RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is set to address the Universal Oneness Celebration at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. The event has drawn criticism from New York officials and human rights groups over the organisation's alleged links to Hindu nationalism.
Event details and organiser background
The Universal Oneness Celebration is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Madison Square Garden in New York. It is organised by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue Forum, a nonprofit registered in 2025. The group lists leaders with documented connections to the RSS and its overseas affiliate, the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, according to filings reviewed by Al Jazeera and reports from Savera.
Opposition from local officials and activists
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated he does not support the gathering and described the RSS ideology as exclusionary. Hindus for Human Rights issued a statement asserting that Bhagwat represents an extremist movement rather than the broader Hindu community. Critics point to past bans on the RSS in India and recent increases in reported hate speech targeting religious minorities.
RSS history and current activities
The RSS was founded in 1925 and promotes Hindutva, a vision that prioritises Hindu identity in Indian public life. It maintains a network of affiliated organisations and has faced repeated accusations of involvement in violence against minorities. The group has increased outreach in Western countries in recent years to improve its international image.
Financial and registration details of AHEAD Forum
Internal Revenue Service records show AHEAD Forum reported $61,409 in revenue for its first fiscal year, all from contributions. Directors listed include individuals who previously held roles in RSS-linked groups. The organisation changed its registered address after investigative reports highlighted earlier ties.
Expert perspectives on the event
Delhi University professor Apoorvanand told Al Jazeera that references to unity at the event refer specifically to Hindu unity directed against other communities. He noted the RSS's efforts to build alliances with right-wing networks abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Who is organising the Universal Oneness Celebration?
The event is organised by AHEAD Forum, a US nonprofit whose leaders have documented connections to the RSS and related groups.
Why are activists opposing the event?
Opponents cite the RSS's history of promoting Hindu majoritarianism and its alleged role in violence against religious minorities in India.
Has the RSS been banned before?
Yes, the RSS was banned multiple times in India, including after the 1948 assassination of Mahatma Gandhi by a former member.
What is the RSS's stated goal for the event?
RSS representatives describe the gathering as an interfaith dialogue promoting universal oneness and cultural exchange.
Where will the event take place?
The event is scheduled at Madison Square Garden in New York from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm local time on Saturday.
Key takeaways
- Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to speak at Madison Square Garden on Saturday.
- Organisers of the event have documented ties to the RSS according to public records.
- New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and several human rights groups have publicly opposed the gathering.
- The RSS promotes Hindutva and has faced accusations of contributing to minority persecution in India.
- AHEAD Forum reported modest revenue in its first year as a registered nonprofit.
