Diplomats from more than 30 countries embarked on a visit to the remarkable BAPS Hindu Temple complex in Abu Dhabi. The temple holds significant importance as its foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018. Hosted by Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, the visit aimed to showcase the temple’s exquisite carvings and motifs representing diverse cultures from around the world, emphasizing the values of unity and cultural appreciation.
During the visit, Ambassador Sudhir provided updates on the temple’s progress since its foundation stone was laid, symbolizing the deep historical and cultural bonds between India and the UAE. The diplomats were captivated by the temple’s architectural magnificence, recognizing it as a powerful symbol of peace, tolerance, and harmony.
Sunjay Sudhir, the Indian ambassador to the UAE, highlighted the longstanding friendship between India and the UAE, rooted in history, culture, and trade. He commended the tolerance and generosity of the UAE leadership and expressed his belief that the temple represents the collective aspirations of the Indian community in the UAE, particularly the saints and volunteers of BAPS, who tirelessly and selflessly serve to build this temple of tolerance and harmony.
Accompanied by volunteers from BAPS, the envoys marvelled at the meticulously hand-sculpted columns, facades, and rafters adorned with cultural motifs influenced by both the UAE and India.
The construction of the BAPS Hindu Temple serves as a remarkable example of harmony and coexistence, with workers from diverse backgrounds and faiths contributing to its creation.
Through a video presentation, Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Minister of External Affairs of India, shared his hopes regarding the temple’s significance for the UAE and the world. He expressed his deep respect for the vision and direction of the UAE leadership and described the announcement and construction of the BAPS Hindu Temple as one of the most touching and fulfilling moments of his life. He emphasized that real change occurs when different cultures connect with each other respectfully, embracing equality and fairness.
In his address, Swami Brahmaviharidas warmly welcomed the ambassadors, stating that the presence of the diplomatic community and their families exemplified the unifying power of faith and culture.
“Celebrating the past, addressing the present, and recalibrating the future, the BAPS Hindu Temple amalgamates ancient art and architecture, modern science and technology, universal values, and spirituality. Your presence here sends a hopeful message of harmony and is a testament to the belief that dialogue, exchange, and engagement can bring us all closer together and make this world a happier place,” Swami Brahmaviharidas said.
Swami Brahmaviharidas extended gratitude to both the UAE and Indian leadership, expressing equal appreciation to HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Hon. Shri Narendra Modi. He praised them as visionary leaders who have encouraged pluralism and harmony. He expressed the hope that through this temple, they would be able to serve the UAE and the world for millennia to come as a spiritual oasis for global harmony
Expected to be completed by February 2024, the BAPS Hindu Temple holds great significance, not only as a symbol of unity between India and the UAE but also as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations.
The diplomats’ visit fostered stronger cultural bonds and deepened their appreciation for the values of peace, tolerance, and harmony shared by both countries.