Fremont, California — October 16, 2026
Americans4Hindus (A4H) urges Hindu temples, community organizations, families, and devotees across the United States to celebrate Navratri and Dasara 2026 with devotion, joy, unity, and a renewed commitment to community safety.
Following reports of an alleged plot targeting a Hindu temple in Illinois, A4H expresses its concern for the safety of worshippers and emphasizes the importance of taking credible threats seriously while allowing the appropriate authorities to conduct their investigation and establish the facts.
Places of worship are essential to the spiritual, cultural, and social lives of American communities. Every individual should be able to participate in religious observances without fear or intimidation. Protecting that freedom requires responsible preparedness, cooperation with law enforcement, and equitable access to appropriate security resources for eligible religious institutions.
A4H welcomes constructive efforts by public officials to address threats against religious communities and encourages policymakers and relevant federal agencies to continue strengthening access to existing security assistance programs. Particular attention should be given to helping smaller temples and community institutions understand available resources, navigate grant applications, and implement practical safety measures.
A Message from Dr. Romesh K. Japra, Founder and Chairman of Americans4Hindus
“Navratri and Dasara are occasions of devotion, courage, the triumph of good over evil, and the coming together of families and communities. As we celebrate these auspicious festivals, let us ensure that every devotee can worship and participate in community events peacefully and safely.
I encourage all temples and event organizers to take sensible precautions, coordinate with local law enforcement when appropriate, keep emergency exits accessible, communicate safety procedures to volunteers, and promptly report credible threats to the authorities. Families should remain aware of their surroundings, follow official safety guidance, and avoid spreading unverified information.
Let us celebrate with faith in our hearts, joy in our communities, and responsibility for one another. Our commitment must be to protect every family, preserve religious freedom, and ensure that our festivals remain peaceful, welcoming, and safe for all.”
A4H Safety Recommendations for Temples and Community Organizers
Americans4Hindus encourages temples, festival committees, and event organizers nationwide to:
- Coordinate proactively: Establish appropriate communication with local law enforcement and emergency services, particularly for large gatherings.
- Prepare volunteers: Designate safety coordinators, brief volunteers on emergency procedures, and ensure exits and evacuation routes remain clear.
- Report concerns responsibly: Promptly report credible threats or suspicious activity to law enforcement. In an immediate emergency, call 911 in the United States.
- Communicate clearly: Share verified safety information with attendees and provide clear instructions for emergencies, without creating unnecessary alarm.
- Review security readiness: Assess access control, crowd management, emergency contacts, and other practical measures appropriate to each venue.
- Protect community trust: Avoid speculation, rumors, or assumptions about individuals or groups while authorities investigate reported incidents.
Celebrating Navratri and Dasara with Unity and Peace
Across America, Navratri and Dasara bring families together through prayer, cultural programs, music, dance, and community service. A4H encourages everyone to preserve the welcoming spirit of these celebrations and to show consideration for fellow worshippers, neighbors, volunteers, and public safety personnel.
Safety and celebration go hand in hand. By planning responsibly and working together, communities can honor their traditions while helping protect everyone who participates.
Americans4Hindus remains committed to promoting Hindu-American civic participation, religious freedom, community well-being, and constructive engagement with public institutions.
May this Navratri and Dasara bring peace, prosperity, courage, and happiness to every family. Let us celebrate joyfully, act responsibly, and keep our communities safe.
About Americans4Hindus (A4H):
Americans4Hindus is dedicated to empowering Hindu Americans through political education, leadership development, strategic endorsements, and community mobilization. Americans4Hindus continues to expand its national presence by building alliances, empowering communities, and advancing democratic engagement across the United States
For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
Americans4Hindus (A4H):
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.americans4hindus.org
“We are not just participating – we are shaping the future. From school boards to the U.S. Congress, American Hindus are ready to lead.”
— Americans4Hindus.
