Dasharatha Decides to Crown Rama Heir Apparent

Rama, his brothers, and their respective wives spent twelve happy years in the palace. Rama and Sita were loyal and devoted to each other. Their happy marriage is an excellent example of the domestic stage of life, in which a husband and wife are expected to live modestly. It is said that Rama was an ideal man and husband, while Sita was an ideal woman and wife. They served their family members and won everyone's hearts.

Kaikeyi's brother, Yudhajit, was the prince of Kekaya. One day, he came to Ayodhya and took Bharata and Shatrughna to his kingdom for a few days. Meanwhile, King Dasharatha felt he was growing old and, therefore, decided to crown Rama heir apparent. He went to Maharshi Vashishtha's ashram for his advice and blessings. Vashishtha told the king that, to approve this proposal, he must call a meeting of his council of ministers. 

When Dasharatha called a meeting and made this proposal, all the members unanimously agreed to make Rama heirapparent. Rama was worthy not just by virtue of being the eldest son but also because of his integrity and knowledge. After obtaining the approval of his council, King Dasharatha told Sumantra, to call Rama.

Rama was an obedient son who always prioritized his father's commands. Upon receiving Sumantra's message, he swiftly went to Dasharatha, who embraced him and seated him beside the throne. "Dear son, I have grown old," he said. "I have lived a full life as both a person and a king. I have no more aspirations left—only one desire: to pass on the throne of my ancestors to you. I want your coronation to take place tomorrow."

King Dasharatha was a knowledgeable, law-abiding ruler who followed traditions. He requested Maharshi Vashishtha to help Rama prepare for his coronation. Maharshi Vashishtha, a great Vedic scholar familiar with folk customs, went to meet Rama in his chamber, and Rama respectfully touched his feet.

"Dear Rama, your coronation is tomorrow, so you and Sita should fast tonight and recite holy mantras," advised Vashishtha. Rama listened carefully to every word Vashishtha said and promised to obey. He and Sita fasted that night and chanted the mantras the Maharshi had taught them.