In a historic ceremony, Kash Patel was sworn in as the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) ninth director by putting his hand on the Bhagavad Gita, an action that attracted much praise from Hindus all over the world on Saturday.
Attorney General Pam Bondi presided over the swearing-in ceremony, directing Patel to "Place your hand on the Gita and raise your right hand."
At the Friday ceremony in the Indian Treaty Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Patel held the holy book as he swore in, supported by his family. Patel was 44, making him the first Hindu-Indian and Asian to head the FBI.
His decision to swear on the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu text that is famous for its message of righteousness, duty, and justice, echoed widely on social media. Most users interpreted this as an expression of the values required to re-establish public confidence in the FBI.
A user on X spoke about how excited they were, saying, "What a time to be alive. Krishna is now in charge."
Another user wrote, "Kash Patel sworn in as FBI Director on the Bhagavad Gita — A new era of leadership."
"In a historic moment for American governance and Hindu representation, Kash Patel is sworn in as FBI Director, laying his hand on the Bhagavad Gita — a testament to duty, integrity, and unshakeable resolve," another posting read.
Another user pointed out the importance of the moment, saying, "Kash Patel was sworn in as FBI Director on February 21, 2025. He placed his hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu text, during the ceremony. This was a reflection of his Indian background and personal faith."
It ignited pride among the Hindus around the world, one commenting: "We Hindus love our religion. FBI Director Kash, pray for your success." Another said: "Sanatan values shine at the heart of America's intelligence! This is more than an oath — it's a statement!"
Patel is not the first Indian-American to be sworn in on the Bhagavad Gita. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam did before him, having followed the lead of Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu-American to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Making comparisons, one user said, "The new FBI Director, Kash Patel, took his oath on the Bhagavad Gita, following the example of Tulsi Gabbard."
Another post highlighted the cultural significance of the moment: "Kash Patel, the new FBI Director, swore in on the Bhagavad Gita, a holy Hindu text, following Tulsi Gabbard, highlighting the prominence of Indian culture and spirituality in US politics!"
Others drew a comparison to India, with one stating, "Kash Patel took oath on the Bhagavad Gita — what's stopping India from doing the same? India is a Hindu nation. The Bhagavad Gita is holy to Hindus. This change should be brought about by the President of India."
Excitement remained high on social media with updates like, "He has not forgotten his roots & sanskar!!" and "Bhagavad Gita unites the hearts of Hindus. This is proved again as Kash Patel is sworn in as the 9th FBI Director, administering oath on the holy Hindu book of Bhagavad Gita."
One of the emotional posts was, *My heart was full seeing Gita*, and another said, *Very few powerful world leaders remember their roots! Kash Patel is one of them. He took the oath on Bhagavad Gita, respecting his Indian roots, parents, and heritage. So proud of him. He joins the club of Rishi Sunak! Once again, Congrats Kash!*
One user emphasized the importance of Patel's move by saying, "His oath on the Bhagavad Gita was a reflection of his Indian background, representing truth, duty, and justice — values deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and law enforcement."
"This appointment is a milestone moment for Indian-Americans in US law enforcement and government," another user pointed out.
As Patel took over at the FBI, congratulatory messages kept streaming in, with netizens posting, "Sanatan Hi Satya Hain," "People Respect and Have Faith in Sanatan Dharma," and "Hindus and Hindutva rising globally."
One user wrote about their pride, saying, "Mr. Kash Patel was sworn in as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on the Hindu sacred book Bhagavad Gita. Congratulations, Mr. Patel. Nothing brings more pride than honoring and celebrating one's own heritage."
"A wonderful reminder that leadership is based on values, regardless of the book," another user commented.
After the ceremony, Patel spoke to the crowd, pointing out that his experience was a testament to the long-standing promise of the American dream.
"I am living the American dream," Patel said, flanked by his sister Nisha Patel, girlfriend Alexis Wilkins, and other family members.
Born to Hindu parents from Gujarat, Patel's family immigrated to the U.S. from Canada after leaving Uganda to avoid ethnic persecution.
His inspiring odyssey—from a first-generation immigrant to the chief of one of America's most influential investigative agencies—is a landmark achievement in both American and Indian-American history.
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