Abu Dhabi, 14 Feb. 2024 (Media)

Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchmi. Welcomed by BAPS’ Ishwarcharandas Swami, PM Modi offered prayers and performed aarti.

The times of India reported that BAPS Mandir, standing at 108 feet and situated on 27 acres of land gifted by the UAE leadership, is a symbol of spiritual devotion, architectural brilliance, and cultural unity. The foundation stone was laid by PM Modi in 2017, reflecting collaborative efforts to bring this vision to life.

Equipped with advanced technology, including 300 sensors, the temple showcases engineering marvel. With an estimated cost of Dh400 million, the BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as the largest in West Asia and signifies the enduring friendship between India and the UAE.

Earlier in the day, a consecration ceremony was held, and rituals were performed by priests in preparation for the inauguration. PM Modi expressed gratitude to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for approving the BAPS Hindu Mandir, highlighting the importance of this cultural unity.

The BAPS Mandir’s significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur, embodying a message of harmony and collaboration between Bharat and the Gulf region. PM Modi’s visit to the UAE marks the third in the past eight months, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two nations.

Following the UAE visit, PM Modi will proceed to Doha, continuing his diplomatic engagements in the region.

Dubai based Daily Khaleej Times reported that Guru Nanak Durbar Gurdwara in Dubai to show interfaith solidarity, the management of the Gurdwara will serve 5,000 meals in a ‘langar’ – a community service offering free food to people irrespective of their religion or nationality.

The meals to be served in the presence of Swami Maharaj, spiritual guru of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman, Gurudwara committee, noted that serving langar is a tradition in all gurudwaras.

Earlier on arrival on Tuesday 13 Feb. 2024, Indian Prime Minister told UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed AlNahyan that he feels at home whenever he arrives in United Arab Emirates.

Deccan Cronicle reported today that Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held talks in Abu Dhabi with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, after which the two countries signed eight agreements, including a bilateral investment treaty, an intergovernmental framework agreement on the India-Middle East economic corridor (IMEC), interlinking of the instant payment platforms UPI (India) and AANI (UAE) and inter-linking of domestic debit/credit cards RuPay (India) with JAYWAN (UAE), besides one on strengthening of energy security and collaboration.

The two leaders held one-on-one and delegation-level talks and reviewed the bilateral partnership and discussed new areas of cooperation. They also welcomed deepening of the comprehensive strategic partnership across sectors, including trade and investment, digital infrastructure, fintech, energy, infrastructure, culture and people to people ties, a statement said adding, “India now entering into long term contracts for LNG”.

Discussions also covered regional and global issues, possibly including the Israel-Hamas conflict and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Modi, on his arrival, was greeted by the UAE President at the airport in a “special and warm gesture” and accorded a ceremonial welcome.

Addressing the UAE President as his “brother” in his opening remarks ahead of the talks, Modi thanked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed “for his personal support and for his graciousness in granting the land for the construction of the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi”