Abu Dhabi: The civilisational values and the ancient principles of Sanatan Dharma always advocate for peace, tolerance and universal harmony. As a testament to this civilisational spirit of Bharat which is relevant even in the present decade, BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has won “Tolerance Award”, 2026. BAPS was honoured with this award, recognising its consistent effort towards, global peace & tolerance, universal harmony, mutual respect, compassion, unity etc. BAPS Hindu Mandir was facilitated at the 3rd International Dialogue of Civilisations and Tolerance Conference in Abu Dhabi.
The award is honoured to individuals and organisations that promote global tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful co-existence. The recipients of the award are selected by a committee based on the international impact of the organisations in terms of peace, tolerance, harmony etc. In this direction, BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi was recognised for its consistent work towards global well-being and for bringing fundamental impact at the international level by promoting peace, tolerance and harmony.
The third International Dialogue of Civilisations and Tolerance Conference was organised by the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies(ESCRS) and Abrahamic Family House in partnership with several other institutions including the Emirates Journalists Association, Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau etc. The award illustrates how BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi spread the message of peace and harmony which is rooted in the civilisational and cultural ethos of India. This can also be considered as a soft power credential of India.
BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi also conducts various activities to promote social cohesion and harmony. This includes, Festival of Harmony, Omsiyyat and other humanitarian programmes during unforeseen contingencies such as Covid-19 pandemic & other regional crises.
Accepting the award, Brahmavihari Swami, Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi delivered a keynote address. He emphasized that strong families form the foundation for strong societies. He highlighted Ghar Sabha, a practice encouraged by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, where families spend time together daily in prayer, conversation and reflection without digital distractions.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is successful in bringing together various communities and has united them with compassion and mutual respect amidst challenging scenarios. Thus, BAPS Hindu Mandir acts as a symbol of universal brotherhood and harmony embedded with the Indian value system. Brahmavihari Swami, the Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dabhi, post recieving the awarad highlighted the values of Matrudevo Bhava (Mother is God), Pitrudevo Bhava (Father is God) and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family), thus emphasised that strong families serve as the bedrock of a strong society and a prosperous nation.
He further described the tradition of ‘Ghar Sabha’ (Home Assembly), as an effective social necessity for the modern era, wherein family members sit together daily to experience moments of prayer, dialogue and deep bonding. Brahmavihari Swami also said, “The future will not be built solely upon more intelligent machines; it will be forged from stronger families, more sensitive hearts and more compassionate communities”.
