The BAPS Hindu temple, graced by the inauguration ceremony led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Abu Dhabi last month, has now opened its doors to the public. However, alongside this momentous occasion, authorities have issued a set of guidelines, including a dress code, to ensure the sanctity and orderly management of the temple premises.
According to the temple’s website, visitors are expected to adhere to specific clothing preferences outlined by the authorities. The guidelines specify covering the body between the neck, elbow, and ankles, while prohibiting clothing with offensive designs, translucent or tight-fitting attire, and items causing distracting noises or reflections. Additionally, pets and outside food or drinks are not permitted within the temple premises, and the use of drones is strictly prohibited.
These guidelines aim to preserve the tranquil ambiance of the temple and facilitate its orderly management, as stated by the temple authorities. The iconic structure, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, was meticulously constructed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) on a sprawling 27-acre site in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba, along the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, at an estimated cost of around ₹700 crore.
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated this architectural marvel on February 14, in a grand ceremony attended by nearly 5,000 people. The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, designed in the Nagara style of architecture and crafted from sandstone and marble, stands as the largest of its kind in the Gulf region.
Announcing the temple’s opening to the public, the BAPS Hindu Mandir handle (@AbuDhabiMandir) shared the news on social media, expressing excitement over the long-awaited moment. The temple’s significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur, serving as a symbol of spiritual enrichment and cultural unity for the millions of Indians residing in the UAE, particularly the 3.5 million Indian expatriates constituting a vital part of the Gulf nation’s workforce.
As the Abu Dhabi temple begins its journey of welcoming devotees and visitors, it embodies the enduring bonds of faith and heritage that transcend geographical boundaries, reflecting the vibrant spirit of India’s cultural legacy in the heart of the Gulf region.
Sources By Agencies