Dilip Joshi Aka Jethalal Of TMKOC Visits UAE Hindu Temple, Says Initiative Will Spread 'Message Of Harmony'

The inauguration of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has been dominating headlines recently. It is a momentous occasion as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gets its first Hindu temple. Actor Dilip Joshi, known for his role as Jethalal in the popular sitcom Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, visited the temple ahead of the grand inauguration.

Sharing about the significance of the initiative, Dilip Joshi told ANI, “Even after seeing this, it is difficult to believe that such a beautiful BAPS temple has been constructed. I was present here when the foundation stone of this temple was laid by PM Modi. The Ruler of Dubai has a big heart, he gave the land and permission to construct this temple. I pray that the message of harmony is spread across the world from this temple.” Dilip Joshi also expressed gratitude towards the Ruler of Dubai for his generosity in granting permission for its construction.

Apart from Dilip Joshi, many other celebrities were present at the grand inauguration. Following the consecration event, Akshay Kumar resorted to social media to share a stunning photo of the temple. The actor called it a ‘historic occasion’ and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of its magnificence. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Blessed to be a part of the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan temple at Abu Dhabi. What a historic moment!!”

Grammy-winner Shankar Mahadevan was also present at the prestigious event.

The BAPS temple was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi, and in a statement, he said, “The BAPS temple will be an enduring tribute to the values of harmony, peace and tolerance, which both India and the UAE share.”

The pink sandstone temple is located on a 27-acre tract in Abu Mreikhah, near Al Rahba, off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, making it one of the largest in the Middle East.