A 90-foot Hanuman statue in Texas has become the centre of a fresh controversy after a MAGA-aligned YouTuber called for the monument to be demolished, prompting criticism from Hindu Americans and others who described the remarks as an attack on religious freedom.
The statue, unveiled in 2024, is among the tallest Hindu statues in the United States and is reportedly the country’s third-tallest statue overall. The monument has previously attracted criticism from some American political activists over its presence in Texas.
The latest controversy began after YouTuber Jesse Hughes, who identifies with the “Make America Great Again” movement, shared an image of the statue on X and wrote that it would be demolished if his political movement “wins”. Hughes also described the monument as anti-Christian. His remarks subsequently received support from some white nationalist voices, according to the report.
The comments drew a strong response from Ruchir Bakshi, a U.S. military veteran, who criticised the suggestion of destroying a Hindu religious monument. Bakshi argued that American values should not be interpreted as giving anyone permission to target people because of their religion or identity.
The dispute has also revived a wider debate over religious diversity in the United States. Earlier comments by other political activists had similarly questioned the presence of Hindu religious symbols in the country.
The United States Constitution does not establish Christianity as a state religion and protects religious freedom. While Christianity remains the largest religious tradition in the country, Hindu communities have established temples and cultural institutions across several states.
The Texas controversy has therefore renewed discussion about religious pluralism, political rhetoric and the protection of minority faiths in America.
