May 2023

In a display of unity and mutual respect, ambassadors from more than 30 nations convened at the vast 27-acre construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The visit helped to promote intercultural understanding and enabled the distinguished guests to witness the progress of the region’s first traditional Hindu mandir, which is a manifestation of the universal values of tolerance and harmony. Ambassadors from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Maldives, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Romania, Serbia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Ukraine and other countries visited. The dedicated directors and volunteers overseeing the mandir’s construction warmly welcomed more than 85 esteemed guests. The dignitaries were adorned with garlands and were welcomed with a traditional tying of a sacred thread. The ambassadors were given a comprehensive overview of the mandir’s historical significance, construction process, and expected impact, conveyed through captivating video presentations and personal experiences. His Excellency Sunjay Sudhir, Indian ambassador to the UAE, highlighted the long-standing friendship between India and the UAE, rooted in history, culture and trade. He praised the tolerance and generosity of the UAE leadership and added, “This mandir represents the collective aspirations of faith of the broad Indian community living in the UAE, especially the saints and volunteers of BAPS who are serving tirelessly and selflessly to build this mandir of tolerance and harmony.” Through a video message, Minister of External Affairs of India Dr. S. Jaishankar shared his hopes of what the mandir would mean for UAE and the world as well as his deep respect for the vision and direction of the UAE leadership. He emphasized that one of the most touching and fulfilling moments of his life was the announcement and now seeing the BAPS Hindu Mandir coming up. He added, “Real change is when different cultures connect with each other respectfully encompassing equality and fairness”. In his address, Swami Brahmaviharidas warmly welcomed the ambassadors and their families, “Celebrating the past, addressing the present and recalibrating the future, BAPS Hindu Mandir amalgamates ancient art and architecture, modern science and technology, universal values and spirituality. Your presence here sends a hopeful message of harmony and is a testament to the belief that dialogue, exchange, and engagement can bring us all closer together and make this world a happier place.” He also thanked both the UAE and Indian leaderships, “We are equally grateful to HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Hon. Shri Narendra Modi. They are both visionary leaders who have encouraged pluralism and harmony. It is our hope that through this mandir, we will be able to serve the UAE and the world for millennia to come as a spiritual oasis for global harmony.” After this initial briefing, the guests embarked on a guided tour by sprinkling flowers on the bricks to be used for the mandir. The guests were amazed to see the wonderful intricate carvings and delicate designs featuring timeless values of India and ancient civilizations. The guests were astounded to learn that Arabian, Mayan, Greek and other cultural tales that encourage peace, tolerance, and harmony have also been immortalized in stone on the mandir’s façade. Ensuring the mandir endures for centuries to come, skilled craftsmen from India have meticulously created these artworks without any steel reinforcements and pieced them together like a giant stone jigsaw. In light of the visit, the Ambassador of New Zealand H.E. Dr. Richard Kay conveyed his profound delight, stating, “The mandir is a cultural asset that will be a fantastic addition to the skyline of the UAE.” Similarly, the Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Akio Isomata was immensely moved, stating, “I am overwhelmed with the Indian craftmanship. I see a philosophy of tolerance in the carvings.” H.E. Aminath Shabeena, Ambassador of the Maldives, said, “One must truly visit and witness the detailed carvings and heartfelt emotions of the volunteers.” She was moved by the designs, stating, “The most striking carvings represent the flora and fauna of India and the UAE.” The Ambassador of Israel, H.E. Amir Hayek, said, “This monument is being constructed in a country built on tolerance and will most certainly contribute to harmony in the region and the world.” He also tweeted immediately after his visit, “I have no doubt that the mandir will be a source of attraction for visitors from all over the world”. To commemorate their visit, the ambassadors were presented a beautifully crafted miniature model of the mandir. The ambassadors’ visit was a significant step in promoting peace, fostering cultural interaction, and strengthening diplomatic ties between the participating countries and the United Arab Emirates.

This video traces the journey of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, from its conception to its magnificent creation. It captures touching narratives from individuals who have contributed to the temple’s construction, each placing bricks laden with faith and personal stories of devotion. It specially features an enlightening and heartfelt message from Dr. S. Jaishankar. Dr. Jaishankar beautifully articulates the significance of the  Mandir. He views it not only as a symbol of the rich and ancient Indian civilization, but also as an embodiment of thousands of years of culture, creativity, wisdom, and faith. This temple is a testament to India’s glorious past and an embodiment of a culture that has spread far beyond its borders. But the temple is more than just a statement of history; it’s also a symbol of the global rebalancing taking place today. As nations become more respectful and fair in their dealings with each other, the Mandir stands as an example of the harmony that can be achieved. What makes this Mandir even more special for Dr. Jaishankar is the sentiment attached to it. The respect and understanding shown by Abu Dhabi in partnering with India for this project is a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy. The Mandir is a deeply personal accomplishment for him, a significant milestone that he envisions sharing with his future grandchildren as one of the most touching moments of his life. This interview provides a fascinating insight into the Mandir’s role in global diplomacy and cultural heritage. It’s a reminder that our shared spaces can reflect our shared values and foster mutual respect among nations.