22nd January 2024 marked one of the most significant events for Hindus around the world – the consecration of Bhagwan Shri Ram at the Grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. It marked the end of an almost 500-year civilisational struggle of the Hindu society to reclaim one of their most sacred kshetras (land) and see their most revered Bhagwan Shri Ram move from a makeshift tent to a proper sanctified temple.

Bhagwan Ram holds a very special place in not all Hindu hearts but a much larger portion of the world. Stories of his life, his virtues are celebrated as historical accounts over many countries across Southeast Asia. This was even more evident when people from all over Bharat and around the world, moving beyond political, linguistic, ethnic, and cultural differences came together to celebrate the historic event marking the return of Bhagwan Ram to his birthplace.

The same celebratory fervour was felt in the Western countries with numerous cities hosting grand celebrations in many temples, community centres and even a massive community event. The atmosphere was one of reverence, celebration, and a time to pray whilst being grateful to have witnessed the grand opening in this lifetime.

However, during this time of jubilant celebrations, Hindu living in Western countries have been appalled to see numerous Hinduphobic articles published by media outlets. Such as, NYT, Washington Post have all published content which omit key facts regarding the building of the temple, misguide readers and promotes vitriol towards Hindus, those who hold Bhagwan Ram in the highest reverence and celebrate this occasion for special place it holds in their hearts.

On behalf of the Hindu community and Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations strongly condemns the abhorrent peddling of false narratives and hatred towards Hindus. These media houses are responsible for creating division within the diverse, pluralistic communities.

The continued and systematic negative portrayal of Hindus in Western countries is starting to hurt the community and impacting on how they live here.  The news articles have hurt the communities’ religious sentiments. The hatred shown towards the Hindus and their revered Bhagwan Ram is distasteful.  These media outlets are also sending a signal that Hindus are not welcome to practice their faith, have large gatherings to celebrate significant events they consider special and are especially not free to celebrate/ pray and sing praises of Bhagwan Ram. 

Hindus are highly educated, qualified, accomplished community, deeply rooted in their traditional values. Hindus contribute to Economy, Education, Health, Science & Technology, and Culture. Hindus are peace loving, law abiding, co-existing and contributing community not only in certain countries but also throughout the world.

The articles, which discuss the inauguration event, have been criticised for their inaccuracies, omission of key facts and anti-Hindu bias towards the Hindu community. For reference, please see the attached document.

Hindu community and Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations call upon media outlets to remove the news articles from their websites and issue an apology to the Hindu community and only publish it once it has included all facts and statements, including key facts such as the archaeological survey which highlighted the Babri structure was in fact built on top of an existing Hindu temple – a sign of subjugation of the indigenous Hindu community. A long court battle with numerous pieces of evidence and historians weighed in providing evidence, leading to the resolution. However, Western media has chosen to conduct a trial by themselves and wrongfully accuse an entire Hindu community of wrongdoing.

False narratives and intentionally misleading the public by omitting key facts promotes hatred, extremism and potential violence against the hard working, peaceful Hindu community in Western countries. Western Media have a responsibility to ensure their reporting, coverage and or articles do not lead to violence against communities in Western countries.

“While freedom of the press is crucial, it is equally vital that media outlets exercise their responsibilities with sensitivity, especially when covering events of deep cultural and civilisational significance. We believe in fostering mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities.”