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BAPS Abu Dhabi attracts 65k visitors on first Sunday
The visitors were from all across the globe, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Thousands of pilgrims made their way patiently to the Mandir for Darshan on the first public Sunday / (Image - BAPS)
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi saw an incredible 65,000 pilgrims and tourists on the first Sunday, March 3, after its official opening, marking a historic occasion for the Hindu community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The devotees arrived in droves and busloads, with over 40,000 attending in the morning and an additional 25,000 in the evening, a BAPS release mentioned.
In addition to participating in group prayers, visitors also received darshan (prayers) at the Mandir. According to the release, the mandir's elaborate architecture also left many devotees in awe.
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BAPS / Devotees inside the BAPS Hindu Mandir. Brahmaviharidas Swami, reflecting on the historic significance of the opening Sunday for the public, stated, “We are deeply grateful to the leaders of the UAE and the local authorities for the new bus services and their all-round support in making this day a reality. We would also like to thank the pilgrims who were so patient and so understanding during their visit. This Mandir will serve as a beacon of spirituality and a hub of harmony, bringing together people of all backgrounds and beliefs.”
A devotee, Sumant Rai from Abu Dhabi exclaimed, “Never have I seen such amazing order in the midst of thousands of people. I was worried I would have to wait for hours and not be able to do darshan peacefully, but we had amazing darshan and were extremely satisfied. Hats off to all the BAPS volunteers and Mandir staff.”
Pravina Shah from London shared the details of her experience of her first visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir, noting, “I have a disability and the care given by the staff despite thousands of visitors was remarkable. I could see the crowds of people being ushered peacefully from one zone to the next.”
Balchandra from Kerala shared, “I thought I would be lost in the sea of people, but I was so surprised with how well the visit was managed. I was able to peacefully enjoy darshan. Can’t wait until my next visit.”
Special bus routes were established to transfer devotees from the temple to the city. BAPS
The launch of a new bus route (203) from Abu Dhabi to the Mandir, which facilitates weekend visits and highlights the nation's commitment to cultivating cultural diversity and inclusion, further demonstrated the UAE government's priority for accessibility and equality.
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