Abu Dhabi, Nov 2: Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday visited the under-construction BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Minister expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the United Arab Emirates for their continuous support in making the BAPS Hindu Temple a reality. He also emphasised the temple's significance in promoting the rich Indian culture and heritage within the UAE and strengthening the enduring bond between the two nations.

"Blessed to offer puja and lay a ceremonial brick at the grand @BAPS Hindu temple that is under construction in Abu Dhabi. A symbol of India’s civilisational glory, culture and knowledge, the  temple will stand as an edifice of the shared values and mutual admiration between India and the UAE. A spiritual oasis, the BAPS temple is a testament of how cultural sensitivity and respect for each other’s values can pave the way for global harmony," Pradhan posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Blessed to offer puja and lay a ceremonial brick at the grand @BAPS Hindu temple that is under construction in Abu Dhabi.

A symbol of India’s civilisational glory, culture and knowledge, the temple will stand as an edifice of the shared values and mutual admiration between… pic.twitter.com/YUI1PvfSs0

— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) November 2, 2023

"The divine grace and glory of Mahaprabhu Jagannath transcends boundaries. Rath Yatra always evokes pure emotion and pride for all Indians, including for the Odias. Depiction of Jagannath culture on the sacred walls of @BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi is a matter of pride for Jagannath devotees and all Odias across the globe. Also, heartwarming to learn that the skills and craftsmanship of Odisha’s sculptors find a place of pride in the upcoming temple," His another post on X reads.

The divine grace and glory of Mahaprabhu Jagannath transcends boundaries.

Rath Yatra always evokes pure emotion and pride for all Indians, including for the Odias. Depiction of Jagannath culture on the sacred walls of @BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi is a matter of pride for… pic.twitter.com/406EfLGfct

— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) November 2, 2023

The temple is expected to be one of the largest and most beautiful Hindu temples outside of India and is scheduled to be completed in 2024.

Read: Dharmendra Pradhan Meets UAE Education Minister Ahmad Al Falasi In Abu Dhabi

Earlier in the day, Minister Pradhan visited Hub71, a global tech ecosystem located in the heart of the city of Abu Dhabi that brings together various stakeholders to improve the startup sector.

Pradhan is on a three-day visit to the UAE. The visit will foster collaboration, participation and synergy in critical areas of mutual interest in the education and skill domain.

Read: IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi Campus To Open In January 2024, Offer Course On Energy Transition: Pradhan