A respected member of the Nepali diaspora in California has raised serious concerns over what he describes as threats to his life and an assault on his religious beliefs during a recent temple event in San Francisco.
Anil Pandey, founder of the nonprofit Motherland Nepal and current founder president of Muktinath Dham Temple, alleged that on July 27, 2025, a group disrupted a three-day Shrimad Bhagwat Katha program. According to him, the group vandalized banners belonging to his organization, circulated defamatory pamphlets online, and issued direct threats against him personally.
“This was not just about me. It was a direct attack on my faith, my dignity, and my decades of service to the Nepali community,” Pandey said. “I have worked for over 20 years to support immigrants, promote cultural values, and build bridges between Nepal and the United States. To see such hostility is heartbreaking.”
Founded nearly more then two decades ago, Motherland Nepal has focused on cultural preservation, health and education initiatives, and support services for Nepali immigrants in the Bay Area. The organization has frequently collaborated with temples and cultural associations, positioning itself as a bridge between heritage and community service.
Community members who attended the religious gathering described the incident as “deeply troubling” and a setback for harmony within the diaspora. Some expressed fears that unchecked intimidation could discourage open participation in religious and cultural activities.
Pandey has since appealed to human rights defenders, civic leaders, and democratic institutions to safeguard religious freedom and ensure that community organizations can function without fear. “Our community stands on values of peace, democracy, and respect. I urge all responsible voices to unite against this kind of intimidation,” he said.
The incident has sparked a broader discussion within the Nepali-American community regarding the safety of places of worship, the role of diaspora organizations, and the challenges of maintaining unity in an increasingly polarized environment. The Nepalese American Journalists Association (NEAJA) has also denounced the incident and issued a press release in support of Mr. Pandey.