Shloka 1.18.53
पुत्रजन्मोत्सवः — Birth of the Princes and Viśvāmitra’s Arrival (Bālakāṇḍa 18)
पूर्वं राजर्षिशब्देन तपसा द्योतितप्रभः।ब्रह्मर्षित्वमनुप्राप्त: पूज्योऽसि बहुधा मया।।।।
pūrvaṃ rājarṣiśabdena tapasā dyotitaprabhaḥ | brahmarṣitvam anuprāptaḥ pūjyo 'si bahudhā mayā ||
Formerly you were renowned as a rājaṛṣi; by your austerities your splendor shone forth. Now you have attained the rank of brahmarṣi; therefore you are worthy of my worship in many ways.
Earlier you were rajarshi, a warrior sage. By your austerities you have obtained the brilliance that lends radiance even to the Sun and the Moon you have gained the status of a brahmrshi. In several ways you are worthy of my worship.
True greatness is earned through tapas and self-discipline; society (and kings) should honor realized spiritual attainment.
Daśaratha praises Viśvāmitra’s spiritual evolution—from rājaṛṣi to brahmarṣi—and expresses veneration.
Respect for tapas and spiritual authority—Daśaratha recognizes merit rather than mere birth or power.