The video was shared by ANI
A carnival float featuring Ayodhya Ram Mandir took center stage in India Day Parade in New York The parade was held in the city on Sunday, despite objections from several US-based organisations. The float depicted the recently consecrated temple of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, decked with garlands and accompanied by members of the Indian diaspora dancing in traditional attire while waving the Indian tricolour. Patriotic songs filled the air at the parade, where people were seen waving Indian flags, playing dhols and dancing with enthusiasm.
The inclusion of the Ram Mandir float sparked controversy in the days leading up to the parade. Several groups criticised the float, calling it anti-Muslim and calling for it to be removed from the event. These organisations argued that the float glorified the demolition of a mosque, which raised concerns.
Several groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the Indian-American Muslim Council and Hindus for Human Rights, signed a letter to New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The letter expressed their objections, stating: “The presence of this float represents these groups’ desire to blend Hindu nationalist ideology with Indian identity, but India is a secular country.”
In response, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, which organized the float, defended its inclusion, stressing that it represented a Hindu place of worship and celebrated a deity central to India and Hindu identity. The Hindu American Foundation supported the float’s presence, presenting it as an exercise in free speech.
The Federation of Indian Associations, which is responsible for organizing the parade, said the event showcased India’s cultural diversity, with floats representing various communities. The annual parade in New York City is traditionally held three days after India’s Independence Day.
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