tamevaṃ guṇasampannaṃ rāmaṃ satyaparākramam jyeṣṭhaṃ śreṣṭhaguṇairyuktaṃ priyaṃ daśarathassutam | prakṛtīnāṃ hitairyuktaṃ prakṛtipriyakāmyayā yauvarājyena saṃyoktumaicchatprītyā mahīpati: |
With a desire to promote the welfare of the people king Dasaratha decided to install Sri Rama, his eldest and affectionate son as heir (apparent) who was bestowed with all excellent qualities and true prowess, beloved of the people he was ever intent in the welfare of the people.
— M.N. Dutt (1891)
The announcement of Rama's installation fills the city with joy. Preparations begin: streets are cleaned, garlands are hung. The anticipation is made more poignant because the reader knows what Kaikeyi will do.