“From Ayodhya to Abu Dhabi — Shri Arun Yogiraj Describes BAPS Mandir as a ‘Global Tribute to Indian Culture’”
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first traditional stone temple in the Middle East, dedicated to values of tolerance, peace, and interfaith harmony.
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Shri Arun Yogiraj, the renowned sculptor of the divine Shri Ram Lalla idol at the historic Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, recently visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. His visit was filled with reverence, deep emotion, and spiritual admiration. Overwhelmed by the divinity and architectural brilliance of the mandir, Shri Yogiraj shared: “I am speechless. This is not just a temple, but a divine sculpture — carved with devotion, envisioned with faith, and brought to life with love. To witness such exquisite art and bhakti in a foreign land is profoundly moving.”
“I have spent my life trying to keep the tradition of Indian sculpture alive, and seeing this magnificent mandir in Abu Dhabi fills me with pride and gratitude. It will inspire generations — not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of global harmony and unity.”
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BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi — A Landmark of Faith and Culture
- The BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first traditional stone temple in the Middle East, dedicated to the values of tolerance, peace, and interfaith harmony.
- Crafted by over 2,000 skilled Indian artisans following ancient Hindu shilpa-shastras, using no steel or concrete.
- Built on land graciously gifted by the UAE government, symbolizing the deep ties between India and the UAE.
- Constructed under the spiritual guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
- The mandir houses seven intricately carved sanctums that vividly depict timeless Hindu scriptures and legends.
- The campus includes a cultural center, library, vegetarian food court, auditorium, and an immersive exhibition hall.
- Inaugurated in February 2024 in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and senior dignitaries from the UAE.
- Now serving as a global beacon of peace, spirituality, and Indian heritage.
Shri Arun Yogiraj’s spiritual journey and heartfelt reflections highlight the mandir’s profound cultural and artistic significance. His tribute, coming from a master sculptor of India’s sacred icons, is a testimony to the global stature of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.