The women were like water-lilies growing in the lake of Ayodhya and Raghunatha’s absence the sun; but now the sun had set and the lilies opened their blossoms again at the sight of Rama, the full moon.

Favourable omens of every description were seen and kettledrums sounded in the heavens as the Lord moved to the palace after blessing the men and women of the city with his protecting presence.

The Lord, Bhavani, knew that Kaikeyi was ashamed; so he went to her apartments first; thereafter reassuring and gratifying her, Hari moved on to his own palace.

When the all-merciful Lord Rama entered the palace, every man and woman of the city felt gratified. The guru Vasishtha called the Brahmans and said, ‘The day and the hour and all the omens are propitious today.

Do all you Brahmans be pleased to command that Ramachandra take his seat upon the throne.’ On hearing the sage Vasishtha’s gracious address, the Brahmans were all delighted.

Many of the Brahmans spoke in gentle accents, ‘Rama’s coronation will bring gladness to the whole world. Delay no more, O great sage, but mark the king’s forehead with the sign of sovereignty.’

Then the sage instructed Sumantra, who, as soon as he received the order, merrily proceeded and speedily made ready a multitude of chariots, horses and elephants.