PM Modi lays foundation stone of the first-ever Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, connects with an enthusiastic Indian community at the iconic Dubai Opera, and speaks of India’s technological prowess at the World Government Summit in Dubai, on day two of his South Asia tour
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday officially launched the construction of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, describing it as a ‘catalytic agent’ of humanity and harmony that will become a medium of India’s identity.
Quoting the temple priest Sadhu Brahma Viharidas, Gulf News reported that the construction will start after three months, as final design was not yet ready. The Middle East chapter of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha will build and manage the temple.
“Today being an auspicious day, ‘Bhumi pujan’ (sanctifying the ground) and ‘Shila pujan’ (sanctifying the stone) ceremonies were performed,” he said. It was a pure Vedic ritual in the presence of more than a thousand devotees and members of various other communities, he added.
Modi, seated at the Dubai Opera, watched the rituals through live-streaming from Abu Dhabi. He also unveiled the model structure of the temple at the event.
“I would like to request all those associated with the construction of the temple that the rulers here have shown so much respect for India. They have been proud of India’s cultural history. Now it’s our responsibility that there is no mistake on our part,” Modi cautioned the gathering of Indian community amid applause.
He asked them to ensure worshipers do not cause any harm to others. “This is my expectations from you,” he said.
“We have grown in a culture where temples are a medium of humanity... Holy place is a catalytic agent of humanity and harmony. I believe this temple will not be only unique in terms of architecture and splendour, but will also give a message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ to people across the world,” he said.
Temple Committee members presented the temple literature to Modi and Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The temple replicate the BAPS temple in New Delhi and the one under construction in New Jersey.
MOUS INKED WITH UAE
Indian Consortium (OVL, BPRL & IOCL) & ADNOC, UAE
For acquisition of 10% participating interest in the offshore Lower Zakum Concession.
Between Govt of India & Govt of UAE
To institutionalise collaborative administration of contractual employment of Indian workers.
Railways, India & Federal Transport Authority, UAE
For technical cooperation between both the countries in rail sector.
Between BSE & Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)
To enhance cooperation between both the countries in financial services industry.
Govt of Jammu and Kashmir & DP World
To establish multi-modal logistics park and hub in Jammu comprising warehouses.
SALIENT FEATURES
- The temple’s seven towers, will represent the seven emirates in UAE.
- It will come up on a 14-acre land allotted by Abu Dhabi govt.
- It was approved during Modi’s 1st UAE visit in 2015.
- Stones will be carved by artisans in India and assembled in UAE.
- The temple alone is expected to cover about five acres of land.
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