TIBF is hosting 850 exhibitors, more than 1,500 Greek and foreign authors, speakers and book professionals from 40 countries
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the BAPS Hindu Mandir, the region’s first traditional Hindu stone temple, for spreading the message of peace and harmony.
On behalf of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha’s current spiritual leader, Mahant Swami Maharaj, Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas, who led the iconic temple project, met Modi at his official residence in New Delhi.
While expressing gratitude to the UAE Rulers for their large-heartedness and support, Modi appreciated the swamis and volunteers of the Sanstha for their “time, selfless service and immense dedication” in the creation of the temple.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
“Our culture, our country and humanity shall remain thankful for the harmony the BAPS Hindu Mandir is spreading,” Modi said, according to a statement released by the Sanstha.
The landmark temple has come up on 27 acres of land graciously gifted by President Sheikh Mohamed. It stands as a shining example of the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and signifies the importance of religious tolerance, cultural diversity and peaceful coexistence.
Swami Brahmaviharidas thanked Modi for overseeing the project. He gave a brief update about the temple since its inauguration and its impact on community members. He presented the Prime Minister with a garland blessed by Mahant Swami Maharaj, accompanied by special prayers for health and well-being and for Modi to lead India for many more years.
Since the inauguration of the architectural marvel on February 14, with a spectacular ‘Festival of Harmony’, the temple has been thronged by thousands of visitors from the country and abroad. This month, the temple also celebrated the Hindu festival of Mahashivaratri with a special prayer ceremony and rituals.
The Mandir plans to “continue embracing such vibrant festivals, rituals and traditions. These festivities, while attracting large gatherings, have served a deeper purpose. They have generated greater cultural, social and spiritual harmony," the Santha said in a statement.
ALSO READ:
TIBF is hosting 850 exhibitors, more than 1,500 Greek and foreign authors, speakers and book professionals from 40 countries
Initiative aims at providing additional revenue stream for school transport operators
Families of the martyrs have been presented the Medal of Duty
Applications for the 2024-25 academic year will open from May 20
Heavy rains in Rio Grande do Sul state have caused rivers and lakes to hit their highest levels, killing 149 people and displacing some 538,000 others
The first batch of students will be admitted in August or September
One expat never wanted to live in a ground-floor apartment again after seeing how floods destroyed her home; another vowed to avoid units on higher levels after having to climb 12 floors down
This initiative that aligns with the nation's continuation of 'Year of Sustainability', was supported by the parents of the kindergarteners