Thousands of devotees and well-wishers from all across the world witnessed the auspicious and historic Hindu Vedic Shila Pujan that took place in Abu Dhabi on a land that was generously gifted by a royal decree for the construction of a Hindu temple. Performed by Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami on behalf of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, the ceremony was streamed live to a special assembly at the Dubai Opera where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with 1700 Indian and Emirati dignitaries were present.
Modi later addressed the gathering, and unveiled a model of the traditional stone temple that will be built by 2020. “I believe this temple will not be only unique in terms of architecture and splendour, but will also give a message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (world is one) to people across the world,” Modi said. He also thanked Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on behalf of 125 crore Indians. Several satsangi from the UK, including Nitin Palan, Kamlesh Patel, Hitan Mehta, and Nirav Patel specially flew to Abu Dhabi to attend the ceremony.
The occasion saw a impressive display of interfaith harmony, as representatives of various Indian religious denominations and communities also stood in attendance. Following the laying of the foundation stone, Consul General of India Vipul said, “This is a historic event, rightly called the millennial moment. The first traditional stone temple built by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha shall serve the needs of the entire community. The temple and its activities shall be path-breaking for promoting love, tolerance and harmony in the UAE and the neighbouring regions.”
The temple will be built across 55,000 square metres of land, off Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway. It will be hand-carved by Indian temple artisans. Once built, it will be open to people of all faiths. A BAPS spokesperson said that this will be the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East. The temple will cover all aspects and features of a traditional Hindu temple. Sources say that the institution will host idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Maheshwara, Lord Ayyappa, and other Hindu Gods. The temple complex will have a visitors' centre, prayer halls, an exhibition centre, learning areas, thematic gardens and water features. There will also be a sports area, and a food court.
Temple committee head and community leader BR Shetty said the construction work will be carried out diligently. “The temple should match with Abu Dabhi's landscaping. We will not compromise with the quality of the building. This will be an iconic building. It will be largest and the best temple. This is for the future generation to pray and be disciplined in this country. We have not decided the cost of the temple yet but it should be in line with the skyline of Abu Dhabi. I think it will be not less than Dh 400 million.” He said that the temple will not be an exact replica of the Akshardham Temple in New Delhi. “No, it is different. The same people are building this. We have shortlisted the design,” he said.
Shetty added, “It was never dreamt that one day we will have the temple made in Abu Dhabi. This is because of the benevolence of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince. This is one place for everyone irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Anybody can perform a religious function there without paying a single dirham.”
Top members of BAPS met His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and PM Modi at the Presidential Palace prior to the ceremony. Ishwarcharandas Swami and Brahmaviharidas Swami presented a traditional golden amrut kalash to the Crown Prince.
