Bharata, accompanied by his maternal uncle Yudhajit, embarked on a journey to visit his grandfather, taking with him his brother Shatrughna. Their arrival was met with an opulent reception and warm farewell from their relatives. Despite being surrounded by comfort, their thoughts lingered on their aging father, King Dasaratha, who treated all four of his sons with equal affection, as if they were extensions of his own limbs.
King Dasaratha’s faith and trust in Rama were profound, viewing him as the embodiment of divine virtues and a future cornerstone of the kingdom. He believed Rama to be a godly incarnation sent to vanquish Ravana and his lawless hordes, a protector born in response to divine pleas. Rama’s beauty was captivating, his valour unmatched, and his nature devoid of envy, mirroring the qualities of his father. He stood unparalleled, a bastion of inner peace and eloquence, responding gracefully even in moments of adversity. Just and magnanimous, he never forgot a kindness nor bore grudges, accepting past hardships with noble understanding.
Amidst his rigorous martial training, Rama would pause to inquire about the welfare of sages, citizens, and acquaintances, offering aid without hesitation. Despite his prodigious prowess, he harboured no vanity. Rama initiated conversations, nurturing relationships with warmth and sincerity, and was unwaveringly truthful. His comprehensive understanding of his kingdom and its people won him reciprocal affection and loyalty. Kindness and mastery over anger characterized him, as did his respect for all perspectives, avoiding the imposition of his will.
Rama was diligent in public service, skilled in duty, balanced in judgment, and physically vigorous. His subjects often spoke of him as their very life force, sensing his pulse in their own well-being. A scholar who completed the Vedic teachings in their entirety, Rama excelled in archery, surpassing even Dasaratha’s renowned expertise. He understood the constraints of wealth, desires, and bonds, upholding a sharp memory, tradition, and humility. Mastering emotional control, he maintained composure, concealing inner thoughts behind a serene countenance. Whether in joy or turmoil, his focus remained steadfast; no feeling was left unchecked by his discipline.
Rama protected the deserving and meted punishment with impartiality, fostering noble company and uplifting their spirits. He was versed in the art of prudent spending, skilled in economics, and knowledgeable in ancient sciences and law, understanding their application. His decision-making spanned complex, interrelated issues, prioritizing virtue and prosperity without neglecting economic vigilance. His refined pursuits included singing and dancing, captivating nature itself with his performances. Renowned for taming untamed horses and elephants, his techniques were inimitable.
Rama followed the fivefold principles of utilizing wealth: virtue, protection, the pursuit of fame, household expenses, and support for kin. Acknowledged as the finest among Athirathas, a title of distinction among warriors, his military leadership had yet to witness defeat.
King Dasaratha reflected that, endowed with such qualities, Rama was the ideal heir. “I have ruled for millennia, and age now erodes my Vigor,” he thought. “My time as a ruler under the sacred crown of the Ikshvaku lineage draws to a close. It is now my duty to witness Rama’s ascension.” With this resolve, he summoned his council and ordered an assembly of local and regional leaders, military heads, traders, teachers, and advisors, omitting only the kingdoms of Kekaya and Mithila in his haste.
At this significant gathering, adorned with traditional gifts of ornaments and arms, Dasaratha began solemnly, “This realm of Ayodhya, nurtured by our forebears of the Ikshvaku line, has flourished under my stewardship. You, my subjects, are self-sufficient, valiant, learned, and esteemed across lands. My contributions, supported by my sons, have safeguarded this legacy. Now, burdened by the demands of kingship for countless years, I seek to appoint Rama, my eldest, as crown prince, entrusting him with the care of our people and kingdom.”
The assembly, understanding the king’s intention, petitioned to express their collective agreement. “O King, we wholeheartedly endorse Rama’s appointment,” they said. Dasaratha, seeking assurance, asked, “Is this sentiment genuine, not driven by a desire to please me? Do you truly believe in Rama’s ability to govern effectively?”
With reverence, the assembly responded, “O King, hear our testimony. Rama embodies every virtue and bears the auspicious traits of a divine king. His might equals that of Indra, and he stands supreme among the Ikshvakus. True to his principles and ever truthful, he is free of jealousy, unparalleled in patience, and a master of his emotions. His command over martial strategies, unknown even to gods and demons alike, positions him as a matchless warrior. Rama’s warmth engenders familial bonds, and his skill, commitment, and wisdom set a standard unmatched. We are certain he is the best choice for Ayodhya’s future. Fortunate are you, O King, to have such a son. Make the necessary arrangements without delay.”
Overwhelmed with joy, Dasaratha expressed his gratitude, promising to bring the proposal to Sage Vasishtha and the council for approval. The assembly dispersed, and anticipation swelled as the king prepared to present his plan to the royal family and advisors.