Controversy over India Day Parade Float in NYC

A float celebrating the Ram Mandir, a Hindu temple built on the site of a demolished mosque in India, is facing backlash ahead of the India Day Parade in New York City. The Indian American Muslim Council and various faith-based organizations have urged parade organizers to remove the float, arguing that it symbolizes the glorification of violence against Muslims and the destruction of their places of worship. They describe the float as a celebration of anti-Muslim sentiment rather than a cultural display. Despite the criticism, parade organizers have defended the float, asserting that it commemorates a significant religious landmark for millions of Hindus. Ankur Vaidya, chairman of the Federation of Indian Associations, emphasized the importance of the temple to the Hindu community while denouncing violence and hate in any form. He highlighted this year’s parade theme, “Vasudev Kutumbakam,” which translates to “the world is one family,” promoting a message of unity. The India Day Parade, now in its 42nd year, celebrates India's independence and showcases the cultural diversity of the Indian community, including representations from various faiths. New York City Mayor Eric Adams has expressed his commitment to inclusivity, stating that there is “no room for hate” in the city. His office noted that the First Amendment protects the right to free expression, making it difficult to alter or remove the float based solely on its controversial message. As the parade approaches, the debate continues, reflecting broader tensions surrounding religious identity and nationalism in both India and the diaspora.