Image credita - X
A historic moment is observed as the Middle East witnessed the inauguration of its first stone-built Hindu temple, BAPS, located amidst the desert expanse between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the enduring cultural ties between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the UAE today to preside over the inauguration ceremony, signalling a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. The temple’s construction represents not only a spiritual landmark but also a symbol of the growing partnership between India and the Emirates.
With over 9 million inhabitants in the UAE, of which more than 3.5 million are Indian expatriates, the unveiling of the BAPS temple holds immense cultural significance. While small Hindu temples have existed in the UAE before, none have been constructed using traditional Hindu mandir technology, making BAPS a unique addition to the landscape.
Spread across a sprawling complex, the BAPS temple offers a plethora of facilities and amenities to its visitors. From a spacious prayer hall capable of accommodating 3,000 devotees to themed gardens, water features, and a food court, the temple is designed to cater to the diverse needs of its patrons. Additionally, the inclusion of a sports area for children and youth symbolizes the temple’s commitment to holistic development and community engagement.
A distinctive feature of the temple is the meticulous recreation of ghats representing the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna. These serene water features evoke a sense of tranquillity and spirituality, enhancing the overall ambiance of the temple grounds.
Central to the temple’s design are two domes: the ‘Dome of Peace’ and the ‘Dome of Harmony’. These architectural marvels symbolize as welll as reflect the inclusive ethos of the temple, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. Moreover, the presence of idols representing various Indian deities, including Swaminarayan, Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, and Ganesha, reinforces the temple’s role as a spiritual sanctuary for devotees from across the region.
In his address at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Modi described the BAPS temple as a symbol of friendship and cooperation between India and the UAE. He emphasised the shared values of tolerance, diversity, and harmony that underpin the bilateral relationship, asserting that the temple serves as a beacon of peace in a troubled world.
As devotees and visitors flock to witness the grandeur of BAPS, it is clear that the temple holds a special place in the hearts of both Indian expatriates and Emiratis alike. With its serene surroundings and inclusive ethos, the BAPS temple is believed to become a cherished landmark in the Middle East for generations to come.
