He gave half the prasada to Kaushalya and half the remaining part to Sumitra. As he gave one half of that to Kaikeyi, an eagle came and took it away for Anjani, who was to be the mother of Hanuman, Rama’s devotee. Kaikeyi was upset. But Kaushalya gave some more to her and to Sumitra. In due course, the four princes were born. Kaushalya’s son was Rama, Kaikeyi’s was Bharata, and Sumitra had twins, Lakshmana and Shatrughna. There was great jubilation in the palace and in the kingdom. The boys were named after Dasharatha had consulted Sage Vasishtha. Rama was so named because he brought peace and joy everywhere; Bharata for sustaining and giving care to all; Shatrughna for slaying opponents and Lakshmana for having many great qualities. The palace resounded with their voices and games. Dasharatha arranged for their training in archery and was delighted with their progress.
Dasharatha’s Joy
