Eight ministers, of outstanding qualities aided Dasaratha noble descendant of the Ikshvakus. Incorruptible indomitable and stalwarts in their devotion to duty and to the affairs of the state they were Drishti, Jayantha, Vijaya, Siddhartha, Artha, Sadhaka, Asoka, Mantrapala and Sumantra. The foremost of seers, Vasishta and Vamadeva were family priests, besides other counselors. Never did any of them utter a falsehood, either for the sake of pleasure, profit or in anger.

Proficient in Shastras and sciences they had knowledge of every branch of study and shied away from all acts of injustice. Famed, eminent wealthy and with well-restrained senses, their deeds matched their words, their decisions were never made in haste, but after much contemplation. Peerless and forgiving, they always spoke with a smile. Nothing took place at home or abroad that they had no knowledge of secret agents kept them informed of events already accomplished, actually happening or merely contemplated. Adept at their duties, so loyal they were that if an occasion demanded it they would not spare even their own sons.Engaged in replenishing the royal coffers and maintaining an army, they would not harm even an enemy if he had done no wrong. Mighty and powerful they were exemplary statesmen and protectors of the realm and its people. While discharging their duties they did not cause injury to the Brahmins and Kshatriyas. Punishment was meted out only after considering the gravity of a man's offense. When those honest and illustrious men sat in judgment, there was not a single man in the kingdom who dared to bear false witness.

Ever vigilant and alert to the welfare of the king, the judicious and discerning ministers of exemplary statesmanship were of impeccable conduct.They wore fine garments and ornaments, known for their courtesy resoluteness boundless bravery and heroism, they made flawless and wise decisions, for which they were reputed, even outside the country. They always conversed kindly and pleasingly. Ever watchful through the secret agents, rewarding his subjects according to their virtues, Dasaratha, found no enemy to be his equal, much less, superior to him! Enemies were suppressed, the tributary kings were loyal, all was peaceful and Ayodhya basked in serenity. Blessed with many friends, surrounded by a host of supremely capable counselors Dasaratha, like the rising sun with its brilliant rays, ruled the earth gloriously like Indra ruled the heavens.