'The Fairy Tale' show recreates incredible journey of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: The grand premiere of the one-of-a-kind, immersive show, ‘The Fairy Tale, marks a significant milestone in celebrating the historic and iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

The premier was held on September 9 at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.

Created by the generosity of the leadership of Abu Dhabi and the efforts of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, the Mandir (temle) has already attracted over 1 million visitors from across the world in the first 100 days, demonstrating immense global admiration and support.

On its opening day alone, the Mandir welcomed a remarkable 65,000 visitors, underscoring the excitement surrounding its inauguration. This marvel of intricate stone carvings revives over 10,000 years of ancient architecture, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern eco-friendly practices, and serves as a beacon of harmony and unity.

The Fairy Tale Show

“The Fairy Tale” Immersive Show is the result of over three months of creative concepts, scripting, visualisations, animations, and meticulous designing by an in-house BAPS Team of swamis and volunteers with selfless assistance by professional audio-visual experts. It has been brought to life using 20 video projectors and cutting- edge surround sound experience.

The audience is literally transported through time and space, witnessing and experiencing all the pivotal moments; such as Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s first prayer in the deserts of Sharjah (1997), the generosity of the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the Presidential Palace (2018), and the spiritually charged inauguration performed by Mahant Swami Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra Modi (2024).

Visitors feel the intensity of the scorching quarries, stormy seas, and delicate carvings, immersing themselves in the collective efforts of thousands of hands and hearts from around the world who contributed to building this millennial monument.

Epicentre of Harmony

Calling Abu Dhabi an ‘Epicentre of Harmony,’ the show unfolds a new dimension to the values of tolerance and harmony, significantly adding to the Mandir’s message of global harmony, which has already generated more than 67 billion positive digital impressions. It is bridging and bringing together cultures, communities, and countries, reflecting the global appreciation for this extraordinary place of worship.

Inaugural event

The inaugural evening began with a short, elegant event in the sustainable environment of ‘The Orchard’ at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.

In his welcome speech, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, the Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi and a key figure in guiding the project’s spiritual and cultural aspects, shared his reflections during the premiere: “We are deeply honoured to unveil “The Fairy Tale”, which not only celebrates the Mandir’s ‘incredible journey’ but also everyone’s ‘inner journey’. The love, support and harmony we have felt in the UAE has encouraged us to create this Spiritual Oasis for Global Harmony, and the new Immersive Show will encourage every visitor to become a true Ambassador of Harmony, by spreading more harmony at home, at work, in society at large by personal intentions, interactions and actions.”

Guests

The gathering of 250 guests comprised of UAE leaders, religious heads, government officials, donors, dignitaries, and successful well-wishers of various professions.

Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development who ceremonially inaugurated the Show with Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas, said: “This immersive experience truly summarises the values of tolerance and harmony which are very dear to our nation and very important in this world. It is incredible, inspiring, and extraordinary. The Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a beautiful example of how harmony happens and how harmony helps.”

Message of peace

Speaking on the occasion, Consul General of India in Dubai Satish Kumar Sivan said: “The true Fairy Tale is the construction of the Swaminarayan Temple here in Abu Dhabi. I am of the firm belief that India and UAE can together create a pathway for all of humankind to emulate. Let’s dedicate ourselves to spreading the message of peace because that’s the healing potion that the world desperately is in need today.”

Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer of VFS Global, said: “The show is truly a global marvel. Having travelled extensively, I can confidently say that there is nothing else like it anywhere in the world. Its uniqueness and universal appeal set it apart on a global scale, making it a remarkable experience that transcends boundaries.”

Yogesh Mehta, Vice-Chairman of BAPS Hindu Mandir, said “The Fairy Tale Show is soothing, spiritual and ahead of its time. It offers both spiritual and educational content.”

Fatima Al Blooshi from The Louvre Abu Dhabi, noted: “I enjoyed the immersive experience that vividly brought the Mandir’s story to life. It was enlightening and offered a deeper insight into its history and the importance of harmony.”

The Fairy Tale Immersive Show has been created by BAPS Hindu Mandir, supported by VFS Global and will be managed and operated by Utsav Events. It will open to visitors from Sept. 13, 2024 with tickets available at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.