Mary Millben Takes Aim at Mamdani Over Mohan Bhagwat Event

New York: American singer Mary Millben has criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani over his opposition to a proposed event featuring Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat. Bhagwat is scheduled to address a gathering of around 5,000 people at Madison Square Garden (MSG) on August 29.

In a post on social media platform X on Tuesday, Millben said Mamdani and those supporting him were opposing Bhagwat’s event because of their opposition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

What Did Mamdani Say About Bhagwat’s Event?

Mohan Bhagwat arrived in the United States on Tuesday as part of a global outreach programme linked to the RSS centenary celebrations. Before his arrival, Mamdani said he did not support the proposed event at Madison Square Garden. However, the New York mayor also said that since the event is private, the city administration likely does not have the authority to cancel it.

Responding to Mamdani’s position, Millben criticized the mayor and alleged that Mamdani and his supporters were influenced by socialist ideology and therefore did not understand the capitalist system. Millben said Madison Square Garden does not answer to such opposition but is accountable to its business interests. She argued that this is why Bhagwat’s event is expected to go ahead as planned.

Millben Gives Mamdani Her Advice

The 44-year-old singer told Mamdani and his supporters that if they wanted to oppose the event, they should raise their own funds, rent Madison Square Garden and hold their own rally.

Millben, who has long been associated with the Republican Party, also praised Bhagwat’s August 29 event. She said she liked the title of the rally, “Ekatmata.” She added, “We are one family.” Millben also expressed hope that the event would include meaningful discussion about religious freedom in India.

Ahead Forum Organizing Events in the US

Public policy and research organization Ahead Forum is hosting Mohan Bhagwat during his US visit. The organization has announced several events under the banner of the “Universal Unity Festival.” Bhagwat’s visit is part of the RSS’s global outreach programme marking its centenary year. While preparations continue for the proposed Madison Square Garden gathering, Mamdani’s comments have added a fresh political dimension to the event.