UAE: BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi hosts ‘Omsiyyat’ interfaith cultural event

Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir Hosts Interfaith ‘Omsiyyat’ Cultural Evening

Abu Dhabi, the vibrant capital of the United Arab Emirates, recently played host to a remarkable event that reverberated with the spirit of unity and cultural exchange. Against the backdrop of its iconic skyline, the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi proudly unveiled an evening of interfaith celebration and dialogue named ‘Omsiyyat.’

This event, held amid the sacred observance of the month of Ramzan, served as a powerful testament to the city’s commitment to fostering harmony among its diverse communities. Drawing together over 200 leaders and community members from various faiths and cultural backgrounds, ‘Omsiyyat’ emerged as a beacon of inclusivity and understanding in a world often marked by division and discord.

The newly inaugurated Hindu temple provided a majestic setting for the evening’s proceedings, serving as a symbolic reminder of the city’s dedication to embracing its rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs. Against this backdrop, guests were treated to a captivating display of spiritual music, cultural performances, and heartfelt dialogue, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie.

Among the distinguished attendees were prominent figures such as Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development. Their presence underscored the significance of ‘Omsiyyat’ as a platform for interfaith engagement and collaboration at the highest levels of leadership.

Leaders from diverse religious communities, including Rabbi Jeff Berger of the Abrahamic Family House, Rabbi Levi Duchmann, Father Lalji of the Church of South India Parish, and Bahá’í community leaders, also graced the occasion, contributing to the rich tapestry of voices and perspectives.

Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized the importance of dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect in building bridges across cultural and religious divides. Rabbi Jeff Berger eloquently articulated the sentiment that unity in diversity is not merely a concept but a lived reality, exemplified by the shared journey towards mutual understanding and respect.

Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, in his address, lauded the BAPS Hindu Mandir for its role in promoting tolerance, peace, and coexistence, particularly in a world grappling with rising intolerance and extremism. He commended the Mandir for its commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation among different faith communities, highlighting its role as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the wider community.

The evening concluded with a delightful vegetarian ‘suhoor’ meal, showcasing a fusion of Arabic and Indian cuisine prepared with love and care by volunteers from the temple. As guests mingled and shared stories over shared meals, the bonds of friendship and solidarity forged during ‘Omsiyyat’ were palpable, offering a glimpse of the transformative power of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

In its essence, ‘Omsiyyat’ embodied the spirit of Abu Dhabi as a city that embraces diversity, celebrates unity, and strives to build a more inclusive and harmonious society for all its residents. As the echoes of this memorable evening fade into the night, they serve as a powerful reminder of the boundless potential of human connection to transcend barriers and transform communities, one conversation at a time.