US: A disturbing video has emerged from the United States, showing a blatant act of racism targeted at an Indian man from Telangana. The man, while minding his own business, was confronted by a self-proclaimed American nationalist named Abrahamic LincoIn who aggressively asked him, “Why are you here? What are you doing in America? Your Indians are flooding all English-speaking countries. Go back to India. These fuc*ing brown guys are everywhere!”
This encounter, captured on video and now circulating widely online, has sparked outrage across Indian and global communities. The calm and composed reaction of the Indian man — who simply walked away — starkly contrasted with the racial hostility hurled at him. But this is not an isolated case. It’s part of a growing trend of hate crimes and xenophobic attacks that have intensified in the United States over the past few years.
Racism in the “Land of Immigrants”
Ironically, the U.S. has long been called a “melting pot” — a nation built by immigrants, for immigrants. Yet, in recent years, that image has been tarnished by a disturbing rise in racial abuse, particularly against South Asians.
From casual racism in workplaces and public spaces to brutal hate crimes, Indian-origin people — especially those from Telugu-speaking regions like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh — have increasingly found themselves targeted. Many of these victims are students, IT professionals, doctors, or skilled workers on visas contributing meaningfully to the U.S. economy.
Recent Hate Incidents Targeting South Asians
- Physical Assaults:
In April 2025, a young Indian mother and her child were assaulted at a McDonald’s in California, where a man threw sauce at the child and slapped the mother, calling them “dirty immigrants.” - Vandalism of Temples:
Hindu temples in New Jersey, Texas, and California have been repeatedly vandalized with graffiti, mocking Hindu culture and calling Indians “invaders.” - Political Xenophobia:
A South Asian political candidate in New York was publicly mocked by a Texas Congressman who told him to “go back to the third world” and ridiculed him for “eating rice with his hands.” - Online Hate:
After a tragic Air India plane crash in mid-2025, social media was flooded with derogatory comments like “they deserve it,” “another brown problem solved,” and even jokes mocking Indian names.
What’s Fueling the Hate?
Several factors contribute to the recent rise in anti-Indian sentiment in the U.S.:
- Immigration Anxiety: Some Americans view the growing presence of Indians, especially in tech and healthcare, as a threat to jobs and identity.
- Political Polarization: As Indian-Americans become more visible in U.S. politics and activism, sections of the far-right respond with anger and resentment.
- Social Media Radicalization: Platforms like YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok allow fringe voices to reach millions, spreading conspiracy theories and racist propaganda unchecked.
- Cultural Misunderstanding: Stereotypes, lack of exposure, and ignorance about Indian traditions and languages also create a breeding ground for hate.
The Psychological Toll
Beyond physical harm, racism leaves deep emotional scars. Many Indian immigrants report feeling unsafe or anxious in public, especially when speaking in their native language. Students on U.S. campuses report increased bullying and isolation. Women and children, particularly, face a double burden of race and gender-based hate.
The Indian man from Telangana who faced abuse in the viral video has become a symbol of silent endurance. But silence is no longer an option.
What Can Be Done?
- Legal Protection: Hate crimes must be swiftly prosecuted. Governments on both sides — U.S. and India — must ensure stricter enforcement and diplomatic pressure when needed.
- Community Awareness: South Asian organizations in the U.S. must work together to educate, support, and empower immigrants facing racism.
- Tech Accountability: Social media companies need stronger policies to monitor hate speech and deplatform repeat offenders.
- Cultural Education: Schools, workplaces, and local governments should run diversity workshops to foster understanding and respect for immigrant communities.
In Conclusion
The question “Why are you here?” asked with hate, is not just about geography — it is about identity, belonging, and dignity. Indians in the U.S. are not intruders; they are doctors saving lives, engineers building the future, researchers advancing science, and students chasing dreams.
This incident should not be brushed off as “just another racist rant.” It must be a wake-up call. The time has come to speak louder, stand stronger, and ensure that hate — no matter how loud — never becomes normal.
Let this moment remind the world: Brown is not foreign. Brown belongs.
