The inauguration of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has recently dominated news headlines. It is a historic event as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gets its first Hindu temple. Dilip Joshi, who played Jethalal in the popular sitcom Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, paid a visit to the temple ahead of the ceremonial inauguration.
Dilip Joshi explained the significance of the endeavour to ANI, saying, “Even after seeing this, it is difficult to believe that such a beautiful BAPS temple has been constructed. I was present here when the foundation stone of this temple was laid by PM Modi. The Ruler of Dubai has a big heart, he gave the land and permission to construct this temple. I pray that the message of harmony is spread across the world from this temple.”Dilip Joshi also thanked the Ruler of Dubai for his compassion in obtaining permission for the development.
#WATCH | Abu Dhabi: On BAPS temple, Actor Dilip Joshi says "Even after seeing this, it is difficult to believe that such a beautiful BAPS temple has been constructed. I was present here when the foundation stone of this temple was laid by PM Modi. The Ruler of Dubai has a big… pic.twitter.com/4PIQJ2SMIQ
— ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024
Apart from Dilip Joshi, several more celebrities attended the big launch. Following the consecration, Akshay Kumar took to social media to share a beautiful photo of the temple. The actor described it as a ‘historic occasion’ and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of its grandeur. He wrote on X (previously Twitter): “Blessed to be a part of the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Abu Dhabi.” “What a historic moment!!”
Blessed to be a part of the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan temple at Abu Dhabi. What a historic moment!! pic.twitter.com/TOPhk55omI
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) February 14, 2024
The BAPS temple was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi, and in a statement, he said, “The BAPS temple will be an enduring tribute to the values of harmony, peace and tolerance, which both India and the UAE share.”
