Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate United Arab Emirates (UAE) first Hindu Temple on a significant visit from February 13-14. This will mark a historic occasion with the inauguration of the first traditional Hindu temple, ‘BAPS Mandir,’ in Abu Dhabi. This visit will be PM Narendra Modi seventh visit in UAE.
The Full name of BAPS Mandir is Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottom Swaminarayan Sanstha temple in Abu Dhabi UAE. The temple will inaugurate on 14 February in the date of Sarsaswati Puja. The Temple will open for Public on March 1.
This landmark event underscores the close ties between India and the UAE, highlighting a shared commitment to cultural understanding and mutual respect.
Symbol of Collaboration: The BAPS Mandir
Situated on 27 acres of land generously gifted by the UAE leadership, the BAPS Mandir stands as a symbol of collaborative efforts between the two nations. Pranav Desai, Director of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, expressed gratitude for the support from both the UAE and Indian leadership, emphasizing the significance of this cultural milestone.
Director of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, Pranav Desai says, “What you see behind me is a beautiful BAPS Hindu Temple. It’s the first traditional Hindu Temple in the United Arab Emirates. It’s built on 27 acres of land. It is the land gifted by the leadership of the UAE. So we are really thankful for the graciousness of the leadership of UAE. At the same time, we are thankful to the leadership of India; because of their will and support, we have built this beautiful temple…” ANI reported.
BAPS: A Global Spiritual Force
Founded in 1907, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha serves millions worldwide through its numerous mandirs, centers, and volunteers. The official announcement of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi was made in February 2018, with the foundation stone laid in April 2019.
Promoting Harmony: Message of the Mandir
More than just an architectural marvel, the BAPS Mandir carries a profound message of harmony and coexistence. Brahmaviharidas Swami, Head of BAPS Hindu Mandir, highlighted the temple’s role in fostering cultural exchange and understanding among diverse communities, religions, and nations.
The mandir, crafted entirely from stone without the use of iron or steel reinforcements, exemplifies eco-friendly practices. Over 20,000 tonnes of stone and marble were sourced from India, with fly ash used in the foundation to reduce its carbon footprint.
Generous Donation: Contribution by UAE Leadership for first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, demonstrated a commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange by donating 13.5 acres of land for the construction of the mandir. This generous gesture laid the foundation for strengthening bilateral relations between India and the UAE.
Historical Journey of first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi
The journey towards the establishment of the BAPS Mandir began in 2019 with the laying of its foundation stone. Diplomats from over 30 countries visited the under-construction site in May 2023, highlighting the global significance of this cultural endeavor.
On 5 April 1997 devotees accompanied the then president of Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, to a desert area in Sharjah, UAE. There, Swamishri offered prayers for global peace, harmony among religions, eradication of internal conflicts within countries, and prosperity for all nations. Additionally, he expressed a personal prayer for the construction of a mandir in Abu Dhabi.
Following Swamishri’s vision, BAPS sadhus and devotees engaged with community and government leaders over the next two decades to secure land for the envisioned mandir. In 2015, the UAE government allocated land for the construction of a Hindu mandir, a move publicly appreciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Abu Dhabi. The project entrusted to BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and Mandir Limited by both governments.
Beyond Inauguration: Addressing Indian Diaspora
In addition to inaugurating the BAPS Mandir, Prime Minister Modi will address the Indian diaspora at the ‘Ahlan Modi’ event on February 13. Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, emphasized the enthusiasm among the diaspora to hear firsthand from Prime Minister Modi, reflecting their keen interest in his vision for a developed India.
Elaborate Visit: Bilateral Meetings and Engagements
Prime Minister Modi’s visit will encompass bilateral meetings with key UAE leaders, including President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid in Dubai. This visit underscores the strategic importance of the UAE-India partnership and further strengthens ties between the two nations.
Conclusion: Strengthening Bonds Through Cultural Diplomacy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to inaugurate the BAPS Mandir marks a significant milestone in UAE-India relations, symbolizing the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between the two nations. Beyond diplomatic engagements, this visit exemplifies the power of cultural diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation on the global stage.
 first Hindu Temple on 14 February in Abu Dhabi.){kind=link}