At King Daśaratha’s command, the city of Ayodhyā was set alight with joyous preparations. Banners were fastened along the royal road, which was carefully sprinkled with water to settle the dust. All the doorkeepers and courtesans adorned themselves in their finest attire, ready to add splendor to the occasion. Within the second courtyard of the royal residence, and at the various temples and shrines, those bearing gifts and food took their places, prepared to offer their bounty. Those who were worthy to bear garlands were stationed apart, while warriors with long swords, leather belts, and gleaming armor assembled, resplendent in their dress. The most valiant men were summoned to enter the great royal hall. Having given these instructions, the two Brahmins oversaw the arrangements, ensuring every detail was perfect. They fulfilled all the king’s commands and, approaching the lord of the world, reported, “It is done.” King Daśaratha, radiant and filled with joy at their faithful service, turned to Sumantra and said, “Let Rāma, who is self-controlled, be brought here quickly by you.” Sumantra, ever obedient, departed at once to carry out the king’s wish. Soon, Sumantra returned, bringing Rāma in a splendid chariot, for he was the finest among charioteers. As Rāma alighted and entered the palace, he beheld his father, King Daśaratha. Gathered around the king were rulers from the east, north, west, and south—kings from distant lands, Aryans, and those dwelling in forests and mountains. All of them waited upon Daśaratha as the gods attend upon Indra, and among them the royal sage shone like Indra among the Maruts. Standing on the palace terrace, Daśaratha saw his son approaching, famed throughout the world for his valor, radiant as a king of the Gandharvas. Rāma, long-armed and mighty, moved with the majesty of a proud elephant; his face glowed like moonstone, and he was exceedingly pleasing to behold. His beauty, nobility, and virtues captivated all who saw him, delighting the people as rain delights the scorched earth. Even as Rāma drew near, the king could not gaze upon him enough. Sumantra assisted Rāghava as he descended from the chariot. With joined palms, Sumantra followed behind Rāma, who approached his father’s palace shining like a peak of Mount Kailāsa. Rāghava swiftly entered to see the king, bowed before him with joined hands, and announced his own name as he touched his father’s feet in reverence. Seeing his beloved son thus, King Daśaratha drew him close, grasping his joined hands. He offered Rāma a splendid seat adorned with gems and gold, directing him to the highest, most beautiful seat. Seated there, Rāghava shone forth, his own radiance pure as the sun rising on Mount Meru, illuminating the entire assembly. The hall glowed like the autumn sky bright with planets and stars around the moon, and the king’s heart was filled with satisfaction at the sight of his son. It was as if Daśaratha saw himself reflected in a spotless mirror. Then, the best of fathers spoke to his well-seated son, addressing him as Kaśyapa might address Indra: “You are born of my chief queen, worthy in every way, and a worthy son. You are my beloved Rāma, supreme in virtues; by your own qualities, you have won the hearts of all these people.” “Therefore, under the star Puṣya, receive the office of heir-apparent; for by nature and by choice, you are virtuous. Yet, though you are virtuous, out of affection I will speak for your good, my son: always remain humble and keep your senses under control. Abandon the faults that arise from desire and anger; conduct yourself properly in both private and public life. Win over all, from ministers to the people, and amass great stores in the treasuries and armories. He who rules the earth with devoted and loving subjects brings joy to his friends, as the gods rejoice on obtaining nectar. Therefore, my son, restrain yourself and act accordingly.” Hearing these words, Rāma’s friends, devoted and eager to please him, hurried to Kausalyā and reported the king’s happy decision. Kausalyā, foremost among noble women, joyfully distributed gold, cows, and various jewels to those she cherished. After saluting the king, Rāghava mounted his chariot and returned to his splendid home, honored by crowds of people. The citizens, having heard the king’s words, rejoiced as if they had received a great prize. After taking leave of the king, they returned to their homes, filled with joy, and offered worship to the gods. Now, as the fourth chapter begins, when the people had departed, King Daśaratha again conferred with his ministers. After careful deliberation, the resolute king made his decision. “Tomorrow is the auspicious Puṣya day; tomorrow my son, Rāma, whose eyes are like lotus petals, will be consecrated as crown prince,” he declared. Entering his inner chambers, King Daśaratha summoned the charioteer and instructed him, “Bring Rāma here again.” The doorkeepers announced to Rāma that he was being summoned once more. Upon hearing this, Rāma became apprehensive. When he was quickly admitted, Rāma asked, “Tell me in full the reason for your coming.” The charioteer replied, “The king wishes to see you; after hearing this, you may go or not, as you see fit.