The ‘Festival of Harmony’ marking the historic inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi came to a conclusion on 21 February with the ‘Day of Inspiration’, a day dedicated to celebrating families and inspirational individuals who have contributed to society. Organised by the women’s wing of the BAPS Mandir, more than 2,000 women attend this special assembly. The event spotlighted the pivotal role of women in the uplift of society and their invaluable contributions to humanity.
A video titled ‘Faces of Inspiration’ highlighted the remarkable stories of individuals who have served the BAPS Mandir under extraordinary circumstances.
The event was graced by guests, including Sadhvi Saraswati Bhagwati, a renowned spiritual leader, author, and motivational speaker based in Rishikesh, India. Sadhvi Saraswati is the author of the #1 bestselling memoir, Hollywood to the Himalayas: A Journey of Healing and Transformation. During the event, she eloquently spoke about the role of mandirs and how they inspire faith and peace.
Among the other distinguished guests were Vandana Sudhir, the wife of the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, who has over 30 years of experience in the field of education. Additionally, Poonam Bhojani, the founding CEO of Innoventures Education and an MBA graduate from the prestigious IIM Bangalore, also graced the occasion with her presence.
The event was a splendid display of celebration and community spirit, with attendees representing various prominent communities within the UAE. Visitors hailed from diverse groups, such as the Jain Samaj; Art of Living; Ame Gujarati In UAE; Indian Women in Dubai; Rising Stars Group; Maharashtra Mandal Abu Dhabi; South Indian community, Indian Ladies Association, Abu Dhabi; and many more. The gathering epitomised unity and inclusivity, demonstrating the vibrant range of cultures and backgrounds present in the UAE.
Sadhvi Bhagwati conveyed her joy upon visiting the Mandir, highlighting its significance in fostering unity among communities. She expressed, “This Mandir is a testament to ‘Bhakti ki shakti’ (the strength of devotion). It serves as a symbol of global harmony, akin to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj. The whole [of this Mandir] is greater than the sum of its parts, and it can be seen in everyone coming together for this Mandir.”
Vandana Sudhir said, “This Mandir has connected different cultures and religions making this world a better place. What can be a better place than here to inspire unity and love in society!”
Poonam Bhojani stated a personal teaching in her address. “My father used to teach me to work without expecting any results. This is the first time I have seen it in action here at the BAPS Mandir, where every individual has served without any expectation. This is true service with compassion.”
The assembly concluded with recorded video blessings from His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, in which he conveyed the message of love and the power that lies within one and all. He said, “Dearest friends, you are not ordinary. You are great souls because you have obtained God. You have an infinite power within you, so take great pride in this.”
Before departing, the attendees enjoyed a walk around the perimeter of the Mandir complex, marvelling at the intricate carvings and the inspirational stories of ancient civilizations from around the world. Each visitor cherished the atmosphere of harmony and expressed shared appreciation for all those who came together to support this community project.
