Abu Dhabi: The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has added another global accolade to its name, winning the MONDO-DR 2025 Award — one of the highest honours in the international audiovisual (AV) industry. Recognised in the “House of Worship” category, the Mandir’s immersive show “The Fairy Tale” was celebrated for its exceptional creativity, integration, and spiritual depth.

Often referred to as the “Oscars of the AV world,” the MONDO-DR Awards were held this year at Ole Red Orlando, Florida, bringing together the best of audiovisual innovation from entertainment, cultural, and architectural spaces worldwide. The win positions the BAPS Hindu Mandir not just as an architectural and spiritual icon, but also as a technological marvel redefining immersive worship experiences.

A Global Category of Excellence

This year’s House of Worship category saw record-breaking entries from across the globe, including renowned cathedrals, mosques, and synagogues featuring world-class AV designs. Despite the fierce competition, the BAPS Hindu Mandir’s “The Fairy Tale” show stood out for its technical precision, cultural authenticity, and emotional impact.

Judged by international experts and published by MONDO-DR, a leading global magazine on technology in entertainment and architecture, the awards highlight projects that merge innovation with profound impact.

Engineering a Spiritual Experience

The BAPS Hindu Mandir, the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East, was envisioned as a symbol of peace, harmony, and inclusivity. Its state-of-the-art AV system integrates seamlessly with the temple’s architecture and rituals, creating a deeply spiritual yet technologically enriched environment.

The project was a global collaboration among AV consultants, lighting designers, acoustic engineers, and integrators, all working under cultural and environmental constraints to deliver an exceptional result.

Transcending Technology

Developed by the in-house BAPS team of swamis and volunteers, with support from leading AV professionals, “The Fairy Tale” immersive show combines creative storytelling, animation, and surround sound through 20 synchronized video projectors.

Explaining the show’s uniqueness, Adrian Goulder, Technical Director of VueAV, said:

“Most AV experiences focus on user engagement or commercial value. What makes ‘The Fairy Tale’ special is its message — unity and spiritual growth. The script, written and narrated by HH Swami Brahmaviharidas, touches every heart. It’s not just immersive — it’s transformative.”

A Journey Through Time and Spirit

The immersive show takes audiences through significant moments in the Mandir’s journey — from His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s first prayer in Sharjah in 1997, to the generosity of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2018, and finally to the grand inauguration by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2024.

Described as an “epicenter of harmony,” the experience celebrates the Mandir’s message of global unity, tolerance, and peace.

A Message of Global Harmony

“We are honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Swami Brahmaviharidas, Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir.

“This was never just about installing sound or light systems. It was about creating a space where every heart, regardless of background, can connect to universal spirituality.”

He further acknowledged the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for fostering harmony in the UAE, and the guidance of HH Mahant Swami Maharaj, whose leadership continues to inspire inclusivity and love.

Bridging Heritage and the Future

This recognition marks another milestone for the UAE, reinforcing its reputation for cultural inclusion, innovation, and architectural excellence. The BAPS Hindu Mandir now serves as a global benchmark for how advanced AV technology can be harmoniously integrated into sacred, heritage-rich environments.

Previous Recognitions

The Mandir has previously received several international honors, including:

• MEED Project Awards 2024 – Best Cultural Project in the UAE and MENA region
• MEP Award 2019 – for outstanding mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering
• Recognition at the World Architecture Festival and other global forums

With the MONDO-DR 2025 Award, the BAPS Hindu Mandir once again demonstrates that faith, culture, and cutting-edge innovation can beautifully coexist — inspiring the world with a message of unity, peace, and spiritual progress.