New York: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat said Krishna consciousness can help overcome divisions and conflicts in the world during his visit to an ISKCON temple in New York on Friday.
Addressing devotees at the temple, Bhagwat spoke about the need for greater unity in a world marked by conflicts, differences and competing interests. He emphasised consciousness as a force capable of bringing people together despite their diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Bhagwat said that understanding the spiritual idea that everything is connected to Krishna could help create a more peaceful and harmonious society. He suggested that if this belief becomes deeply rooted in people’s hearts, the world could move closer to an environment of universal harmony.
During his temple visit, Bhagwat also took part in a food distribution initiative for homeless people.
His visit comes ahead of his scheduled address to the Indian community at Madison Square Garden on August 29 during the Universal Oneness Celebration, an event being organised as part of programmes marking the RSS centenary year.
Bhagwat arrived in New York on Tuesday as part of a three nation tour covering the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. His upcoming appearance has generated controversy in New York, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressing opposition to the RSS event while noting uncertainty over whether city authorities have the legal power to cancel a privately organised gathering.
Religious leader Swami Avdheshanand Giri, who is expected to attend the programme, said protesters have the right to express disagreement with the event. He maintained that the gathering would promote fraternity and harmony through the Indian philosophy of viewing the world as one family.
The organisers have described the celebration as an interfaith gathering expected to bring together people from diverse multicultural and religious backgrounds. A security advisory has also urged attendees to remain alert and maintain civility during the event.
