A float depicting a controversial Hindu temple planned for the upcoming India Day Parade on the streets of New York City has drawn criticism, with several groups calling it “anti-Islamic.”
The float features the Ram Mandir – a large pink sandstone temple built for the Hindu god Ram in the holy city of Ayodhya. The temple was built on the ruins of the 16th century Babri Mosque, which was destroyed by Hindu nationalist mobs in 1992.
The temple, which was consecrated and opened by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2024, remains a controversial topic and for some a bitter reminder of the violent bloodshed in 1992.
What did the groups say?
The Council on American Islamic Relations, the Indian American Muslim Council and Hindus for Human Rights were among the groups that signed a letter to New York Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul, saying the float glorified the demolition of the mosque.
“The presence of this float represents the desire of these groups to blend Hindu nationalist ideology with Indian identity, but India is a secular country,” the letter said. “This is not just a cultural display, but a vulgar celebration of anti-Muslim vitriol, bigotry and religious superiority.”
The Hindu American Foundation, however, said it was an exercise of free speech.
Meanwhile, the Federation of Indian Associations – the event’s organiser – said the float celebrates the inauguration of a landmark significant to Hindus. The parade represents the country’s diversity and will include floats from different Indian communities.
What did the mayor say?
Mayor Adam’s office said earlier this week that there was “no place for hate,” but the freedom of speech enshrined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits the city from revoking the permit or ordering changes to the float.
His office later said he had not planned to attend the event, although he had done so in recent years.
The India Day Parade in New York City has been held every year for over two decades to celebrate India’s independence from the British on August 15, 1947.
mk/msh (Reuters, AP)
