NEW DELHI: In Abu Dhabiโs desert sands, the BAPS Hindu Mandir is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 14. The temple, near completion, is receiving finishing touches.
PM Modi will address the Indian community on February 13 at Abu Dhabiโs Sheikh Zayed Stadium and attend the dedication ceremony at the BAPS Hindu temple on February 14.
Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir organised a preview of the temple for ambassadors and spouses from 42 countries. Excitement was expressed for the temple nearing completion, seen as a once-impossible reality.
#MandirMoods pic.twitter.com/P1fHTZJNCc
โ BAPS Hindu Mandir (@AbuDhabiMandir) February 3, 2024
Swami Brahmaviharidas, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir project, highlighted the templeโs historical significance and its impact on interfaith harmony, receiving gratitude from both the UAE and Indian leadership.
Spanning 27 acres in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba along the DubaiโAbu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, the templeโs location was strategically chosen. Pink sandstone from northern Rajasthan was transported to Abu Dhabi for durability in the UAEโs scorching temperatures.
Italian marble adds elegance to the construction. An eco-conscious approach includes integrating fly ash into the foundationโs concrete mix to reduce the carbon footprint. The project is notable for being the first Hindu traditional mandir with comprehensive digital modelling and seismic simulation.
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โ BAPS Hindu Mandir (@AbuDhabiMandir) January 27, 2024
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi stands as the largest temple in West Asia, with dimensions of 32.92 metres in height, 79.86 metres in length, and 54.86 metres in width. Architectural elements include two domes, seven spires symbolising the UAEโs seven Emirates, 12 samrans, and 402 pillars. The facade features marble carvings against a sandstone backdrop, crafted from over 25,000 pieces by skilled artisans in India.
Intricate carvings within the temple depict stories from Hindu epics. The โDome of Harmonyโ showcases the harmony of natural elements. The complex includes a visitor centre, prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, a childrenโs sports area, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, and a books and gift shop. The temple also has sensors for earthquake activity, temperature fluctuations, and pressure changes.
Abu Dhabi Hindu temple will signify close ties between the UAE ๐ฆ๐ช and India ๐ฎ๐ณ @TheNationalNews @ramolatalwar @AbuDhabiMandir https://t.co/EN54v8uDxz pic.twitter.com/gEAyKZiEqE
โ ุญุณู ุณุฌูุงูู ๐ฆ๐ช Hassan Sajwani (@HSajwanization) February 1, 2024
