Mohan Bhagwat to address major Hindu gathering in New York on August 29
New Delhi: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat is set to address a large gathering of Hindu organisations in New York City on August 29, 2026. The event, called Universal Oneness Celebrations, is being organised by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue, or AHEAD Forum, along with several cultural, faith and community groups from across the United States.
The organisers say the gathering will coincide with Raksha Bandhan and will focus on unity, civic participation and interfaith understanding. Bhagwat’s planned appearance is likely to draw attention in India and among Indian-origin communities in the US, especially since large public appearances by the RSS chief in America are relatively uncommon.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s ( RSS) Sarsanghachalak ( Chief) Dr Mohan Bhagwat ji will be Visiting USA, Canada and UK from 25 th Aug 2026 on the invitation from overseas local associations and organisations. This coincides with the occasion of ongoing Centenary year of RSS.
— Sunil Ambekar (@SunilAmbekarM) August 11, 2026
Why Mohan Bhagwat’s New York visit matters
Bhagwat has been the Sarsanghchalak, or chief, of the RSS since 2009. His participation puts a political and cultural spotlight on an event that organisers describe as one of the larger gatherings of Hindu organisations in the United States.
AHEAD Forum said the programme will include faith-based speakers and cultural performances linked to the theme of the day. More details about Bhagwat’s address and the final programme are expected closer to the event.
The celebration will be based around the Hindu idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “The World Is One Family”. Organisers are presenting the concept in the context of social harmony, community service and dialogue between different groups.
Raksha Bandhan gets a wider theme
Raksha Bandhan traditionally marks the bond between siblings. At the New York event, organisers plan to expand that idea to relationships between communities, countries, nature and society.
Participants are expected to include doctors, teachers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, artists, veterans, elected representatives, faith leaders, youth groups and volunteers.
Delegations are also expected from temples, yoga groups, educational institutions, cultural associations and regional organisations across the US.
Who is organising the event?
AHEAD Forum describes itself as a platform bringing Hindu organisations and community leaders together for civic engagement and dialogue in the United States.
The RSS, founded in 1925, is a volunteer-based organisation headquartered in India. It runs a network of local units and is involved in social, cultural, educational and relief activities.
The Universal Oneness Celebrations are scheduled for August 29 in New York City. AHEAD Forum has said more information about speakers, venue details and the programme will be released in the coming weeks.