Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Temple. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha constructed the majestic traditional Hindu temple known as the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. It’s a place of worship, cultural exchange, and an architectural marvel reflecting Hindu spirituality and the UAE’s commitment to religious tolerance.

I. List of BAPS Swaminarayan Temples

The BAPS is an organization that has constructed over 1,100 Hindu temples worldwide. 

• Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad, India: This is the first ever Swaminarayan temple, established by Swaminarayan himself in 1822. It features intricate carvings and houses murtis (idols) of various Hindu deities.

• Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi, India: This massive temple complex is known for its ornate architecture and life-size exhibits showcasing the history and culture of India.

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, UK: This is the largest Hindu temple in Europe and boasts traditional red sandstone architecture with intricate details.

• Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Bochasan, India: The spiritual center of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) sect is located at this temple. It is renowned for its expansive campus and calm atmosphere.

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Robbinsville, New Jersey, USA: This is the headquarters of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in North America and is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus in the region.

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Toronto, Canada: With a plethora of cultural and educational offerings, this Hindu temple is the biggest in Canada.

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Sydney, Australia: This temple, which is the biggest Hindu temple in Australia, is a stunning illustration of conventional Hindu construction.

A. Abu Dhabi First Hindu Temple

• A Symbol of Tolerance: The Baps Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi represents the UAE’s commitment to religious diversity and peaceful coexistence.

• Architectural Marvel: Built with intricate hand-carved stone, the temple is an inspiring example of traditional Hindu architecture.

• Spiritual Center: The mandir provides a spiritual home for the large Hindu community in the UAE.

• Milestone Moment: Its inauguration by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the strengthening ties between India and the UAE.

B. BAPS Hindu Temple Cost In Abu Dhabi

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, inaugurated in February 2024, reportedly cost ₹700 crore (approximately USD 83.5 million). This significant sum reflects the intricate details, skilled craftsmanship, and vastness of the complex, making it the largest traditional stone Hindu temple in West Asia.

C. BAPS Hindu Temple Construction In Abu Dhabi

• Construction began in 2019: The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha received the legal status for the temple in September 2019, and construction commenced in December of that year.
• Traditional Meets Modern: The temple combines ancient architectural techniques with modern engineering. Over 300 sensors monitor temperature and seismic activity, and no metal was used in the construction.

• Collaborative Efforts: Over 200 volunteers from various countries, including the UAE, India, and the US, contributed over 690,000 hours to building the temple.
• Grand Inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India officially inaugurated the temple on 14 February 2024.
• Built on a 27-acre plot of ground, the temple occupies 13.5 acres for the temple complex and another 13.5 acres for parking, with space for 14,000 cars and 50 buses.

1. BAPS Temple Abu Dhabi Opening

• Vision realized: On February 14, 2024, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha inaugurated the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
• First of its kind: The first Hindu temple to undergo comprehensive digital modeling and seismic simulation is this one.
• A symbol of harmony: The opening ceremony attracted devotees and well-wishers from all over the world, reflecting the mandir’s message of inclusivity.
• Long-awaited dream: The temple’s construction fulfills the vision of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a spiritual leader, who dreamt of a mandir promoting unity in 1997.

2. BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi Timings

• Open: Daily

• Visiting hours: 9 AM – 8 PM

• Aarti Timings: Check the temple’s website or social media for the latest schedule as aarti timings can change.

• 5:30 a.m. in Mangla
• Shangar at 7:15 a.m.
• Thaar – 9:00 a.m.
• 10:10 a.m. Rajbhog
• Thaar at 6:15 p.m.
• Sandhya at 7:15 p.m.
• Shayan, 8:45 p.m.

• Important Note: The temple may have special extended hours or modified timings during festivals or special events. Always confirm the latest information on their official website.

3. BAPS Hindu Temple Abu Dhabi Registration

• Contact Mandir Directly: While there isn’t a dedicated registration page, you can contact BAPS Abu Dhabi Mandir directly through their website or social media to inquire about specific programs or activities you’d like to be involved in. https://www.baps.org/Global-Network/MiddleEast/AbuDhabi.aspx

• Satsang Exams (if applicable): If you’re interested in registering for the Satsang Exams, a separate online platform exists: https://www.baps.org/Satsang-Exams/e-Registration.aspx. Registration deadlines and procedures differ for new and existing examinees.

• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the Baps Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi website and social media for announcements and updates regarding any registration needs for upcoming events or programs.

4. BAPS Hindu Mandir Location

While there are many BAPS Hindu Mandirs worldwide, the most prominent one likely to be discussed in 2024  is the new temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

• Location: Abu Mureikhah is located in the United Arab Emirates off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, close to Al Rahba.

• Inaugurated: February 14th, 2024

D. What Was the Source of Inspiration for the Largest Hindu Temple in the Middle East?

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi draws inspiration from traditional Hindu temple architecture, blending ancient design principles with modern techniques. Key elements include intricate carvings, symbolism representing the seven UAE Emirates, and a focus on peace and harmony. The temple’s seven spires, which stand for the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, were intended to serve as a sign of togetherness and cooperation

E. How Big Is This Abu Dhabi Temple?

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is the largest Hindu temple in West Asia. It’s impressive: 108 feet tall, 262 feet long, and 180 feet wide, able to accommodate up to 10,000 people.

F. What Do The Carvings on The Hindu Temple Depict?

The carvings on the Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi depict intricate stories from Hindu scriptures, deities, symbols of nature, and representations of cultural harmony from across the world.

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