The princes of Ayodhya
Begin with Rama's family: four brothers whose relationships shape the epic.
Valmiki Ramayana · Bala Kanda 18
समाप्तदीक्षानियमः पत्नीगणसमन्वितः |
प्रविवेश पुरीं राजा सभृत्यबलवाहनः || १-१८-२
The following is an original editorial summary, not a literal translation. Details may differ across Ramayana traditions.
The chapter introduces the sons of King Dasharatha. Kausalya gives birth to Rama. Bharata is born to Kaikeyi.
Sumitra is the mother of Lakshmana and Shatrughna. Vishvamitra's arrival leads into the princes' next adventure.
Read the Sanskrit source and context
Try five questions
Who is the father of the four princes?
- Dasharatha
- Janaka
- Sugriva
The chapter introduces the sons of King Dasharatha.
Who is Rama's mother?
- Sumitra
- Kausalya
- Kaikeyi
Kausalya gives birth to Rama.
Who is Bharata's mother?
- Kausalya
- Sita
- Kaikeyi
Bharata is born to Kaikeyi.
Which brothers are born to Sumitra?
- Lakshmana and Shatrughna
- Rama and Bharata
- Rama and Sugriva
Sumitra is the mother of Lakshmana and Shatrughna.
Which sage arrives at Dasharatha's court?
- Jabali
- Vishvamitra
- Agastya
Vishvamitra's arrival leads into the princes' next adventure.