Shloka 2.35.35
सुमन्त्रस्य कैकेयी-निन्दा (Sumantra’s Reproof of Kaikeyi in the Royal Assembly)
रामे हि यौवराज्यस्थे राजा दशरथो वनम्। प्रवेक्ष्यति महेष्वासः पूर्ववृत्तमनुस्मरन्।।2.35.35।।
rāme hi yauvarājya-sthe rājā daśaratho vanam | pravekṣyati maheṣvāsaḥ pūrva-vṛttam anusmaran ||2.35.35||
When Rāma is established as heir-apparent, King Daśaratha—the great archer—will enter the forest, remembering the ancient custom of retiring after installing the successor.
If Rama is installed as heir-apparent, king Dasaratha, the great archer will retire to the forest for carrying out austerities following ancient customs.
Dharma of life-stages and kingship: after ensuring succession, the king may withdraw for austerity, honoring established tradition without endangering governance.
Sumantra argues that Rama’s coronation aligns with tradition and would allow Dasaratha to retire peacefully, not be cast into suffering by forced exile of Rama.
Dasaratha’s adherence to tradition and duty—willingness to renounce power properly after succession.