India’s Ambassador to UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi to see the progress of its construction. The Mandir announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 is nearing its completion.
In a post shared on X, the Indian Embassy in UAE stated, “Less than a month to go! @BAPS Hindu Temple @AbuDhabiMandir in Abu Dhabi, announced by PM @narendramodi in 2015, is fast nearing completion. Amb @sunjaysudhir visited the temple to see the progress.”
Less than 1️⃣ month to go! @BAPS Hindu Temple @AbuDhabiMandir in Abu Dhabi, announced by PM @narendramodi in 2015, is fast nearing completion. Amb @sunjaysudhir visited the temple to see the progress. @MEAIndia pic.twitter.com/uu8cpGaOVB
— India in UAE (@IndembAbuDhabi) January 17, 2024
Notably, PM Modi has accepted the invitation extended by Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, along with the board of directors, for the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on February 14, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha said in a press statement.
In December, PM Modi and the BAPS Swami Ishwarcharandas met at the Prime Minister’s residential office. PM Modi graciously accepted the invitation, expressing his enthusiastic support for the historic and iconic Mandir.
Swami Ishwarcharandas honoured the Prime Minister by adorning him with a garland and draping a saffron shawl over his shoulders, acknowledging his significant contributions to our nation and the world.
PM Modi was specially commended for the remarkable renovation and development of pilgrimage sites across India, a feat unparalleled in recent centuries, said the press statement.
During the meeting, the discussions revolved around the Abu Dhabi Mandir’s significance for global harmony and Modi’s vision for India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage.
The release read, “The BAPS delegation prayed for the Prime Minister’s health and acknowledged his exceptional global achievements, notably strengthening relationships with the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries. They also discussed the pride and inspiration Modi’s leadership has instilled in Indians worldwide.”
Recalling his personal and immortal memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his glorious centenary celebrations, the Prime Minister expressed prayers for Mahant Swami Maharaj’s health.
As per the press statement, Swami Brahmaviharidas showcased the latest update of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, emphasising its intricate carvings and all-inclusive grandeur, saying that “the inauguration ceremony will be a great event, a millennial moment of celebration for time to come.”
To which PM Modi added, “It will reflect the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – an ideal spiritual space, not merely rooted in beliefs and traditions, but a confluence of diverse cultures and civilisations. The essence of spiritual harmony, symbolising the path forward.”
The PM also appreciated the efforts of key individuals, volunteers and supporters involved in the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi, including those present before him, such as Chairman Ashok Kotecha, Vice Chairman Yogesh Mehta and Director Chirag Patel, recognising their contributions as significant sources of pride for India.
In a light-hearted exchange, PM Modi asked Chirag Patel about his love for tennis and his father, Rohitbhai Patel and grandfather, PD Patel, and also encouraged his children to continue working hard and achieve success in the sport.
(with inputs from ANI)
