The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha is all set to host PM Narendra Modi for the inauguration of the Abu Dabhi's first Hindu temple. The temple, in honour of Lord Ram, becomes even more special as it comes right after the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration.
Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, representing the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the temple's inauguration ceremony on February 14. In an official statement earlier, the BAPS Hindu Mandir expressed its interest in hosting Prime Minister Modi on behalf of Swami Ishwarcharandas, Swami Brahmaviharidas, and the board of directors. The inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 14.
The construction of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, also known as the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha temple, began in 2019, following the allocation of land by the UAE government in Abu Dhabi's Abu Mureikha area in August 2015. The cornerstone ceremony is set for February 14, with Prime Minister Modi participating in an evening dedication after morning prayers for the consecration of seven deities. The temple is likely to open its doors for the public on February 18.
According to CNBC, architectural firm RSP, the lead consultant for the project, designed the temple after winning an international design competition. The expansive temple complex will feature a visitors' centre, prayer halls, exhibitions, educational and recreational areas, ample parking, themed gardens, a food court, book store, and gift shops.
The intricate architecture incorporates thousands of hand-carved stone blocks sourced from Rajasthan and Gujarat, India. Upon entering the temple, visitors will be welcomed by two water streams — symbolising the Ganga and the Yamuna in India.
Designed to accommodate 8,000 to 10,000 individuals of all faiths, the temple stands as a testament to architectural brilliance. A Business Today report indicated that the pink sandstone structure, representing unity and community, is projected to stand for over 1,000 years. With an estimated cost of Rs 700 crore, the temple will reach a height of 108 feet upon completion, incorporating Vedic architectural elements and sculptures crafted by skilled artisans in India.