A significant event is set to take place this Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York City, where Mohan Bhagwat, the leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), is scheduled to speak. This group is often viewed as the ideological backbone of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The event, named the “Universal Oneness Celebration,” aims to gather around 5,000 Indian American attendees, organized by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue.
However, the gathering has drawn backlash, including protests and a strong statement from New York City’s Mayor, who labeled the RSS’s ideology as exclusionary, saying it contradicts the city’s diverse values. Critics argue that the RSS promotes a vision of India that centers around Hindu nationalism, which some see as fostering discrimination against other communities, such as minorities.
The controversies surrounding the RSS are rooted in its historical connections. Critics point to the group’s long-standing association with the ideology of Hindutva, which emphasizes Hindu culture and values as central to Indian identity. The RSS has faced allegations regarding intolerance and human rights abuses, including hate crimes against minority communities and destruction of properties linked to those groups.
Additionally, this week, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom called for the U.S. government to consider sanctions against the RSS and urged the revocation of Bhagwat’s visa due to concerns over religious freedom violations in India. The Indian government quickly dismissed these comments, claiming the commission is biased.
The event organizers stated that the gathering showcases collaboration among over 200 Hindu American organizations and advocates for the idea of global unity as expressed in the Sanskrit phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “the world is one family.” They aim to highlight the teachings of the Hindu festival Rakshabandhan, which celebrates family ties, extending that message to communities and humanity at large.
Many interfaith groups have come together to express their opposition. Protesters, including members from various religious communities, gathered outside City Hall to call for the event’s cancellation, emphasizing that the RSS’s ideology does not reflect their values. Sunita Viswanath, from Hindus for Human Rights, mentioned that her organization is one of many expressing that the RSS does not represent them.
While some in the Indian American diaspora support the RSS and the BJP, there are notable divisions regarding these views. Some activists are planning to attend the event to protest, concerned about the rising influence of Hindu nationalism in the U.S.
Bhagwat’s visit has also raised suspicions of a public relations effort aimed at improving the image of the RSS. Observers note that he has softened some of his public statements recently. A spokesperson for the RSS indicated that Bhagwat intends to reach out to a diverse audience, aiming to foster dialogue and mutual respect.
Despite this, critics remain skeptical. Many believe the core Hindutva ideology of the RSS remains unchanged, expressing doubt about the sincerity of the organization’s outreach efforts.
