The trial, the first-of-its-kind in the region, involved a small-sized drone, which can carry two passengers for up to 35km
uae15 hours ago
More than 1,100 people took part in the ‘Palkhi Yatra’ – a grand procession of community members celebrating the cultural diversity at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Such devotional processions usually precede or follow the opening of a new Hindu temple. The Middle East’s first traditional stone temple was inaugurated on February 14.
During the procession held on Sunday, idols of seven deities consecrated in the seven main shrines of the temple were ceremoniously placed on decorated palanquins and carried around the temple to offer blessings to the community.
Expat communities representing north, south, east, west, and central India participated in the procession wearing their traditional Indian attire and performing and singing devotional songs. Each carried a palanquin with sacred images of the various deities popular in their respective regions of India.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Later, Pujya Brahmviharidas Swami, the project head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, addressed the community members during an assembly.
Lina Barot, a community member, termed it a “profound experience”.
“I’ve never seen so much devotional joy and colour as we danced around the Mandir. We thank the BAPS Mandir for opening their hearts to all of us and making everyone feel welcome. We truly feel it is our Mandir. And all that is thanks to the guru, Mahant Swami Maharaj.”
The procession was held as part of a ‘Festival of Harmony’, which marked the opening of the historic temple inaugurated by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
Among other events held at the temple before opening and as part of the ‘Festival of Harmony’ included a ‘Yagna for Harmony’ with the participation of more than 980 people, themed days highlighting harmony, civilisation, peace and inspiration.
Alongside the ‘Festival of Harmony’, the temple organised a blood drive in partnership with Aster Clinic.
ALSO READ:
The trial, the first-of-its-kind in the region, involved a small-sized drone, which can carry two passengers for up to 35km
uae15 hours ago
The mission urged them to avoid crowded places and follow safety instructions
uae16 hours ago
The country also stresses the need to ensure the safe and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid and delivery of life-saving supplies
uae17 hours ago
Being built on an island of almost 62 hectares, the resort will have 20 restaurants, some of which will be helmed by top chefs from worldwide
uae17 hours ago
He said that his son Rohan, a pilot, often jokes about the reactions he gets when making announcements as the First Officer
uae18 hours ago
The parents empasised that their relationship with their children has grown stronger and more affectionate since the incident
uae18 hours ago
Regulations will be applied across public buildings, streets, parks, beaches, private spaces, among others, and violators shall be granted a grace period to adjust their lighting accordingly
uae19 hours ago
The government authority announced the road closure on social media platform X
uae20 hours ago