After years of practicing in Al Ain, Yas Marina Circuit and Dubai Autodrome, Al Jaeedi decided to take another hobby into action
uae15 hours ago
The Abu Dhabi BAPS Hindu Mandir, the historic hand-carved traditional stone temple symbolising the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures, is receiving a massive flow of pre-registered visitors, especially from abroad.
Khaleej Times brings you details about this iconic masterpiece of artistic excellence, the organisation behind it, and more information you need to know.
What is BAPS?
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha is a volunteer-driven global Hindu organisation promoting spirituality, cultural values, and social service. Among various spiritual, humanitarian, and cultural activities and volunteerism, the Sanstha has been building beautiful temples worldwide, including the iconic one in the Capital.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
What is a mandir?
A mandir or Hindu temple, like a mosque and a church, is a place of worship. At the temple, Hindus gather to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek spiritual guidance. Temples serve as a hub for religious and cultural activities.
How many temples are there in Abu Dhabi?
This is the only Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. It is also the Middle East’s first traditional Hindu stone temple.
What are the unique features of the temple?
The hand-carved temple in thousands of pink sandstone and white marble has been built according to the ancient Hindu ‘Shilpa shastras’ – Sanskrit scriptures of architecture and sculpture. The magnificent carvings showcase different civilisations' rich history and culture and have 250 valuable tales.
When will it open to UAE residents?
UAE residents have been urged to visit from March 1 onwards as thousands of pre-registered overseas visitors will come to the temple in the next two weeks.
Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, the temple is open to people of all faiths and religious beliefs.
Is there an entry fee to visit the temple?
No, there is no entry fee, but visitors must register on the official website or through the Festival of Harmony app to visit the temple.
How many people can the temple accommodate?
About 10,000 people can be at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Where is the BAPS Hindu Mandir located?
The temple is in Abu Mureikha’s Al Taf Road (E16), off the Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway. The site can be found by searching ‘BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi’, on Google Maps.
What are the visiting hours?
The temple is open to visitors from 9 am to 8 pm.
Is there any public bus from any emirates?
No, as of now, there are no public bus services connecting the temple. Currently, public taxis, hiring vans and private buses, or carpooling are among the ideal means of transport.
ALSO READ:
After years of practicing in Al Ain, Yas Marina Circuit and Dubai Autodrome, Al Jaeedi decided to take another hobby into action
uae15 hours ago
Annual educational fees total Dh40,000, with additional Dh40,000 for therapy services, varying based on individual needs
uae15 hours ago
The exhibition, titled Eternal Letters: Qur’an Manuscripts from the Abdul Rahman Al Owais Collection, spans over 1,300 years of history
uae16 hours ago
Students have expressed their love for the milk’s taste, with many noting that their families also purchase it for home use
uae17 hours ago
People across the country can watch it live on December 2 on local TV channels, cinemas and selected public areas
uae19 hours ago
The tremors were not felt by UAE residents despite the country's close proximity to Iran
uae23 hours ago
He was a founding member of the Dubai chapter of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and once served as general manager of Khaleej Times
uae1 day ago
No casualties were reported by authorities in Aurora province, but thousands of homes were damaged, and heavy losses were sustained
uae1 day ago