PM Modi opens first Hindu Temple in UAE | ActionPunjab

PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated Abu Dhabi’s first Hindu Temple. The iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir is first-ever Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates.  PM Modi inaugurated the Hindu temple before leaving for a two-day visit to Qatar. The general public can visit the temple from March 1 onwards.

The inauguration of the BAPS temple, constructed at a cost of Rs 700 crore, marks a significant moment for the Hindu community in the UAE and the broader Middle East. Spanning 27 acres, this 108-foot tall structure stands as the largest Hindu temple in the Middle East. In 2015, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan, who was the crown prince at the time, generously donated 13.5 acres of land for the temple in Abu Mreikhah, Abu Dhabi. An additional 13.5 acres were contributed in 2019, initiating the construction of the temple.

The Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha is responsible for the construction, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the foundation in 2018. The consecration ceremony for the idols commenced this morning, marking a significant milestone in the establishment of this grand Hindu temple in the region.

Key Points 

Construction, Architecture & Cost

With a construction budget of Rs 700 crore, the temple showcases a meticulously designed facade featuring seven spires representing each Emirate of the country.
Spread across 27 acres of land in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba along the Dubai–Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, the temple’s strategic location was chosen with careful consideration. The land was donated by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The use of pink sandstone from northern Rajasthan and Italian marble reflects not just aesthetic choices, but also practical considerations for the challenging climate of the UAE.
In an environmentally conscious approach, fly ash was integrated into the concrete mix of the foundation to reduce the carbon footprint.
This project stands out as the first Hindu traditional mandir to undergo comprehensive digital modeling and seismic simulation, showcasing a commitment to both tradition and innovation.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is set to be the largest temple in West Asia, with dimensions of 32.92 metre (108 feet) in height, 79.86 metre (262 feet) in length, and 54.86 metre (180 feet) in width.
Architectural elements include two ghumats (domes), seven shikars (spires) symbolising the seven Emirates in the UAE, 12 samrans, and 402 pillars.

Architectural Splendor and Cultural Richness

The temple’s facade boasts exquisite marble carvings set against a sandstone backdrop, crafted from over 25,000 pieces of stone by skilled artisans in India.
Intricate carvings within each shikar depict stories from the Ramayana, Shiva Purana, Bhagavatam, Mahabharata, as well as narratives of Jagannath, Swaminarayan, Venkateshwara, and Ayyappa.
One noteworthy feature is the ‘Dome of Harmony,’ showcasing the balance of the five natural elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space. The temple’s comprehensive facilities include a visitor centre, prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, a children’s sports area, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, and a books and gift shop.
The mandir’s foundation incorporates 100 sensors, while over 350 sensors are strategically placed throughout the structure, continuously gathering data on earthquake activity, temperature fluctuations, and pressure changes.
This technological integration highlights a commitment to safety and the use of cutting-edge solutions in the construction of religious structures.

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RFID-tagged system for footwear

Utilising cutting-edge technology, the BAPS Hindu Mandir introduces an RFID-tagged system for the convenience of visitors’ footwear. Shaily, director of BAPS Hindu Mandir, explains the functionality, stating, “With Radio Frequency Identification technology, as you approach the exit, those overseeing the footwear can ensure that your shoes are ready for collection.”
A notable feature within the temple comprises 96 bells available for worshippers to ring as they proceed towards the sacred space. Shaily elaborates that this number holds significance, symbolizing the age of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the revered former president of BAPS.
The temple’s longevity is a testament to its robust design, engineered to last an impressive 1,000 years. The incorporation of both traditional architectural elements and modern accessibility features is evident in the design.
While a series of stairs lead visitors to the main temple structure, lifts have been seamlessly integrated, ensuring accessibility to the entire complex. This thoughtful combination of traditional aesthetics and contemporary technology enhances the overall visitor experience at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.