RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat NYC event LIVE: Bhagwat set to speak at Madison Square Garden today

Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), addressed around 5,000 Indian American members at the Infosys Theater inside Madison Square Garden in New York City on Saturday. The "Universal Oneness Celebration" event, organized by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue, drew significant attention due to previous controversies involving the organization and calls from USCIRF (U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom) for sanctions.

The event took place during the RSS centenary year, and Bhagwat arrived in New York on Tuesday as part of a three-nation tour covering the US, Canada, and the UK. The program included cultural activities like performances, music, and artistic expressions.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani of New York City expressed concern over the event, describing it as "incredibly troubling" due to the ideological emphasis on exclusivity. However, the city government's jurisdiction did not allow for cancellation of the private gathering.

A Hindu-American advocacy group, the Hindu American Foundation, cautioned attendees to avoid confrontation with opposition activists during the event. During the speech, Bhagwat emphasized that differences among people are natural but are interconnected by an underlying unity. He described diversity as the "decoration of oneness" and urged individuals to use their abilities to help society and the environment rather than pursuing personal gain.

Bhagwat also highlighted the responsibility of Hindus living abroad to uphold the values they have received, while acknowledging their primary duty towards their "karma bhumi" (their place of work). He urged people to give back to society rather than focusing solely on personal gain and connected his message to the Raksha Bandhan gathering.

The RSS chief concluded his address by calling for people to fulfill their responsibilities towards both their "karma bhumi" and "janma bhumi" (birthplace), stating that adhering to these principles could support a world facing multiple challenges.