Emergence of Hindu Chaplaincy

A Chaplain is an individual who has education in theology and is certified to provide spiritual care in a non-religious setting. While traditional religious leaders conduct religious services and are often attached to a specific congregation or house of worship, chaplains administer care to individuals and families in times of crises in hospitals, nursing homes, educational institutions and the military. Because chaplains are based in a community rather than a place of worship, they may be trained to minister to all faiths and can lead non-denominational religious services to benefit individuals from diverse spiritual backgrounds. The chaplain's concern is to help the individual overcome a specific problem or work through a traumatic situation by providing compassionate care to maintain spiritual and emotional health.

America's Hindu population has been steadily rising making Hinduism the fourth-largest faith in the United States. The Hindu community is now actively engaged in all walks of professional sectors in the U.S., including chaplaincy. In Hindu traditions, the goal is to understand the nature of the self, thereby allowing humans to remain at peace despite life's many agitations. Hinduism's most widely read scripture, the Bhagavad Gita, the teachings of Sri Krishna, can help individuals face grief and loss with fortitude.

As the United States becomes more religiously diverse and pluralistic, it may be a challenge for chaplains to successfully minister to those of other faiths. The Hindu teaching ekam sad vipra bahudhā vadanty (Rig Veda 1.164.46) "Truth is One, Paths (Descriptions) are Many," provides a natural freedom for Hindu chaplains to easily incorporate different religious beliefs and traditions when providing spiritual care.

Hinduism comprises multiple sampradayas (religious traditions) and emphasizes respect for this diversity. Because Hindu chaplains have a pluralistic cultural heritage, they are able to remain open minded in an interreligious environment. In addition, Hinduism's core emphasis on service (seva) enables the practitioner to meet others' needs selflessly.

Nandita Bhatnagar

CHT Scholar

Nandita Bhatnagar, a current CHT scholar, is a clinical biochemist, working as VP in a medical device company. She has been part of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) and contributes to interfaith work. She serves on the Editorial Board of Conservation Times focused on eco-preservation. Her extended families enjoy Hindu practices and serve communities with love.