Hateful graffiti displayed on the historical Hindu temple in Chino Hills, symbolizing the community's struggle against vandalism.
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, California, was vandalized with hateful graffiti on March 7, 2024, shocking the local community. This act has raised concerns about safety and sparked discussions on rising anti-Hindu sentiments. Local authorities are treating the incident as a hate crime and are investigating, although no suspects have been identified yet. Community members are calling for dialogue and understanding to combat hate and promote peace.
In a shocking turn of events, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a key Hindu temple located in the tranquil setting of Chino Hills, California, was desecrated with hateful graffiti on March 7, 2024. The temple, known for its breathtaking pink sandstone architecture and white Italian marble interiors, has been a serene sanctuary for many, attracting nearly 1,000 visitors daily.
When devotees arrived early on the morning of March 8, they were greeted with a jarring sight. The temple’s name was defaced with the phrase “Hindustan Murdabad,” which translates to “death to” or “down with” Hindus and India, inscribed boldly on a pink stone sign. To add insult to injury, additional graffiti containing vile expletives aimed at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi marred the tranquil beauty of the temple grounds.
The vandalism has deeply unsettled the community, evoking a sense of fear among many. Volunteers at the temple, like Mehul Patel, have expressed concerns that such incidents make community members feel unsafe, particularly those with young children. Although the temple has security measures in place, the gruesome act of vandalism has stirred a wave of anxiety among its visitors.
Local authorities from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department are treating this incident as a hate crime and are conducting an investigation, although, at this point, no suspects have been identified. Surveillance footage has reportedly captured two individuals scouting the area before committing the act, providing a lead that investigators can pursue.
This act of vandalism has not only raised alarms locally but has also caught the attention of the international community, with major media outlets in India reporting on the incident. The External Affairs Ministry of India condemned the vandalism as “despicable” and urged local law enforcement to take decisive action.
The timing of this event is particularly concerning given the upcoming Khalistan referendum, which advocates for an independent Sikh state. Many view this as a potential link to the rising tensions and unease within the community amidst ongoing discussions about religious and national identity.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern, as there have been similar acts of vandalism directed at BAPS temples across the United States, with previous attacks noted in Melville, New York and around Sacramento, California. Other Hindu temples have also faced similar challenges, such as the Vijay’s Sherawali Temple in Hayward, California, which was vandalized earlier in January 2024.
In light of these events, the Coalition of Hindus of North America has called for a broader conversation about the rising anti-Hindu sentiments and the treatment of Hindu places of worship. Activists are advocating for careful dialogue while urging community members not to jump to conclusions about the motives or identities of those involved in such acts.
A prayer gathering was held at the temple on March 9, led by a priest who chanted blessings for peace and understanding. This event underscored the hope for non-hateful dialogue and the need for greater awareness within the community. Members emphasized that Hindus are not a unified monolith, and this temple serves a diverse group of practitioners, including many non-Indians.
As the investigation unfolds and discussions continue, the community hopes for healing and unity in the face of adversity, reminding everyone that hate has no place in the vibrant tapestry of Chino Hills.
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