New Delhi, On Wednesday, August 21, the Democratic National Convention (DNC) took an unusual start, led by Indian-American priest Rakesh Bhatt, who opened the third day with a powerful Vedic prayer. Rakesh Bhatt, a Hindu priest from the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland, delivered a chant of “Om Shanti Shanti” and sought blessings for the nation to unite in harmony.
During the opening of the DNC proceedings in Chicago, Bhatt invoked peace and unity through ancient Hindu rituals. “Even if we have differences, when it comes to the nation, we have to be united and it moves us towards justice for all,” Bhatt said. His words resonated with the event’s diverse audience, as he formally set the tone for the third day of the DNC.
Bhatt’s prayer, echoing across the hall, emphasized collective action and unity of mind and heart. “We should be in unison. Let our minds think together. Let our hearts beat as one. All for the betterment of society,” he said. Bhatt’s hope for a united nation showed the significance of spiritual and cultural diversity on a large political stage like the DNC.
Bhatt is not just an ordinary religious leader. He is a Madhwa priest, who originally hails from Bengaluru, India. He has deep roots in ancient Hindu texts, having trained in Rig Veda and Tantrasaara (Maadhva) Agama under his guru, Pejavar Swamiji, at Udupi Ashta Matha. Bhatt’s expertise is not limited to religious knowledge; he is multilingual, fluent in languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, Tulu, English, and Sanskrit.
In addition to his profound religious background, Bhatt is well-educated, with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Sanskrit, English, and Kannada. He earned his degrees from Jayachamarajendra College and Osteen College in Bengaluru. His knowledge and devotion have led him to serve in various temples before making his way to the United States. Bhatt worked briefly at the Badrinath temple and the Raghavendra Swami Koil in Salem. Later, he joined the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland in July 2013, where he continued to serve as a senior priest.
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This marked the first time a Vedic prayer opened an event at the DNC, making it a special moment not only for Bhatt but for the Indian-American community as a whole. Ajay Jain Bhutoria, the Deputy National Finance Chair of the Democratic Party, was particularly moved by this gesture. He shared a video of the prayer on social media, captioning it as a significant moment that demonstrated the Democratic Party’s dedication to inclusivity and diversity.
“This act of prayer is not just a religious observance; it is a celebration of the unity that transcends cultural and religious boundaries,” Bhutoria said. He went on to emphasize that it was a proud day for Indian Americans, showing how different faiths, like Hinduism, play a role in shaping the rich, diverse fabric of American society.
Hindu prayer at the DNC Convention today is a significant moment, showcasing the Democratic Party's commitment to inclusivity and diversity. It is heartening to see the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of the Indian American community being honored on such a prominent stage pic.twitter.com/6wNsnthmbd
— Ajay Jain Bhutoria (@ajainb) August 22, 2024
The video of Bhatt performing the prayer quickly gained attention on social media platforms, with many praising the inclusion of a Hindu prayer at such a prominent political event. For some, this moment underscored the importance of spirituality and cultural diversity in the U.S. political landscape. For others, it was a reminder of the growing influence of the Indian-American community in U.S. politics and society.
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Bhatt’s prayer carried a profound message of unity and peace, drawing on the ancient wisdom of Hindu scriptures. “We are one universal family. Truth is our foundation and always prevails. Lead us from unreal to real, from darkness to light, and from death to immortality. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,” he recited, concluding his prayer with words that sought to inspire calmness and reflection among those present.
The presence of Bhatt at the DNC also highlighted the inclusivity that the Democratic Party continues to champion. As America grapples with issues of division and polarization, Bhatt’s prayer served as a hopeful reminder of the potential for unity, despite differences in background, religion, and culture.
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Bhatt’s involvement at the DNC was more than just a symbolic gesture. It was a recognition of the Indian-American community’s growing influence in political and cultural spheres. With over four million Indian-Americans residing in the United States, their contributions to society are being increasingly acknowledged. Bhatt’s prayer reflected this evolution, showing how Indian traditions can coexist harmoniously within the broader American culture.
