Society
2.23.2024
First Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister
Crafted from pink sandstone sourced from Rajasthan, India, the BAPS Hindu Mandir, temple stands as the largest of its kind in the Middle East.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first traditional Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi. The temple’s inauguration was celebrated with the presence of high-profile leaders from various faiths, including UAE Tolerance Minister Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, signifying the event’s importance to the UAE’s vision of tolerance and inclusivity. During the unveiling, Modi, who initially revealed a model of the temple in 2018, returned to Abu Dhabi to officially open the temple. The structure features seven columns, symbolizing the seven emirates of the UAE, each hosting shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, representing the different denominations within the faith.
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““Members of every religion and sect have come forward to build this temple. The seven pillars of this temple represent the seven emirates. This is the nature of the Indian people. Wherever we go, we respect and imbibe their culture and values. This aspect of respect for every faith is also seen in the life of Sheikh Mohammad,” said Narendra Modi in the ceremony.
Not the first testament to religious diversity in the United Arab Emirates
The temple is not the first multifaith project in Abu Dhabi. Moreover, a year ago, the Abrahamic Family House was inaugurated in Abu Dhabi. This unique complex includes a mosque, a church, and a synagogue, inviting people from all faiths to learn and participate in religious activities there.
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