Synopsis
Kash Patel's recent swearing-in as the FBI Director, taking an oath on the Bhagavad Gita, marks a historic moment for Hindu representation in American governance, eliciting widespread admiration from the global Hindu community. This event reflects his Indian heritage and the values of integrity and justice.Key Takeaways
- Kash Patel sworn in as FBI Director.
- Took oath on the Bhagavad Gita.
- First Hindu-Indian to lead the FBI.
- Event celebrated on social media by Hindus worldwide.
- Reflects significant cultural representation in American politics.
Washington, Feb 22 (NationPress) In a significant event, Kash Patel took the oath as the ninth director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) by placing his hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a move that garnered immense admiration from Hindus globally on Saturday.
The oath was administered by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who directed, "Place your hand on the Gita and raise your right hand."
Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, supported him by holding the Bhagavad Gita during the ceremony in the Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on Friday, with his family present. At 44, Patel becomes the first individual of Hindu-Indian and Asian descent to lead the FBI.
Social media buzzed with accolades as users celebrated Patel's choice to take his oath on the Bhagavad Gita, a cherished Hindu scripture that embodies principles of righteous leadership, justice, and moral strength -- qualities deemed vital for restoring confidence in the FBI.
A user expressed on X, "What a time to be alive. Krishna is now in charge."
Another remarked, "Kash Patel sworn in as FBI Director on the Bhagavad Gita -- A new era of leadership."
"In a historic moment for both American governance and Hindu representation, Kash Patel takes the oath of office as FBI Director, placing his hand on the Bhagavad Gita -- a symbol of duty, integrity, and unwavering resolve," another post stated.
Another user noted, "Kash Patel was sworn in as Director of the FBI on February 21, 2025. During the ceremony, he placed his hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture. This choice reflected his Indian heritage and personal beliefs."
Hindus worldwide expressed their pride, with one posting, "We Hindus love our religion. FBI Director Kash, pray for your success." Another added, "Sanatan values shine at the heart of America's intelligence! This is more than an oath -- it's a statement!"
Kash Patel is not the first Indian-American to be sworn in on the Gita. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam also did so, while Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu-American elected to the US House of Representatives, set the precedent.
Comparing Patel to Gabbard, a user remarked, "The new FBI Director, Kash Patel, took his oath on the Bhagavad Gita, following the example of Tulsi Gabbard."
Another user emphasized the cultural significance, stating, "Kash Patel, the new FBI Director, took an oath on the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, following in Tulsi Gabbard's footsteps, showcasing the importance of Indian culture and spirituality in American politics!"
Some users pointed out parallels with India, with one writing, "Kash Patel took an oath on the Bhagavad Gita -- what's stopping India from doing the same? India is a Hindu nation. The Bhagavad Gita is sacred to Hindus. This change needs to be initiated by the President of India."
Social media continued to buzz with excitement, with posts like, "He has not forgotten his roots & sanskar!!" and "Bhagavad Gita binds the hearts of Hindus together. This is proven once again as Kash Patel is sworn in as the 9th Director of the FBI, taking an oath on the sacred Hindu text of Bhagavad Gita."
One emotional post read, "My heart was full seeing Gita," while another noted, "Very few powerful world leaders remember their roots! Kash Patel is one of them. He took the oath on Bhagavad Gita, honoring his Indian roots, parents, and heritage. So proud of him. He joins the club of Rishi Sunak! Once again, Congrats Kash!"
Another post celebrated the significance of the moment, stating, "His oath on the Bhagavad Gita reflected his Indian heritage, symbolizing truth, duty, and justice -- values deeply embedded in both Hindu philosophy and law enforcement."
"This appointment marks a historic moment for Indian-Americans in US law enforcement and governance," another user added.
As Patel commenced his role at the FBI, supportive voices emerged, stating, "Sanatan Hi Satya Hain," "People Respect and Have Faith in Sanatan Dharma," and "Hindus and Hindutva rising globally."
A user remarked, "Mr Kash Patel took an oath as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on the Hindu holy book Bhagavad Gita. Congratulations, Mr Patel. Nothing gives more pride than respecting and celebrating one's own roots."
"A beautiful reminder that leadership is rooted in values, no matter the book," another posted.
Addressing the audience after being sworn in, Patel mentioned that the American dream is alive as a "first-generation Indian kid" is about to take charge of the FBI.
"I am living the American dream," Patel stated, standing before his sister Nisha Patel, girlfriend Alexis Wilkins, and other relatives.
Born to Hindu parents from Gujarat, Patel's family moved to the United States from Canada after fleeing Uganda to escape ethnic persecution.
His journey from a first-generation immigrant to the head of America's premier investigative agency marks a significant chapter in both American and Indian-American history.