New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly expressed his opposition to the scheduled appearance of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat at Madison Square Garden, slated for August 29. The event, which is expected to attract around 5,000 members of the Indian diaspora, is part of the RSS's centenary-year global outreach program. However, Mamdani has questioned whether the city has legal authority to cancel a private gathering. His stance against the rally stems from his family background and belief in a pluralistic, secular India, as well as his opposition to what he perceives as an increasingly exclusionary political movement. The event has faced opposition from various interfaith and civil rights organizations, with groups like Hindus for Human Rights, Indian American Muslim Council, and the Interfaith Centre of New York calling for its cancellation. Bhagwat's visit to the US also includes participation in the Universal Oneness program during his stay in New York. The event is being organized by AHEAD Forum, which emphasizes a message of unity, recognizing the bonds that unite humanity and advocating for mutual respect, harmony, and oneness. Bhagwat's international tour also includes stops in Canada and the UK as part of the RSS's centenary-year global outreach program.