In the symbolic setting of Union Square, beneath the watchful gaze of the Gandhi Statue, a diverse group of individuals and activists, including members from Hindus for Human Rights, convened on a peaceful, freezing cold Sunday night. This gathering represented a collective of voices united by a common concern over the current political climate in India, especially in light of the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya.

The Ram Mandir, dedicated to Lord Ram, has emerged as a focal point of national and international discourse, intertwining the threads of religion, politics, and cultural identity. The decision by India's Supreme Court in 2019, which led to the construction of the temple on a historically contested site, has rekindled debates over secularism and the interplay between religion and state affairs. The site, marked by the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid, remains a symbol of a deep-seated religious rift in the country.

Central to the gathering at Union Square was an introspective query: Would Mahatma Gandhi, an advocate for peace and communal harmony, have supported the inauguration of the Ram Mandir? Gandhi’s assassination by a Hindu nationalist in 1948 underscored the growing religious divide, a schism that appears to be widening in contemporary India. The assassination of Gandhi, once universally mourned as a tragic loss, is now disturbingly celebrated by certain factions of the right-wing in India, reflecting a concerning shift in the socio-political narrative of the country.

The inauguration event, while a moment of celebration for some, stands in stark contrast to Gandhi's vision of 'Ram Rajya' – an ideal state characterized by justice, equality, and fairness for all, irrespective of religion or social status. While contemporary politicians and thinkers are increasingly re-examining Gandhi's vision of a just society, delving into complex debates about its relevance and contradictions, the political undertones associated with the temple’s inauguration seem to diverge from even the most broadly agreed upon principles of equality and inclusiveness.

During this gathering, our own Rohan Narine delivered a speech emphasizing the need to uphold Gandhi’s ideals in these challenging times. His words echoed the sentiment of the attendees, highlighting the necessity for a collective re-evaluation of our approach to religious tolerance and secular values.

The event at Union Square, thus, was not merely a response to a physical edifice but a collective expression of concern for preserving the ideals of non-violence, compassion, and inclusivity championed by Gandhi. It was a call to action for individuals and communities to rise above religious and cultural differences, fostering understanding and mutual respect.

As the event drew to a close, it left an enduring question: Are we, as a global community, living up to the legacy of those who envisioned a world united in harmony and mutual respect, transcending religious boundaries? The answer, we believe, lies in our daily endeavors to embrace these values, fostering a world where peace and unity prevail over division and discord.