‘A Great Learning’: Indian Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi Visits BAPS Hindu Mandir In Abu Dhabi

Last Updated:January 06, 2026, 16:26 IST

While the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has harmonised itself beautifully, it harmonises the world gracefully, said General Upendra Dwivedi

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Indian Army, at the temple. (X)

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Indian Army, recently visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, calling it “a great lesson and a great learning that will empower the Army".

Traditionally welcomed by Swami Brahmaviharidas, he was wonderstruck and conquered by the perfection and precision of the beauty and serenity of the temple.

He said that knowledge abounds across the world, but this Mandir uniquely brings together the essence of the entire world in one place, offering lessons for generations of today and tomorrow.

“While the Mandir has harmonised itself beautifully, it harmonises the world gracefully. In a world which is one, humanity matters more, above all else," he said.

Reiterating that ‘The Mandir reflects the core values of Truth, Transparency and Trust’, he summarized its incredible inspiration: “If you believe in yourself and if you believe in God, anything is possible on this earth." He felt truly inspired and enlightened, saying that the BAPS Hindu Mandir has offered him valuable lessons in how to lead consciously with greater courage and clarity, deeper passion and compassion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in February 2024. The BAPS temple is considered an architectural marvel, with contributions from different parts of India.

There are seven shrines in the temple, all of which are devoted to different Indian Gods and Goddesses from the north, east, south and west. Lord Ayyappa, Lord Tirupati Balaji, Lord Jagannath, Lord Krishna and his wife Radha, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva and his wife Parvati and children Ganesh and Karthik, and Lord Ram and his wife Sita are among the deities. Beautiful carvings that depict the lives and teachings of the deities adorn each shrine.

The temple entrance has eight idols, which symbolise the eight values key to Sanatan Dharma.

The Dome of Harmony showcases five natural elements – water, fire, air, earth and space. There are carvings of animals such as horses and camels that represent the UAE. A Wall of Harmony, one of the largest 3D-printed walls in the UAE, features a video showcasing key milestones of the temple’s construction.

According to temple authorities, an amphitheatre in the shape of a ghat has been built on the side where the water from Ganga flows.

The temple was adjudged the Best Mechanical Project of the Year 2019 at the MEP Middle East Awards, and the Best Interior Design Concept of the Year 2020.

Around 96 bells and gaumukhs are installed around the path leading to the temple. These 96 bells are a tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s 96 years of life. Nano tiles have been used, which will be comfortable for visitors to walk on even in the hot weather.

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