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The Growing Epidemic Of Anti-Hindu Attacks: A Timeline Of 25 Shocking Hindu Temple Vandalism Incidents Outside India

April 25, 2025
The Commune

Over the past several years, Hindu temples across the United States have faced a disturbing trend of vandalism and hate crimes. Below is a timeline of nine major incidents, reflecting a growing concern over Hinduphobia and religious intolerance.

On 20 April 2025, the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, Canada, was defaced with pro-Khalistan graffiti. The vandals not only sprayed graffiti but also caused damage to the property. This report compiles 25 incidents of attacks on Hindu temples abroad from 2015 to 2025, spanning countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

#1 Pro-Khalistan Graffiti Defaces Surrey Temple After Gurdwara Vandalism (April 2025)

On 20 April 2025, the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, Canada, was defaced with pro-Khalistan graffiti, following the recent vandalism of a Gurdwara in Vancouver. Indian-origin MP Chandra Arya condemned the act, linking it to the growing influence of Khalistani extremism in Canada. The Khalsa Diwan Society, which oversees the Ross Street Gurdwara in Vancouver, also condemned the graffiti, calling it part of an ongoing campaign by extremist forces. Arya urged the Hindu and Sikh communities to demand swift action from authorities. The rise in religious vandalism in Canada continues to spark concern.

#2 BAPS Temple Vandalized With Anti-India Messages In California (March 2025)

On 9 March 2025, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, California, was vandalized with anti-India messages, marking another hate crime against the Hindu community in the U.S. The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha condemned the attack, stressing the resilience of the Hindu community in the face of hate. This incident coincided with the upcoming Khalistan referendum in Los Angeles, raising concerns over rising religious tensions. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemned the attack, urging authorities to investigate. This follows similar vandalism incidents at BAPS temples in Sacramento and New York.

#3 Swami Narayan Temple Vandalized In Sacramento, California (September 2024)

A Hindu temple in Sacramento, California, was vandalized for the second time in 10 days, on 26 September 2024, with anti-Hindu slogans like “Hindus go back” spray-painted on its walls.

The incident mirrors a similar attack on a Swaminarayan temple in New York on 16 September 2024, where anti-India slogans were written, and suspicion of Khalistani involvement arose. In Sacramento, the temple’s pipeline was also damaged. Local officials, including California Assembly member Stephen Nguyen, visited the temple after the attack. The Indian Consulate in New York and U.S. leaders condemned these hate crimes, calling them cowardly and deeply concerning for religious freedom in America.

#4 BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Vandalized In New York (September 2024)

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, was vandalized by extremists on the night of 16 September 2024. The temple was defaced with offensive slogans, including “Fuck Modi,” “Modi is Terrorist,” and “Hindustan Murdabad,” with a derogatory gap in the word “Hindustan” implying insult to Hindus.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha condemned the act and prayed for the perpetrators to overcome their hatred. Local authorities were informed, and the Indian Consulate in New York also condemned the vandalism, urging U.S. law enforcement to take swift action against those responsible for the hate crime.

#5 BAPS Temple Vandalized In Edmonton, Canada, With Anti-India Graffiti (July 2024)

A Hindu temple, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, in Edmonton, Canada, was vandalized with graffiti by Punjab separatists on 23 July 2024. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) of Canada strongly condemned the act, calling it Hinduphobic and an attack on the peaceful Hindu community. The VHP urged the Canadian government to take decisive action against the growing extremist ideology fueling such incidents. This act follows a pattern of increasing anti-India activities by Khalistan supporters, particularly after the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

#6 Sri Panchamukha Hanuman Temple Vandalized In Dublin, California (January 2024)

On 11 January 2024, the Sri Panchamukha Hanuman Temple in Dublin, California, was vandalized, marking a disturbing incident in a series of attacks on Hindu temples in the United States. The Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA) condemned the act, linking it to growing anti-Hindu sentiments and the approaching “Khalistan referendum” event in Los Angeles. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also condemned the desecration, urging local law enforcement to take stringent action and enhance security at places of worship. This attack follows several others on temples across California and beyond.

#7 Vijay’s Sherawali Temple Vandalized In Hayward, California (January 2024)

The Vijay’s Sherawali Temple in Hayward, California, was vandalized with pro-Khalistani slogans such as “Khalistan Zindabad” and “Modi is terrorist.” The incident, which occurred in late December 2023, was confirmed by the temple administration on 2 January 2024. Police have classified it as a hate crime. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) noted that this attack followed similar defacement of the Swaminarayan Mandir and a theft at the Shiv Durga temple in the same area. HAF is working closely with temple leaders, the Alameda Police Department, and the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division to investigate the crime.

#8 SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Vandalized In Newark, California (January 2024)

On 2 January 2024, the SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Newark, California, was vandalized with anti-India graffiti, allegedly by pro-Khalistan activists. The graffiti was discovered by a nearby devotee, who promptly reported it to local authorities. Temple spokesperson Bhargav Raval expressed shock at the display of anti-Indian sentiments on the temple walls. The Newark Police Service has initiated a targeted investigation, with Police Captain Jonathan Arguello stating that they will review surveillance footage from nearby residences to piece together the events leading to the vandalism.

#9 Shri Omkarnath Temple Burglarized In Brazos Valley, Texas (January 2024)

On 5 January 2024, the Shri Omkarnath Temple in Brazos Valley, Texas, was burglarized, shocking the local Indian community. Burglars broke in through a side window, stealing the temple’s donation box and a safe containing valuables. Board member Srinivasa Sunkari described the incident as an invasion of privacy and reported that the priest and his family, who live nearby, are safe. Security footage captured the suspect bypassing the shrine to access the donation box. The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the burglary, while temple officials are taking extra precautions for safety and security.

#10 Shri Mata Bhameshwari Durga Temple Vandalized In Surrey, Canada (September 2023)

On 7 September 2023, the Shri Mata Bhameshwari Durga Temple in Surrey, Canada, was desecrated with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti. The incident occurred just a month after a major Hindu temple in Canada was similarly vandalized with Khalistan referendum posters. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) was alerted, and the graffiti was promptly removed. The defacement included derogatory messages targeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and promoting the Khalistan movement. This follows other recent attacks on Hindu temples by Khalistani supporters, raising concerns about the safety of religious institutions in Canada.

#11 Hari Om Radha Krishna Mandir Burglarized In Sacramento, California (October 2023)

On 30 October 2023, burglars raided the Hari Om Radha Krishna Mandir in Sacramento, California, stealing a donation box. The break-in occurred around 2:15 AM, with six suspects seen on surveillance footage, including two inside the temple. The box, weighing about 100 pounds, was taken in a getaway car. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemned the incident, urging the Sacramento Police to investigate it as a potential hate crime. The temple community expressed shock and sadness, emphasizing the impact on their efforts to support others.

#12 Lakshmi Narayan Temple In Surrey Vandalized By Khalistani Supporters (August 2023)

On 13 August 2023, two Khalistani supporters vandalized the Shri Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, British Columbia, by defacing the temple with anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti. The intruders, a male and a female, entered the temple premises, placed Khalistan referendum posters on the main gates, and trespassed on the property. The incident is part of a rising wave of attacks on Hindu temples in Canada, condemned by India and local religious groups. India has urged the Canadian government to take strong action against the perpetrators and address the growing threat from Khalistani extremists.

#13 BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir In Sydney Defaced With Anti-India Graffiti (May 2023)

On 5 May 2023, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sydney was defaced with anti-India graffiti, weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia. Authorities suspect pro-Khalistani elements were behind the vandalism, as a Khalistani flag was found on the temple gate. In a statement, the temple expressed sadness and disappointment over the attack, emphasizing its commitment to peace and harmony. This incident is part of a growing trend of Hindu temple vandalism in Australia, with similar attacks occurring in Melbourne and Brisbane earlier in the year.

#14 Pro-Khalistan Supporters Vandalized Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple In Brisbane (March 2023)

On 4 March 2023, pro-Khalistan supporters vandalized the boundary wall of the Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple in Brisbane. Temple President Satinder Shukla confirmed the attack, stating that the priest and devotees alerted him about the incident. Sarah Gates, Director of Hindu Human Rights, condemned the vandalism, calling it part of a global pattern by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) to intimidate Hindus. This follows a series of attacks on Hindu temples in Australia, including vandalism in Melbourne. India raised the issue with the Australian government, urging swift action against the perpetrators.

#15 Ram Mandir In Mississauga, Canada, Defaced With Anti-India Graffiti (February 2023)

On 15 February 2023, the Ram Mandir Temple in Mississauga, Canada, was defaced with anti-India graffiti, allegedly by pro-Khalistan extremists. The Consulate General of India in Toronto condemned the attack and urged Canadian authorities to investigate and take prompt action. The graffiti included slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and praise for Khalistan leader Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Mayor Patrick Brown and MP Iqwinder S. Gaheer condemned the act, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to religious freedom.

#16 ISKCON Temple In Melbourne Defaced With Khalistan Slogans (january 2023)

On 23 January 2023, the Hare Krishna Temple (ISKCON) in Melbourne’s Albert Park was defaced with anti-India graffiti, including slogans like “Khalistan Zindabad” and “Hindustan Murdabad.” The perpetrators also praised slain Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. ISKCON’s Director of Communication, Bhakta Das, expressed shock and outrage, stating that a complaint was filed with Victoria Police, and CCTV footage was provided to assist in identifying the culprits. This was the third such attack on Hindu temples in Australia within two weeks, following similar incidents at Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple and BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir.

#17 Gauri Shankar Mandir In Brampton, Canada Defaced with Anti-India Graffiti (January 2023)

On 23 January 2023, Gauri Shankar Mandir in Brampton, Canada, was vandalized with anti-India graffiti, sparking outrage within the Indian community. The Indian Consulate General in Toronto condemned the act, highlighting the deep hurt caused to the community. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown also condemned the vandalism, asserting that such hate has no place in Canada. Canadian authorities, including Peel Regional Police, are investigating the incident. This follows a pattern of similar attacks, including the defacing of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in September 2022, fueling concerns among the Hindu community in Canada.

#18 Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple Vandalized By Khalistan Supporters In Australia (January 2023)

On 16 January 2023, Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs, Australia, was defaced with anti-India and anti-Hindu graffiti, including the slogan “Hindustan Murdabad.” This attack follows a similar incident at BAPS Swaminarayan Temple earlier in the week. The vandalism, allegedly by Khalistan supporters, occurred during the Tamil Hindu community’s Thai Pongal festival. Long-time devotee Usha Senthilnathan condemned the act and called on Premier Dan Andrews and Victoria Police for action.

#19 BAPS Swaminarayan Temple Vandalized by Khalistan Supporters in Melbourne (January 2023)

On 12 January 2023, the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Mill Park, Melbourne, was vandalized by unidentified miscreants, reportedly Khalistan supporters. The temple’s walls were defaced with anti-India graffiti, including the slogan “Hindustan Murdabad” written in black paint. The temple management condemned the act, emphasizing that the temple stands for peace, harmony, and universal Hindu values. Spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj has called for unity and peace, urging devotees to remain calm. This attack follows a similar incident in Canada in September 2022, where Khalistani extremists also targeted a BAPS temple.

#20 Shree Umiya Dham, New Jersey (October 2022)

On 30 October 2022, the Shree Umiya Dham Hindu Temple in Edison, New Jersey, was vandalized with “Free Palestine” graffiti. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemned the act, linking it to a Hinduphobic narrative promoted by certain academics who portray Hindus as “colonizers.” CoHNA noted that the temple had previously joined over 50 organizations in opposing a Hinduphobic resolution by the Teaneck Democratic Municipal Committee. This incident has heightened concerns within the Hindu community in New Jersey, prompting calls for swift justice against the perpetrators.

#21 Anti-India Graffiti Defaces BAPS Swaminarayan Temple In Toronto (September 2022)

On 15 September 2022, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto was defaced by anti-India graffiti in what is believed to be a hate crime by Canadian Khalistani extremists. The Indian High Commission condemned the incident, urging Canadian authorities to take swift action against the perpetrators. Canadian MP Chandra Arya expressed concern over the increasing targeting of Hindu temples, emphasizing that this is not an isolated incident. Brampton South MP Sonia Sidhu also condemned the act, calling for those responsible to be held accountable. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha promotes Hindu values of unity and selfless service.

#22 Shri Tulsi Mandir Vandalized In Queens, New York (August 2022)

On 16 August 2022, Shri Tulsi Mandir in Queens, New York, was vandalized by a group of five to ten miscreants armed with sledgehammers. They defaced a statue of Mahatma Gandhi placed outside the temple and spray-painted the word “Dog” in front of the temple and down the block. The vandals fled in two cars. This incident marks the second attack on the Gandhi statue in less than two weeks, the first occurring on 3 August 2022. The local community expressed heartbreak and concern over the rise in hate crimes targeting the temple.

#23 Swaminarayan Temple, Louisville, Kentucky (January 2019)

In January 2019, the Swaminarayan Temple in Louisville, Kentucky, was vandalized in a hate crime. Miscreants sprayed black paint on the deity, broke windows, and left inappropriate messages and graffiti on the walls. A knife was found stabbed in a chair, and cabinets were emptied. The police are investigating, but there are currently no suspects. Local officials, including Mayor Greg Fischer and Kentucky State Representative Nima Kulkarni, condemned the act, emphasizing its impact on the Indian American community and the need for compassion and respect among all religions.

#24 The VHP Temple, North Carolina (July 2015)

In North Carolina, a sign for a planned Hindu temple was shot at, resulting in over 60 holes, between noon on 4 July 2015 and 1 PM on 8 July 2015. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office reported that empty shell casings consistent with birdshot were found nearby, indicating a shotgun was used. The vandalism, which caused approximately $200 in damage, is being investigated as vandalism, and no suspects have been identified. The Om Hindu Organization of North Carolina, which plans to build the temple, expressed disappointment but remains committed to their project despite the incident.

#25 North Texas Hindu Mandir, Dallas, Texas (April 2015)

In a disturbing incident, the North Texas Hindu Mandir in Lake Highlands, Dallas, was vandalized, with symbols of devil worship and the tag of the Mara Salvatrucha gang painted on its door and nearby structures. The attack occurred on a Monday in April 2015, shocking both the Hindu community and local residents, some of whom offered assistance in cleaning the damage. Krishna Singh, a temple board member, expressed deep sadness over the vandalism. The Dallas police gang unit is investigating the case. Universal Society of Hinduism president Rajan Zed called for better education about Hinduism to counter such attacks.

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