The BAPS Hindu Mandir, the first traditional Hindu stone temple is nearing its much-awaited inauguration in Abu Dhabi.
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The architectural masterpiece showcases a blend of traditional India with hand-carved sculptures crafted on 27 acres of land donated by the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
As the Emirates plans to inaugurate the historic Hindu temple this month, let’s take a look at the temple which is dubbed as a spiritual oasis of harmony.
The first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi aims to promote peace and mark the celebration of global cultures, values, and harmony endorsed by the United Arab Emirates.
The invite-only opening ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the UAE capital will be attended by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 14, 2023.
The complex pink sandstone and white marble structure in the emirate’s Abu Mureikha area reportedly cost Dh350 million ($95.3 million) to build.
With just two weeks until the February 14 inauguration, the Hindu temple will be open to the public from February 18.
The new Stone Mandir 🛕 in #AbuDhabi is another marvel of a #BAPS #Hindu temple, showcasing Vedic sculpture and architecture 🕉 🔔
Claimed as the largest in West Asia, this masterpiece was crafted at an estimated cost of AED 400 million (approx. ₹ 850crores).
The grand… pic.twitter.com/MVAEVDOTtT — 𝑰𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝑫𝒊𝒗𝒂 🇮🇳 (@itsDivasChoice) February 1, 2024
However, authorities have urged UAE residents to visit the BAPS Hindu Temple from March 1, 2024, due to thousands of overseas visitors traveling to the United Arab Emirates to view the mandir this month.
Starting February 15 to February 21, reportedly a week-long celebration will begin at the site. Prayers, talks on harmony and peace, as well as specially-themed events are part of the lineup.
As previously announced, the public opening date of the BAPS Hindu Mandir is February 18, 2024, four days after the consecration ceremony in Abu Dhabi.
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Cover image source: Twitter
