DEVIKA CHOPRA: Good evening, and welcome to this special broadcast. Today marks a significant occasion for both India and the UAE. Joining me is a very special guest, all the way from Abu Dhabi, Miss Shel Desai. She’s the spokesperson for the BAPS Mand, which is soon to be inaugurated. Shel G, thank you for taking the time to speak with NewsX amidst what I’m sure is a hectic day for everyone there. We’ve been coordinating with many people from the Mand, and we’re delighted to have you. Firstly, congratulations to you and the entire Mand team on this achievement. Could you please share with our viewers some insights into the temple?
SHAYLI DESAI: Namaste, and thank you for the warm welcome. It is indeed a momentous occasion for us. I’m currently at the premises of the Abu Dhabi BAPS Hindu Mand, where preparations are underway for the inauguration tomorrow, February 14th. The ceremony will be graced by our honorable Prime Minister, Sri Narendra Modi, and our spiritual Guru, Sri Mahan Swami Maharaj. The Mand holds significance in its architectural uniqueness. It’s a stone temple, constructed without the use of iron or any ferrous materials, ensuring its purity and longevity for thousands of years. Additionally, the temple boasts seven spires, representing the seven Emirates of the UAE. The exterior is crafted from red sandstone from Rajasthan, known for its ability to withstand high temperatures, while the interior is adorned with Italian marble. Each spire houses deities, and symbolic water from the rivers Yamuna, Ganga, and Saraswati enhances the spiritual essence of the temple.
DEVIKA CHOPRA: Thank you for that enlightening description, Shel G. Could you tell us more about what’s in store for the grand inauguration tomorrow?
SHAYLI DESAI: The anticipation and excitement are palpable here as volunteers from around the world collaborate tirelessly for the ceremony. Tomorrow, in the presence of our esteemed Prime Minister and spiritual Guru, the temple will be inaugurated amidst a global celebration. The dedication and hard work of everyone involved reflect the love and joy felt by every Indian heart, as we finally have a place of worship akin to those in India. The temple symbolizes unity, bringing together people from diverse communities, fostering gratitude, enthusiasm, and harmony.
DEVIKA: Indeed, it’s heartening to witness such unity and harmony. Could you elaborate on the temple’s size and any other notable features within the complex?
SHAYLI DESAI: Certainly. The temple’s exterior is crafted with red sandstone, while the interior boasts Italian marble. Each of the seven spires houses different deities, including Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Shiva Parivar, Krishna Parivar, Ram Parivar, Padmavati Balaji, Tirupati Balaji, and Aapa Bhagwan. Intricate carvings on the exterior depict stories of these deities, enhancing the spiritual experience for visitors.
DEVIKA CHOPRA: Fascinating! Before we conclude, do you have a message for our viewers and the world?
SHAYLI DESAI: Absolutely. This temple exemplifies unity, as witnessed by the 60,000 individuals who contributed to its construction. I believe it will continue to unite people from around the world, spreading the values of harmony and peace. The BAPS Hindu Mand stands as a beacon of hope and inclusivity for all.
DEVIKA CHOPRA: Thank you, Shel G, for sharing your insights. Our best wishes to the temple community and the BAPS committee for tomorrow’s inauguration and the journey ahead. This concludes our conversation with Shel Desai from the BAPS Abu Dhabi Mand committee.
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