King Daśaratha, resolute in his purpose, addressed his ministers and priests: “Let this sacrifice be completed for me, in full accord with the sacred rules. Let those skilled in each task arrange everything as prescribed.” The ministers, accepting the king’s command with reverence, responded, “So be it,” and set about fulfilling his instructions with diligence and care. The twice-born Brahmins, learned and virtuous, praised Daśaratha, recognizing him as a true knower of righteousness. With the king’s permission, they departed as they had come, honoring the sacred order. Once the Brahmins had taken their leave, the wise king dismissed his ministers and retired to his palace. Now, listen to the thirteenth chapter of the glorious Vālmīki Rāmāyaṇa, in the Bāla Kāṇḍa. When spring returned and a full year had passed, Daśaratha, mighty and steadfast, prepared to perform the great horse sacrifice, seeking the blessing of offspring. He approached the venerable sage Vasiṣṭha, greeting and honoring him with utmost respect. Humbly, Daśaratha spoke to the foremost of Brahmins: “O revered one, let the sacrifice be performed for me as the scriptures prescribe. May no obstacle arise anywhere in the ritual. You are affectionate toward me, a true friend and my greatest teacher. The burden of this sacrifice, which I now undertake, must rest with you.” Vasiṣṭha, the best of Brahmins, replied, “So be it. I will accomplish all that you have resolved.” With that, he summoned the aged Brahmins, those deeply versed in the sacrificial rites, as well as the senior masters of construction, righteous and experienced. He called forth skilled artisans—carpenters, diggers, calculators, craftsmen—as well as actors and dancers. He assembled pure and learned men, those well-versed in the scriptures, and declared, “Let the sacrifice be undertaken by you all, as commanded by the king.” He instructed them to bring thousands of bricks swiftly, making every preparation for the king with great care and excellence. Hundreds of auspicious dwellings for Brahmins were to be constructed and furnished with plentiful food and drink. Spacious accommodations were arranged for the townspeople and, separately, for kings arriving from distant lands. Stables for horses and elephants, sleeping quarters, and large residences for soldiers and foreign guests were also prepared. Vasiṣṭha directed that food be given properly and with respect, ensuring that all castes received due honor and attentive service. No disrespect, whether from desire or anger, was to be shown to anyone engaged in the sacrificial tasks, including the artisans. All were to be especially honored, receiving gifts and meals in due order, so that everyone felt respected. Every arrangement was to be made so that nothing was lacking, and all were to serve with minds full of joy and devotion. When all preparations were complete, those assembled approached Vasiṣṭha and reported, “Everything has been properly arranged as you wished; nothing is left incomplete. We will do as you have instructed and neglect nothing.” Then Vasiṣṭha summoned Sumantra and gave him these commands: “Invite the righteous kings of the earth, as well as thousands of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. Bring, with honor, people from every region, especially Janaka, the brave and truthful lord of Mithila. Bring him yourself with great respect, for he is an old ally—therefore, I mention him first. “Likewise, bring the affectionate and kindly-spoken king of Kāśi, noble in conduct and godlike in appearance. Also, bring the aged and supremely righteous king of the Kekayas, the father-in-law of the lion among kings, along with his sons. Bring Romapāda, lord of Aṅga, mighty with the bow and well-honored, the friend of the lion among kings, together with his sons. Likewise, summon the well-cultured king Bhānumant of Kosala, and the brave and learned lord of Magadha, master of all sciences. Invite the wise, most generous, and honored best among men, who knows the proper time to arrive. Take the king’s command and urge the foremost kings—those of the East, Sindhu, Sauvīra, and Saurāṣṭra. Summon all the southern kings and any other friendly rulers who dwell upon the earth. Bring them quickly, with their retinues and relatives; send for them with noble messengers, by the king’s command.” Hearing Vasiṣṭha’s words, Sumantra immediately ordered the worthy men present to bring the kings. Obeying the sage’s instruction, Sumantra himself, swift and wise, set out to gather them. Meanwhile, those in charge of the preparations reported to the great sage Vasiṣṭha that everything for the sacrifice had been arranged. Delighted, Vasiṣṭha addressed them all, “Let nothing be given with disrespect or carelessness to anyone. If anything is given with disrespect, it destroys the giver; of this there is no doubt.” Within a few days and nights, the kings began to arrive, bringing many jewels for King Daśaratha. Well pleased, Vasiṣṭha spoke to the king, “O tiger among men, the kings have come at your command; I have honored them all as is fitting, O best of kings.