For the first time since its inception in 1864, the Nevada State Assembly heard Hindu prayers in Sanskrit at the opening of its session.

Wearing traditional saffron coloured robes and a rudraksh rosary, Director of Public Affairs of Hindu Temple of Northern Nevada Rajan Zed invoked blessings on Monday for successful conclusion of the session.

Zed started with the Gayatri Mantra from Rig-Veda, considered the oldest holy book.

Keeping with the Legislature tradition of offering inspiration, reflection, and encouragement, he read the next prayer from Brhadaranyakopanisad, reciting in Sanskrit.

The last part of the prayer was from Bhagavad-Gita.

Sweets were distributed on the occasion by local Hindu volunteers.

Besides people from the area's Hindu community; priests from various Christian denominations like Presbyterian, Episcopal, Pentecostal, Church of Christ and activists from Satyachetana International and World Peace and Divine Mission also attended the prayers.