Why is India’s nationalist RSS holding an event in New York?
Summary
The head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the ideological parent of India’s ruling Hindu nationalist movement, is scheduled to speak at an event in New York. The appearance has drawn attention because of the RSS’s influence in Indian politics and its controversial reputation over Hindu nationalism.
The event extends the RSS’s public outreach beyond India and gives it a platform to
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Why it matters
A public RSS appearance in the United States shows how India’s ruling ideological ecosystem is seeking influence and acceptance among overseas Indians.
Oneness or Hindu supremacy? RSS chief Bhagwat’s secretive New York hosts
Summary
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to speak at an event in New York on Saturday. The appearance has drawn attention to the identity and agenda of the event’s hosts.
Bhagwat’s New York appearance extends the RSS’s political and ideological messaging to the Indian diaspora.
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Why it matters
The event tests how openly Hindu nationalist organizations can build legitimacy and political influence among Indians overseas.