BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi gears up for Diwali celebration, issues guidelines
The much-anticipated event is expected to draw thousands of visitors
Abu Dhabi: The BAPS Hindu temple is set to mark its first Diwali and Hindu New Year with a grand, multi-day celebration in Abu Dhabi.
The much-anticipated event is expected to draw thousands of visitors, as the temple known for its stunning architecture, cultural richness, and spiritual ambience, prepares for its inaugural festival of lights.
Since its opening seven months ago, the temple has welcomed 1.5 million visitors and garnered numerous national and international awards for design, culture, and engineering. Visitors are treated to a unique experience, from intricate hand-carved art reviving ancient traditions to an eco-friendly food court serving pure vegetarian cuisine.
Schedule
The celebrations start with Dhanteras rituals seeking blessings for wealth and well-being on Tuesday. This will be an online event.
On Thursday, the Diwali festivities will be held with prayers at the temple. It will be followed by the Annakut, or ‘festival of food’, on November 2 and 3 marking the beginning of the Hindu New Year.
During Annakut, hundreds of vegetarian dishes will be creatively displayed, with artistic set-ups representing traditional symbols such as lotuses in the desert, peacocks, the Ram Setu bridge, Mount Kailash, among others.
Register to visit
In anticipation of large crowds, Abu Dhabi authorities have implemented special measures to ensure a smooth experience.
Visitors must register in advance through the official website www.mandir.ae and park at the Al Shahama F1 Parking, from where shuttle buses will transport them to the temple. There will be frequent bus services from the parking spot to the temple.
Visitors have been requested not to avoid bringing bags, metal objects, and valuables. They can expect at least two hours to complete their entire visit experience.
Key dates
- October 29: Dhanteras (7:15pm to 8:3 pm online)
- October 31: Diwali festivities (9am t 9pm)
- November 2 and 3: Annakut (9am to 9pm)