The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi ushered in the New Year by hosting Defence Attachés, dignitaries and  families  from more than 20 embassies in a unique celebration of ‘Unity, Diversity and Harmony’.

The event brought together Defence Attachés from Belgium, Canada, Comoros Island, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Korea, Mozambique, Tanzania, Serbia, Switzerland and other countries.

BAPS board members and volunteers traditionally welcomed the delegates with garlands and roses. Thereafter, the delegates ascended the Prayer Dune to offer selfless prayers for world peace, watched the ‘The Fairy Tale’ immersive show, which recreates the incredible journey of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, and viewed the 6,500-year-old sub-fossil oaks from the  Czech Republic.

Then, the dignitaries admired the Mandir’s elaborate architecture and the intricately    carved ancient civilizational value tales on the mandir’s façade, while learning about how the Mandir inspires spiritual elevation, cultural preservation, and  social service.

Then, in a brief address to the guests in ‘The Orchard’ Brahmaviharidas Swami, said, “The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi reflects our deep love for God and humanity, our commitment to global harmony, and our belief that, at their core, even those engaged in conflict seek peace. The vast diversity of flowers, faces and races strengthen our belief that God and nature that created us all believe in harmony.”

In his vote of thanks, Captain Harpreet Singh Luthra congratulated the Mandir on welcoming two million visitors within the first year. Highlighting its role as a symbol of India-UAE friendship, he emphasized the Mandir’s significance as a cultural bridge between the two nations.

The evening concluded with the delegates sharing and discussing ideas of peace and harmony while enjoying a dinner of exquisite Indian vegetarian dishes home cooked by volunteers.

Kale Glaicar, Canada: “This mandir is a very beautiful and it is so nice to be welcomed into a place of worship that is open to everyone regardless of religion. It will help people understand different religions and different cultures. One of the messages is tolerance of different people, different cultures, and different viewpoints. And this just emulates that.”

Nicolai Abildgaard, Denmark: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my visit and the key inspiration that I will take away from this visit is that tolerance must be nurtured. I have never been in a place where so much positive vibe and ambient tolerance are portrayed. It is truly magnificent.”

Nico Hoornaert, Denmark: “The temple’s impressive design and surroundings reflect India’s rich culture and spiritual essence. Its creation, the result of over a thousand people working together, shows that ‘Alone you go far, but together you go further.’”

Tae ik Yeo, Korea: “I am honored to be here where different religions can be harmonized in this holy place. I feel today I had a ‘spiritual flight’ in the Hindu Mandir.”

Takayuki Kubo, Japan: “Our experience was truly amazing. We were enveloped in the warm hospitality of the organizers, and felt the powerful sense of unity among the gathering of the delegates, all resonating with the true spirit of the Mandir.”

Ms. Andrea Russo, Italy: “The Harmony Wall is symbolic in uniting everyone. The interior of the temple is from Italian marble which makes me proud as these were just stones, but such wonderful carvings gave them life.”

Susanne Steiner, Switzerland: “It is a gorgeous, magnificent structure, I love how every detail speaks of harmony.”

Rita Rmeily, Switzerland: “May my child come into the world safely and may I be able to become a good mother to her and make her a Harmony ambassador too. I would regularly want to come here to sit and meditate and clear my mind under the Peace Dome.”