Abu Dhabi: Diplomats and diplomats from more than 30 countries visited the BAPS temple, the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the UAE, which is being constructed.
Envoys and mission representatives from the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Japan, Indonesia, Israel, Brazil, Belgium, New Zealand, Canada, Nigeria among others were present during the august gathering following a special invitation by Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE.
Sudhir briefed the ambassadors and their families on the progress of the temple, since the laying of its foundation stone by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018. He described the temple project as a symbol of the “close, historic and cultural bonds” between India and the UAE, who share the values of peace, harmony, tolerance and coexistence.
Sudhir also hailed the vision of the leadership of the UAE and their inspiring efforts to build a diverse, peaceful and cohesive community. A video message by India's foreign minister S Jaishankar talking about the temple was shown to the envoys.
Swami Brahmaviharidas, the head of BAPS temple, was also present on the occasion. In an interaction with Swami Brahmaviharidas, who is also spearheading the project, the envoys were briefed about the features of the temple, which will make it not only an architectural marvel but also a unique symbol of peace, tolerance and harmony.
BAPS volunteers gave the visitors an explanation of how various world religions and Indian folklore were represented at the temple during the trip. The envoys were in awe of the meticulously hand-sculpted columns, facades, and rafters on the grounds of the temple, which blend cultural symbols from both the UAE and India.