11,000 devotees from the UAE visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi to celebrate Maha Shivratri.

On February 26, 2025, the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi became a spiritual and cultural epicenter
as thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate Maha Shivratri. Marking the second observance of
this sacred festival at the temple, the event saw an unprecedented turnout, further cementing the
UAE’s commitment to religious inclusivity and interfaith harmony.

A Historic Gathering of Devotees
From the early hours of the morning, the temple grounds were filled with devotees from different
nationalities, clad in traditional attire, carrying flowers, fruits, and milk for the sacred Shivlinga
offering. The festival, celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva, is observed by fasting, night-long
vigils, and sacred chanting.
A staggering 11,000 devotees from the UAE visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir to celebrate Maha
Shivratri. This overwhelming participation demonstrated the temple’s growing importance as a
spiritual hub.
Last year, the temple welcomed a total of 2.2 million visitors, highlighting its significance as a major
cultural and religious landmark in the region.
Pujya Brahmavihari Swamiji, Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, performed the morning ritual and also
guided the entire day’s event at the BAPS Hindu Mandir. His presence and leadership added to the
spiritual fervor of the occasion.

The Spiritual Significance of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri, which translates to “The Great Night of Shiva,” is one of the most important Hindu
festivals. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the deity of transformation and destruction. Devotees believe
that fasting, prayer, and meditation on this night bring spiritual purification, blessings, and divine
grace. Traditionally, Hindus observe a night-long vigil, engage in meditation, and chant sacred hymns
dedicated to Shiva.
At the BAPS Hindu Mandir, Maha Shivratri began with the chanting of Vedic hymns and devotional
songs praising Lord Shiva. The air was filled with the sound of bells and conch shells, and the
atmosphere resonated with the rhythmic chants of “Om Namah Shivaya.” The temple’s grand Murti
of Lord Shiva was adorned with intricate floral decorations, and a special Abhishekam (ritual bathing
of the deity) was performed throughout the day.

Rituals and Devotional Practices at the Mandir
The Maha Shivratri celebrations at the BAPS Hindu Mandir were meticulously organized to
accommodate the large number of devotees. The day commenced with the sacred Shiv Puja at 9:00
AM, followed by the grand Shivabhishek ceremony, where milk, honey, curd, ghee, and holy water
were poured over the Shivlinga as an act of devotion. Devotees were seen standing patiently in long
queues, waiting for their turn to perform the Abhishekam and offer prayers.
As part of the celebration, a grand Aarti (ceremonial prayer) took place in the evening, drawing
thousands of devotees into collective prayer. The sight of lit lamps illuminating the temple while
priests chanted mantras created an ambiance of deep spiritual energy. The devotees participated
wholeheartedly, some even choosing to observe fasting as an act of devotion.
To accommodate the large crowd, pre-registration was implemented, ensuring a smooth and
organized experience. Volunteers from different backgrounds worked tirelessly to guide the
devotees, distribute holy offerings, and manage the temple premises efficiently. Special
arrangements were made for elderly devotees and those with disabilities, reflecting the temple’s
commitment to inclusivity and service.

The Temple as a Spiritual and Cultural Landmark
Since its inauguration, the BAPS Hindu Mandir has emerged as a beacon of spiritual and cultural
unity. The temple’s intricate architecture, carved from white marble and pink sandstone, is a
testament to centuries-old craftsmanship and devotion. It serves not only as a place of worship but
also as a center for learning and social service.
Over the past year, the temple has hosted numerous cultural events, interfaith dialogues, and
community service initiatives. It has provided free meals to thousands of visitors, conducted
meditation and yoga sessions, and actively engaged in humanitarian efforts. Maha Shivratri 2025 was
another milestone in the temple’s journey, reinforcing its significance as a sacred space where
different communities can come together in harmony.

Devotees’ Experiences and Testimonials
The celebrations left a profound impact on those who attended, as many shared their experiences of
spiritual upliftment and gratitude. Devotees spoke about the peace and positivity they felt within the
temple premises, emphasizing how the event deepened their connection with Lord Shiva.
Sachin Patel, a resident of Abu Dhabi, described her experience: “This was my first time celebrating
Maha Shivratri at the BAPS Hindu Mandir, and I was overwhelmed by the divine atmosphere. The
rituals, the chants, and the sheer devotion of the people made this a truly unforgettable experience.
I am grateful to the UAE leadership for allowing us to practice our faith so openly.”
Similarly, Raksha Poojari, a longtime devotee, shared, “I have attended many Maha Shivratri
celebrations in India, but experiencing it here in Abu Dhabi, with people from different backgrounds
coming together, was truly special. Seeing the unity and devotion among thousands of devotees
made me feel proud of our cultural and spiritual heritage.”
For many first-time visitors, the festival provided an opportunity to deepen their understanding of
Hindu traditions. The temple administration ensured that detailed explanations about the rituals and
their significance were provided, allowing everyone to engage meaningfully in the festivities.

The Future of Maha Shivratri Celebrations at the BAPS Hindu Mandir
With the overwhelming success of Maha Shivratri 2025, the BAPS Hindu Mandir has set a precedent
for future celebrations. The temple plans to expand its offerings, incorporating more cultural
performances, spiritual discourses, and interactive sessions for the broader community. Given the
increasing interest from residents and visitors alike, efforts will be made to enhance educational
initiatives about Hindu traditions and their universal teachings of peace and self-realization.
Click on the link to visit BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi.