Elder Bednar Visits BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday, November 15, 2025. He met with His Holiness Brahmavihari Swamiji, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi, who also oversees international relations for BAPS.

The meeting was marked by mutual respect and a shared desire to promote harmony, peace and service. Both leaders emphasized the importance of fostering a compassionate and unified world.

Their conversation highlighted common values, such as dialogue and service. Faith leaders discussed ongoing efforts by both faith communities to support those in need and contribute to global peacebuilding.

Elder Bednar expressed appreciation for His Holiness’s recent visit to Utah and his time with the First Presidency there. The delegation also toured the mandir, learning about its history, its architectural design and the vision behind its construction.

Elder Bednar was accompanied by Elder Anthony D. Perkins, Elder Adilson de Paula Parrella and Elder Roland J. Bäck from the Middle East/Africa North Area Presidency, and Elder Kelly R. Johnson from the Asia Area Presidency.

This visit is part of an ongoing relationship that has developed through several meaningful interactions over time. Leaders from both faith communities have met on multiple occasions to strengthen understanding and explore ways to serve together.

For example, in February 2024, Church leaders in Abu Dhabi attended the Festival of Harmony during the Mandir’s opening celebrations.

In June 2025, His Holiness met with the First Presidency in Salt Lake City to discuss shared goals of unity and service. 

In September 2025, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attended the grand opening ceremony of the BAPS Mandir in the Salt Lake area in Utah.

Pranav Desai, Director of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi, reflected on the significance of the mandir as a symbol of devotion and unity.

“The BAPS Hindu Mandir is a true reflection of the story of harmony and tolerance felt across the UAE,” he said. “It is inspiring to see how faith can bring people together. We value our friendship with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — here in Abu Dhabi and around the world.”

He added, “We were happy to host Elder Bednar, who had a wonderful and heartfelt conversation with His Holiness Brahmavihari Swamiji. His Holiness fondly recalled his meeting with the First Presidency and warmly congratulated President Dallin H. Oaks for his leadership.”

Elder Parrella, First Counselor in the Middle East/Africa North Area Presidency, reflected on the meeting: “Since my first visit to this beautiful Hindu temple, I have been impressed — not only by the architecture but by the devotion of the people.

“They come to express their faith and to learn how to bless others. I’m honored to call these people my brothers and sisters.

“The United Arab Emirates and its leadership offer all of us a remarkable opportunity to work together and serve the community. We can all learn from each other and do something meaningful together.”

BAPS, Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, is a significant socio-spiritual organization within Hinduism. It is known for its commitment to promoting moral and social values, and its efforts in community service. BAPS also emphasizes the importance of faith and spiritual growth in individuals, believing that inner peace is essential for external progress.

BAPS has a network of over 1,800 mandirs (temples) and 21,000 Satsang centers (congregations) worldwide. Its followers are estimated to number in the tens of millions.