The followers of Swaminarayan Sampradaya, which is one of the traditions that exist in Hinduism, have founded the largest Hindu temple in the country of United Arab Emirates. The BAPS Hindu Mandir began construction over 25 years ago, according to the records of the heritage division of the Abu Dhabi Executive Affairs Authority. If you are looking for things to do in Abu Dhabi as part of your spiritual odyssey, the largest stone temple in the region is a fantastic option as it serves as a centre of worship, learning and community.
Travelling To The Mandir
The temple is located between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or a 40 minute drive from Jebel Ali along Al Taf Road (E16), on land measuring 27 acres (11 hectares), gifted by the UAE government, in the Abu Mureika area of Abu Dhabi. It’s half an hour from Abu Dhabi mainland with no traffic.
Architecture Of Spirituality
Through the design of the temple, 14 tales from ancient civilizations across the world, from the Arab world to China are told. This is to symbolise the belief that while a religion can present itself in a particular form, as can a temple in its architecture, faith will resonate with all humanity from a singular temple at the same time.
The temple compound also houses an architectural masterpiece called The Divine Eye, in which the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati are represented in a whirlpool-like sculpture by the future-forward Indian studio, Apical Reform. The structure also frames the temple through the void in its middle, a concept based on the ancient Indian concept of the third eye as a spiritual window; the merging of the rivers also represents the endless potential of humanity.
The temple also has its seven spires cut to represent each of the seven emirates symbolising inclusivity and mutual respect. Just inside the entrance to the complex, two streams of water are visible, representing the rivers Ganga and Yamuna, two of Hinduism’s three most holy waters, which appear as a shaft of light at the temple’s plinth honouring the goddess of wisdom and music.
Constructing The Symbol Of Spirituality
It took more than 2,000 artisans in Rajasthan and Gujarat working hard to hand-carve red sandstone and Italian marble blocks, which were then shipped and assembled on-site in the UAE. More than 20,000 tonnes of stone and marble which totalled to more than 700 containers were shipped from approximately 5,000 kilometres away over a period of three years for the construction. The hand-carved stone comes from the Arasur quarry in the Indian state of Rajasthan, and it was assembled over four years by 2,000 sculptors in the building yard at the Kutch district. More than 13,000 architectural stones were hand-crafted to fit together without any mortar or metal in the traditional Indian way. No amount of reinforced steel or concrete was used in the construction of the temple, making it dedicated to nature.
The main temple building is absolutely enormous with a height of 32.9 metres, 79.8 metre length, and 54.8 metres width. Built to accommodate a capacity between 8,000 and 10,000 people, other buildings on the compound include prayer halls, a community centre, a children’s park, an amphitheatre and a library. There are 402 pillars carved in white marble, each unique in design.
Several intricate and beautiful patterns are carved into this masterpiece of a building. With scenes that have been plucked out of Indian scriptures and representations of deities and spiritual gurus. Even the brackets and the domes of the spires have been constructed using these designs. Before they got down to chiselling, the artisans would first sketch the designs on paper and then trace it on stone. To put just how laborious that this process is, it could take up to four artisans an entire year to complete just one of the many, many pillars featured here.
Few Things To Keep In Mind
Here’s what you should know before you go:
- There is a dress code in place for visitors to the Mandir. All clothing must cover your neck, the elbows, and the ankles.
- The BAPS Mandir is open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. It is a place of peace and reflection, and all are welcome to come and learn about Hinduism.
- Photography is not permitted inside the Mandir.
- Bags, food, and drinks are not allowed inside the Mandir.
- Remove your shoes before entering the Mandir.
A Destination In Your Spiritual Odyssey
While the United Arab Emirates is home to decades-old Hindu places of worship, the Baps Hindu Mandir is the first to be built using traditional materials in the same ways as some of India’s most historic temples, using interlocking blocks of stone. A visit to this temple is sure to add to your spiritual journey as many other grand temples in India do.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi?
This Mandir holds historical importance as the first traditional Hindu temple in the Middle East. Its construction reflects the growing interfaith acceptance and the UAE’s commitment to religious tolerance.
What are some key architectural features of the temple?
Seven Shikhars representing the seven emirates of the UAE promoting unity, two Ghummats, The Dome of Harmony and the Dome of Peace symbolizing universal elements, intricate carvings depicting stories and deities, lotus motif and water features reflecting the three holy rivers of Hinduism, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
How big is the BAPS Hindu Mandir?
The temple has a sprawling complex occupying 27 acres of land with its main shikhara reaching 108 feet. The main temple itself measures 262 feet long and 180 feet wide.
Is there a specific dress code for visiting the BAPS Mandir?
While there’s no strict dress code, respectful attire is recommended. This means clothing that covers shoulders and knees. It’s always best to be mindful of visiting a place of worship.
Are there any interesting construction techniques?
The main temple rests on a massive concrete base using UAE’s largest single pour. The temple follows the ancient methods, avoiding iron and steel. The temple is also designed to withstand tremors up to 7.0 on the Richter scale.
