DCD chief visits Hindu temple
The hand-crafted pink sandstones being used at the UAE’S first traditional Hindu temple has left a deep impression on the top government officials in Abu Dhabi.
Dr Mugheer Al Khaili, chairman, Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi, during a visit to review the progress of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, praised the design of the edifice that will become an iconic engineering and architectural building upon completion. He marvelled at the quality of stones and other material being used in the construction.
The stonework by more than 2,000 sculptors portrays the Indian epics Ramayana, Mahabharata and other narratives from Hindu scriptures and mythology. The temple is being built according to the ancient Hindu shilpa shastras – Sanskrit scriptures of architecture.
“The BAPS Hindu Mandir reflects the department’s aspirations to translate into reality the vision of the UAE leadership to build a cohesive society based on the principles of tolerance, acceptance and mutual respect,” the DCD said.
The department is responsible for regulating Abu Dhabi’s social sector and issuing licenses for places of worship for non-muslims.
Dr Al Khaili was received by Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, the religious leader and spokesman of BAPS Hindu Mandir, who oversees the development of the temple, and other officials.
The temple, built on a 55,000 square-metre area, is expected to be completed in 2023.