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Tulsi Gabbard has made history by becoming the
Director of National Intelligence
(DNI) of the United States, marking a significant milestone as the first Hindu to hold the position. Her confirmation by the Senate in a 52-48 vote has sparked widespread reactions, particularly from the Hindu-American community.
Hindu-Americans have warmly welcomed Gabbard’s appointment to one of the most influential intelligence roles in the US government under President Donald Trump. Many view it as a proud moment, not just for her, but for the community at large.
Suhag Shukla
, a Hindu-American, took to X to express her excitement. “Confirmed! Tulsi Gabbard is our country’s DNI!” she posted. She also reflected on the challenges Gabbard faced on her journey, stating, “Even as we savour this, never forget how she won. In the midst of a despicable, coordinated smear campaign over her faith, her guru & supposed dual loyalty to India, Tulsi never sought to conceal her
Hindu identity
. She doubled down. Tulsi just said to us, ‘let’s meet at the mandir!’ And she did.”
Various Hindu organisations have extended their support, highlighting Gabbard’s deep-rooted Hindu beliefs and values.
ISKCON
(International Society for Krishna Consciousness) praised her appointment, hoping that her foundation in Vaishnava teachings would guide her in the role. “We pray that Tulsi Gabbard’s experience in government, along with her foundation in Vaishnavism—selfless service, determination, care for others, equality, tolerance, humility, and integrity—will help her succeed,” said Anuttama Dasa, ISKCON’s global minister of communications.
BAPS Public Affairs
, representing one of the largest Hindu organisations in the US, recalled her visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, emphasising the significance of her journey. “Congratulations to Tulsi Gabbard on her confirmation as the Director of National Intelligence. As the first Hindu American in Congress and a proud representative of her heritage, her journey continues to inspire many. We wish her success in this new role.” the organisation posted on X.
The Hindu American Foundation also celebrated her appointment, posting: “Congratulations Tulsi Gabbard. The first Hindu American Member of Congress, a soldier, a patriot and now our Director of National Intelligence!”
Hindu identity and public life
Gabbard’s spiritual journey is a key part of her identity. Raised in a multifaith household, she was introduced to
Hinduism
at an early age and developed a strong connection to its philosophy, particularly the teachings of the
Bhagavad Gita
. Her mother, Carol Porter Gabbard, embraced Hinduism and passed on the spiritual influence to her children, all of whom have Hindu names—Bhakti, Jai, Aryan, Tulsi, and Vrindavan.
She has maintained close ties with Hindu institutions over the years. She has visited ISKCON temples in Honolulu and New Delhi, spoken at the 2019 LA Ratha Yatra during her presidential campaign, and was the keynote speaker at ISKCON’s 50th Anniversary Gala in Washington, DC, in 2016.
