WATCH: Hindu Priest Rakesh Bhatt Opens DNC Day 3 with ‘Om Shanti’ and ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'

The third day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) took on a spiritual dimension with a Hindu prayer led by priest Rakesh Bhatt. His prayer embraced the theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning “the whole world is one family.” This prayer, spoken first in Sanskrit and then translated to English, highlighted global unity and peace, striking a chord with the large crowd of Kamala Harris supporters gathered at the United Center in Chicago. The moment seamlessly led into the national anthem, symbolizing unity and reflection among the diverse audience.

Who is Rakesh Bhatt?

Rakesh Bhatt, a priest at the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland, originally hails from Bengaluru, India. He is a Madhwa priest trained in Rig Veda and Tantrasaara Agama under the guidance of his guru, Pejavar Swamiji of Udupi Ashta Matha. Fluent in several languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, English, Tulu, and Sanskrit, Bhatt holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Sanskrit, English, and Kannada. He studied at Osteen College in Bengaluru for English and Kannada and at Jaychamarajendra College for Sanskrit. After serving in Udupi Ashta Matha and briefly working at Badrinath and Raghavendra Swami Koil in Salem, Bhatt joined Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in July 2013.During his prayer at the DNC, Bhatt said, “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.”

#WATCH | Chicago, US: Hindu prayers being held at the stage as day 3 of the Democratic National Convention begins. pic.twitter.com/DL0B7RHyeK

— ANI (@ANI) August 22, 2024

Cultural Significance

Ajay Bhutoria, Deputy National Finance Chair of the Democratic Party, called Bhatt’s prayer a significant moment. He praised the party’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that this event showcased the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of the Indian American community. “This moment reflects the growing influence and recognition of our community within the fabric of American society,” Bhutoria said.

Oprah Winfrey to Take the Stage at DNC

On the same day, reports indicated that Oprah Winfrey would be making an appearance at the DNC to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris in her campaign for the presidency. Oprah, who has previously supported both Barack Obama in 2008 and Hillary Clinton in 2016, is set to take the stage just before Minnesota Governor Tim Walz accepts the Democratic vice presidential nomination. Former President Bill Clinton is also scheduled to speak on the same day.

Record-Breaking Viewership

The DNC has drawn significant public attention, with former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama setting a viewership record on the second day of the convention. According to Nielsen data, 20.6 million viewers tuned in, surpassing the first day’s audience of 20 million.

The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is a major political event held every four years in the United States by the Democratic Party. The purpose of the convention is to formally nominate the party’s candidates for President and Vice President, adopt the party platform (a set of principles and policies the party stands for), and rally party members ahead of the general election.

The convention serves as a way for the Democratic Party to unite its members, showcase its leaders, and present its vision for the country to voters. It typically includes speeches from prominent party figures, including the sitting president (if applicable), former presidents, and other influential leaders.