BAPS Hindu Temple opens in Abu Dhabi with what-to-wear guidelines and bans on pets, drones, and outside food.
The Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Temple in Saudi Arabia capital Abu Dhabi, which opened to the public today, issued a series of guidelines to visitors regarding preferred clothing, bans and photography rules.
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BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, commonly known as BAPS, is a Hindu religious and social organization. It was founded in 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj, a spiritual leader of the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism. BAPS operates a global network of approximately 1,550 temples, spanning from the iconic Akshardham temples in New Delhi and Gujarat capital Gandhinagar to Swaminarayan temples worldwide.
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The unveiling of the 108-ft tall temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month represented a milestone for the Hindu community in the UAE and strengthened bilateral relations.
As it opened for the general public, these guidelines were issued by the temple authorities: “Cover the area of the body between the neck, the elbow, and the ankles. Caps, t-shirts, and other clothing articles with offensive designs are not allowed. Do not wear translucent or tight-fitting clothing. Avoid clothing articles and accessories that make distracting noises or reflections”.
The website said pets are also not allowed inside the temple premises. No outside food and drinks are allowed. No drones are allowed within the temple premises.
The authorities said that these guidelines must be followed “to preserve the tranquil ambience and ensure the orderly management of our premises”.
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At least 5,000 people celebrated the grand consecration ceremony of the temple by PM Modi in Abu Dhabi on February 14.
The temple is built on a 27-acre site in Abu Mureika, near Al Rahba off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway. The temple cost around ₹ 700 crore.
“The wait is over! Abu Dhabi Mandir is now open for all visitors and worshippers,” the temple authorities said on a social media post while sharing a video of the temple.
Sculpted following the Nagara style of architecture, the temple’s facade portrays universal values, tales of cultural harmony, Hindu spiritual leaders, and avatars.
