‘Om Shanti’ Echoes as Hindu Priest Opens Convention of Kamala Harris’ Party

Chicago: On the third day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the hall echoed with chants of “Om Shanti Shanti” as Rakesh Bhatt, a Hindu priest from Maryland’s Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, led the proceedings. Bhatt offered a Vedic prayer for national unity, emphasising that despite differences, the nation must remain united.

“We should think together, our hearts should beat as one, for the betterment of society. Let this unity make us powerful and proud as a nation,” Bhatt stated.

Sri Rakesh Bhatt, a Hindu priest with Sri Shiva Vishnu Temple in MD, delivers invocation in Sanskrit & English at start of 3rd night of DNC convention in Chicago: “Even if we have differences…we have to be united & it moves us towards justice for all. We are 1 universal family.” pic.twitter.com/i2rsqSWhq0

— Niraj Warikoo (@nwarikoo) August 22, 2024

Positioned before Kamala Harris’ highly anticipated address, Bhatt urged Americans to choose a leader who embodies the Vedic principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family).

“We are one universal family. Truth always prevails. Lead us from darkness to light, and from death to immortality. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,” he concluded.

Originally from Bengaluru, Bhatt is a Madhwa priest trained in Rig Veda and Tantrasaara (Maadhva) Agama. He holds multiple degrees in Sanskrit, English, and Kannada and has served in various temples before joining Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in 2013.

Ajay Bhutoria, Deputy National Finance Chair of the Democratic Party, highlighted the significance of Bhatt’s prayer at the DNC, calling it a testament to the party’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. He also praised the recognition of Indian American cultural and spiritual traditions on such a significant platform.

As the Democrats prepare to officially nominate 59-year-old Kamala Harris for the presidency, polls indicate a close race, with Harris gaining a slight edge over Donald Trump—a notable shift from just a month ago.