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Diwali in the time of elections and attacks on Hindu faith
Anti-Hindu hate often takes the form of harmful stereotypes that paint Hindus as extremist or primitive, mock their religious practices, or frame their beliefs in derogatory theological terms.
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Desecration of BAPS Mandir in Melville, NY. / X/@RepTomSuozzi
In recent years, the United States has witnessed a troubling rise in incidents of anti-Hindu hate, with attacks on Hindu temples and the targeting of individuals based on “expressed Hindu-ness” becoming increasingly common. The Hindu American community, one of the country’s most peaceful and law-abiding minority groups, is now grappling with the reality of religious intolerance and violence, raising concerns about the broader societal implications of this disturbing trend.
Anti-Hindu rhetoric: A Growing Phenomenon
Historically, Hindus have been a minority in the U.S., often viewed as non-confrontational and focused on academic, economic, and social contributions to society. However, in recent times, the rise of online disinformation, geopolitical interference, and a resurgence of religious intolerance—driven by radicalized Islamists, Christian fundamentalists, and Khalistan cult groups—has led to more overt manifestations of anti-Hindu sentiment.
Anti-Hindu hate often takes the form of harmful stereotypes that paint Hindus as extremist or primitive, mock their religious practices, or frame their beliefs in derogatory theological terms like "Kafirs" or "Pagans” and “heathens”.
This rising intolerance is evident in the constant abuse aimed at individuals like Usha Chilukuri Vance, wife of Republican Vice Presidential candidate J.D. Vance, for her Hindu faith. It also extends to the smearing of Vivek Ramaswamy and the vilification of Kamala Harris' late mother—each targeted simply for their association with Hindu religion, regardless of their diverse political affiliations.
Causes of Rising anti-Hindu Hate
Several factors are contributing to the rise of anti-Hindu hate in the U.S. A key factor is the growing civilizational consciousness among Hindu Americans, who recognize their role as part of a global family with much to offer, beyond their recent colonial legacy. In the past, only Hindus who had formally converted to Judeo-Christian faiths were seen as viable candidates for high public office. Leaders like Governor Bobby Jindal and Congressman Ami Bera went to great lengths to downplay or renounce their Hindu heritage when running for office.
However, this has changed significantly over the past fifteen years. Tulsi Gabbard was one of the first Hindus elected to Congress, and she opened the doors for others. Leaders like Niraj Antani, Padma Kuppa, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, Shri Thanedar, and Vivek Ramaswamy have since followed, proudly embracing their Hindu identity. Even Congressional primary contenders such as Shri Preston Kulkarni, Suhas Subramanian, Krystle Kaul, and various state-level candidates have emerged as prominent figures.
This rise in American Hindu representation has sparked anxiety among certain groups—radicalized Islamists, Christian fundamentalists, left extremists, and Khalistan cult groups—who see this growing influence as a threat to their dominance in public discourse. These groups have orchestrated organized social media campaigns to spread disinformation and hate speech, misrepresenting Hindus and Hinduism. They reinforce harmful stereotypes by painting Hindutva (Hindu-ness) as an extremist movement, which fuels xenophobia and bigotry.
Impact on Hindu American Community
The Hindu American community is deeply impacted by this rise in anti-Hindu bigotry. Many Hindu Americans have reported feeling a heightened sense of insecurity, particularly when practicing their faith openly. Families are becoming more cautious about displaying religious symbols, such as wearing a bindi, displaying Swastika or performing public rituals lest they be falsely accused of being “casteists”, a term that has now been fully weaponized by anti-Hindu groups. For many younger Hindus growing up in the U.S., this increasing discrimination creates a complex struggle with identity as they try to navigate their cultural heritage while facing societal prejudice.
Responding to the Crisis
In response to the rise of anti-Hindu hate, many Hindu organizations in the U.S. have started working to raise awareness about these issues and push for stronger legal and social protections for the community. Organizations like HinduACTion at the forefront of advocating for religious tolerance and education about Hindu Dharma. We aim to bridge the gap of understanding between Hindus and the broader American public, dispelling myths and fostering interfaith dialogue.
Efforts to combat anti-Hindu bigotry have also been strengthened by alliances with other minority groups who face similar challenges. By forming coalitions with Jewish, Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox faith groups, Shia and Sunni groups, and Sikh communities, Hindu Americans are working to build a united front against a cabal of Right-wing and Left-wing extremist groups that partner Khalistan cult groups and Islamists.
As was exhibited by the bipartisan support for H. Res. 1131- a Congressional resolution that condemns attacks on Hindu places of worship, Hinduphobia, and anti-Hindu bigotry,
There is also a growing recognition among lawmakers of the need to address religious hate crimes more seriously.
The Path Forward
While anti-Hindu bigotry against Hindu candidates and attacks on temples in the U.S. are rising, there is hope that through continued advocacy, education, and legal action, this disturbing trend can be reversed. Religious tolerance has been one of the cornerstones of American democracy, and it is imperative that this principle is upheld for all communities.
Diwali is a festival that symbolizes more than just the joy and sparkle of happiness; it also marks the triumph of good over evil. This Diwali let us not only celebrate the festivities but also embrace its deeper message—a message of unity, courage, and the enduring power of goodness.
For the American Hindu community, this occasion reminds us to draw a larger, more inclusive circle, one that overcomes the divisive lines drawn by anti-Hindu bigots and their divisive and hateful rhetoric aimed at widening fault-lines within our communities. Let this Diwali be a time to reflect on how light can dispel darkness and how love, understanding and advocacy can conquer hate.
The author is the Executive Director of the non-profit HinduACTion.
(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of New India Abroad.)
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