BAPS Temple in UAE to remain closed "until further notice"
Abu Dhabi, March 9
The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha Temple in Abu Dhabi said it will remain closed until further notice, as the Iran-Israel conflict has escalated into a major direct war involving the United States.
The closure follows an earlier announcement from March 2, which said that the temple was to open today.
On March 2, the temple said that the priests there continued to pray for the safety of the people.
It said, "As the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi remains temporarily closed to visitors, the Swamis continue to offer special prayers within the sacred sanctums of the Mandir. In these deeply spiritual moments, their devotion carries prayers for peace, protection, and the well-being of all."
As the government and authorities work tirelessly to safeguard our nation, we humbly urge everyone to remain calm, avoid rumours, stay indoors, engage in personal prayers, and strictly follow the safety guidance shared through official channels. Let us stay united in faith, responsibility, and trust," it added.
The announcements come keeping in mind the safety of the public, as the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence has confirmed that its air defences are "currently addressing a missile threat" across the country, as regional hostilities continue to intensify.
In response to the unfolding security situation, residents have been advised to "remain in safe locations and follow all warnings and updates from official channels," according to a news report by Gulf News.
The Ministry clarified that the loud sounds heard in various regions were the result of "air defence systems intercepting ballistic missiles" as well as fighter jets successfully "engaging drones and loitering munitions."
In light of the ongoing defensive operations, authorities have urged both residents and travellers to "stay in safe locations and follow official channels for real-time updates." The report by Gulf News noted that the military has been placed on high alert to neutralise any further incoming aerial threats.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very disappointing for the devotees who were waiting for the opening, but completely understandable given the situation. The UAE authorities are doing their best. Hope peace returns soon so we can visit this beautiful mandir.
This shows how conflicts far away can impact us directly. My cousin works in Dubai and said everyone is staying indoors. Praying for the safety of all Indians and other residents in the Gulf region. The temple will open when the time is right.
While the closure is prudent, the communication could have been clearer and sooner. Many families had made travel plans. However, the message to avoid rumours and follow official channels is spot on. Safety is paramount.
The mandir is a symbol of peace and UAE's inclusivity. It's sad that external conflicts are affecting it. But the prayers from within are powerful. Bhagwan sabki raksha karen. Jai Shree Krishna.
Heard the loud sounds were interception measures. Scary stuff. Good that the authorities are being transparent. The temple management is right to prioritize the safety of visitors and staff. We can do our prayers at home for now.
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