In the heart of Abu Dhabi, a masterpiece is taking shape – the BAPS Hindu Mandir, the Abu Dhabi First Hindu Mandir. What makes this architectural marvel even more special is the intricate craftsmanship contributed by skilled artisans from the vibrant villages of Rajasthan, India.
Let’s delve into the journey of these artisans and the unique features that make the BAPS Hindu Mandir stand out as the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi First Hindu Mandir
The story begins in the quaint villages of Makrana, Rajasthan, where artisans embarked on a creative journey in 2019. Their mission: to bring to life the grand vision of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, set to be inaugurated on 14 February 2024.
Despite facing challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, these dedicated craftsmen chiseled marble blocks, transforming them into pillars, columns, and exquisite idols of Hindu deities, such as Lord Ram and Lord Ganesh.
One such artisan, Ram Kishan Singh, a third-generation sculptor from Makrana, expressed his excitement about contributing to the construction of the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. “I have worked on 83 pieces for the temple, and witnessing the shape it has taken fills me with immense pride,” he shared.
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Singh emphasized that the temple serves as a symbol of brotherhood and communal harmony, a testament to the positive impact of art and spirituality.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir, sprawling over a 27-acre site in Abu Mureikhah near Al Rahba, captivates with its facade featuring exquisite marble carvings against a sandstone backdrop. More than 25,000 pieces of stone, transported from Rajasthan and Gujarat, were meticulously crafted by skilled artisans to create this stunning masterpiece.
The choice of stones, known for their durability against the scorching temperatures of the UAE, reflects the practical considerations for the climate. Additionally, Italian marble adds a touch of elegance to the temple’s construction.
The architectural elements of the mandir are nothing short of breathtaking. Two ghumats (domes), seven shikhars (spires), symbolizing the seven emirates of the UAE, 12 samrans (dome-like structures), and 402 pillars contribute to the grandeur of the temple.
Each shikhar features intricate carvings depicting stories from sacred scriptures such as the Ramayana, Shiv Purana, Bhagavatam, and Mahabharata. Furthermore, narratives of Lord Jagannath, Lord Swaminarayan, Lord Venkateshwara, and Lord Ayyappa come to life through the hands of these skilled artisans.
One of the standout features of the BAPS Hindu Mandir is the ‘Dome of Harmony.’ This unique portrayal symbolizes the harmony of the five natural elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space.
The camel, etched into the carvings, serves as a symbol of persistence, commitment, and endurance, drawing inspiration from the UAE’s landscape.
Balram Tonk, a fifth-generation artisan, shared his joy in creating intricate carvings using the finest white marble and pink sandstone. Tonk and his brothers have also worked on the new Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
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“It is the lords’ blessing that our work is finding a place at these temples,” he expressed, emphasizing the spiritual connection embedded in their craftsmanship.
The dedication ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is set to be graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 14 February 2024. The temple authorities revealed that more than 40,000 cubic feet of marble has been used to build the interiors.
Madhusudan Patel, the Abu Dhabi First Hindu Mandir construction manager, highlighted the blend of innovation and overcoming challenges during the construction journey. Heat-resistant nano tiles and heavy glass panels merge traditional aesthetic stone structures with modern-day functionality.
Vishal Brahmabhatt, overseeing procurement and logistics at the site, noted that over two lakh cubic feet of ‘sacred’ stone was transported in more than 700 containers for the temple’s construction.
The collaboration of entities such as Transworld Group, DP World, Dubai Customs, and Mundra port played a crucial role in overcoming global challenges, including the pandemic and wars.
Conclusion
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi also known as the Abu Dhabi First Hindu Mandir, stands as a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship of Rajasthan’s artisans. Their dedication and skill have breathed life into this architectural wonder, making it a symbol of cultural richness and spiritual harmony.
As the inauguration day approaches, the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of this majestic temple that encapsulates the essence of art, culture, and unity.
