The grand premiere of the one-of-a-kind immersive show, ‘The Fairy Tale’, which recreates the incredible journey of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, marks a significant milestone in celebrating the historic and iconic Mandir. Created by the generosity of the leadership of Abu Dhabi and the efforts of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, the Mandir has already attracted over one million visitors from across the world in the first 100 days after its opening, demonstrating immense global admiration and support.
The Fairy Tale immersive show at the BAPS Hindu Mandir is the result of over three months of creative conceptualization, scripting, visualization, animation, and meticulous designing by an in-house BAPS team of swamis and volunteers, with selfless assistance from professional audio-visual experts. The show, housed in a specially constructed auditorium, is projected on all four walls and the floor using 20 video projectors and provides a cutting-edge surround sound experience. The audience is transported through time and space to witness the pivotal moments of the Mandir’s history, such as, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s first prayer in the deserts of Sharjah (1997), the generosity of the UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the Presidential Palace (2018), and the spiritually charged inauguration performed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra Modi (2024). Viewers are immersed in the intensity of the scorching quarries, stormy seas, and delicate carvings, and experience the collective efforts of the thousands of hands and hearts from around the world that contributed to building this millennial monument.
Recognizing Abu Dhabi as an ‘Epicenter of Harmony’, the show presents the values of tolerance and harmony, supporting the Mandir’s message of global harmony, which has already generated more than 67 billion positive digital impressions. The Mandir is bridging and bringing together cultures, communities, and countries, reflecting the global appreciation for this extraordinary place of worship.
The evening premiere event began with a short, elegant session in the sustainable environment of The Orchard at the BAPS Hindu Mandir. In his welcome speech, Brahmavihari Swami said, “We are deeply honored to unveil ‘The Fairy Tale’, which not only celebrates the Mandir's incredible journey but also everyone’s inner journey. The love, support and harmony we have felt in the UAE has encouraged us to create this Spiritual Oasis for Global Harmony, and this new immersive show will encourage every visitor to become a true Ambassador for Harmony, by spreading more harmony at home, at work, and in society at large by their personal intentions, interactions and actions."
He also emphasized the importance of the 5 P’s, “Policies which shape a nation, Places which dictate destinies, People who influence emotions, Principles that mold beliefs; and, more importantly, Perspectives which determine outlooks, attitudes, and mindsets. The Mandir has helped change the mindsets of visitors who feel a world of co-existence, love, and harmony is possible.”
The gathering of 250 guests comprised UAE leaders, religious heads, government officials, donors, dignitaries, and successful well-wishers of various professions. Addressing them, the Consul General of India in Dubai, H.E. Mr. Satish Kumar Sivan, said, “The true Fairy Tale is the construction of the Swaminarayan Temple here in Abu Dhabi. I guess the tag line quite captures the essence of the story of the mandir. It is incredible and impossible, and it is more real, than real can ever be. I am of the firm belief that India and UAE can together create a pathway for all of humankind to emulate. Let’s dedicate ourselves to spreading the message of peace because that’s the healing potion that the world desperately is in of need today.”
H.E. Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Developmnent, who ceremonially inaugurated the show with Brahmaviharidas Swami, expressed, "This immersive experience truly summarizes the values of tolerance and harmony which are very dear to our nation and very important in this world. It is incredible, inspiring, and extraordinary. The Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a beautiful example of how harmony happens and how harmony helps."
Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer of VFS Global, the generous supporter of the show and the premiere event said, “The show is truly a global marvel. Having travelled extensively, I can confidently say that there is nothing else like it anywhere in the world. Its uniqueness and universal appeal set it apart on a global scale, making it a remarkable experience that transcends boundaries.”
Yogesh Mehta, Vice-Chairman of BAPS Hindu Mandir, said, “The Fairy Tale show is soothing, spiritual and ahead of its time. It offers both spiritual and educational content. Its visuals, artistry, and the portrayal of the temple's journey are groundbreaking. A state-of-the-art production, that will be a feast to the eyes and hearts of the visitors.”
Fatima Al Blooshi, from The Louvre Abu Dhabi, said, “I enjoyed the immersive experience that vividly brought the Mandir's story to life. It was enlightening and offered a deeper insight into its history and the importance of harmony.”
Guest Experiences
Bikram Vohra, an accomplished editor and author: “The Fairy Tale immersive experience is just that and much, much more. What was seen as an impossible journey comes alive and the audio-visual tsunami washes over one in a mesmerizing drenching of the senses. This addition to a visit to the mandir will not only be a mandate but will underscore the power and majesty of tolerance and love for humanity... exactly what the mandir exemplifies and this enlightened country endorses as integral to its value system. You come out of the auditorium feeling cleansed, energized and stronger in body and mind. For sure, a welcome dimension to the path of togetherness and understanding that both nations follow.”
Paras Shahdadpuri, Chairman of the Nikai Group: “This is not just a Hindu Mandir; it is a monument to harmony, peace, and unity. It embodies respect for all faiths and religions and serves as a shining example of how humanity can coexist with dignity and happiness. The film beautifully captures these values and reflects our universal respect for all religions. This achievement is made possible by the visionary leadership of the UAE, whose generosity and global perspective we deeply honor. Their support exemplifies the power of international collaboration in fostering a world of mutual respect and understanding.”
Mr. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman of Guru Nanak Darbar, Dubai: “The Fairy Tale was nothing short of magical, a testament to the immense hard work and dedication that went into achieving this architectural marvel, a true wonder of the world. Every intricate detail, from the conceptualization to the execution, has been meticulously crafted, creating a historic landmark that stands as a beacon of what is possible when human effort is combined with divine inspiration. Our experience was breathtaking. We were enveloped in the warm hospitality of the organizers, enjoyed the exquisite quality of the food, and felt the powerful sense of unity among the gathering of devotees, all resonating with the sublime spirit of the Mandir. The entire evening was an unforgettable journey, leaving us in awe and deep appreciation for the monumental effort and thoughtfulness that has gone into making this dream a reality.”
Asma Al Menhali, a UAE citizen: “It was truly a privilege to have been able to experience such a magical show. The show embodied harmony, which is a necessity to make the world a better place and grow as human beings. In a world full of conflicts, harmony and peace can be our anchor. We need to open new doors, try new keys, and harmony is the answer.”