UAE: Hundreds Endure The Pouring Rain To Attend The Abu Dhabi Hindu Temple's Sacred Fire Ceremony.

During the approximately two-hour ceremony, there were showers of varying intensities and an unexpected rain just in time for the fire to be lit.

Despite persistent downpours and cold temperatures, a significant number of devotes attended the historic BAPS Hindu Mandir (temple) in Abu Dhabi for the region's inaugural 'yagna for global harmony.' This momentous occasion entailed the hold practice of depositing offerings into the fire. As an essential component of the ongoing 12-day' Festival of Harmony' commemorating the inauguration of the region's inaugural traditional Hindu stone temple, the Vedic ceremony was conducted under the auspices of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual guru of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

The ritual, 'Swaminarayan Vishwa Samvadita Mahayagna', is held in an open area outside the temple. Before the ceremony, heavy rainfall started, so the devotees took shelter in nearby stalls. However, when the announcements were made for the start of the yagna, the senior citizens began stepping out to participate in the ceremony, and the family members and children followed them. The area was soon packed with about 980 devotees.

During the approximately two-hour ceremony, showers of varying intensities and an unexpected rain just in time for the fire to be lit. Religious zeal reached its pinnacle as soon as every fire pit was lit.

Sunita Bhatia and Gopal, a Dubai-based couple, considered the occasion and challenging situation a blessing. "The downpour even paused for 30 minutes as we lit the 'yagna havan kund', amplifying the event's auspiciousness and blessings," said an emotional Sunita.

Conscious volunteers were readily available to aid the devotees in conducting a ceremony without incident, frequently offering assistance to individuals as they carried out a specific ritual. Ramesh and Malla commended the assistance provided by allotted volunteers in aiding devotees. "Gathering as a family, we cherished the creation of lifelong memories. Experiencing the yagna amidst the rain was an enchanting blend of serenity and mysticism, with the gentle patter of raindrops harmonizing with the Vedic mantras and the scent of the sacred fire enchanting the ambience," Mala said.

Surekha Kalsank Pai and Ananth Pai, both physicians affiliated with NMC Royal Hospital, DIP, were overjoyed to be present at this momentous event. "This was an unforgettable experience," they said.

Meanwhile, Upasana Thaker, a volunteer from Ahmedabad in the Indian state of Gujarat who had travelled there to volunteer in the 'Festive of Harmony,' observed the occasion with pride and delight. "The rain was unexpected, but we quickly held a team meeting under the guidance of Pujya Brahmavihardis Swami (BAPS Mandir project head). He told us not to worry. And soon devotees surprised us by braving all odds to participate in full strength and make this ceremony a success."

On Saturday, the 'Festival of Harmony' commenced with the revered 'Bhakti Tula' ceremony, which drew hundreds of devotees and well-wishers together to convey their devotion to the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha's founder, Lord Swaminarayan.

On Wednesday morning, Mahant Swami Maharaj will conduct the reverenced 'Murti Pratishtha', or consecration of deities. Mr Narendra Modi, Indian Prime Minister, is scheduled to formally inaugurate the inaugural traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East by evening.

Subsequently, until February 21, the festival will be commemorated under various themes, such as inspiration, civilization, peace, gratitude, and values. The administration of the BAPS has authorized the public to enter the temple beginning in March. Prior registration via the official website or the 'Festival of Harmony' application is required for entry.

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