5 Points About BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE

The inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Abu Dhabi heralds a new chapter in the history of the Hindu community in the UAE, the concretion ceremony of which will take place on 14^th February 2024. Rooted in the rich traditions of BAPS – Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, this monumental temple stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between India and the UAE. With its profound symbolism, global outreach, and collective effort, the temple represents a beacon of unity, spirituality, and cultural heritage.

BAPS Hindu Mandir

The BAPS Hindu Mandir, a traditional Hindu sanctuary constructed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, is situated in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Standing tall at 108 feet with dimensions of 262 feet in length and 180 feet in width, this majestic structure occupies a sprawling 27-acre site in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba along the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway. Upon its completion, it will hold the distinction of being the Middle East’s inaugural traditional Hindu stone mandir.

BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE, At a Glance

5 Facts About BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi

The BAPS Hindu Mandir, a traditional Hindu sanctuary constructed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, is situated in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Here are some of the key facts you must know about BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE:

1. BAPS, A Socio-Spiritual Hindu Faith

BAPS, which stands for Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, represents a socio-spiritual Hindu faith deeply rooted in the Vedas. Founded by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the late 18th century and formally established in 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj, BAPS is built upon the principles of practical spirituality. It aims to address the spiritual, moral, and social challenges prevalent in today’s world.

2. Global Outreach and Recognition

With a global network comprising over 3,850 centers, BAPS has gained recognition worldwide for its universal outreach and impactful work. The organization has received numerous national and international awards and has affiliations with esteemed organizations like the United Nations. This global recognition underscores the significance of BAPS’s efforts in promoting spiritual and social well-being.

3. Significance of the Abu Dhabi Temple

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UAE in 2015, the UAE allocated land for the construction of the temple in Abu Dhabi. This move held significant diplomatic importance, as Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister in 34 years to visit the Gulf nation. The allocation of land for the temple symbolized the strengthening of diplomatic ties between India and the UAE and was hailed as a landmark decision.

4. Architecture and Construction of BAPS Hindu Mandir

The architectural marvel of the BAPS Hindu Mandir reflects a harmonious blend of traditional Hindu design elements with modern construction techniques. Standing at an impressive height of 108 feet and sprawling over 27 acres of land, the mandir boasts intricate carvings, symbolic domes, and spires that narrate tales from Hindu scriptures and reflect the diverse cultural landscape of the UAE. The construction involved the meticulous selection of materials such as pink sandstone from northern Rajasthan and marble from Italy, ensuring durability and sustainability in the face of extreme temperatures.

5. Collective Achievement and Unity

The completion of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir stands as a testament to the remarkable dedication and efforts of thousands of Indian artisans and devotees. Many devotees and members of the Indian diaspora actively participated in the temple’s construction through “Shramdan,” or voluntary labor, symbolizing their commitment and unity. The temple’s inauguration represents a collective achievement, demonstrating the unity and affection invested by the community.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q1. What does BAPS stand for and what principles does it uphold?
Q2. When is the concretion ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi scheduled?
Q3. What was the diplomatic significance of the UAE allocating land for the construction of the BAPS Hindu Mandir?
Q4. What is the area of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE?

Check your knowledge and try to answer the questions in the comment section.