Abu Dhabi, February 27 (PTI) – The first Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi, inaugurated earlier this month by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is scheduled to open its doors to the public on March 1, as per the temple authorities.
Located on a vast 27-acre site in Abu Mureikhah near Al Rahba off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, the temple has been meticulously constructed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Swaminarayan Sanstha at a cost of approximately Rs 700 crore.
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the grand temple on February 14 amidst a dedication ceremony attended by over 5,000 invitees. From February 15 to 29, overseas devotees who pre-registered or VIP guests had the privilege to visit the temple.
A temple spokesperson stated, “The temple will welcome visitors from March 1, operating from 9 AM to 8 PM daily. Please note, the temple will be closed to visitors every Monday.”
Crafted with 18 lakh bricks and 1.8 lakh cubic meters of sandstone sourced directly from Rajasthan, the temple embodies the Nagara style of architecture, reminiscent of the recently inaugurated Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
In adherence to ancient construction techniques detailed in Hindu scriptures such as the Shilpa and Sthapathya Shastras, the grand temple stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and devotion.
With an estimated 3.5 million Indian expatriates in the UAE, the land for the temple was graciously donated by the UAE government.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as the largest in the Gulf region, complementing the three other Hindu temples in Dubai. Reflecting the spirit of inclusivity, the temple’s design incorporates seven spires representing the seven Emirates of the UAE, adorned with carvings of camels and the national bird, the falcon.
Swami Brahmaviharidas, head of international relations for BAPS, shared, “The seven spires house idols of various deities, symbolizing unity with the seven Emirates of the UAE.”
In a gesture of cultural harmony, the temple showcases not only Indian mythological tales but also narratives from diverse civilizations, depicted through intricate carvings adorning its walls.
While the exterior boasts sandstone from India, the interior gleams with white Italian marble, featuring meticulously crafted columns and walls.
Architectural marvels such as two ghumats (domes), 12 samrans (dome-like structures), and 402 pillars adorn the temple premises, embodying themes of peace and harmony.
Holy water from the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, brought from India, flows on either side of the temple, symbolizing purity and divinity.
The temple’s facade is a testament to craftsmanship, adorned with exquisite marble carvings set against a sandstone backdrop, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans from Rajasthan and Gujarat, utilizing over 25,000 pieces of stone.
A significant quantity of pink sandstone was transported from northern Rajasthan to Abu Dhabi for the temple’s construction, underscoring the dedication and craftsmanship that went into its creation.