Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming official trip to Russia has sparked excitement across both India and Russia. Amidst this enthusiasm, the demand for the construction of the first Hindu temple in Russia has intensified.
In anticipation of Modi's visit to Moscow on July 8th, the Indian community has amplified its call for the temple's construction. On the same date, bilateral discussions between PM Modi and President Putin are scheduled.
The Indian Business Alliance and the Indian National Cultural Center are spearheading this demand. Swami Kotwani, the President of the Indian Business Alliance, has expressed his desire for Moscow's first Hindu temple.
This temple will serve as a spiritual and cultural hub for Indian expatriates. The Hindu temple in Moscow is expected to become not only a center of unity and attraction for Indians but also a symbol of the robust relationship between Russia and India.
Hinduism in Russia
Hinduism, the world's third-largest religion, continues to grow in Russia despite the country's predominantly Christian population. While ISKCON temples already exist in Moscow and St. Petersburg, housed in plain buildings, there's a push for a temple that celebrates Hindu tradition more elaborately.
Hinduism is most widely practiced in South-East Asian countries like Nepal and India, but the spread of Hinduism in Russia began in the early 20th century. The call for a Hindu temple before the BRICS summit signifies its importance.
The Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, constructed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Following the opening ceremony, PM Modi remarked on the auspiciousness of inaugurating the temple after the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
He noted the temple's seven spires symbolize the seven emirates of the UAE, reflecting the Indian ethos of respecting and assimilating with local cultures. Modi praised Sheikh Mohammed's life, which also clearly exhibits respect for all. He emphasized that the grand temple in Abu Dhabi is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the shared heritage of humanity and a testament to the fraternal bond between the people of India and the Arab world.
