Temple Committee members presenting the Temple Literature to the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of U.A.E. Armed Forces, General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at Presidential Palace, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on February 10, 2018.
India’s PM, Narendra Modi Ji, will be inaugurating the BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE, tomorrow, February 14, 2024. It will be the first Hindu temple in the Emirates. I am happy that the Emirati have permitted a temple in a predominantly Muslim country. Gods must not be posed as warlords but as ambassadors of peace and unity to cement better understanding and tolerance between various religious communities.
Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered figure in Gujarat, revitalized Hindu Sanatan Dharma, purifying traditions and improving societal standards. His influence is acknowledged globally for transforming lives by instilling faith and virtue and eliminating negative traits. Recognized as God incarnate, his spiritual contributions are profound.
Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, follows in this spiritual legacy. BAPS, founded in the late 18th century, embraces practical spirituality and addresses global challenges. With over 3,850 centres worldwide, it focuses on spiritual, moral, and social issues, earning international acclaim.
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) adherents, following five vows, including abstinence from alcohol and adherence to moral purity, contribute to humanitarian services. The organization engages in various activities, including spiritual practices in mandirs, managing educational institutions, pro-environmental initiatives, and community development. The Women’s Wing emphasizes women’s empowerment through vocational training, while disaster relief efforts have been notable globally, from the 2004 tsunami to Hurricane Katrina.
BAPS also actively participates in rural development, addressing social, educational, and economic disparities. Medical and educational services are prominent, alongside awareness campaigns combating addiction and superstitions. As a registered charitable trust in India and a UN-recognized NGO, BAPS has received numerous awards for its diverse initiatives, making a significant impact across spiritual, social, and humanitarian spheres.
The world becomes a better place to live when various religions respect each other without impinging on the religious freedom of anyone. I salute Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Emir of Abu Dhabi and our PM Modi of their efforts.
Sampath Kumar
Intrépide Voix
