Raj Sadosh/Abohar.
As many as 65,000 people visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on the first Sunday since its public opening.
People queued patiently and progressed orderly into the Mandir campus. They felt blessed upon receiving darshan of the murtis as a great sense of peace and devotion marked the day.
Sumant Rai from Abu Dhabi said, “Never have I seen such amazing order in the midst of thousands of people. I was worried I would have to wait for hours and not be able to do darshan peacefully, but we had amazing darshan and were extremely satisfied. Hats off to all the BAPS volunteers and Mandir staff.”
Pravina Shah from London said, “I have a disability and the care given by the staff despite thousands of visitors was remarkable. I could see the crowds of people being ushered peacefully from one zone to the next.”
(SUBHEAD)Balchandra from Kerala said, “I thought I would be lost in the sea of people, but I was so surprised with how well the visit was managed. I was able to peacefully enjoy darshan. Can’t wait until my next visit.”
Neha and Pankaj, who have lived in Dubai for 40 years, said, “We have been waiting for this moment, and the Mandir has exceeded all our expectations! It’s a true marvel. We feel blessed because now we have a place to come and offer our prayers and feel the spirituality.”
Piyush from Portland, USA, said, “The opening of this Mandir is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It’s a beautiful representation of unity among different communities.”
Luis from Mexico said, “The architecture and intricate details in the stones are amazing. I really appreciate getting to see the cultural heritage of India. People, come join!”
Brahmavihari Swami said, “We are deeply grateful to the leaders of the UAE and the local authorities for the introduction of a new bus route (203) from Abu Dhabi to the Mandir, and their all-round support in making this day a reality.”
