Historic BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi consecrated
THE BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi marked the day with the consecration of its idols, led by Mahant Swami Maharaj.
The ceremony, held on the auspicious morning of Vasant Panchami, witnessed the spiritual leader performing the ritual for the main idol of Parabrahma Shri Swaminarayan Bhagwan, followed by other deity figures in different sections of the temple.
(BAPS - Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha)
The evening saw a grand launch ceremony and public dedication assembly in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This celebration, attended by thousands of Indians, carries a powerful message of harmony, love, and tolerance for the world.
The temple's existence itself stands as a testament to interfaith understanding and generosity. Land for its construction was gifted by the UAE rulers, with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Nahyan contributing 13.5 acres initially, followed by an additional 13.5 acres in 2019, during the UAE's "Year of Tolerance."
The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi serves as a landmark achievement, symbolizing cultural exchange and mutual respect between India and the UAE. Its opening promises to enrich the lives of devotees and promote understanding and unity within the diverse community.
The BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi is the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East. This consecration event holds special significance as it coincides with the 159th birth anniversary of Shastriji Maharaj, founder of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Established in 1907, the organization had envisioned this temple since 1997.
"In 2015, when I presented to him (Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed) the proposal to build a temple in Abu Dhabi on behalf of all of you, he immediately said yes to it...now the time has come to inaugurate this grand (BAPS) temple," Modi said.
The stadium echoed with cheers of “Modi-Modi” as thousands of Indian diaspora members welcomed Modi.
Modi emphasised India's recognition for its large-scale infrastructure projects and the success of Digital India, saying that the world sees India as a global friend.
Highlighting the strong ties between India and the UAE, Modi mentioned his frequent visits to the country over the past decade and announced the upcoming establishment of a new Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) office in Dubai.
Modi toured the temple premises and offered prayers to various deities and idols installed there.
