He sang the verses in Sanskrit and then translated them into English for the diverse audience present at the event.
Through his prayers, Bhatt invoked the ancient Indian concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, meaning “the whole world is one family”.
“Even if we have differences, when it comes to the nation, we have to be united. Let our minds think together. Let our hearts beat as one. All for the good of society. Hopefully, this will make us powerful so that we can come together and make our nation proud,” Bhatt said.
The Hindu prayer held today at the Democratic National Convention is a significant moment that showcases the Democratic Party’s commitment to inclusion 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. image.twitter.com/6wNsnthmbd
— Ajay Jain Bhutoria (@ajainb) August 22, 2024
The invocation took place after the Democratic National ConventionOfficial opening of the General Assembly. Bhatt was specially invited to lead the delegates in prayer. In the prayers, he emphasized the themes of unity, peace and justice.
The United States national anthem was then sung, creating a feeling of unity among those present at the event.
“We are one universal family. Truth is our foundation and it always prevails. Guide us from the unreal to the real, from darkness to light and from death to immortality. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,” Bhatt said.
Who is Rakesh Bhatt?
Bhatt, a native of Bengaluru, is a priest of the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland. Priest Madhwa received his training in Rig Veda and Tantrasaara (Maadhva) Agama from his guru, Pejavar Swamiji, of Udupi Ashta Matha, PTI reported.
Bhatt is fluent in several languages including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, English, Tulu and Sanskrit. He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in three languages: Sanskrit, English and Kannada.
He received his degrees in English and Kannada from Osteen College in Bengaluru and completed his degree in Sanskrit from Jaychamarajendra College.
Initially he worked at Udupi Ashta Matha for a few years. Later, he worked for a short period at Badrinath and Raghavendra Swami Koil, Salem.
He subsequently joined the Sri Sri Vishnu Temple in July 2013.
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