Kaikeyī, firm in her resolve, pressed King Daśaratha: “Install my son on the throne, send Rāma to the forest, and make me free from rivals—then your duty will be fulfilled.” Her words struck the king again and again, like a noble horse prodded by a sharp goad. Bound by the ties of righteousness, Daśaratha’s mind was lost in turmoil. He longed to see his beloved eldest son, Rāma, who was ever devoted to dharma. As the auspicious night faded and the sun rose, with the stars in favorable conjunction, the proper moment for Rāma’s consecration arrived. Vasiṣṭha, the venerable sage, surrounded by his disciples, quickly gathered all the necessary items and entered the great city. The streets had been sprinkled and swept clean, adorned with splendid banners, bustling with joyful attendants, and thriving with shops and markets. The city was alive with festival preparations, its people eager for Rāghava’s sake. The air was perfumed everywhere with sandalwood, aloe, and incense. Passing through this city, which rivaled Indra’s own, the illustrious Vasiṣṭha beheld the inner palace, dazzling with many kinds of banners. The palace was crowded with townspeople and countryfolk, graced by Brahmins holding staffs, filled with fine horses, and highly honored. Reaching the palace, Vasiṣṭha, greatly pleased and accompanied by eminent sages, passed through the assembled people. There, he saw Sumantra, the renowned charioteer, emerging at the door of the lion among men—a minister pleasing to behold. The mighty Vasiṣṭha addressed him: “Quickly inform the king that I have arrived here. Here are pitchers of Ganges water, golden vessels from the seas, and a sacred wooden seat of udumbara brought for the consecration. All kinds of seeds, fragrant substances, various jewels, honey, curds, ghee, parched grains, darbha grass, flowers, and milk are here. There are also eight lovely maidens, a noble intoxicated elephant, a splendid chariot with four horses, a sword, and an excellent bow. A vehicle attended by men, a parasol resembling the moon, white fly-whisks, and a golden vessel for sprinkling. A bull with a hump, pale in color, adorned with golden chains; a lion with four fangs; the foremost among monkeys, possessing great strength. A throne, a tiger skin, sacrificial firewood, and the fire for offerings; all kinds of musical instruments, and women adorned with ornaments. Teachers, Brahmins, sacred cows, auspicious beasts and birds; leading citizens of town and country, and merchants with their groups. These and many others, delighted and speaking kindly, are assembled with the kings for Rāma’s consecration. Hasten to the great king, so that, when the auspicious day arrives and the constellation Puṣya is in conjunction, Rāma may obtain the kingdom.” Hearing Vasiṣṭha’s words, Sumantra, mighty in strength and praising the tiger among kings, entered the palace. The royal attendants at the door, unable to restrain the aged man, wished only to please the king. Standing near Daśaratha and perceiving his condition, Sumantra began to praise him with words of utmost satisfaction. With joined palms, Sumantra addressed the lord of the earth: “Just as the radiant ocean rejoices at the rising of the sun, so, with a joyful heart, may you bring us happiness. At this hour, Mātali praised Indra, who conquered all the demons; likewise, I awaken you. Just as the Vedas with their branches and sciences awaken the self-born lord, Brahma, so I awaken you today. Just as the sun together with the moon awakens the beautiful earth today, so I awaken you. Rise, O great king, with festivities and auspicious rites performed, shining in form like the sun upon Mount Meru. May Soma and Sūrya, O descendant of Kakutstha, Śiva and Kubera, Varuṇa, Agni, and Indra grant you victory. The blessed night has passed, your task is accomplished; awaken, tiger among kings, and attend to the next duty. All preparations for Rāma’s consecration have been completed; the townspeople, country folk, and merchants stand with joined palms. The venerable Vasiṣṭha himself is waiting together with the brāhmaṇas; quickly command, O King, the consecration of Rāghava. Just as cattle without a herdsman, an army without a leader, a night without the moon, or cows without a bull—so indeed will a kingdom become, where the king is not seen.” Hearing these gentle yet meaningful words, the king was again overwhelmed by grief. Regarding his son, Daśaratha spoke to Sumantra, his joy gone. His eyes reddened with sorrow, resplendent and righteous, he looked up and said: “Indeed, with your words you cut my heart again.” Seeing the king’s deep sorrow and hearing his lament, Sumantra, hands joined, withdrew a little from that place. When the king, out of distress, was unable to speak himself, Kaikeyī, skilled in counsel, addressed Sumantra.