A float planned for the India Day Parade in New York City has sparked criticism for celebrating a Hindu temple constructed on the site of a demolished mosque in India. The Ram Mandir float has been denounced by the Indian American Muslim Council and other groups, who view it as a symbol of violence against Muslims in India. Despite calls for its removal, parade organizers have chosen to keep the float, highlighting its significance to millions of Hindus.

The controversy stems from the Ram Mandir’s construction in Ayodhya, which began in 2020 after a lengthy legal dispute. The temple stands where the Babri mosque, dating back to the 16th century, was destroyed by Hindu nationalists in 1992. The multi-million-dollar structure is dedicated to the deity Ram, believed by Hindus to have been born at the same location.

The Federation of Indian Associations, the group behind the parade, defends the float as a celebration of an important religious landmark for Hindus. They emphasize a commitment to peaceful coexistence, rejecting violence and hatred of any kind. The parade has a history of showcasing the cultural diversity of India, with participants from various faiths, including Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian communities.

This year’s parade theme, “Vasudev Kutumbakam” meaning “the world is one family” in Sanskrit, promotes unity and inclusivity. Despite the controversy, parade organizers stand by their decision to include the Ram Mandir float, underscoring the importance of respecting diverse religious beliefs.

Scheduled to mark the anniversary of India’s independence on August 15, the parade typically draws large crowds on Manhattan’s Madison Avenue. Local officials like New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have yet to comment on the situation, although Adams has previously spoken out against hate and discrimination. The dispute surrounding the float reflects ongoing tensions between different religious and cultural groups within India and its diaspora community.