From Manu to Rama: The Legacy of the Solar Kings

This is the story of Lord Rama, the son of the renowned Emperor Dasharatha of Ayodhya. Lord Rama was the most illustrious ruler of his time, and his ancestors were also distinguished monarchs. He belonged to the Solar dynasty, which, according to Puranic lore, originated with Manu, the son of the sun god, Surya. King Manu’s eldest son, Ikshvaku, founded the city of Ayodhya on the banks of the Sarayu River. Since then, Ayodhya has served as the capital of the Solar dynasty. This lineage produced many legendary rulers, such as Harishchandra, Sagara, Bhagiratha, Dilipa, Raghu, Aja, Dasharatha, and Lord Rama. Even today, people sing ballads celebrating the valor and grandeur of this noble dynasty.

The Solar dynasty is also known as the Raghu dynasty, named after Emperor Raghu, whose generosity was renowned throughout the three worlds. He once gave away all his possessions, keeping only the clothes on his body, during a Sarva-dakshina yagya, a special ritual in which the performer donates everything they own. Emperor Dasharatha, Raghu’s grandson, was as virtuous as his forebears. Despite his power, he ruled with kindness and compassion, and no one in his kingdom was ever discontented.

Emperor Dasharatha ruled the kingdom of Kosala with joy. Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala, was a vast and splendid city, fortified by immense boundary walls on all sides for protection. A wide moat surrounded the walls, and thousands of armed soldiers safeguarded the city. At the heart of Ayodhya stood the royal palace, from which eight roads led out of the city. The city was adorned with groves, lakes, and gardens, making it highly attractive. Ayodhya was prosperous, and its citizens were wealthy. Ethics were central to the lives of the people, ensuring the city remained peaceful and its inhabitants stood united in times of both happiness and sorrow.