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US faith leaders say New York event organisers did not tell them about Mohan Bhagwat link
India🏛️ PoliticsCenter9/7/2026

US faith leaders say New York event organisers did not tell them about Mohan Bhagwat link

Two U.S. religious leaders, Adriene Thorne and Shamsi Ali, expressed regret over attending an event in New York where Mohan Bhagwat, head of the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), spoke. They claimed they were not informed by the organizers that Bhagwat would be the main speaker, despite being invited under the premise of an interfaith gathering. Thorne described herself as 'duped' and called her participation a 'terrible mistake,' while Ali referred to his attendance as a 'serious error in judgment.' Both criticized the organizers for withholding key information about the RSS's involvement and the nature of the event. The American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue Forum, one of the organizers, is described as a nonprofit promoting civic engagement. Ali further criticized Bhagwat's message of peace as insincere, citing concerns about minority rights in India.

Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of India’s Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), faced a series of challenges during his high-profile visit to the United States in late August 2026. His planned address at Madison Square Garden in New York, part of the RSS’s centenary-year global outreach, drew both support and fierce opposition. Shortly before the event, the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD) Forum, the organisation hosting the gathering, reported that its X (formerly Twitter) account had been suspended for several hours. According to the group, the suspension was orchestrated by “misguided opponents” attempting to manipulate the platform’s algorithm to block the account. The account was eventually restored following intervention from X’s support team, prompting AHEAD to express gratitude for the swift resolution. Bhagwat arrived in the U.S. on August 22, 2026, as part of a broader trip that included visits to Canada and the United Kingdom. His New York schedule included meetings with members of the Indian diaspora, Indian-American business leaders, and community representatives. Prior to the Madison Square Garden event, Bhagwat visited the ISKCON temple in New York, where he participated in a food distribution initiative for the homeless. His presence in the city was marked by a large billboard in Times Square displaying his image alongside the message “Resolve, Harmony and Dialogue.” The event, titled “Universal Oneness Celebrations,” aimed to highlight the concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, the world as one family, and was framed as a “landmark Raksha Bandhan gathering.” The gathering attracted approximately 5,000 attendees, including Indian-Americans and Hindu non-residents. Cultural performances, speeches, and discussions on universal oneness formed the core of the event. Despite the organisational focus on inclusivity and unity, the event sparked significant controversy. Opposition to Bhagwat’s visit came from multiple quarters. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) had previously called for sanctions against the RSS and urged the Trump administration to revoke Bhagwat’s visa. The commission raised concerns about alleged violence against religious minorities in India and the RSS’s alleged role in fostering an environment hostile to religious plurality. These concerns were echoed by several U.S.-based Hindu groups, including Hindus for Human Rights, the Indian American Muslim Council, and the Dalit Solidarity Forum. These groups issued an open letter condemning the event and stating that the RSS and its ideology of Hindutva do not represent them. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, himself an Indian-American, publicly opposed the event, describing the RSS as promoting an “exclusionary vision” of India. Although he acknowledged the city’s limited authority to cancel a private event, he expressed deep reservations about the ideology behind it. Meanwhile, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs dismissed USCIRF’s criticisms, accusing the body of bias against India and of operating with “own agendas.” Despite the controversy, Bhagwat addressed the audience at Madison Square Garden on August 29, 2026. In his speech, he reiterated his long-standing position that a Hindu Rashtra (nation) cannot exist without Muslims and that Hindutva embraces universal brotherhood. He emphasized that anyone who believes Muslims should not be part of India does not understand the true meaning of Hinduism. He also highlighted the importance of protecting diversity while promoting unity, stating that “diversity is the rule of nature” and “unity is a universal truth.” The event also saw a counter-protest outside Madison Square Garden, where over 60 interfaith and secular organisations gathered to oppose the gathering. Protesters argued that the RSS and its affiliated groups have been responsible for violence against religious minorities in India. Some protesters were joined by local politicians, including New York’s Brad Lander, who had attended previous demonstrations against Bhagwat’s talks. Following the event, a coalition of nearly 90 U.S. politicians pledged not to accept political contributions from entities linked to the RSS. Among the signatories were prominent figures such as Rep. Ro Khanna of California and Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington. Khanna, in particular, returned a $6,600 donation he had received from a donor with ties to the RSS, citing concerns about the influence of the organisation on U.S. elections. The controversy surrounding Bhagwat’s visit underscores the complex dynamics between India’s political and social movements and the global diaspora. While the RSS continues to expand its reach internationally, it faces mounting criticism from within and outside India over its perceived stance toward religious minorities. The event in New York, despite its emphasis on unity, has become a focal point of debate over the RSS’s ideology and its implications for religious freedom and pluralism.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 5 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

7 reports

The Indian Express logoThe Indian ExpressIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 709/7/2026
‘Before Switzerland, films were made in Kashmir’: Omar Abdullah hopes festival brings shoots back

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed hope that the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK), held in Srinagar, would revive interest in filming in the region and create local jobs. He remarked that Kashmir was historically a popular location for film production before locations like Switzerland became more common. Abdullah also discussed ongoing tensions with the central government, including issues related to statehood, business regulations, and reservations. Additionally, he raised concerns about threats against Kashmiri Pandit government employees and criticized the recent demolition of a mosque in Saharanpur, suggesting the decision was influenced by religious considerations. He called on the central government to align actions with the rhetoric of RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat, who emphasized inclusivity in India.

Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights criticism of the central government's policies and actions, particularly regarding religious discrimination and the treatment of minority communities. It frames the central government as inconsistent with its stated values, especially referencing RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat's pro

Why factuality (85): The article reports statements made by Omar Abdullah during the IFFJK festival, which aligns with the cross-source consensus that he expressed hope for bringing film shoots back to Kashmir. It mentions his meeting with Amit Shah and addresses security concerns, which are common themes in coverage of

Why objectivity (70): The article presents Omar Abdullah's statements but frames them within the context of broader political and security issues. While it remains largely neutral, it includes some emotionally charged language regarding security threats and historical violence, which may slightly skew the narrative towar

India Today logoIndia TodayIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 659/3/2026
Why not to other Hindus? Farooq Abdullah calls threats to Kashmiri Pandits a plot

Farooq Abdullah, the National Conference chief, alleges that threats targeting Kashmiri Pandits are part of a conspiracy by the Union Territory's administration aimed at creating fear and preventing Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. His claims contrast with those of his son, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who holds a different stance. The BJP criticized Abdullah for allegedly supporting terrorism and downplaying the suffering of Kashmiri Hindus. Security agencies suspect the United Liberation Council (ULC), linked to Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), is responsible for threatening Pandit employees. The controversy coincides with reopened cases of past violence against Kashmiri Pandits and recent diplomatic visits highlighting improved security in the region.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Farooq Abdullah's allegations as potentially supportive of terrorism, aligning with the BJP's criticism. It emphasizes the threat to Kashmiri Pandits as a broader issue tied to statehood and security, using strong language to suggest a conspiracy. The focus on 'pro-terror mindset'

Why factuality (85): The article reports Farooq Abdullah's allegations about threats to Kashmiri Pandits being a plot by the administration, and mentions the BJP's response. It references the United Liberation Council (ULC) as suspected to be linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), though this connection is not independently v

Why objectivity (65): The article presents both Farooq Abdullah's claims and the BJP's rebuttal, but frames the narrative around the political conflict between the National Conference and the BJP. There is some editorializing in the BJP's accusation of 'soft support to terrorists,' which carries a charged tone. The artic

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 80Objective 758/29/2026
Live: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Says He Was Asked "What About Muslims?" His Reply

The article mentions that the RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat, is scheduled to address approximately 5,000 attendees at an event in Manhattan described as a 'landmark Raksha Bandhan gathering.' The headline references a previous statement by Bhagwat where he was asked a question regarding Muslims, though the specific content of his reply is not detailed in the provided text.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about an event involving a prominent political figure without overtly endorsing or criticizing the stance taken during the event. It focuses on the logistics of the gathering rather than the ideological implications of the remarks made by the RSS chief.

Why factuality (80): The article provides accurate information about Bhagwat's arrival in the US and the event's description, aligning with the primary source. It mentions the RSS's centenary-year program and the event's significance, though it lacks detailed context about the X account issue and the criticisms faced.

Why objectivity (75): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting factual information about the event and Bhagwat's activities without overt bias. It focuses on the event's logistics and background, avoiding strong editorializing.

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 70Objective 608/31/2026
India A "Vishwaguru, Not A Mahashakti": RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat In Toronto

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated during a speech in Toronto that India should aspire to be a 'Vishwaguru', a global guide, rather than merely a 'Mahashakti,' or a great power. He highlighted historical and contemporary instances where India has played a role in addressing international humanitarian challenges, emphasizing the country's potential to lead through wisdom and moral authority rather than military or economic dominance.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a statement by a high-profile political figure (Mohan Bhagwat, leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a right-wing organization) without overtly endorsing or criticizing his views. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the content of his remarks rather than taking a clear

Why factuality (70): The article mentions Mohan Bhagwat's comments on India's role in international affairs. However, it is unrelated to the primary source document, which focuses on Ro Khanna and Modi's visit to the US in 2023. The content is accurate within its own context.

Why objectivity (60): The article presents Bhagwat's statements in a neutral tone but does not incorporate opposing viewpoints or criticisms of the RSS's ideology, leading to a somewhat unbalanced portrayal.

Scroll.in logoScroll.inIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 759/3/2026
US faith leaders say New York event organisers did not tell them about Mohan Bhagwat link

Two U.S. religious leaders, Adriene Thorne and Shamsi Ali, expressed regret over attending an event in New York where Mohan Bhagwat, head of the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), spoke. They claimed they were not informed by the organizers that Bhagwat would be the main speaker, despite being invited under the premise of an interfaith gathering. Thorne described herself as 'duped' and called her participation a 'terrible mistake,' while Ali referred to his attendance as a 'serious error in judgment.' Both criticized the organizers for withholding key information about the RSS's involvement and the nature of the event. The American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue Forum, one of the organizers, is described as a nonprofit promoting civic engagement. Ali further criticized Bhagwat's message of peace as insincere, citing concerns about minority rights in India.

Bias read (Center): The article presents perspectives from both participants and critics of the event, including criticism of the RSS and its ideology. It does not take a clear stance on the issue itself but reports on the controversy and differing viewpoints. The framing remains balanced, avoiding overtly biased or sl

Why factuality (60): The article discusses an unrelated event involving Mohan Bhagwat and an interfaith gathering in New York, not the UK ending its boycott of Narendra Modi. It contains factual details about the event, such as the location, participants, and organizers, but does not address the primary source document'

Why objectivity (75): The article presents the perspectives of two religious leaders who felt misled about the involvement of Mohan Bhagwat and the RSS. The tone is largely neutral, though it includes phrases like 'terrible mistake' and 'serious error in judgment,' which suggest some personal disappointment but do not st

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedConservativeFactual 60Objective 708/29/2026
Mohan Bhagwat's Images Projected On Times Square Billboard Ahead Of Event

Mohan Bhagwat, the leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), arrived in the United States on Tuesday as part of the organization's centenary-year global outreach program. During his visit, images of Bhagwat were projected on a billboard in Times Square, ahead of an upcoming event. The display highlights the RSS's efforts to increase its international visibility and engage with global audiences.

Bias read (Conservative): The article highlights the prominent display of Mohan Bhagwat, a leader of a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization, in a major global city like New York. While the focus is on the event itself, the choice to feature Bhagwat in Times Square underscores the political significance of the RSS and is

Why factuality (60): The article provides basic information about Mohan Bhagwat's visit to the US and the purpose of the event, but lacks detailed context about the controversy surrounding his remarks. It does not reference the specific claims made by Owaisi or the historical writings of RSS figures, making it less comp

Why objectivity (70): The article remains relatively neutral in tone, focusing on factual reporting without taking sides. It avoids emotive language and presents the event in a straightforward manner, contributing to its higher objectivity score.

The Wire logoThe WireIndependentProgressiveFactual: no official source document/info detectedObjective 609/3/2026
US Faith Leaders Say They Were Deceived Into Appearing with Mohan Bhagwat at RSS Event in New York

The article reports that U.S. faith leaders claim they were misled into participating in an event organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), led by its head Mohan Bhagwat, in New York. The leaders allege they were deceived about the nature of the event and its association with the RSS, which is a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization in India. The incident has raised concerns about the potential misuse of religious figures for political purposes. The article highlights the controversy surrounding the involvement of foreign faith leaders in events linked to Indian right-wing groups.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the actions of the RSS as deceptive and politically motivated, suggesting a negative portrayal of the organization's influence over international religious figures. It emphasizes the potential exploitation of faith leaders for political ends, aligning with a left-leaning critique.

Why factuality: no official source document/info detected

Why objectivity (60): The title suggests deception, which could imply bias towards the perspective of the faith leaders involved. The article does not provide a counter-narrative or additional context from the RSS or other stakeholders, potentially leading to a one-sided portrayal of the situation.

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