The inauguration of the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its inaugural Maha Shivratri festival nearly a month later. As worshippers across the country flocked to Shiva temples to honor the deity, the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, managed by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), attracted devotees from various regions of the Gulf nation.
The temple’s opening ceremony on February 14th, attended by thousands including Hindu saints, Mahant Swami ji Maharaj, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, set the stage for Friday’s vibrant celebration of Shivratri. Adorned with colorful decorations, the temple welcomed thousands of devotees who gathered to observe the auspicious occasion.
The day’s festivities commenced with prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva and culminated in a ‘havan’ ritual. Devotees thronged the temple gates throughout the day, eager to catch a glimpse of the deity and participate in the sacred rituals.
Many attendees expressed their awe at the grandeur and splendor of the newly constructed BAPS Hindu temple after offering their prayers. Maha Shivratri holds special significance in Hinduism as devotees commemorate the day by collecting water from the River Ganga and presenting it as an offering to Lord Shiva.
