New India Abroad

  A message of celebration and unity quickly turned into a lightning rod for hate, as Kash Patel’s Holi message triggers racist backlash online, highlighting the persistent challenges Indian Americans face when expressing cultural identity in public spaces. Kash Patel, a prominent Indian American attorney and former national security official, shared a vibrant Holi greeting on his social media. His post honored the spirit of Holi—a festival known for its colorful traditions and message of renewal, joy, and togetherness. What was meant to be a moment of cultural pride, however, was met with a wave of racially charged and xenophobic responses. Within hours, Patel’s message was targeted by internet trolls and critics, with hateful comments mocking his Indian heritage and disparaging Hindu customs. The backlash underscores a troubling pattern where public figures of South Asian descent are criticized not for their actions, but for proudly sharing their roots. New India Abroad, a platfo...