Hindu Americans Rally for Justice in Miami After Pahalgam Terror Attack By Raj Shah

On May 4, 2025, over 100 Hindu Americans gathered at Bayfront Park in Miami, Florida, to peacefully protest the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

Organized by members of the local Hindu community, the demonstration sought justice for the innocent lives lost and called on global leaders to designate Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism. Protesters carried powerful placards with messages like “Silence is not peace; silence is surrender” and “Dharma protects those who protect it,” voicing their collective outrage against the targeted violence.

The rally stood as a strong, united front against terrorism and highlighted the continued persecution of Hindus in the region. Community leaders emphasized the urgent need for global solidarity in defending human rights and holding those responsible accountable. The event concluded with a solemn yet hopeful call for lasting peace, justice for the victims, and an end to terror-driven atrocities.

Raj Shah of Desh-Videsh Media Group spoke with several local leaders during the event. Here’s what they had to say:

A respected Hindu leader, Dr. Vinod Patel, founding trustee of the South Florida Hindu Temple, delivered a powerful message:

“Namaste. I’m Vinod Patel. As a proud and committed Hindu, I believe the time has come for our community to rise, stop remaining in the shadows, and boldly speak out against violence. We must no longer remain silent.”

Dr. Chander Shayker, also a founding trustee of the South Florida Hindu Temple and a native of Kashmir, offered a heartfelt reflection:

“Our suffering spans over 2,500 years, marked by relentless waves of forced conversions. What we are witnessing today is not just a crime against Hindus—it is a crime against humanity. Innocent people were brutally tortured, tormented, and massacred for one simple reason: they were Hindus.”

He further emphasized:

“Terrorism is a global threat. It knows no boundaries—no nationality, no religion. The entire world must unite to reject it completely. There can be no justification for terror—anywhere, anytime, under any circumstance. Humanity must stand together against this evil.”

Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal, National Past President of the Association of Indians in America (AIA), former United Nations expert, and retired Superintendent of Schools, issued a strong condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack:

“This is an unprecedented and deeply troubling event. The Government of India must take decisive action and hold Pakistan accountable for fostering such acts of terror. A peaceful and just society cannot coexist with state-sponsored violence.”

He further added:
“It is deeply concerning when extremist interpretations of religion are used to justify violence against others. Misguided ideologies that promote hatred under the guise of faith are dangerous and must be universally rejected. No religion should be misused to promote terrorism or division. It is time for the global community to recognize and confront this threat to peace and humanity.”

Deepak Ganju, founder of the Kashmir Hindu Foundation, stated:
“This is not merely an act of terrorism — this is a systematic genocide of Hindus that began in 1989 and continues to this day. The government of Pakistan bears direct responsibility, as it continues to support and fuel terrorism in Kashmir.

Another key community leader and one of the organizers of the peace rally was Hemant Patel.

Sharing his thoughts, he said,
“I’m a former Chairman of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association and a longtime resident of Miami. As one of the organizers of this rally, my message is simple and urgent—this violence must stop, and it must

 stop now. To the people of Pakistan, I ask: how can you continue to live under a regime that offers only despair, breeds hostility, and brings turmoil to your neighbors?

There is hope among the ordinary people of Pakistan, but that hope will only be realized when they stand up against the radical elements within their military—those responsible for exporting cross-border terrorism into Kashmir. This cycle of violence cannot continue. It’s time for action. The world deserves peace, but we must confront those who live and breathe terror. Kashmir has suffered for far too long.”

He added:
“We stand firmly with Prime Minister Modi in this fight against terrorism. We also thank President Trump for his strong statement of solidarity with India and appreciate all nations and individuals who support us at this crucial time.”

In conversations with other protesters, there was a unified condemnation of Pakistan for sheltering and supporting terrorist networks. Many attendees emphasized that the Pahalgam attack deliberately targeted the victims because of their Hindu identity. They called on the global community to take meaningful steps to dismantle terror infrastructure and confront radical ideologies.

The rally mourned the innocent lives lost and served as a powerful platform demanding justice, accountability, and international action. It concluded with a solemn prayer and a one-minute silence to offer moksha—liberation—for the departed souls.

About the Author

Raj Shah Software by profession, Indian culture enthusiast, ardent promoter of hinduism, and a cancer survivor, Raj Shah is a managing editor of Desh-Videsh Magazine and co-founder of Desh Videsh Media Group. Promoting the rich culture and heritage of India and Hinduism has been his motto ever since he arrived in the US in 1969.

He has been instrumental in starting and promoting several community organizations such as the Indian Religious and Cultural Center and International Hindu University. Raj has written two books on Hinduism titled Chronology of Hinduism and Understanding Hinduism. He has also written several children books focusing on Hindu culture and religion.