Abu Dhabi 2025: BAPS Hindu Mandir celebrated it’s First ‘Patotsav’, more than 10,000 devotees gathered
Abu Dhabi 2025: The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi marked its first Patotsav, the anniversary of its inauguration, with a series of grand celebrations, prayers, and cultural performances. Meanwhile this auspicious event momentous occasion drew more than 10,000 devotees, volunteers, and well-wishers from across the region to commemorate a year of spiritual enlightenment and unity.
Although this Patotsav had celebrated on a auspicious date whereby sacred traditional rituals and ceremonies are invoked to honor and celebrate the anniversary of the Mandir’s Pran Pratishtha, the consecration of deities in the central shrine.
This occasion is marked by devotional offerings, prayers, and spiritual gatherings, reaffirming faith and devotion.
BAPS Hindu Mandir celebrated it’s First ‘Patotsav’
While the day commenced before dawn as hundreds of devotees and volunteers arrived at 4:00 AM to prepare for the Mahapuja, a sacred ritual seeking peace and prosperity for all. As a sign of devotion, Jigisha Joshi explained her enthusiasm for offering service so early on her weekend: “I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve our community and offer devotion in this beautiful Mandir. By serving others, is my way of offering gratitude to God”.
More than 1,100participants took part in this divine ceremony at 6:00 AM, offering their prayers with deep devotion.This Mahapuja was a truly unique experience in that it blends of technology and spirituality, with special projections on the Mandir displaying various rituals, enhancing the devotional experience for all attendees.
More than 1,100participants took part in this divine ceremony
Adding to the vibrancy of the celebrations, the Nashik Dhol team from Maharashtra delivered a powerful performance. Their energetic drumming welcomed and accompanied the procession of Lord Swaminarayan from the Maha Abhishek Sthan to the central dome of the Mandir, filling the air with rhythmic beats and joyous fervor.
From 9:00 AM to 11.30am, a special recitation ceremony was held in the grand Assembly Hall, where verses were chanted in praisethe birth anniversary of His Holiness Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, whose life was dedicated to spreading the message of social harmony and spiritual awakening.
The congregation of more than 2,000 people also honored His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his vision in fostering a land of love and harmony.
Enhancing the devotional experience for all attendees
Throughout the day, the celebration featured mesmerizing music and traditional dance performances, deeply rooted in the ancient art of Natya Shastra, captivating audiences. Every movement, rhythm, and expression served as a divine offering, embodying the profound spiritual essence of Indian classical dance. The event showcased 19 different performances, with troupes comprising of an impressive 224 participants.
Spectators were enthralled by renditions of Madhurashtakam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, alongside traditional Marathi, Odissi, Bengali and Bharatanatyam dances, making it a truly immersive and unifying cultural experience.
Spectators were enthralled by renditions of Madhurashtakam
As the sun set, the Swaminarayan Ghaat transformed into a vibrant stage for an evening of cultural splendor. Adding to the sanctity of the occasion, Aartis (devotional prayers) were performed at 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:00 PM, filling the Mandir with an atmosphere of devotion and gratitude.
This first Patotsav not only celebrated the milestone anniversary of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi but also reaffirmed its role as a beacon of peace, faith, and cultural unity in the region. The Mandir continues to serve as a center for spiritual enlightenment, social service, and cultural exchange, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in the spirit of harmony.
BAPS Hindu Mandir reaffirmed its role as a beacon of peace, faith, and cultural unity in the region
Pujya Brahmvihari Swami, the Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi concluded the day with special blessings “The BAPS Hindu Mandir has witnessed its first year filled will love, hope and unity. It has won awards for its architecturalsplendor but its most impressive achievement is that it continues to bring people of all backgrounds together inspiring an inclusive and harmonious society. May one and all also fill their lives with love and unity for all that is around them”.
In his concluding blessings, Pujya Brahmvihari Swami expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, acknowledging his generosity and unwavering support.
He further extended appreciation to everyone who contributed to making the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi a reality, emphasizing the collective efforts that brought this spiritual landmark to life.
Know the BAPS Hindu Mandir
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a landmark initiative, bringing together traditional Indian architecture with modern sustainability practices. It serves as a space for worship, learning, and community service, welcoming people from all walks of life to experience its universal message of peace and unity.
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