The mighty sage Vasiṣṭha, a revered figure, addressed Sumantra, the skilled son of a charioteer. “Go quickly,” he said, “and inform the king that I have arrived.” Vasiṣṭha then pointed out the sacred items prepared for the royal ceremony: pitchers filled with Ganges water, golden vessels from distant seas, and a consecrated wooden seat made of udumbara, all brought for the auspicious consecration. He continued, describing the abundance gathered for the ritual: all kinds of seeds, fragrant substances, precious jewels, honey, curds, ghee, parched grains, darbha grass, flowers, and milk. There were eight lovely maidens, a noble elephant intoxicated from ritual, a splendid chariot drawn by four horses, a sword, and an excellent bow. A vehicle attended by men stood ready, along with a parasol shining like the moon, white fly-whisks, and a golden vessel for sprinkling. A hump-backed bull, pale in color and adorned with golden chains, had been brought, as well as a lion with four fangs, the foremost among monkeys, both possessing great strength. There was a throne, a tiger skin, sacrificial firewood, and the fire for offerings. All kinds of musical instruments were assembled, and women adorned with ornaments added to the festivity. Teachers, Brahmins, sacred cows, auspicious beasts and birds, leading citizens from town and country, and merchants with their groups—all had gathered. These and many others, delighted and speaking kindly, assembled with the kings for Rama’s consecration. Vasiṣṭha urged Sumantra, “Hasten to the great king, so that, when the auspicious day arrives and the constellation Puṣya is in conjunction, Rama may obtain the kingdom.” Hearing these words, Sumantra, the mighty son of the charioteer, praised the tiger among kings and entered the palace. The royal attendants stationed at the door could not restrain the aged man, wishing only to please the king. Standing near the king and perceiving his condition, Sumantra began to praise him with words of utmost satisfaction. With joined palms, Sumantra praised the lord of the earth in the palace, saying, “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, 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 Rama’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. Thinking of his son, he 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 so dejected, Sumantra, with hands joined, withdrew a little from that place. When the king, out of distress, was unable to speak, Kaikeyī, skilled in counsel, addressed Sumantra. “Sumantra, the king, longing for Rama’s consecration, spent the night sleepless and exhausted, and has now succumbed to sleep. Therefore, go quickly, charioteer, and bring the illustrious prince Rama; may good befall you—there is no need for deliberation here.” Sumantra replied, “How can I go, noble lady, without hearing the king’s command?” Hearing this, the king spoke to Sumantra, “Sumantra, I will see Rama; quickly bring the handsome one.” Thinking that good fortune was at hand, he rejoiced in his heart. Then, at the king’s command, Sumantra departed swiftly and joyfully, urged on by Kaikeyī, and began to reflect quickly. “Surely, the righteous king will summon Rama here for the consecration,” he thought, filled with great joy. The mighty Sumantra went out, eager to see Rāghava. Leaving the splendid inner quarters, which were like the ocean or a great lake, he saw the crowded gateway ahead. Emerging from the front, he looked at those stationed at the king’s gate and saw various wealthy citizens gathered and standing at the entrance. Now, listen to the next chapter. Having passed that night, the brāhmaṇas accomplished in the Vedas, together with the royal priest, assembled at the court. The ministers, chiefs of the army, and the foremost of the citizens all gathered joyfully for Rāghava’s consecration.