Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Muskan Arora
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on a two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), commencing on Tuesday. This visit marks his seventh official trip to the UAE since 2015, reflecting the significance of the bilateral relationship between India and the UAE.
During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi on February 14. This historic event symbolizes the growing cultural ties between India and the UAE, as the temple becomes the first of its kind in the capital city.
The construction of the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi marks a significant endeavor, with a budget of ₹700 crore and the use of materials like pink sandstone and marble.
As the first stone Hindu temple in the UAE, the BAPS temple is breaking ground in fostering cultural integration and diversity within the region.
Drawing inspiration from Vedic architecture, the temple showcases intricate sculptures and carvings crafted by skilled artisans in India.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to the UAE in 2015 led to the allocation of land for the temple project, with the foundation stone laid by him in 2017.
Skilled craftsmen from India are contributing to the temple's construction, reflecting a collaborative effort spanning continents.
With seven spires representing each Emirate of the UAE, the temple's design aims to promote unity and harmony amidst cultural diversity.
Led by the BAPS Hindu sect, known for its devotion to Swaminarayan, the temple brings rich traditions to the UAE's religious landscape.
With a history of building Hindu temples worldwide, including iconic landmarks like the Akshardham Temple in Delhi, BAPS continues its global cultural influence.
Beyond its religious functions, the temple complex will feature educational facilities, exhibition centers, and recreational areas, enriching the community's cultural experience.
Projected to be the largest Hindu temple in West Asia, the temple's imposing stature stands as a testament to its architectural and cultural significance.