Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence and a devoted Krishna follower, finds strength and peace in the Bhagavad Gita. During her visit to India, she shared how her spiritual practice shapes her life and fuels her service-oriented mission. A distinguished US Army Reserve leader, Gabbard praised India’s culture and cuisine. Her visit includes participating in the Raisina Dialogue and strengthening India-US ties, following PM Modi’s US visit earlier this year, highlighting her commitment to global collaboration and unity.
Tulsi Gabbard, the United States Director of National Intelligence and a proud Hindu American, draws profound inspiration from her devotion to Lord Krishna. Deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Gabbard turns to Krishna’s wisdom during both triumphs and challenges, finding solace, strength, and guidance in his timeless lessons to Arjuna.
Currently on a visit to India, the 44-year-old high-ranking US official shared how her spiritual practice profoundly shapes her life. In an interview with ANI on March 17, amid a packed schedule of meetings, Gabbard emphasized the centrality of her personal relationship with God and how it fuels her purpose.
Reflecting on her spiritual journey and its role in her achievements, Gabbard remarked, “Well, my own personal spiritual practice, my personal relationship with God is the centre of my life and I do my very best every day to live a life that is pleasing to God and what better way to do that and to do my best to be of service to all of God’s children. And so in different times of my life, whether serving in war zones in different parts of the world or the challenges that we face now, it is Krishna’s teachings to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita that I turn to in the best of times and the worst of times and continuously learn critical lessons from Krishna to Arjuna that give me strength, that give me peace, that give me great comfort through all of the days.”
Gabbard, who is visiting India for the first time since assuming her position as Director of National Intelligence, also expressed her love for the country and its rich culture. She shared her delight at being in India, saying, “Let me just say I love so much about India. I always feel at home when I’m here. The people are so welcoming and kind and the food is always delicious. The Dal Makhani and anything with fresh paneer is delicious.”
A distinguished leader with over two decades of service in the US Army Reserve, Gabbard has risen to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and has been celebrated for her dedication, leadership, and strategic insight. Her current visit to India is part of a broader multi-nation tour, culminating in a keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue on March 18.
Gabbard’s visit follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to the US earlier this year in February. During that visit, PM Modi met with Gabbard and praised her as a “strong votary” of India-US relations. In return, Gabbard called it an “honour” to welcome the Prime Minister and expressed her enthusiasm for continuing to strengthen the bond between the two nations.
The 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, co-hosted by India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), sees Gabbard participating in a keynote conversation with ORF President Samir Saran. The event, which begins today, underscores Gabbard’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and dialogue.
Through her devotion to Krishna, her love for India, and her commitment to service, Tulsi Gabbard exemplifies the values of unity, spirituality, and leadership, bridging cultures and strengthening ties between nations.
Comments