The third day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago began on a spiritual note as Rakesh Bhatt, a Hindu priest from the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland, led the attendees in a Vedic prayer. The United Center echoed with chants of “Om Shanti Om,” setting a serene tone for the day’s events.
A moment of unity and harmony
Following the traditional striking of the gavel, Bhatt ascended the stage to deliver his prayers in Sanskrit, later translating their profound meanings into English for the delegates. Emphasizing the ancient concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – “the whole world is one family” – Bhatt made a heartfelt plea for America to embrace a leader who values this universal principle.
Bhatt’s inspirational words
In his speech, Bhatt eloquently urged for unity and collective progress:
“We should be in unison. Let our minds think together. Let our hearts beat as one. All for the betterment of society. May this make us powerful so we can unite and make our nation proud.”
He further added,
“We are one universal family. The truth is our foundation and always prevails. Lead us from unreal to real, from darkness to the light, and from death to immortality. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.”
Democratic National Convention showcases a Hindu Prayer on stage for the first time ever from Sri Rakesh Bhatt of Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland #DNC2024#Election2024pic.twitter.com/cpavw8jwB2
#WATCH : Rakesh Bhatt, a Hindu priest with Sri Shiva Vishnu Temple, delivers invocation in Sanskrit & English at the start of Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago.
“Even if we have differences…we have to be united & it moves us towards justice for all. We are 1… pic.twitter.com/q50RrKUVmK
Rakesh Bhatt hails from the Madhwa priest family and possesses a rich background in religious studies and rituals. Fluent in multiple languages including Hindi, English, Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Tulu, Bhatt trained under his guru, Pejavar Swamiji of Udupi Ashta Matha. He is proficient in the Rig Veda and Tantrasaara (Maadhva) Agama and holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Kannada from Osteen College.
Before his current role at the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, which he joined in July 2013, Bhatt served at the revered Badrinath and Raghavendra Swami Koil in Salem. His journey to the United States began from the southern Indian city of Bengaluru.
Last month, during the Republican National Convention (RNC), Sikh leader Harmeet Dhillon also led a prayer. However, her invocation faced backlash from a segment of hardcore MAGA supporters for invoking a deity other than Jesus Christ.
A call for inclusivity
Bhatt’s presence at the DNC highlights the growing diversity and inclusivity within American political conventions. His message of unity and global kinship resonates deeply at a time when the nation seeks harmony and collective progress.
Stay tuned for more updates from the DNC as diverse voices continue to shape the narrative of this pivotal convention.
