Abu Dhabi, UAE is set to witness a historic event as His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj of the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) arrives as a state guest to preside over the inauguration of the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East. The BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as a symbol of the enduring friendship between India and the UAE, showcasing the spirit of cultural harmony and collaboration.
The construction of the magnificent BAPS Hindu Mandir has been made possible through the graciousness and generosity of the UAE government and its rulers. In 2015, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, donated 13.5 acres of land for the temple’s construction. In January 2019, during the UAE Government’s Year of Tolerance, an additional 13.5 acres of land were allocated for the Mandir, making a total of 27 acres of land gifted for this monumental project.
Upon his arrival at the airport, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj was warmly greeted by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance for the UAE. Expressing his gratitude, His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan said, “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 expressed his appreciation, stating, “We are touched by your love and respect. The leaders of the UAE are great, good, and large-hearted.”
Mahant Swami Maharaj, as a state guest, was welcomed in a traditional Arabic style, with a troupe of dancers, drummers, and chanters performing the Al-Ayyala, an expressive cultural performance typically reserved for national holidays and welcoming ceremonies of visiting heads of state.
At the site of the Mandir, thousands of devotees and well-wishers from across the Gulf countries and around the world eagerly gathered to welcome Mahant Swami Maharaj. The entire campus was adorned with auspicious symbols, including messages of “Welcome” in Sanskrit, Arabic, English, and Gujarati.
The inauguration of the iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir will be celebrated through the “Festival of Harmony.” This series of uplifting programs and community events aims to strengthen faith, mobilize community service, and inspire harmony among people of all generations and backgrounds. The grand inauguration ceremony of the Mandir will take place on Wednesday, February 14, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.
Brahmaviharidas Swami, who has overseen the Mandir project under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, described the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi as a spiritual oasis for global harmony. He emphasized that it celebrates the past and recalibrates the future, serving as a timeless testament to the spirituality of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the generosity, sincerity, and friendship of the leaderships of the UAE, India, and BAPS.
This historic event marks a significant milestone in the cultural exchange between India and the UAE. The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi will not only serve as a place of worship but also as a symbol of unity, fostering cultural understanding and promoting harmony among people of different backgrounds.
The inauguration of the Mandir is a testament to the progressive vision of the UAE government and its commitment to promoting tolerance and diversity. It showcases the country’s dedication to fostering an environment of religious freedom and cultural acceptance.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is poised to become a spiritual landmark, attracting visitors from around the world who seek solace, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of Hinduism. It stands as a shining example of the power of collaboration and friendship between nations, transcending boundaries and promoting peace.