The BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi, celebrated the ‘Pratham Shila Sthaapan Saptah’ – a week-long auspicious ceremony in which more than 1,000 devotees, volunteers and well-wishers participated in a special puja to sanctify the bricks being used for the construction of the mandir. Visitors and participants were also able to observe the first carved sacred stones being placed upon the foundation’s five-meter high plinth.
The ceremony was graced by prominent public figures, including: H.E. Hardeep Puri, Indian Union Minister; Mr. B.C. Nagesh, Karnataka State Education Minister; Mr. Ramdas Athawale, Indian politician and Dalit leader.
Representatives from the Bihari Samaj, Indian People Forums, Samarpannam Group and other communities also took part in this memorable event.