When the people of Ayodhyā, united in heart and mind, had gathered to deliberate, they approached the venerable King Daśaratha, who was advanced in years and wisdom. With reverence, they addressed him, “O king, you have lived many thousands of years and ruled righteously. It is time—anoint Rāma as crown prince, O ruler of the earth. We long to behold the mighty-armed, heroic, and powerful Rāma, seated upon a great elephant, his face shaded by the royal white parasol.” Hearing these words, which were deeply pleasing to their hearts, King Daśaratha, though delighted, feigned surprise and sought to know more. He addressed them, “You have spoken your wish, desiring Rāghava as your lord. But, as I still rule this earth with justice, I have a doubt—tell me truthfully, why do you wish to see the mighty prince installed as crown prince while I yet reign?” The assembled citizens and country folk, souls of virtue, replied, “O king, your son Rāma is endowed with every auspicious quality. Permit us to recount his virtues—dear, delightful, and complete—so that you may listen and know why we desire him so.” They continued, “Rāma is equal to Indra in divine qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, and surpasses all the Ikṣvāku lineage, O lord of the people. In this world, he is noble, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma and prosperity themselves seem to have arisen from Rāma. In bringing happiness to his subjects, he is like the moon; in patience, like the earth; in wisdom, he is equal to Bṛhaspati; and in strength, like the lord of Śacī. “He knows Dharma, is true to his word, virtuous, free from malice, patient, gentle in speech, grateful, and master of his senses. He is gentle, steadfast in mind, always worthy, without envy; Rāghava speaks kindly to all beings and speaks only the truth. He serves learned elders and Brahmins, and thus his fame, honor, and brilliance grow ever greater. “Skilled in all weapons among gods, demons, and humans, properly initiated in knowledge and vows, he is thoroughly versed in the Vedas and their branches. The elder brother of Bharata is foremost in Gandharva arts on earth, of noble lineage, virtuous, undisturbed in spirit, and of great intellect. Trained by distinguished Brahmins, experts in Dharma and Artha, whenever he goes to battle for the sake of a village or city, he never returns without victory, whether accompanied by Saumitri, riding an elephant or in a chariot. “He always inquires about the welfare of the citizens as if they were his own kin—asking after their sons, sacred fires, wives, servants, and students. He asks in detail, like a father about his own sons: ‘Do your students serve you? Are you well protected by armor?’ Thus Rāma, the tiger among men, always addresses you; and in the misfortunes of the people, he is deeply afflicted. “In all celebrations, he rejoices like a father; he speaks truth, is a mighty archer, serves elders, and has mastered his senses. He speaks with a smile, wholly devoted to Dharma, speaking rightly and for the good, with no taste for contentious speech. In answering and questioning, he speaks like Bṛhaspati; with beautiful brows and wide coppery eyes, he is like Viṣṇu himself. “Beloved by the world, Rāma excels in courage, strength, and valor; devoted to protecting the people, his senses are never overcome by passion. He is capable even of enjoying the three worlds—what then of this earth? His anger and favor are never without purpose. He punishes the guilty but does not grow angry with the innocent; he gives wealth with joy and is pleased where there is righteousness. “Rāma shines with virtues—self-controlled, beloved by all, and a source of joy, like the radiant sun. The earth herself wishes for Rāma, endowed with such qualities, steadfast in truth and valor, and a protector like the guardians of the world. Fortunate are you, O king, to have a son who excels in virtue, just as Marīca was to Kaśyapa. “The strength, health, and life of Rāma, who knows himself, are renowned among gods, asuras, humans, gandharvas, and serpents. All the people, within the city and beyond, in the kingdom and the capital, place their hope in him. Women, elders, and young maidens, with focused minds, worship the gods morning and evening for Rāma’s sake; may their prayer be fulfilled by your grace. “May we see Rāma, dark as a blue lotus and destroyer of all enemies, established as crown prince, your excellent son, O king. O bestower of boons, quickly anoint your son, who is like the lord of gods, devoted to the welfare of all people, and endowed with noble virtues, for our happiness.” Having received all their lotus-like joined palms, King Daśaratha spoke words that were pleasing and beneficial: “Ah, I am supremely delighted and my power is unmatched, since you wish my eldest beloved son to be installed as crown prince. This auspicious month of Caitra has arrived, sacred and with blossoming groves. Let all preparations be made for Rāma’s installation as crown prince.” When the king’s words ended, a great clamor of joy arose among the people; and as the noise gradually subsided, the king—his heart full—prepared to fulfill their cherished wish.