Team Blitz India
ABU DHABI: Ambassadors and diplomats from 42 countries visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir to witness the progress of the Middle East’s first traditional stone temple.
The visit took place on the invitation of Sunjay Sudhir, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, reported Khaleej Times on January 31 The visitors were accorded a guided tour of the hand-carved temple by BAPS volunteers.
“It seemed impossible, but the dream has truly become a reality,” Sudhir said as the temple is nearing completion and scheduled to be inaugurated by Mahant Swami Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 14.
More than 60 dignitaries, including ambassadors and diplomats, were welcomed with garlands and greeted with the traditional tying of a sacred thread.
Tej Bahadur Chhetri, Ambassador of Nepal, underlined that the temple is an inspiring building that teaches individuals about love, harmony, and tolerance.
Radha Krishna Panday, Ambassador of Canada, said: “Dedication to quality, the artistry, the thought that went into the choice of images to celebrate the diversity and harmony of human nature is all very striking and most appealing.” Sorayut Chasombat, Ambassador of Thailand, termed the visit as one of the best experiences he had in the UAE.
To commemorate their visit, guests were presented with a beautiful stone hand-painted by children featuring an image of the temple.
