Dasaratha's voice was deep and sonorous like that of a giant gong. It rang across the hall with a booming resonance as he said, 'Sixty thousand years have I lived under the royal canopy. Born of the Ikshvaku dynasty, treading the noble path of my ancestors, I have protected and ruled my people to the best of my ability, endeavoring eternally to establish dharma on this earth. With the permission of all the eminent sages and Brahmins, I seek repose due to my ageing body and failing strength. I desire to install Rama, who is as mighty as Indra and my equal in virtue, as king.I ask your approval to crown him the very next morrow.' Amidst thunderous noises of happy acceptance the distinguished dignitaries said that it was their cherished wish to see Rama as king. Dasaratha asked, "Your haste in accepting my proposal raises doubts about myself.Have I erred? Where have I gone wrong?" To the king's query, the monarchs and the other assembled said, "Divine one, the qualities and glory of Rama, surpass those of all other Ikshvakus. He is the noblest.Rooted in truth, versed in every branch of knowledge, he knows neither jealousy nor envy. His charming disposition makes him easily accessible.Receiving all with goodwill and grace, his compassion is so profound that with a single glance he can delve into the hearts of men. Innumerable and rare are the attributes of Rama.Mounted on horse, elephant or chariot, he never fails to enquire of the welfare of all those that come his way.Each utterance is accompanied by a sweet smile. Like a father and like a friend does he endear himself to his subjects, who adore and worship him. Handsome, as Lord Visnu, he is capable of ruling all the worlds and is the God of gods. To your good fortune and for the welfare of the world Rama is born as your son and is worshipped by the devatas. The world prays and invokes all that is divine for the prosperity and protection of him who never deviates from the path of dharma. He has every virtue. A virtue not possessed by him does not exist in this world. Without delay enthrone Rama as king" was the unanimous opinion of the people of the land.