The BAPS Hindu temple, the Middle East’s inaugural traditional stone temple, has debuted this week in the UAE capital with a grand ceremony. However, many are unbeknownst to the diplomatic endeavour that went behind the project, which was once in limbo.
UAE’s Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan played a key role in the construction of the grand temple in Abu Dhabi, which was inaugurated with much pomp on Wednesday. It was during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s maiden visit to the UAE in August 2015, Sheikh Mohamed, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, announced the allocation of land for the temple.
This marked a significant step forward, according to former Indian envoy to Abu Dhabi, Navdeep Singh Suri. Following this announcement, Suri, who assumed office at that time, was tasked by then-Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, to expedite the project. In an interview with The Khaleej Times, Suri revealed how he then engaged with relevant stakeholders and local authorities.
Sheikh Mohamed’s unwavering support and generosity were instrumental in overcoming various obstacles encountered during the temple’s development, he said. Initially, a piece of land was allocated, but it was deemed unsuitable. Undeterred, Sheikh Mohamed generously gifted a sizable plot, totaling 13.5 acres, ensuring the project had ample space for construction and future activities. Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan provided invaluable guidance, suggesting solutions to logistical challenges, such as parking facilities, which further facilitated progress, the former envoy said.
Through concerted efforts and cooperation between the Indian community, represented by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, and the supportive gestures from the UAE’s leadership, including Sheikh Mohamed and Sheikh Abdullah, the project gained momentum. On February 11, 2018, Modi ceremoniously launched the temple project, symbolising the commencement of construction. Later, on April 20, 2019, the Vedic ceremony of laying the foundation stone was performed, marking another significant milestone.
The former Indian ambassador said the completion of the BAPS Hindu Mandir stands not only as a testament to the perseverance and dedication of those involved but also as a shining example of interfaith harmony and the inclusive policies embraced by the UAE government. Lauding the contribution of the UAE president in making the grand temple a reality, PM Modi on Wednesday said, “If there is anyone who has the biggest and the most significant role in making this grand temple a reality, then it is none other than my brother His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed.”
Addressing the crowd waving UAE and Indian flags, the Prime Minister said, “I am confident that a large number of devotees will come here in the times to come. This will also increase the number of people coming to the UAE and increase the people-to-people connection between the two countries.” “This temple is a symbol of the shared heritage of humanity. It is a symbol of the mutual love between the Indian and Arab people. It reflects the philosophical connection between India and the UAE,” he added.
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