The great sage Vasishtha, addressed them in words appropriate to the occasion: ‘Listen, O councillors, and you, wise Bharata! Rama the king is independent, the Blessed Lord (Narayana or Hari), the upholder of righteousness and the sun of the Solar race.

He is true to his word and guardian of the bounds of the Vedas, his very advent is a source of blessing of the world. Obedient to the commands of his guru and his parents, he crushes the hosts of the wicked and befriends the gods.

No one knows more faultlessly than Rama the principles of morality and devotion and all spiritual and material truth. Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, the moon-god, the sun-god and the guardians of the quarters, Maya (the deluding potency of God), Jiva (the individual soul), the various forms of Karma (the residue of actions) and time in their entirety,

- the Serpent King, the sovereigns of the earth and whatever other powers there are, and the accomplishments of Yoga extolled in the Vedas and other scriptures – ponder it in your heart and consider well – Rama’s will exercises its authority over all!

If we carry out Rama’s orders and respect his wishes, it will be well for us all. Now bearing this secret in mind, wise sirs, do that which you all unanimously resolve upon.

Rama’s coronation will be delightful to all; that is the only way to ensure good luck and joy. In what way can Raghunatha be prevailed upon to return to Ayodhya? Ponder this and propose a plan that may be carried into effect.

Everybody listened with respect to the sage’s speech, so full of prudence and spiritual and worldly wisdom; but no answer was forthcoming; all were dumb-founded. Then Bharata bowed his head and with folded hands said,