In the prosperous kingdom of Ayodhya, King Dasharatha ruled with wisdom and justice. His people were happy, and the kingdom flourished. Yet, the king’s heart was heavy because he had no children to carry forward his legacy.

On the advice of sages, Dasharatha performed the sacred Putrakameshti Yajna, a powerful ritual for blessings of children. The gods were pleased and sent a divine offering for his queens.

Soon, the palace was filled with joy. Queen Kaushalya gave birth to Rama, Queen Kaikeyi to Bharata, and Queen Sumitra to the twins Lakshmana and Shatrughna.

Among them, Rama shone with divine grace. Even as a child, he was calm, kind, and radiant. The people of Ayodhya felt that a great destiny awaited the young prince.