Abu Dhabi is set to witness a momentous occasion as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir on February 14, 2024. This grand event marks the unveiling of the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East, promising to be a symbol of religious harmony and cultural integration.
The eagerly anticipated inauguration will be presided over by spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj, who arrived in Abu Dhabi on Monday ahead of the ceremony. His arrival was met with a warm reception at the airport, where Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance for the UAE, extended a heartfelt welcome, as detailed in the official press release of BAPS Hindu Mandir.
During the welcoming exchange, Sheikh Nahayan expressed his gratitude, stating, “Welcome to the UAE. Our nation is blessed with your presence. We are touched by your kindness and we feel your prayers.” In response, Mahant Swami Maharaj reciprocated the sentiment, acknowledging the UAE’s leadership as “great, good, and large-hearted.”
The BAPS Hindu Mandir holds significant historical and architectural significance, exemplifying the strong cultural ties between India and the UAE. Here are key highlights about this monumental project:
- It marks the UAE’s inaugural Hindu temple, constructed with meticulous attention to detail.
- Crafted from pink Rajasthan sandstone and white Italian marble stone, the temple’s construction materials were intricately carved in India and transported to the UAE for assembly.
- The generous donation of 13.5 acres of land by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, laid the foundation for the temple’s construction, a gesture made during PM Modi’s visit to the country in 2015.
- Further demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to fostering religious diversity, an additional 13.5 acres of land were allocated by the government in January 2019, bringing the total land area gifted for the temple to 27 acres.
- The foundation stone for the temple was ceremoniously laid by PM Modi in 2017, marking a significant milestone in the project’s journey.
- The architectural marvel boasts seven spires, symbolizing each Emirate of the UAE, and features a comprehensive complex comprising visitor centers, prayer halls, thematic gardens, and learning areas.
- The temple’s construction incorporates advanced technology, with 100 sensors installed in its foundation and additional sensors deployed to monitor seismic activity and temperature fluctuations, ensuring structural integrity and safety.
- The estimated cost of the temple’s construction stands at a staggering 400 million United Arab Emirates dirham, underscoring the significance and scale of this landmark project.
As the BAPS Hindu Mandir prepares to open its doors to devotees and visitors alike, it serves as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and the UAE. The inauguration ceremony promises to be a moment of celebration and unity, embodying the spirit of mutual respect and understanding across cultures and religions.
Sources By Agencies
