Abu Dhabi: Following its grand inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this month, Abu Dhabi’s landmark Hindu stone temple will be accessible to the public starting from March 1, as announced by temple authorities. Situated on a 27-acre site in Abu Mureikhah near Al Rahba, the temple, constructed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), is set to become a cultural hub in the region.
Built at an estimated cost of Rs 700 crore, the temple stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, boasting the Nagara style of architecture similar to the recently inaugurated Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Adorned with 18 lakh bricks and 1.8 lakh cubic meters of sandstone from Rajasthan, it is a remarkable architectural marvel.
During the dedication ceremony, attended by over 5,000 dignitaries, PM Modi unveiled the majestic temple on February 14, marking a historic moment for Hindu devotees in the UAE. The temple’s design incorporates seven spires representing the seven Emirates of the UAE, adorned with intricate carvings depicting local symbols like camels and the national bird, the falcon.
Inside, devotees will find idols dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Lord Ram, Lord Shiva, Lord Jagannath, Lord Krishna, Lord Swaminarayan, Tirupati Balaji, and Lord Ayyappa. Additionally, the temple showcases narratives from Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, alongside stories from diverse global civilizations.
The architectural marvel also features two ghumats, or domes, named the “Dome of Peace” and the “Dome of Harmony,” along with 12 samrans and 402 pillars. Holy water from the rivers Ganga and Yamuna, sourced from India, flows on either side of the temple, adding to its spiritual significance. There is a visitor’s centre, prayers halls, library, classroom, playground, garden and shops also available for the people
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