New Delhi, India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted the invitation to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on February 14, 2024. The invitation was extended by Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, along with the board of directors for the temple.
Meeting with PM Modi:
PM Modi met with Swami Ishwarcharandas at the Prime Minister’s residential office on Wednesday, December 28, 2023.
He graciously accepted the invitation and expressed his enthusiastic support for the historic and iconic temple.
Swami Ishwarcharandas honoured PM Modi by adorning him with a garland and draping a saffron shawl over his shoulders, acknowledging his significant contributions to India and the world.
The Prime Minister was commended for the remarkable renovation and development of pilgrimage sites across India.
Discussions:
The discussions revolved around the significance of the Abu Dhabi temple for global harmony and PM Modi’s vision for India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage.
The BAPS delegation acknowledged PM Modi’s exceptional global achievements, including strengthening relationships with the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries.
They also discussed the pride and inspiration Modi’s leadership has instilled in Indians worldwide.
PM Modi’s remarks:
Recalling his personal memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, PM Modi expressed prayers for Mahant Swami Maharaj’s health.
He appreciated the efforts of individuals, volunteers, and supporters involved in the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi.
In a light-hearted exchange, he encouraged Chirag Patel’s children to continue working hard and achieve success in tennis.
Significance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir:
Upon completion, the BAPS Hindu Mandir will be the first traditional Hindu stone mandir in the Middle East.
It is being built on 55,000 square meters of land and will incorporate all aspects of a traditional Hindu mandir.
The complex will include prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, a sports area for children, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, and a books and gift shop.
The inauguration ceremony is expected to be a major event, celebrating the temple’s grandeur and its significance for global harmony.
Overall, PM Modi’s acceptance of the invitation to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir is a significant development that underscores the importance of the temple and India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage.
