The upcoming inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi marks a significant moment of interfaith solidarity within the UAE expat community, as demonstrated by the Guru Nanak Durbar Gurdwara in Dubai. On this auspicious occasion, the Gurdwara's management has graciously pledged to serve 5,000 meals in a 'langar'—a communal kitchen offering free food to all, regardless of religion or nationality.

This generous gesture will take place in the presence of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will inaugurate the Middle East’s inaugural traditional Hindu stone temple on February 14th.

Surender Singh Kandhari, chairman of the Gurudwara committee, emphasized that serving langar is a tradition upheld in all gurudwaras. He expressed, “No one should endure hunger. We extended this offer to Swami Brahmaviharidas, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir project, and he graciously accepted. This gesture not only signifies our warm embrace of the new addition to our diverse faith community but also serves as our gratitude to the UAE authorities for their progressive stance on religious inclusivity, harmony, and tolerance.”

Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas commended the gesture as a reflection of the "sense of unity" central to BAPS beliefs. He remarked, “Such acts deepen interfaith understanding and acceptance. Langar meals are renowned for their ingredients of kindness, humanity, and generosity, which resonate deeply with people."

He further highlighted, “The UAE Government's commendable efforts in fostering interfaith tolerance and harmony set a precedent. I am confident that there will be numerous future occasions where various faiths collaborate to nurture peace and goodwill for all.”