The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic

Dasaratha notices that he is aging and determines that he must retire soon. He makes an announcement, inviting all officers, sages, allies, relatives, and kings who can attend quickly and conveniently to an assembly. Dasaratha decides against inviting Aswapathi, father of his third wife, Kaikeyi, and grandfather of Bharatha, her son. He tells the assembly about his decision to retire and to hand the kingdom over to his son Rama. Dasaratha describes Rama’s leadership potential in terms of both his compassion and his courage; to Dasaratha, Rama is an ideal king for Ayodhya because he can protect the citizens from all hostile beings, “human or subhuman or superhuman” (34). The assembly gives the king their support, and they are so enthusiastic, Dasaratha asks them if they have been “bearing” with him all of these years. One man assures the king that their enthusiasm demonstrates only their love for Rama, nothing else. Dasaratha accepts the explanation and announces that the coronation will take place the following day.

Rama receives the news with grace, and Dasaratha gives him advice. After the meeting, Rama returns to his palace, but a messenger soon arrives with a summons to return to his father.