Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple soars at 108 ft, 79.86 metre in length | Check Details

PTC Web Desk: Rising majestically in the heart of the desert sands of Abu Dhabi, BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as a testament to cultural richness and architectural grandeur. Slated to be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 14, this monumental structure has garnered significant attention for its unique design, historical significance and global impact.

Currently, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi is undergoing its finishing touches. It's poised to be the largest in West Asia. The upcoming inauguration is a momentous occasion, symbolising the culmination of years of meticulous planning, construction, and dedication.

The Ahlan Modi Event, scheduled for February 13 at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium, will provide Prime Minister Narendra Modi an opportunity to address the Indian community. Following this, on February 14, he is slated to attend the dedication ceremony at BAPS Hindu Mandir, a structure that has been meticulously crafted and is nearing completion.

A Beacon of Intercultural Harmony

BAPS Hindu Mandir has emerged as a symbol of intercultural harmony, transcending geographical and religious boundaries. Recently, Ambassadors and spouses from 42 countries were treated to a preview of the temple, organised by Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir. The ambassador expressed his excitement at witnessing the completion of the temple, emphasising that what was once deemed impossible has now become a stunning reality.

Swami Brahmaviharidas, the head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir project, provided insights into the temple’s historical significance, construction process, and global impact. The temple has received gratitude from both the UAE and Indian leadership, recognising it as a powerful agent of interfaith understanding and collaboration.

Construction, Architecture & Cost

• With a construction budget of Rs 700 crore, the temple showcases a meticulously designed facade featuring seven spires representing each Emirate of the country.
• Spread across 27 acres of land in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba along the Dubai–Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, the temple's strategic location was chosen with careful consideration. The land was donated by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 
• The use of pink sandstone from northern Rajasthan and Italian marble reflects not just aesthetic choices, but also practical considerations for the challenging climate of the UAE.
• In an environmentally conscious approach, fly ash was integrated into the concrete mix of the foundation to reduce the carbon footprint.
• This project stands out as the first Hindu traditional mandir to undergo comprehensive digital modeling and seismic simulation, showcasing a commitment to both tradition and innovation.
• The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is set to be the largest temple in West Asia, with dimensions of 32.92 metre (108 feet) in height, 79.86 metre (262 feet) in length, and 54.86 metre (180 feet) in width.
• Architectural elements include two ghumats (domes), seven shikars (spires) symbolizing the seven Emirates in the UAE, 12 samrans, and 402 pillars.

Architectural Splendor and Cultural Richness

• The temple's facade boasts exquisite marble carvings set against a sandstone backdrop, crafted from over 25,000 pieces of stone by skilled artisans in India.
• Intricate carvings within each shikar depict stories from the Ramayana, Shiva Purana, Bhagavatam, Mahabharata, as well as narratives of Jagannath, Swaminarayan, Venkateshwara, and Ayyappa.
• One noteworthy feature is the 'Dome of Harmony,' showcasing the balance of the five natural elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space. The temple's comprehensive facilities include a visitor centre, prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, a children’s sports area, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, and a books and gift shop.
• The mandir’s foundation incorporates 100 sensors, while over 350 sensors are strategically placed throughout the structure, continuously gathering data on earthquake activity, temperature fluctuations, and pressure changes.
• This technological integration highlights a commitment to safety and the use of cutting-edge solutions in the construction of religious structures.

RFID-tagged system for footwear

• Utilising cutting-edge technology, the BAPS Hindu Mandir introduces an RFID-tagged system for the convenience of visitors' footwear. Shaily, director of BAPS Hindu Mandir, explains the functionality, stating, "With Radio Frequency Identification technology, as you approach the exit, those overseeing the footwear can ensure that your shoes are ready for collection."
• A notable feature within the temple comprises 96 bells available for worshippers to ring as they proceed towards the sacred space. Shaily elaborates that this number holds significance, symbolizing the age of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the revered former president of BAPS.
• The temple's longevity is a testament to its robust design, engineered to last an impressive 1,000 years. The incorporation of both traditional architectural elements and modern accessibility features is evident in the design.
• While a series of stairs lead visitors to the main temple structure, lifts have been seamlessly integrated, ensuring accessibility to the entire complex. This thoughtful combination of traditional aesthetics and contemporary technology enhances the overall visitor experience at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.

   

  
  
  Also Read | Uniform Civil Code Bill: Paving the way for equality in property and family rights

  Also Read | Shimla: Tourist influx in 'Queen of Hills' soars after snowfall

  Also Read | Sidhu Moosewala's new song 'Drippy' takes Punjabi music scene by storm