Indian-American priest performs invocation for Virginia House of Delegates

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Richmond, Virginia: At the invitation of Virginia House Delegate, Kannan Srinivasan, representing the 26^th House District, Indian-American priest Krishnamachar Archakam of the Vedic Temple of Virginia in Sterling, performed invocation for the House of Delegates on February 28, 2024, at the State Capitol.

As Priest Archakam recited Sanskrit verses from Hindu scriptures ahead of the House session, House Delegates along with Speaker Don Scott, rose and observed silence.

After completing his recitation, priest Archakam read the English translation of the verses. He said, “May the rulers of the earth protect the well-being of the people, irrespective of race, creed, and religion. May they protect this earth with justice, by means of the right path irrespective of their ideology. May there always be good fortune for all living beings.

May all the inhabitants of the world be full of happiness. We pray for the welfare, peace, and prosperity of the United States with the collective effort of all the esteemed delegates. May there be prosperity to all mankind.”

While introducing Priest Archakam on the House Floor, Delegate Srinivasan, who was sworn-in on January 20^th as the first Indian-American immigrant in the House, said “Priest Krishnamachar came to America in 1998. With his 25 years of experience in Hindu religious services in India, he is a master of Veda and Hindu scriptures. His tenure includes services at temples in India, Maryland, New York, and Virginia,” as House Delegates gave a thunderous welcome to the Priest.

Srinivasan further noted that priest Archakam, a teacher in spiritual services, is proficient in multiple languages and traditions, and is a strong believer of “Unity in Diversity.” He is a great mentor and is dedicated to guiding the Hindu community. The Vedic temple is a pioneering spiritual center for Northern Virginia’s Hindu community, and it supports various cultural activities like music and dance, he added.

Srinivasan told News India Times, “The selection of Sanskrit verses from Vedas and Upanishads by Priest Archakam focused on the good governance and welfare of people.”

“I am so happy to do the invocation today. I thank Delegate Kannan Srinivasan for giving me this opportunity. I am grateful to the Members for appreciating my spiritual wisdom. It was a memorable and uplifting experience for everyone present,” Priest Archakam told News India Times.

Priest Archakam mentioned that he previously conducted an invocation for the VA House of Delegates in 2020, at the invitation of then House Delegate Suhas Subramanyam, who currently serves as a State Senator. Additionally, in 2017, Priest Archakam also led an invocation at the US Capitol during Diwali celebrations.