US-based Hindu group praises Obama for his remark on religions

US president Barack Obama drew appreciation and expression of gratitude from a US-based Hindu group for his inaugural speech where he mentioned Hindus along with Christians, Jews and Muslims who form part of this "great nation.

"His words provide us with hope that the Hindu American voice will not only be heard but valued," Hindu American Foundation's Director of Development Sheetal Shah said.

"We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus -- and non-believers," Obama said on Tuesday in his speech after taking oath as America's 44th president. He also urged fellow Americans to user in an era of responsibility.

Shah said that foundation would continue to reach out to the new (Obama) administration and provide a voice for Hindu American community.

It had sent a letter to Obama and his transition team providing "concrete suggestions" to foster unity in diversity in the new era, Shah said in a statement.