Indian actor Akshay Kumar was among the esteemed Bollywood personalities who graced the opening ceremony of the grand BAPS Hindu Mandir (temple) in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. The traditional stone temple was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a historic milestone in cultural and diplomatic relations.
Accompanied by fellow actors Vivek Oberoi, Dilip Joshi, filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, and singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan, among others, Akshay Kumar radiated elegance in traditional attire as he participated in prayers and rituals at the temple. The event garnered widespread attention as Bollywood luminaries joined in the auspicious occasion, celebrating the culmination of years of dedication and collaboration.
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‘BAPS Mandir’, situated on 27 acres of land graciously gifted by the UAE leadership, stands as the first traditional Hindu temple in the UAE, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures and faiths. The presence of esteemed personalities further underscored the significance of the temple’s inauguration, highlighting the unity and camaraderie shared among Indian communities worldwide.
Reflecting on the momentous occasion, Madhur Bhandarkar expressed profound pride and excitement, remarking on the overwhelming sense of joy among the Indian diaspora. Similarly, Shankar Mahadevan hailed the event as a historic milestone, praising the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the generosity of the UAE leadership in facilitating the construction of the temple.
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Dilip Joshi, reflecting on the temple’s journey from its foundation stone to its majestic completion, expressed gratitude towards the Ruler of Dubai for his magnanimous gesture in supporting the project. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and cultural exchange between India and the UAE, embodying the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.
In his address at the inaugural ceremony, Prime Minister Modi celebrated the cultural resonance of the BAPS Hindu Temple, affirming its significance in enriching the cultural landscape of the UAE. He underscored the temple’s potential to attract devotees from across the globe, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Hindu heritage and spirituality.
The opening of the BAPS Hindu Mandir heralds a new chapter in the cultural narrative of the UAE, symbolizing the deep-rooted ties and shared values between India and the Gulf region. As a beacon of cultural harmony and collaboration, the temple stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared aspirations of nations united in diversity.
