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Why is India’s nationalist RSS holding an event in New York?

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-28

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization from India, is holding a controversial event in New York featuring its leader, Mohan Bhagwat, who is expected to deliver a keynote address. • Why it matters: The event has sparked protests and calls for Bhagwat's visa to be revoked, highlighting tensions over the RSS's influence and its promotion of Hindu nationalism, which critics argue could exacerbate divisive narratives and undermine secularism in India. • What to watch next: The reactions to the event from both supporters and opponents will provide insight into the ongoing debates surrounding nationalism, cultural identity, and the role of the Indian diaspora in shaping political narratives.

**Title: India's Nationalist RSS Hosts Event in New York Amid Controversy**

In a notable event scheduled for this week, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a prominent Hindu nationalist organization in India, is set to hold a gathering in New York. This event has garnered significant attention and controversy, particularly due to the presence of the organization's leader, Mohan Bhagwat, who is expected to deliver a keynote address.

The RSS, founded in 1925, has been a pivotal force in shaping Hindu nationalist ideology in India. It has been associated with various political movements and parties, notably the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which currently governs India. The organization promotes a vision of India that emphasizes Hindu culture and values, often leading to accusations of exclusionary practices against religious minorities.

Bhagwat's visit to the United States has sparked protests and calls for his visa to be revoked from various groups, including human rights advocates and members of the Indian diaspora who oppose the RSS's ideology. Critics argue that the RSS's expansion into the U.S. could further promote divisive narratives and undermine the secular fabric of Indian society.

Supporters of the RSS, however, argue that the organization's presence in the U.S. is a legitimate effort to connect with the Indian diaspora and promote cultural ties. They assert that the event is an opportunity for the community to engage with their heritage and foster a sense of unity among Indians abroad.

The event in New York is part of a broader strategy by the RSS to increase its influence and visibility outside India. As the Indian diaspora continues to grow, particularly in the United States, the RSS aims to establish a foothold in these communities, promoting its vision of Hindu nationalism on a global scale.

As the date of the event approaches, the discourse surrounding it highlights the complexities of identity, nationalism, and the role of diaspora communities in shaping political narratives both in their home countries and abroad. The gathering is expected to draw both supporters and opponents, reflecting the polarized views on the RSS and its impact on Indian society and politics.

In conclusion, the RSS's event in New York serves as a focal point for discussions about nationalism, cultural identity, and the influence of diaspora communities in contemporary political contexts. As the organization seeks to expand its reach, the reactions it elicits will likely continue to shape the narrative around Hindu nationalism both in India and among Indian communities worldwide.

Source: Al Jazeera
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