Abu Dhabi, UAE: The grand premiere of the one-of-a-kind, immersive show, “The Fairy Tale,” was held on September 9th at The BAPS Hindu Mandir – Abu Dhabi. This significant event celebrated the historic and iconic Mandir, which has already attracted over 1 million visitors from across the world in its first 100 days, showcasing immense global admiration and support.
On its opening day alone, the Mandir welcomed a remarkable 65,000 visitors, underscoring the excitement surrounding its inauguration. This marvel of intricate stone carvings reviv
es over 10,000 years of ancient architecture, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern eco-friendly practices, and serves as a beacon of harmony and unity.
“The Fairy Tale” Immersive Show is the result of over three months of creative concepts, scripting, visualizations, animations, and meticulous designing by an in-house BAPS Team of swamis and volunteers, with selfless assistance from professional audio-visual experts. It has been brought to life using 20 video projectors and cutting-edge surround sound. The audience is transported through time and space, witnessing pivotal moments such as HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s first prayer in the deserts of Sharjah (1997), the generosity of UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the Presidential Palace (2018), and the spiritually charged inauguration performed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra Modi (2024). Visitors experience the intensity of the scorching quarries, stormy seas, and delicate carvings, immersing themselves in the collective efforts of thousands of hands and hearts from around the world who contributed to building this millennial monument.
Calling Abu Dhabi an ‘Epicenter of Harmony,’ the show unfolds a new dimension to the values of tolerance and harmony, significantly adding to the Mandir’s message of global harmony, which has already generated more than 67 billion positive digital impressions. It bridges and brings together cultures, communities, and countries, reflecting global appreciation for this extraordinary place of worship.
The inaugural evening began with a short, elegant event in the sustainable environment of ‘The Orchard’ at the BAPS Hindu Mandir. In his welcome speech, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, the Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi and a key figure in guiding the project’s spiritual and cultural aspects, shared his reflections during the premiere: “We are deeply honored to unveil ‘The Fairy Tale,’ which not only celebrates the Mandir’s ‘incredible journey’ but also everyone’s ‘inner journey.’ The love, support, and harmony we have felt in the UAE have encouraged us to create this Spiritual Oasis for Global Harmony. The new Immersive Show will encourage every visitor to become a true Ambassador of Harmony, spreading more harmony at home, at work, and in society through personal intentions, interactions, and actions.”
He also emphasized the importance of the ‘5 Ps’ – “Policies which shape a nation, Places which dictate destinies, People who influence emotions, Principles that mould beliefs; but more importantly Perspectives which determine outlooks, attitudes, and mindsets. The Mandir has helped change the mindsets of visitors who feel a world of co-existence, love, and harmony is possible.”
The gathering of 250 guests, including UAE leaders, religious heads, government officials, donors, dignitaries, and successful well-wishers of various professions, was also addressed by the Consul General of India in Dubai – H.E. Mr. Satish Kumar Sivan. He stated, “The true Fairy Tale is the construction of the Swaminarayan Temple here in Abu Dhabi. The tagline quite captures the essence of the story of the Mandir. It is incredible and impossible, and it is more real than real can ever be.” He added, “I am of the firm belief that India and UAE can together create a pathway for all of humankind to emulate. Let’s dedicate ourselves to spreading the message of peace because that’s the healing potion that the world desperately needs today.”
H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, who ceremonially inaugurated the Show with Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas, expressed, “This immersive experience truly summarizes the values of tolerance and harmony which are very dear to our nation and very important in this world. It is incredible, inspiring, and extraordinary. The Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a beautiful example of how harmony happens and how harmony helps.”
Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer of VFS Global, the generous supporter of the Show and the Premiere Event, said, “The show is truly a global marvel. Having traveled extensively, I can confidently say that there is nothing else like it anywhere in the world. Its uniqueness and universal appeal set it apart on a global scale, making it a remarkable experience that transcends boundaries.”
Yogesh Mehta, Vice-Chairman of BAPS Hindu Mandir, said, “The Fairy Tale Show is soothing, spiritual, and ahead of its time. It offers both spiritual and educational content. Its visuals, artistry, and portrayal of the temple’s journey are groundbreaking. A state-of-the-art production that will be a feast for the eyes and hearts of the visitors.”
Fatima Al Blooshi, from The Louvre Abu Dhabi, said, “I enjoyed the immersive experience that vividly brought the Mandir’s story to life. It was enlightening and offered a deeper insight into its history and the importance of harmony.”
The Fairy Tale Immersive Show, created by BAPS Hindu Mandir and supported by VFS Global, will be managed and operated by Utsav Events. It will open to visitors from September 13th, 2024, with tickets available for purchase at AED 50 from the Utsav Events Desk at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Exclusive group packages and educational tours are also offered to enhance the experience. Visitors can contact Utsav Travels and Tourism at [email protected] or +971 52 3107189.
For more information about “The Fairy Tale” or to arrange interviews and media inquiries, please contact Vishal Patel at [email protected].
For further information, contact: [email protected] or visit mandir.ae.
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