Visitors worldwide are eager to visit the historic BAPS Hindu Mandir set to open its doors on February 18 in the UAE, according to the head of the temple project. While the inauguration of the pink sandstone temple is slated for February 14, the public can officially visit starting February 18.
The temple, adorned with intricate hand-carved stone sculptures, is expected to draw crowds, prompting BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha to launch online registrations last year, The Khaleej Times reported. UAE residents registered for the February 18 opening can attend, but those yet to register are encouraged to plan visits from March 1 due to overwhelming demand from international visitors, the Dubai-based English newspaper said.
Less than a month to go for the inauguration of the @AbuDhabiMandir @BAPS , Amb @sunjaysudhir hosted diplomatic corps from across the globe for a special tour of the temple. Envoys were awed by its unique architecture, intricate motifs and its message of unity, peace & harmony. pic.twitter.com/GhCxVWlly6— India in UAE (@IndembAbuDhabi) January 30, 2024
27-Acre Site
Representatives from 42 nations convened at the expansive 27-acre construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on Monday. The visit served to foster intercultural understanding, goodwill and respect while providing the distinguished guests an opportunity to witness the ongoing progress of the Middle East’s inaugural traditional Hindu temple, symbolising the universal principles of tolerance and harmony.
Tej Bahadur Chhetri, Ambassador of Nepal, called the Mandir a “tirthbhumi (place of pilgrimage)”, adding: “It is an inspiring building that teaches us about love, harmony and tolerance. It is something that we will gift to our future generations. Mahant Swami Maharaj is a great sadhu. Because of him, people were inspired to build this mandir, and it is a huge success.”
Swami Brahmaviharidas, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir project, highlighted the significant interest from overseas visitors and requested UAE residents to consider post-March 1 visits. “The visit is going to be through pre-registration. It’s going to be open to all people, but just to avoid rushes and creating crowds, this is our request to come after March 1,” Swami Brahmaviharidas said.
As the hand-carved pink sandstone temple nears completion, final touches are underway for the grand opening titled “Festival of Harmony.” The features and cultural significance of the temple are expected to make it a notable attraction not only within the UAE but also for international tourists. This initiative aligns with efforts to preserve the cultural heritage and offer a place of worship for the Hindu community. The global interest reflects the anticipation surrounding the first traditional stone temple in the Middle East. It also signifies close ties between India and the UAE.
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