The journey to construct the Middle East’s first traditional Hindu stone temple has been one of profound significance, marked by notable milestones and cherished moments. Here’s a glimpse into the timeline leading up to the grand inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi:
April 5, 1997: Pramukh Swami Maharaj envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi, expressing a desire for a place of worship that would foster unity among nations, cultures, communities, and religions.
August 9, 2015: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces the allocation of land by the UAE for the construction of a Hindu temple, signifying a monumental gesture of cultural collaboration.
February 10, 2018: BAPS representatives meet with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed and Prime Minister Modi, culminating in the selection of a grand traditional stone temple design over conventional structures.
February 11, 2018: Prime Minister Modi officially launches the BAPS Hindu Mandir project, commencing with the auspicious ‘Bhoomi Poojan’ ceremony at the temple site in Abu Mureikhah.
April 20, 2019: The sacred ‘Shilanyas Vidhi’ ceremony, presided over by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, marks the laying of the temple’s foundation stone, attended by Emirati ministers, officials, and devotees.
December 14, 2019: Construction of the BAPS Hindu Mandir commences under the blessings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
October 1, 2021: A magnificent 3D model of the temple is showcased at Expo 2020 Dubai, captivating visitors and offering a glimpse into the architectural marvel.
November 9, 2021: The ‘Pratham Shila Sthaapan Saptah’ ceremony sanctifies the temple’s construction bricks, symbolizing a significant step forward in the project.
May 27, 2022: The ‘Mahapeeth Pujan Vidhi’ ceremony marks the placement of the first carved sandstone on the temple’s first floor, signifying progress in construction.
September 8, 2022: Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami and Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami lead a special ceremony to bless the temple’s first marble pillars, accompanied by devotees and construction professionals.
October 20, 2023: A ritual to bless the seven spires, representing each Emirate of the UAE, is performed, further advancing the temple’s construction.
November 29, 2023: His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj conducts Vedic rituals for the ‘Amrut Kalashes’ atop the temple spires, culminating in their positioning.
February 14, 2024: The eagerly anticipated inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir takes place, marked by a vibrant ‘Festival of Harmony’ uniting communities and promoting messages of love, peace, and harmony.
The inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration, cultural exchange, and shared values, symbolizing a milestone of cultural significance in the Middle East.
