NewKerala.com

Key Points

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto made a unique gesture at the United Nations by incorporating Sanskrit greetings into his speech. He started with "Om Swastiastu," a blessing from Bali, and ended with the universal peace chant. His central message was a powerful call for all religions to coexist as one human family. The speech also served as a strong defense of the United Nations' importance, directly contrasting with the criticism voiced by the previous speaker, Donald Trump.

Key Points: Prabowo Uses Sanskrit Greetings at UN to Call for Religious Harmony

  • Prabowo began his UN address with the Balinese Hindu greeting 'Om Swastiastu'
  • He concluded with the universal peace chant 'Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om'
  • His speech emphasized global religious harmony and human solidarity
  • He defended the UN's effectiveness, countering earlier criticism from US President Trump
2 min read

Indonesia's President includes Sanskrit greetings in his speech

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto opens and closes his UN speech with Sanskrit prayers, promoting global unity among all religions while defending the UN's role.

"Jews, Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, all religions we must live as one human family - Prabowo Subianto"

United Nations, Sep 23

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto started and ended his speech by including Sanskrit greetings while calling for harmony of all religions.

Starting his speech at the General Assembly on Tuesday, he included, in greeting the world leaders, “Om Swastiastu”, which is used in his country’s Hindu-majority island of Bali and is translated as “May you be blessed and protected".

And ended his speech by including, “Om Shanti Shanti, Shanti Om”, along with invocations from other religions.

"Jews, Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, all religions we must live as one human family,” he said.

“Indonesia is committed to being part of making this vision a reality. Is this a dream? Maybe, but this is the beautiful dream that we must work together towards,” he added.

Prabowa Subianto, who followed US President Donald Trump on the podium, countered his attacks on the UN, accusing it of being ineffective.

The Indonesian leader said, “In our struggle for independence, and our fight to overcome disease, hunger, and poverty, the UN stood with Indonesia and gave us vital assistance”.

“Decisions made here based on human solidarity — by the Security Council and this Assembly — gave Indonesia international legitimacy, opened doors, and supported our early development,” he said, naming various UN developmental agencies.

"And because of that, Indonesia stands today on the cusp of shared prosperity and greater equality,” he added.

Without naming the US or Trump, he directed criticism of the threats he issued to various nations and entities.

“No one country can bully the whole community of the human family,” he said.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
This is why Indonesia has always been special to us Indians. Their culture preserves so much of our shared heritage. Meanwhile, our own politicians rarely use Sanskrit in international forums.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see Sanskrit being used at the UN. Shows how language can bridge cultures. His message of religious harmony is much needed in today's world.
A
Ananya R
Respect for standing up against bullying tactics! Small countries need to support each other. The Sanskrit greetings added such spiritual depth to his message ✨
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the inclusive message, I wonder if using religious invocations at a political forum is appropriate. The UN should maintain secular neutrality in my opinion.
V
Vikram M
Bali's Hindu culture is indeed beautiful. This speech shows how Indonesia balances its Muslim majority with respect for all religions. India can learn from this example of true secularism.
K
Kavya N
Made me emotional! Our Sanskrit shlokas being spoken at the UN General Assembly. This is soft power at its best. Hope our PM also uses more of our ancient wisdom in international speeches.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50