Shloka 2.1.35
गुणप्रशंसा–युवराजनिर्णयः (Praise of Rama’s Virtues and the Decision on the Heir-Apparent)
अथ राज्ञो बभूवैवं वृद्धस्य चिरजीविनः।।।।प्रीतिरेषा कथं रामो राजा स्यान्मयि जीवति।
atha rājño babhūvaivaṃ vṛddhasya cirajīvinaḥ | prītir eṣā kathaṃ rāmo rājā syān mayi jīvati |
Then, in the mind of that aged king who had lived long, this glad thought arose: “How may Rāma become king while I am still alive?”
Thereafter, flashed in the mind of that aged king who had (already) lived long this pleasant thought as to how Rama will become king while he was alive.
A righteous king seeks continuity of dharma through a worthy successor, desiring to establish stable rule for the people even before his own end.
Daśaratha’s private wish crystallizes: he wants to see Rāma crowned during his lifetime, setting the stage for the coronation plans.
Responsible foresight: Daśaratha’s concern for orderly succession and the kingdom’s well-being.