The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s first hand-carved traditional stone and marble temple, marked a significant milestone, attracting more than 2.2 million visitors since its opening in February 2024. To celebrate its first anniversary, over 10,000 devotees and volunteers gathered early on Sunday morning to offer prayers and participate in a vibrant day-long celebration.
A Beacon of Unity and Cultural Harmony
Swami Brahmaviharidas, the head of international relations for BAPS, reflected on the temple’s achievements, noting its success in exceeding expectations. “This iconic landmark has not only become a cultural and spiritual hub but also a beacon of unity, fostering greater understanding and harmony among nations, cultures, and faiths,” he told The National. He acknowledged the UAE leadership’s generosity in granting permission for the temple and expressed gratitude to President Sheikh Mohamed for his unwavering support. Swami Brahmaviharidas emphasized that the Mandir continues to advocate inclusion, evident in the festivals, interfaith dialogues, and various events held on its grounds.
The Mandir’s inspiration comes from Mahant Swami Maharaj, the senior spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Swami Brahmaviharidas emphasized the temple’s role in bridging cultural divides and uniting hearts and minds globally. He prayed that the temple would continue to serve humanity by spreading love, peace, and understanding for generations to come.
A Day of Spiritual and Cultural Celebration
On Sunday, families gathered as early as 4 a.m. to participate in the cultural program, which included prayer rituals, music, and traditional dance performances. Meera Chokshi, a 33-year-old Dubai resident, shared her thoughts on the significance of the temple, stating, “Before the temple was built, there was always a missing factor. Now that has been fulfilled because we go every weekend to offer prayers with family. We look to the temple for hope.”
The temple’s anniversary celebrations also included prayers for Sheikh Mohamed for his vision in promoting a land of love and harmony. The festivities continued well into the evening, featuring traditional Indian dances and music performed against the stunning backdrop of the sandstone temple.
A Monument of Faith and Dedication
The Dh350 million temple, made of intricate marble and stone carvings, took about five years to complete, with work continuing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of sculptors dedicated their efforts to carving detailed depictions from ancient Indian scriptures, adorning the temple’s pillars and domes with remarkable craftsmanship.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is open to all visitors, who must register for entry on the temple’s official website, mandir.ae. The temple not only stands as a testament to religious and cultural unity but also offers a space for reflection, community, and hope for all who visit.
