Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir Wins ‘Best Cultural Project’ at the 2024 MEED Awards
By Islam Salah
The MEED Project Awards 2024 recently recognized the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi as the ‘Best Cultural Project’ in the UAE and across the MENA region.
This prestigious award celebrates the temple’s architectural brilliance and its role in promoting peace and inclusivity within the community. Let’s explore what makes this project an inspiration across the region.
A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is a striking fusion of ancient Hindu design and modern engineering. Built according to the traditional Hindu ‘shilpa shastras,’ the temple features over 30,000 intricately carved stone pieces hand-crafted by more than 1,500 skilled artisans.
The carvings each tell a story, depicting moments from the Ramayana and Mahabharata alongside historical narratives from Arabian, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian cultures.
Because of that, they offer a rare glimpse into a rich, shared heritage. In total, the temple showcases 250 value-based stories, bridging cultural divides and celebrating universal human values.
The Vision Behind the Temple
The BAPS Hindu Mandir represents a vision of peace, unity, and inclusivity, guided by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and supported by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
As Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, the temple’s head, explained, this project was born from a desire to create a space that unites people of all backgrounds. Plus, the temple aligns with the UAE’s broader vision of cultural tolerance and harmony, proving that architectural excellence can bring diverse communities together.
Recognition at the MEED Awards
The MEED Project Awards, which is considered the gold standard for excellence in the MENA region, recognized the temple for its engineering brilliance, innovative design, sustainability, and positive societal impact.
With over 40 projects competing across various categories, the temple stood out for its ability to foster community spirit and inspire peace, making it a true model of cultural and architectural achievement.
A Legacy for Generations
The temple’s significance goes far beyond awards and accolades. Officially inaugurated on February 14, 2024, it has already become a symbol of spiritual harmony. Designed to last over 1,000 years, it’s more than a structure; it’s a cultural treasure meant to inspire generations.
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