Why is it in the news?

• The BAPS Mandir, Abu Dhabi, is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, marking the first Hindu temple in the city.

About BAPS Mandir

• Located at Abu Mureikhah near Al Rahba, it embodies traditional Nagar style architecture.
• The temple boasts an impressive structure with 402 pillars crafted from 25,000 stone pieces and stands at a height of 108 feet.
• It features seven spires, each representing one of the seven emirates of the UAE, constructed using pink Rajasthan sandstone, white Italian marble, and 18 lakh bricks.

Features:

• The entrance is adorned with eight murtis symbolizing foundational values of Sanatana Dharma.
• The temple includes shrines dedicated to various deities such as Lord Ram, Sita, Hanuman, Shiva, Parvati, Ganesh, and Karthik.
• Intricate carvings in each shrine depict the life and teachings of the respective deities.
• Inscriptions depict stories from ancient civilizations such as Maya, Aztec, Egyptian, Arabic, European, Chinese and African, highlighting the interconnected essence of global spirituality.
• Fly ash is used instead of cement to reduce carbon footprint, and nano tiles with designed patterns ensure comfort in extreme heat.
• The construction avoids ferrous materials, aligning with eco-friendly practices.