I reverence the exceedingly holy city of AyodhyŒ (Ýr¶ RŒma’s birth-place) and the river Sarayµu (flowing beside it), which wipes out the sins of the Kali age. Again, I bow to the men and women of the city, who enjoy the affection of the Lord in no small degree. Even though they were damned as a result of the heap of sins incurred by the calumniators of S¶tŒ (who were instrumental in bringing about Her lifelong exile), they were lodged in a heavenly abode, having been divested of sorrow. I greet KausalyŒ (the eldest queen of king DaÜaratha) whose glory stands diffused throughout the world. She is the eastern horizon whence arose the lovely moon in the shape of the Lord of Raghus, who affords delight to the entire universe and is blighting as frost to lotuses in the form of the wicked. Recognizing king DaÜaratha together with all his consorts as incarnations of merit and fair blessings, I make obeisance to them in thought, word and deed. Knowing me as a servant of your son, be gracious to me. The father and mothers of Ýr¶ RŒma are the very perfection of glory, by creating whom even BrahmŒ (the Creator) has exalted himself. (1—4)