More than 30 ambassadors experience traditional Hindu Mandir being constructed in Abu  Dhabi

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Ambassadors representing more than 30 nations gathered at the sprawling 27-acre construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi in United Arab Emirates, UAE. This visit was aimed at promoting intercultural understanding.

More than 85 guests were welcomed by directors and volunteers, garlanding them and giving overview of the mandir’s historical significance, construction process, and expected impact using video presentations and personal narratives.

Indian ambassador to the UAE Sunjay Sudhir, , highlighted the long-standing friendship between India and the UAE, and praised the tolerance and generosity of the UAE leadership. “This mandir represents the collective aspirations of faith of the broad Indian community living in the UAE, especially the saints and volunteers of BAPS who are serving tirelessly and selflessly to build this mandir of tolerance and harmony,” Sudhir said.

India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, of India delivered a video message, saying, “Real change is when different cultures connect with each other respectfully encompassing equality and fairness.”

Head Swami of BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi, Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami, warmly welcomed the ambassadors and their families. “Celebrating the past, addressing the present and recalibrating the future, BAPS Hindu Mandir amalgamates ancient art and architecture, modern science and technology, universal values and spirituality,” adding that their presence reinforced that message of harmony.

“We are equally grateful to HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Hon. Shri Narendra Modi. They are both visionary leaders who have encouraged pluralism and harmony,” he said, adding, “It is our hope that through this mandir, we will be able to serve the UAE and the world for millennia to come as a spiritual oasis for global harmony.”

Guests were given a guided tour of the construction site, participating in a symbolic act of sprinkling flowers on the bricks that will form the mandir.
Ambassador of New Zealand Dr. Richard Kay of New Zealand said, “The mandir is a cultural asset that will be a fantastic addition to the skyline of the UAE.”

Other envoys echoed similar views including Japan’s Ambassador Akio Isomata; Aminath Shabeena, Ambassador of the Maldives; and Ambassador of Israel, Amir Hayek.

Each ambassador was presented a miniature model of the mandir.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a spiritual, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service, a press release from BAPS said. It has a network of 3,800 around the world.