Tulsi Gabbard, the newly confirmed Director of National Intelligence (DNI), has made history in multiple ways. As the chief intelligence officer of the United States, she now oversees 18 intelligence agencies, including the CIA and NSA, and serves as the principal intelligence advisor to the president. Beyond the political implications of her appointment, there has been renewed curiosity about her background, particularly whether she is of Indian origin.
The quick answer is no because Tula Gabbard is certainly a descendant of India. She was born in a different home in American Samoa. Her father, Mike Gabbard, is of Samoan and German heritage, while her mother, Carol Porter Gabbard, is of European history. Despite her lack of Indian heritage, she has a well-documented relationship to Hinduism, a belief that is mostly associated with the Indian continent.
In both her personal and political career, Gabbard’s religious descent into Hinduism has had a significant impact. She was raised in a mixed-faith family and became interested in Hindu philosophy when she was a teenager, especially the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings. Over time, she aligned herself with the Vaishnava traditions, which emphasizes passion to Krishna. Her strong devotion to Hinduism has been evident throughout her career. She has frequently spoken about the karma yoga ( selfless action ) and bhakti yoga ( devotion ) principles in public spaces.
However, her religious beliefs have sparked controversy, especially regarding her admitted affiliations with Chris Butler’s SIF, a non-religious business. SIF, generally described as an outgrowth of the Hare Krishna action, has been criticized for its cult-like architecture and strict obedience to Butler’s lessons. Gabbard’s youth connection with the group, along with her mother’s presence, has led to debate about Butler’s impact on her political career. According to critics, her affiliation with SIF may raise questions about discrimination or physical influence in her capacity as DNI, where impartiality and independence are key.
Despite these accusations, Gabbard has attempted to distance herself from SIF, claiming that she does not adhere to Butler’s doctrines and rather practices as a Vaishnava Hindu. Her followers argue that her religious convictions shouldn’t be taken into account, especially when some British politicians boldly practice their beliefs.
Gabbard’s nomination as DNI is groundbreaking because she is the second Hindu to hold the position and because of her unconventional political trajectory. She afterwards joined liberal organizations and supported Donald Trump as a former Democratic congresswoman. Her foreign policy positions frequently put her at conflict with both big parties, including her willingness to engage with autocratic rulers and her condemnation of US meddling.
Gabbard faces major difficulties as she assumes the position of Director of National Intelligence, including mistrust from politicians on both sides of the aisle. Although her American connection is still more spiritual than hereditary, her leadership in the intelligence sector will be carefully monitored, especially given the ongoing investigation of her previous affiliations.
