Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated one of the first and largest Hindu temples in Abu Dhabi on February 15, 2024. He went on a two-day visit to Abu Dhabi. It helps to boost relations between Abu Dhabi and India.
The BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has been built on 27-acre land in the desert of Abu Dhabi. This temple is built on seven spires representing the number of Sheikhs that rule each emirate.
In Abu Dhabi PM Modi was greeted with a hug by President Sheikh Mohamed. It shows how close the two nations have come in terms of economic and strategic relations. Before the inauguration the priests conducted rituals. This is the seventh visit of PM Modi to the Emirates since 2015 and the third in the last eight months.
What did PM Modi say at the inauguration of a temple in Abu Dhabi?
PM Modi said, “ With the inauguration of a temple in Abu Dhabi UAE has written a golden chapter in its history”. This temple will be a symbol of world unity. PM Modi thanked the UAE President for providing the biggest support in the construction of the temple in Abu Dhabi. The bond between UAE and India will reach great heights in future. Moreover, the UAE has also promised to provide land for constructing a hospital for Indian labourers in the UAE. The 108-foot-tall structure of the temple is the largest in the Middle East. The temple is built at a cost of over Rs 700 crore. PM Modi also marks this event as one of the dreams to come true. Mentioning President PM Modi said, “He has won the hearts of 140 crore Indians”.
All about the construction of a temple in Abu Dhabi
The construction of the temple began in 2019 after President Sheikh Al Nahyan donated 13.5 acres of land. The temple is located in Abu Mreikhah near Al Rahba. Before the inauguration of the temple PM Modi offered water in the virtual Ganga and Yamuna and met with people from different religions who had played a role in the construction of the temple. There are seven idols of Hindu gods in the temple including Lord Ram, Lord Shiv, Lord Jagannath, Lord Krishna, Lord Swaminarayan, Tirupati Balaji and Lord Ayappa. The temple of Abu Dhabi also adds to the joy of the Ayodhya Temple in India.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The first ever Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi was inaugurated by Indian PM Narendra Modi on February 14, 2024.
The 108 feet Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi was built at a cost of over Rs 700 crore.
The first ever Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi is located in Abu Mreikhah near Al Rahba.