Landmark Day: PM Modi Inaugurates First Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi, UAE: In a monumental moment for the Indian diaspora in the Middle East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. This grand structure, also the largest Hindu temple in the region, signifies the strengthening ties between India and the UAE.
A Gift of Land and Goodwill:
The temple’s construction, spanning over 27 acres, began in 2019. Its journey started in 2015 when Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, generously donated 13.5 acres of land for the project. Later, an additional 13.5 acres were gifted, showcasing the UAE’s welcoming spirit towards diverse religious communities.
Architectural Grandeur:
Built by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), the temple boasts seven shikhars (spires), symbolizing the seven emirates of the UAE. This architectural detail reflects the temple’s integration into the local fabric while celebrating its unique religious identity.
Global Spirit, Shared Celebration:
The consecration ceremony of the temple’s idols commenced on Wednesday morning, coinciding with a global aarti (prayer) held simultaneously at over 1,200 BAPS temples worldwide. This remarkable display of unity highlights the temple’s potential to serve as a spiritual center for Hindus across the globe.
Beyond Brick and Mortar:
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the inauguration, including virtual offerings at the temple’s Ganga and Yamuna rivers and interactions with various individuals involved in the construction, signifies the deeper meaning behind this monumental project. It represents the strengthening friendship between India and the UAE, built on mutual respect and cultural understanding.
Visuals from the grand #BAPSMandir, the first Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE.#PMModiInUAE #BAPSHinduMandir #BAPSMandirAbuDhabi #IndiaUAE@PMOIndia @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/3dSMegSd7p
— DD News (@DDNewslive) February 14, 2024
