PM Modi inaugurates BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi

New Delhi, Feb 14: A happy and confident Prime Minister Modi in his best attractive radiant onion colour silken attire inaugurated the Abu Dhabi BAPs Mandir on Wednesday evening, amidst a jubilant atmosphere, marked by elaborate spiritual and religious surroundings and ceremonies with a message of harmony and value-based life messages.

In a historic moment in Abu Dhabi, the PM inaugurated the BAPS Hindu Mandir, marking a testament to collaboration, tolerance, and cultural exchange.

As he reached the temple in a white sedan, the head of the temple, Swamiji Mehraj and caretakers of the temple greeted him and took the PM around the spotless shining marbled floor, and the stone building, with clean water flowing on both sides, representing Ganga and Jamuna River to the front face of the main building of the temple.

PM Modi met most of the guests amid tight security.

He was shown the ‘Wall of Harmony’ having carved representations of icon buildings of UAE and Vedic, folklore, cultural stories, and ancient religious tales depicted through deep carvings.

The 45-meter ‘Wall of Harmony’ spoke everything as the PM, wearing a freshly looking spotless Kurta and Dhoti, donning a Modi jacket and a long scarf around his neck of the same colour met religious leaders of different faiths, donors, and caretakers.

Inside the temple, he was shown a 12-minute audio-visual weaving history.

PM Modi was then escorted to the ‘Eye of Divinity’, symbolic of showcasing tolerance, love, peace, and harmony.

He took 97 long steps to the Mandir covered with red carpet and entered the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

The PM paid obeisance to the head Mahant Swamiji and then garlanded Mahant Swamijee and in reciprocal Mahant Ji also garlanded Modi.

The ‘Dome of Harmony’ that represents five layers - earth, water, light, wind, and space - was shown to Modi.

“Places change, people change, and these five elements can make beautiful places,” the priest said.

The PM, alongside Shastriji, Swamiji Maharaj, and other religious priests, conducted the Pooja ceremony amid recitations of religious discourses and received blessings from Shastriji and Swamiji Maharaj. Following the Vedic sermons, an Aarti was performed.

Addressing the guests, including UAE Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, he said that the inauguration of the temple in Abu Dhabi was a momentous occasion.

PM Modi emphasised his hope that the temple would not only symbolise humanity but also unity for all who visit.

Expressing gratitude to Nahyan for his presence and supportive words, he praised the exemplary support extended by the UAE government, particularly highlighting the pivotal role played by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in realising the dream.

Highlighting the significance of the temple, the PM remarked on its potential to become synonymous with Abu Dhabi's skyline, akin to iconic landmarks like the Khalifa Tower and the UAE Museum.

He emphasised the enduring friendship between India and the UAE and thanked the people of the UAE for their centuries-old ties rooted in trade and mutual respect.

PM Modi commended BAPS for their contributions to preserving Vedic traditions while promoting universal values of tolerance and humanity.

He celebrated the recent fulfilment of the Ram Mandir dream in Ayodhya and acknowledged the inclusive spirit of the temple, which reflects acceptance and respect for all religions.

Announcing the UAE government's allocation of land for an Indian hospital, the PM thanked Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his support, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

He emphasised the shared humanity between India and the UAE, expressing hope that the temple would serve as a reminder of their enduring friendship and cherished values.

Nestled within the Abu Mureikhah Cultural District, this BAPS Hindu temple stands as a remarkable architectural achievement, showcasing traditional stone temple craftsmanship in the Middle East.

Set against the desert backdrop, the temple's majestic silhouette captivates onlookers, accompanied by the melodious chime of temple bells echoing through the surroundings.

An eager crowd of Indian expatriates gathered at the Mandir, located in Abu Dhabi's Cultural District, where selected individuals and donors were invited, embodying the enduring friendship between India and the UAE.

PM Modi emphasised that the temple serves as a timeless tribute to the generosity and friendship shared between nations.

Described as an emblem of shared values, tolerance, and harmony, the temple represents a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between India and the UAE.

Over the past 5 years, a dedicated team of artisans, architects, engineers, and software experts meticulously crafted the temple, spanning 11 hectares and constructed for 350 million Dhirham (95.3 million dollars).

Adorned with intricately carved pink sandstone spires, white marble pillars, and polished sculptures, the temple showcases the craftsmanship of over 2000 sculptors from Indian villages, employing ancient construction techniques to bring this vision to life.

Scheduled to open to the public in a couple of days, the temple has been a labour of love and dedication Despite challenges in sourcing materials and coordinating with craftsmen across India, the result is a fusion of artistry and technology, where centuries-old techniques meet modern innovation, promising a lifespan of at least a thousand years.