BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi held a special prayer assembly to commemorate Rakshabandhan and pay tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj on the sixth memorial anniversary. The celebration, attended by more than 4,000 workers from over 26 companies, was a joyous occasion to thank those working earnestly to provide for their families.

On the auspicious day, 10,000 Rakhis, handmade by the female devotees of the BAPS in UAE, were distributed to workers, residents, families, and communities.

Ram, one of the laborers, shared a sentiment echoed by many of the attendees, “I feel like I am back home with my family. We are grateful to the swamis and Mandir for inviting us to celebrate Rakshabandhan together.”

Mahant Swami Maharaj blessed the audience from India with prayers for harmony and fraternity – underlining that we are eternally under God’s protection and are blessed with the wisdom to help one another in the spirit of universal fellowship.The attendees participated in an auspicious brick laying ceremony called ‘Shila Sthaapan.’ Partaking in a special puja to sanctify a brick which they personally carried and placed on the five-meter-high plinth, above the foundation of the new mandir.

Mahant Swami Maharaj blessed the audience from India with prayers for harmony and fraternity – underlining that we are eternally under God’s protection and are blessed with the wisdom to help one another in the spirit of universal fellowship.

The attendees participated in an auspicious brick laying ceremony called ‘Shila Sthaapan.’ Partaking in a special puja to sanctify a brick which they personally carried and placed on the five-meter-high plinth, above the foundation of the new mandir.

Swami Brahmavihari, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, said, "The atmosphere is one of great love, equality, and divinity. These thousands of Rakhis have been handmade with love by the female devotees of UAE, to give to each worker, symbolizing blessings for brothers.”

More than 100 volunteers helped orchestrate the flow while working conscientiously to manage logistics, prepare fresh food, and small traditional memorabilia.

“There is a feeling of belonging which cannot be justified in words. I am truly proud to serve these brothers who work tirelessly to help build marvelous projects, such as this beautiful upcoming mandir.” Ashok Kotecha, BAPS Hindu Mandir, Chairman.

The audience also enjoyed a medley of festival hymns sung by the sadhus and youth volunteers. Each member of the assembly came forward to be tied their own Rakhi accompanied with a prayer for protection, fulfillment, and happiness.