By: Vandana Jhingan

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) made a spectacular impact at the annual India Day Parade (IDP) in Manhattan with its remarkable replica of the Shri Ram Mandir. This eye-catching float, which measured 18 feet in length, 9 feet in width, and 8 feet in height, was a central attraction as it paraded down Madison Avenue from East 38th Street to East 27th Street. The float, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage, became a popular subject for photos and videos, deeply impressing the thousands of spectators.

One parade attendee expressed appreciation, stating, “I wanted to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your incredible efforts in bringing the replica of the Ram Mandir to the India Day Parade in New York. Your dedication not only created an electrifying atmosphere but also united us all in a deeply meaningful way.”

Another participant echoed the feelings of many Hindu Americans, saying, “The Ram Mandir replica was a powerful symbol of our shared heritage and values, resonating deeply with everyone present.”

Sherona Varulkar Kelley, a community leader representing the Jews of India, who joined the parade alongside their Hindu counterparts, noted, “We are immensely proud to have walked in solidarity with our Hindu brothers and sisters. India has been a unique haven for the Jews. For over two thousand years, India offered us shelter without experiencing antisemitism. Our love, respect, and eternal gratitude go out to all Hindus.”
The float faced significant controversy just days before the parade due to a campaign led by some Muslim fringe groups. These groups pressured New York City Hall and Mayor Eric Adams to issue a statement condemning the float. Mayor Adams labeled the float as anti-Muslim, displaying a troubling misunderstanding of the temple’s cultural and religious significance. This response not only curtailed the Hindu community’s freedom of expression but also conflicted with the principles of inclusivity and diversity.

In response, the VHPA orchestrated a major letter-writing campaign, rallying millions of Hindu Americans and numerous non-Hindu organizations to support the float. Within hours, nearly 30,000 emails were sent to elected officials at both city and state levels, leading to a swift reversal. Recognizing the backlash and the potential political fallout, Mayor Adams and his staff acted quickly, averting further controversy and preserving New York City’s commitment to diversity and respect for all communities during this politically sensitive time.