New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) The construction, inauguration, and restoration of Hindu temples across the world is a testament to India’s efforts to strengthen its ties with its diaspora and the global Hindu community. The continuous migration of Hindus has led to the establishment of around two million Hindu temples worldwide, reflecting the spread of Indian civilization to different regions. The importance of these temples for Hindus living abroad was underscored by the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who emphasized the need to build and restore these places of worship to keep the diaspora connected to their culture and traditions.
The construction of Hindu temples in various countries, such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Nepal, and Australia, demonstrates the enduring influence of Indian culture and religion beyond its borders. These temples serve as important places of worship for Hindus living far away from their homeland, providing them with a sense of strength and support. Additionally, the growing number of Hindus abroad has led to an increased demand for more places of worship, as evidenced by the recent inauguration of Abu Dhabi’s first Hindu temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Modi’s efforts to inaugurate and renovate Hindu temples in foreign countries, including the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey and the Shrinathji Temple in Bahrain, highlight the global significance of Indian architecture and religious art. These initiatives not only serve the spiritual needs of the Hindu community abroad but also contribute to the promotion of Indian culture and heritage on the global stage. Furthermore, the construction of Hindu shrines abroad is seen as a means to strengthen economic and tourism ties between countries, further enhancing bilateral relations and people-to-people contacts.
Overall, the construction, inauguration, and restoration of Hindu temples across the world symbolize India’s commitment to preserving its cultural and religious heritage while deepening its connections with the global Hindu community. As the number of Hindus living abroad continues to grow, the demand for more places of worship and the recognition of Indian culture on the global stage are likely to increase, further reinforcing the significance of these initiatives.
–IANS
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