PM Modi is set to pay an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 13-14 during which he will inaugurate the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir will become the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East.
BAPS is a Hindu socio-spiritual movement that has its roots in the Vedas. It was formally founded in 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj, but it was pioneered by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the late 18th century.
Sadhu Brahmaviharidas made the intricate symbolism in the temple's architecture visible. The Mandir, which is decorated with seven spires, represents appreciation for the seven emirates' unity and the cordial ties between India and the United Arab Emirates.
Throughout the temple's construction, hundreds of Indian artisans and devotees made extraordinary contributions, as highlighted by Ambassador Sudhir.