First Hindu Temple in the UAE: All you need to know about the architecture
The BAPS Mandir which will be inaugurated by PM Modi is made of marble and pink sandstone, with skilled artisans from Rajasthan shaping its design
History is in the making with Abu Dhabi’s first Hindu temple set to be inaugurated by PM Modi on Feb 14. The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir will symbolize the UAE’s commitment to tolerance and diversity. People from all faiths and backgrounds are expected to visit this temple, bringing millions of visitors to the UAE. Mandir is in its final phase, let’s have a look at the architecture that makes this temple special.
The BAPS Mandir is made of marble and pink sandstone, with skilled artisans from Rajasthan shaping its design. More than 25,000 stone pieces create detailed carvings against a sandstone background. Rajasthan’s artisans have lent their expertise to the temple, bringing its walls to life with sculptures.
The 27-acre site near Al Rahba is adorned with seven Shikhars, 12 Samrans, and 402 pillars, each telling tales from Hindu mythology.
The two domes and seven Shikhars symbolize the seven emirates of the UAE. Each Shikhar has carvings that tell stories from the Ramayana, Shiv Purana, Bhagavatam, and Mahabharata. They also show stories of Lord Jagannath, Lord Swaminarayan, Lord Venkateshwara, and Lord Ayyappa.
Central to the temple is the ‘Dome of Harmony,’ representing the balance of the five natural elements. Earth, water, fire, air, and space are harmoniously depicted. This 40,000 cubic feet of marble has been used to enhance the spiritual experience for visitors.
A 27-acre site near Al Rahba in Abu Mureikhah was created through teamwork. Companies like Transworld Group, DP World, Dubai Customs, and Mundra Port played important roles in bringing materials from Rajasthan. This global partnership made this architectural masterpiece possible.
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