Contemplate this: a traditional Hindu temple standing proudly in Abu Dhabi. This is the BAPS Hindu Mandir. It symbolizes the UAE’s commitment to interfaith harmony. The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi is the first traditional Hindu mandir in Abu Dhabi.
Inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, it was consecrated by Mahant Swami Maharaj on February 14, 2024. Pramukh Swami Maharaj envisioned this mandir back in 1997. The UAE government gifted 27 acres of land for its construction in August 2015.
Construction began in December 2019. The BAPS Hindu Mandir is built with pink sandstone from northern Rajasthan and marble from Italy. It reaches 108 feet tall with a length of 262 feet and a width of 180 feet. Over 200 volunteers dedicated 690000 hours to the construction. The BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first Hindu stone mandir to undergo complete digital modeling and seismic simulations.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir reflects the good relations between the UAE and India. It fosters understanding and unity. Carvings depict stories from various cultures. These include the Ramayana and tales from Arabian and Egyptian civilizations.
Inside the BAPS Hindu Mandir, you will find various shrines. One shrine houses Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj. Another has Radha-Krishna. A third displays Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya reside in another shrine. Venkateswara and Padmavati also have their place. Finally, Jagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra are present.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the Middle East in 1997. He envisioned a mandir in Abu Dhabi. It would bring countries, cultures, and religions closer. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi gifted land for the mandir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed this. He saw it as a symbol of peace and harmony.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi’s construction minimized its carbon footprint. Fly ash reduced the cement required by 55%. The mandir is earthquake resistant. This is the first Hindu traditional mandir to undergo complete digital modeling and seismic simulation.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir complex offers much to explore. It includes a visitor center and prayer halls. There are exhibitions and learning areas. Children can enjoy a sports area. Thematic gardens and water features add to the beauty. A food court and gift shop are also available.
The Wall of Harmony welcomes visitors. The Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community completed this 47-metre-long 3D-printed wall. A waterfall symbolizes the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir promotes interfaith harmony. The land was donated by a Muslim king. The lead architect was Catholic. A Sikh managed the construction. The foundation designer was Buddhist. A Jain is a director of the mandir.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi was awarded legal status in the UAE. This happened in September 2019. The mandir has carvings of UAE animals and parables from various civilizations.
The inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir was a 12-day celebration. It was called the “Festival of Harmony”. A Vedic ceremony sought divine blessings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the mandir to the public on February 14, 2024.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi is now open to the public. Remember to register before your visit. Enjoy the beauty and serenity of this unique place of worship. The BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as a testament to harmony and unity.