A Texas Republican leader Alexander Duncan ’s remarks opposing a 90-foot Hanuman statue in Sugar Land have triggered controversy, with Hindu groups calling it discriminatory and urging the GOP to act.
Texas Republican Candidate Questions Hanuman Statue, Calls US a “Christian Nation”
A heated debate has erupted in Texas after Republican leader and senate candidate Alexander Duncan publicly opposed the installation of a 90-foot idol of Lord Hanuman in Sugar Land, calling the Hindu deity a “false god” and declaring that the United States is a Christian nation.
The statue, known as the “Statue of Union”, stands tall at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land and is the fourth-tallest statue in the United States. It is also the tallest depiction of Lord Hanuman outside India. For the local Hindu community, it symbolizes devotion, resilience, and the unifying role Hanuman played in the Ramayana by reuniting Lord Rama with Sita.
The Controversial Remarks
In a series of social media posts, Duncan criticized the installation of the idol, writing:
“Why are we allowing a false statue of a false Hindu God to be here in Texas? We are a CHRISTIAN nation!”
He further cited biblical verses from Exodus and Romans, labeling the idol as a “false image” and urging Americans to remain faithful to “one nation under God… Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.”
While clarifying that he does not “hate anyone,” Duncan asserted that “silence on this matter would be real hate” and claimed he was “speaking boldly” about his faith.
Hindu American Foundation Hits Back
The remarks drew swift condemnation from the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), which denounced the statements as anti-Hindu hate speech.
In a public statement, HAF questioned the Republican Party’s silence:
“Will you (Republican Party) be disciplining your senate candidate who openly contravenes your own guidelines against discrimination — displaying some pretty sordid anti-Hindu hate — not to mention disrespect for the 1st Amendment’s Establishment Clause?”
The group stressed that such rhetoric not only insults the Hindu community but also undermines the principles of religious freedom enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
A Symbol of Cultural Pride vs. A Clash of Beliefs
For many Hindus in the Houston area, the Statue of Union is more than just an idol. It stands as a symbol of cultural pride, religious liberty, and diversity, reflecting America’s multicultural fabric.
Local community leaders highlighted that the temple and statue are private projects funded by devotees, not public money. They argue that opposing its existence contradicts America’s long-standing tradition of pluralism.
However, Duncan’s remarks have reignited a larger debate on faith, political expression, and the definition of American identity in the 21st century.
The Larger Context
The 90-foot Hanuman statue joins the list of iconic U.S. monuments, following:
- The Birth of the New World in Puerto Rico (the tallest statue in the U.S.)
- The Statue of Liberty in New York
- The Pegasus and Dragon in Florida
Supporters say the Hanuman statue adds to this cultural landscape, celebrating the contributions of Hindu Americans. But critics argue that political figures opposing it risk alienating minority communities and eroding interfaith harmony.
What Lies Ahead?
The Republican Party of Texas has not yet issued an official statement on Duncan’s remarks. The controversy, however, places the GOP in a sensitive position as it balances its conservative Christian voter base with America’s growing religious diversity.
For now, the Statue of Union continues to stand tall in Sugar Land, admired by devotees and visitors alike, even as it becomes the latest flashpoint in America’s ongoing debate over religion, identity, and inclusion.