As we celebrate Hindu Awareness Week 2025, it’s also important to reflect on an issue that often goes unspoken, Hinduphobia. This term refers to prejudice, misunderstanding, or hostility directed towards Hindu beliefs, practices, and communities.
As we celebrate Hindu Awareness Week 2025, it’s also important to reflect on an issue that often goes unspoken, Hinduphobia. This term refers to prejudice, misunderstanding, or hostility directed towards Hindu beliefs, practices, and communities. While Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest and most peaceful traditions, misconceptions and stereotypes can sometimes lead to alienation or insensitivity, especially in diverse spaces like universities.
Hinduphobia can take many forms — from dismissive comments about religious symbols such as the tilak or Om, to mocking festivals or dietary practices, or misrepresenting Hindu beliefs in academic or social settings. Though often subtle, these instances can make Hindu students feel misunderstood or excluded.
Within our community at Queen Mary, we have a unique opportunity, and responsibility, to challenge such biases through education, empathy, and open dialogue. Tackling Hinduphobia isn’t about division; it’s about fostering understanding and respect for one another’s identities.
How we can make a difference together
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Learn and Engage – Take the time to understand Hinduism beyond stereotypes. Attend events, ask respectful questions, and read from credible sources. A great place to start is our Hindu Awareness Week events which are open to everyone, regardless of faith or background.
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Challenge Disrespect – Speak up if you see Hindu beliefs or practices being misrepresented or mocked. Awareness starts with courage. You can also report any issues you experience on campus to Report & Support.
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Celebrate Diversity – Participate in cultural and religious events, from Diwali to Holi, with an open mind and heart. Shared experiences build stronger communities. Don't forget to check out Hindu Society for all their upcoming events, including their incredible Holi event in March.
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Support Peers – If you see a friend, coursemate or flatmate facing prejudice, listen and stand by them. Being an ally means recognising and validating their experience.
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Encourage Dialogue – Universities thrive on discussion and there is no better place for this than our global community here at Queen Mary. Create spaces for meaningful conversations that celebrate, rather than divide, cultural perspectives.
Hinduism teaches the principle of “Ahimsa” (non-violence) — not just in action, but in thought and speech. Tackling Hinduphobia begins with living that value — choosing respect over ridicule, and understanding over ignorance.
Queen Mary is home to learning, growth, and inclusivity. By standing up against prejudice and promoting awareness, we ensure that every student, regardless of faith or background, feels safe, seen, and respected.
“The world is one family.” — Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
Let this message guide us to ensure our campuses truly embody unity in diversity.
Tushar Goyal, Vice President Science & Engineering