The Four Princes of Ayodhya

1. King Dasharatha ruled beautiful Ayodhya with justice, but he had no children. He prayed for sons who would care for the people after him.
2. The wise Rishyasringa led a great sacrifice while priests chanted Vedic prayers. Dasharatha asked the Supreme Lord to bless his family.
3. A radiant messenger appeared from the sacrificial fire carrying a golden bowl of sweet rice. He told Dasharatha to share it with his queens.
4. Kaushalya, Kaikeyi and Sumitra respectfully accepted the sacred gift. Hope and gratitude filled the palace.
5. Lord Vishnu appeared as Rama, the son of Kaushalya. The Supreme Lord had come to protect dharma and give joy to His devotees.
6. Bharata was born to Kaikeyi, and Sumitra welcomed Lakshmana and Shatrughna. Ayodhya celebrated all four princes with music and flowers.
7. The family teacher Vasishtha named the boys Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana and Shatrughna. Everyone repeated their names with affection.
8. Rama spoke kindly, honoured His elders and cared for every creature. People felt peaceful whenever they saw Him.
9. Lakshmana loved Rama so deeply that he always wished to stay beside Him. Even as a child, he rested only when Rama was near.
10. Bharata and Shatrughna were also inseparable companions. The four brothers never competed for love or honour.
11. The princes studied scripture, statecraft and the duties of noble rulers. They listened humbly to their guru.
12. They learned to use bows and chariots so they could defend the innocent. Rama's strength was always guided by compassion.
13. The brothers rode through Ayodhya and greeted citizens of every age. The people loved them as members of their own families.
14. Dasharatha watched his sons grow wise and brave. His old sorrow was replaced by overflowing gratitude.
15. One day the great sage Vishvamitra came to the palace with an important request. Rama's first great journey was about to begin.

Authoritative sources

• Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.10
• Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.11