In a notable move to internationalize his reelection campaign and promote his vision of a Hindu state in secular India, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Middle East's first traditional stone-built Hindu temple. The temple, located just north of Abu Dhabi in Abu Mureikha, was constructed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a global religious and civic organization within the Swaminarayan sect.
Modi's visit to the temple marked the conclusion of his swift tour of the United Arab Emirates, where he engaged with the UAE's president, whom he referred to as a brother, and delivered a speech at a Dubai summit attended by global leaders. The significance of strengthening relations with Muslim-led Gulf Arab states cannot be understated for Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party, as India's future and international standing largely rely on these connections.
During his speech at the BAPS Hindu Mandir, Modi expressed his unwavering dedication to serving his country, reiterating the importance of his role as Prime Minister. The Indian leader's close ties to the BAPS organization were evident, with one of the Hindu priests involved in building the temple praising Modi as the most beloved prime minister India has ever had.
As Modi explored the intricately designed temple with its seven spires symbolizing the UAE's seven sheikhdoms, he witnessed the consecration of the statues of deities worshipped by different Hindu denominations across India. The thousands of attendees who had gathered for the event, described as a Festival of Harmony, enthusiastically greeted Modi, especially the children who were particularly excited to see him.
Describing the inauguration of the temple as a golden chapter in human history, Modi highlighted the immense effort that had gone into its construction over the years. The event was a significant milestone in the growing relationship between India and the UAE, with Modi's recent involvement in the opening of a Hindu temple on the site of a historic mosque in Ayodhya, India, further illustrating his dedication to Hinduism.
Earlier in the day, Modi delivered a speech at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, emphasizing his government's commitment to 'minimum government, maximum governance.' He asserted that the trust of the Indian people in their government has strengthened over the years, showcasing his administration as a friend to the world.
Modi's personal gestures, including embracing UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aimed at solidifying ties with a strategically important country that supplies India's energy needs and is home to a significant number of Indian expatriates. The fact that Modi received the top civilian honor from the UAE in 2019 further exemplifies the pragmatic foreign policy approach of the Emirates, despite differences in certain areas, such as the decision to strip statehood from the disputed region of Kashmir.
Overall, Modi's visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir and engagement with the UAE leadership underscored the multifaceted nature of India's international relationships and the delicate balancing act that the Prime Minister must maintain between promoting his Hindu nationalist agenda and securing India's global position. As the upcoming elections in India approach, the ramifications of Modi's policies will continue to raise concerns, particularly for the country's Muslim minority who have faced attacks from Hindu nationalist groups in recent years.
