Harmeet Dhillon Performs Sikh Ardas Prayer at GOP Convention with Trump

July 16 :
In the presence of former US President Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention on July 16, an Indian American lawyer named Harmeet Dhillon, who had previously served as Republican Vice Chairperson, recited the Ardas, a Sikh prayer. Dhillon blasted the assault on Trump as "heinous," saying that it prompted everyone to look for solace and explanations.

Everybody, I'm grateful. We have prayed more than in any other 48-hour period in our life over the last 48 hours. Immigrant Sikhs are my ancestors. In the presence of my fellow Republicans and visitors here tonight, I am privileged to offer a prayer from my religious tradition, which is followed by more than 25 million people across the globe. As a sign of reverence, we pray with our heads covered.

Immigrant Dhillon prayed the "Ardas," a Sikh prayer for protection, because his family was Sikh. As a respectful gesture before her presentation, she was observed concealing her head. "We recite the Ardas prayer before any new endeavour, giving thanks to God and asking for his protection and help to uphold the values of humility, truth, courage, service, and justice for all," according to her.

The United States of America, she said, was "heaven on Earth," and she prayed for happiness for the voting public. We give thanks to you, Vaheguru, the one true God, for making the United States of America a special place where people can practice their religion without persecution. We beg you to look down on our dear nation and provide it direction and blessings. In the approaching election, may our people be blessed with discernment to cast their ballots. She prayed that God would bless the election officials with modesty, candor, wisdom, and integrity. With folded hands, bowed heads, and closed eyes, a number of other delegates joined Dhillon in his moving prayer.

We appreciate President Trump's 'Chardikala' spirit and want to express our gratitude for it. That is the kind of positive, can-do attitude that, like a founding father from centuries past, keeps going even when things go tough. Dear God, we are grateful that you spared his life. We are grateful to him for exemplifying 'nirbhay,' bravery, and 'nirvir,' non-hatred in the face of animosity. "May these instances of remarkable serenity serve as inspiration to us," she prayed.

Last but not least, she prayed for peace on Earth. May your name be forever lifted up in glory, bringing joy and benefits to all people so that they may thrive and experience the tranquility that comes from you. Ending her statement, she expressed her gratitude.