PM Narendra Modi inaugurates BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Abu Dhabi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Abu Dhabi, marking the first Hindu temple in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The grand temple is built on 27 acres of land, generously allocated by the UAE government, and is a collaborative effort of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) society.
Expressing gratitude, PM Modi thanked UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed for his pivotal role in realizing this architectural marvel. He acknowledged the significant contribution made by the leadership of the UAE and emphasized the strong bond between India’s Prime Minister and the UAE leadership.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir is a blend of Indian culture and UAE’s identity, featuring intricate marble carvings against a pink sandstone backdrop. The temple’s design incorporates elements of the traditional Nagar style of architecture, standing tall at 108 feet with seven spires representing each emirate of the UAE.
The temple complex includes a prayer hall, community centre, exhibition hall, library, and a children’s park. It is adorned with ghats representing the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and showcases stories from various ancient civilizations. The construction prioritizes sustainability, incorporating fly ash to reduce the carbon footprint.
PM Modi expressed confidence that the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir will attract a large number of devotees, fostering people-to-people connections and enhancing cultural ties between India and the UAE. The temple’s inauguration adds a new cultural chapter to the identity of the UAE, known for its modern landmarks.
The project, initiated during PM Modi’s 2015 visit to the UAE, signifies a landmark development and has garnered accolades for its architectural excellence. The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir stands as a symbol of religious diversity and cultural harmony in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
