Pujya Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, representing the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, along with the board of directors, extend a sincere invitation to the Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the opening event on February 14, 2024. Prime Minister Modi graciously accepted the invitation, expressing his strong support for the historic temple. During the invitation, Pujya Swami Ishwarcharandas honored the Prime Minister with a saffron shawl and a garland, recognizing his significant contributions to India and the global community. The Prime Minister received special acknowledgment for his exceptional efforts in restoring and developing India’s pilgrimage sites, an accomplishment unparalleled in recent centuries.
The warm and informal meeting, lasting almost an hour at the Prime Minister’s residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg from 6:30 to 7:25 PM, was a momentous dialogue. Discussions revolved around the global significance of the Abu Dhabi temple for peace and Modi’s vision for India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage. The BAPS delegation expressed prayers for the Prime Minister’s well-being and lauded his achievements, particularly in strengthening ties with the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern nations. They also discussed the motivation and pride inspired by Modi’s leadership among Indians worldwide.
Deeply moved, the Prime Minister extended his prayers for Mahant Swami Maharaj’s well-being, recalling his enduring memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the centennial celebrations. He acknowledged the significant contributions of attendees such as Vice Chairman Yogesh Mehta, Director Chirag Patel, and Chairman Ashok Kotecha, all integral to the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi. In a light-hearted exchange, the Prime Minister inquired about Chirag Patel’s passion for tennis and his family, encouraging Patel’s children to continue working hard and excelling in the sport.
During a tour of the latest renovations at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, Swami Brahmaviharidas highlighted the temple’s intricate carvings and inclusive grandeur, anticipating that the inauguration ceremony would be a momentous celebration for generations to come. Prime Minister Modi responded, stating that it would reflect the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, a spiritual space rooted not only in beliefs and traditions but also in the amalgamation of diverse cultures and civilizations, symbolizing the path forward.
In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Modi expressed his aspirations for India’s global prominence and increased spiritual development. Despite a busy schedule, he spent an additional twenty minutes in private conversation with the Swamis, establishing a personal connection that has spanned over forty years. Pujya Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas concluded the meeting with prayers for the Prime Minister’s health, exceptional leadership, and the continued prosperity of the nation. The Swamis conveyed the sincere grace and affection received from saints and sages, describing Modi as “Pramukh Swami na Priya Putra Modi Saheb,” meaning “The most beloved son of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Modiji.”
