The first of seven spires has risen at the BAPS Hindu Mandir, marking a significant step in the construction of the Middle East’s first traditional Hindu stone temple. Located on a sprawling 27-acre site in Abu Mureikha, off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway, the historic temple is built with elegant pink sandstones and white marble.
Set to open its doors on February 14 next year, the temple, with its majestic design, features seven spires representing the seven Emirates of the UAE. It will also boast five domes, a visitor’s centre, prayer halls, a library, classroom, community centre, majilis, amphitheatre, gardens, play areas, gift shops, food courts, ample parking, and other state-of-the-art facilities.
The temple is the brainchild of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, under the watchful supervision of Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Taking inspiration from ancient Hindu ‘Shilpa shastras’ – the Sanskrit scriptures of architecture and sculpture, the temple flaunts intricate carvings that celebrate India’s rich history. These artworks incorporate Arab symbols such as horses, camels, and oryx, and illustrate iconic scenes from Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Standing at a staggering 108-feet, this architectural marvel, dubbed as a “spiritual oasis for global harmony”, is designed to last over a millennium. The grand inauguration, named ‘Festival of Harmony’, promises to be a spectacle. For more information on the event and registration, enthusiasts can download the Festival of Harmony app or visit https://festivalofharmony.ae.