April 18th, 2026
Hinduphobic hate groups in the United States are at it again. Last week, a motley coalition launched a vicious smear campaign against Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America based on unsubstantiated claims. These groups, along with their associates in certain pseudo-academic and advocacy spaces, routinely deploy innuendo and selective narratives to advance their political agendas. Through circular referencing and repetition, they create the appearance of credibility and mislead institutions and individuals unfamiliar with the facts.
Such groups frequently target minority Hindu communities and their temples and organizations in the United States by inappropriately conflating their activities with political developments in India. This pattern is not new. It reflects a broader attempt to wage ideological battles rooted in Indian politics from within the U.S., often using the VHPA name to amplify their messaging and, at times, to advance their own fundraising efforts.
VHPA’s response is simple: political disputes should be addressed in the appropriate context and geography. Diaspora communities engaged in service and cultural work should not be drawn into these conflicts.
VHPA does not profess any political ideology. It is guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that the entire world is one family—and by Hindu ideals of peaceful and respectful coexistence. By respecting diverse beliefs and communities, VHPA seeks to contribute positively to society. It will not be deterred by campaigns driven by mischaracterization and will continue its grassroots service efforts across the United States.
VHPA also poses a straightforward question to its critics: beyond disruption and division, what meaningful contributions have they made to the broader community? Over its 56-year history, VHPA has remained focused on service. Its initiatives include rebuilding a village in Gujarat after the 2001 earthquake, supporting fishermen in Nagapattinam following the tsunami, sponsoring the education of thousands of children, and supporting schools through various programs. In the United States, VHPA has assisted families affected by disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and recent wildfires in California and Hawaii.
During the second wave of COVID-19, VHPA helped facilitate delivery of life-saving medical supplies to India, including oxygen equipment and ventilators, in coordination with multiple partners. It also supported shipments from other charities, including the Islamic Medical Association of North America(IMANA), which formally acknowledged this assistance—reflecting a collaborative humanitarian effort across communities.
VHPA will continue to serve with focus and firm resolve, guided by its values and longstanding commitment to educational, cultural and humanitarian work.