Omsiyyat
BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi hosts interfaith cultural event Omsiyyat
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi recently hosted an interfaith cultural evening called ‘Omsiyyat’ which witnessed the participation of more than 200 leaders and community members from diverse faiths and backgrounds.
Set against the striking backdrop of the newly inaugurated Mandir, a profound convergence of faith, culture, and dialogue took place.
This momentous event was graced by the esteemed presence of several notable UAE figures, including Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, amongst others, whose presence added a significant layer of respect and honour to the evening.
"In addition to the local leadership, leaders of local religious communities were also in attendance: Rabbi Jeff Berger of the Abrahamic Family House, Rabbi Levi Duchmann, Father Lalji of the Church of South India Parish, and Baha’i community leaders," BAPS Abu Dhabi said in a statement.
Rabbi Jeff Berger from the Abrahamic Family House said, “Unity in diversity is not just a principle; it is a practice, vividly demonstrated here tonight. This event symbolizes our shared journey towards understanding and respect.”
Sheikh Nahayan emphasized the tremendous impact of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, said, “In these troubled times that are threatened by separatism, distrust, intolerance, and conflicts, [the BAPS Hindu Mandir] brings hope to the world… I commend the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi for organizing this interfaith meeting… You share a respect for beliefs and an admiration for each other’s good-hearted intentions. Thank you for your commitment and dedication to promoting the values of peace, harmony, fraternity, and coexistence. Your strong resolve to work together across cultural and spiritual lines for the good of all humankind is truly noble.”
‘Omsiyyat: An Interfaith Cultural Evening’ touched the hearts of those not only in attendance, but also the community of the UAE and the world, demonstrating that, though interfaith harmony is an ongoing mission, for a moment, it has been achieved.
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