As the pure rays of the sun rose on the auspicious day of Puṣya, with the ascendant in Cancer—the very time of Rāma’s birth—the preparations for Rāma’s consecration were in full bloom. The foremost brahmins, wise and learned, had made ready golden vessels filled with water and set out a splendidly adorned, auspicious seat for the ceremony. A chariot, its seat properly covered with a shining tiger skin, stood ready, while water was brought from the sacred confluence of the Gaṅgā and Yamunā. Water was also collected from other holy rivers, serene lakes, wells, and ponds—those flowing eastward, upward, across the land, and those with waters as white as milk. Even the mighty oceans had offered their waters, joined by honey, curds, clarified butter, parched grains, sacred darbha grass, fragrant flowers, and fresh milk. Eight beautiful maidens stood present, their grace enhancing the occasion, alongside a noble, spirited elephant. Water jars, covered with milk, fashioned from gold and silver, were filled and set in place. These jars, brimming with pure water and adorned with lotuses and water-lilies, shone with the white radiance of the moon’s disk and gleamed with jewels. For Rāma, the finest yak-tail fan was prepared, as well as a white parasol that glowed like the orb of the moon. The splendid, radiant paraphernalia for the consecration were all assembled: a white bull and white horses stood ready, symbols of prosperity and strength. All manner of musical instruments and the bards had gathered, as befitted the consecration of a prince of the Ikṣvāku dynasty. Thus, with all that was prescribed for the prince’s consecration brought together at the king’s command, everyone assembled. Yet, not seeing the king among them, they wondered aloud, “Who will inform the king for us? The sun has already risen, but we do not see him.” At that moment, Sumantra, the king’s honored charioteer, addressed them: “By the king’s order, I have quickly gone to fetch Rāma. You are all worthy of honor from the king, and especially from Rāma. On the king’s behalf, I inquire about your well-being, O blessed ones. The king has awakened, but the reason for his absence…” With these words, the learned Sumantra made his way to the entrance of the inner palace. Deeply familiar with the palace, Sumantra entered the house of the lord of men and praised the glories of his lineage. Reaching the king’s sleeping chamber, he stood respectfully, waiting outside the inner curtain. There, he offered blessings to Rāghava, full of virtue, and invoked Soma and Sūrya, as well as Śiva and Vaiśravaṇa, praying for their favor upon the descendant of Kakutstha. “May Varuṇa, Agni, and Indra grant you victory; the blessed night has passed, and an auspicious day has dawned. Awaken, O tiger among kings, and attend to your immediate duties. The foremost brahmins, leaders of the army, and townspeople have all assembled and wish to see you. Arise, O Rāghava,” Sumantra urged, skillfully offering his counsel. Awakening, King Daśaratha spoke: “Bring Rāma here, as I instructed you. Why is my command being delayed? I am not deeply asleep—bring Rāghava to me at once.” Thus, the king pressed Sumantra again, and the charioteer, bowing his head in reverence, received the command. Sumantra departed from the royal residence, his heart light and joyful, believing he bore glad tidings. He entered the royal road, resplendent with banners and flags fluttering in the morning breeze. As he went, he heard the happy conversations of the people, all abuzz with anticipation for Rāma’s consecration. The city was alive with joy. Sumantra soon beheld the splendid house of Rāma, radiant like Mount Kailāsa, its grand doors closed and adorned with many balconies. The residence gleamed with golden images, jeweled and coral-arched gateways, shining like autumn clouds and glowing like a cave of Mount Meru. It was magnificently decorated with garlands of precious gems, strewn with pearls and jewels, and perfumed with the scents of sandalwood and agaru. The air was fragrant, like a mountain peak in the rainy season, and alive with the calls of cranes and peacocks. The grounds were adorned with beautifully crafted deer, captivating the minds and eyes of all who beheld them. The house glowed with the radiance of the sun and moon, rivaling the mansions of Kubera and Indra, and teemed with many birds. Sumantra gazed upon this lofty house, as tall as the peak of Mount Meru, crowded with people who had gathered, their palms joined in reverence. Villagers and city folk alike assembled, their faces shining with hope for Rāma’s consecration. The mansion stood majestic as a great cloud, filled with gems and surrounded even by dwarfs. Riding his horse-drawn chariot, Sumantra brought a bustle of activity to the palace, delighting the hearts of all the city’s people as he approached the king’s residence with his splendid escort. Upon reaching the magnificent, wealthy house, Sumantra was overcome with joy, his hair standing on end. The house, alive with deer and peacocks, shone like the abode of Indra’s queen. Passing through chambers adorned like Mount Kailāsa and resembling the dwellings of the gods, Sumantra moved past many dear and devoted attendants of Rāma, finally reaching the pure inner quarters. There, he heard the joyful voices of those gathered for Rāma’s consecration, their auspicious wishes for the king’s son filling the air with delight for the whole world.