The Divine Lineage: Dasharath's Sacred Yajna

The members of the Solar dynasty were devout Sun worshipers, tracing their lineage back to Vaivasvat Manu, the son of the Sun god. Many illustrious kings of this dynasty, such as Harishchandra, Sagar, Bhageerath, Dileep, Raghu, Aj, Dasharath, and his renowned son Ram, were enlightened and accomplished rulers. The dynasty is also known as the Raghu dynasty, named after King Raghu, who famously gave away all his possessions during a yajna. Dasharath was Raghu's grandson.

Ayodhya, under their reign, flourished and extended its dominion over vast territories. King Dasharath was a skilled administrator and had three wives: Kaushalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. However, he remained childless.

On the advice of the royal preceptor, Maharshi Vashishth, Dasharath invited Rishi Rishyashringa to perform a yajna to obtain offspring. Rishi Rishyashringa conducted the Putrakameshti Yajna with great precision. Upon its successful completion, the Fire god emerged from the sacrificial fire. Pleased with Dasharath's devotion, the Fire god presented him with sacred prasad in a golden vessel.

"Give this to your wives, and your wish will be granted," said the Fire god before vanishing.