising from desire and anger; conduct yourself both in private and in public with proper behavior. Win over all, from ministers onward, and the people as well; amass great stores in treasuries and armories. He who rules the earth with devoted and loving subjects, his friends rejoice as the gods rejoice on obtaining nectar. Therefore, my son, restrain yourself and act accordingly.” Hearing these words, Rāma’s friends, devoted to him and eager to please, hurried to Kausalyā. She, foremost among noble women, distributed gold, cows, and various kinds of jewels to those dear to her. Then, after saluting the king, Rāghava mounted his chariot and returned to his splendid home, honored by crowds of joyful people. The citizens, having heard the king’s words, rejoiced as if they had gained a great prize. After taking leave of the king, they returned home, filled with joy, and worshipped the gods in gratitude. Now begins the fourth chapter. When the people had departed, the king again conferred with his ministers. After careful deliberation, the resolute king made his decision. “Tomorrow is the auspicious Puṣya day; tomorrow my son, Rāma, whose eyes are like lotus petals, will be consecrated as crown prince,” he declared. Entering his inner chambers, King Daśaratha summoned the charioteer and instructed, “Bring Rāma here again.” The doorkeepers announced to Rāma that he was being summoned once more. Upon hearing this, Rāma felt a sense of apprehension. Admitted quickly, Rāma spoke, “Tell me in full the reason for your coming.” The charioteer replied, “The king wishes to see you; after hearing this, you may go or not, as you see fit.” Hearing these words, Rāma, filled with urgency, went again to the royal palace to see his father.