Abu Dhabi: The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi - The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi was honoured with the prestigious ‘Tolerance Award’ at the 3rd International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance Conference (IDCT 2026) in Abu Dhabi. The Tolerance Award recognises individuals and organisations whose work promotes global tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence, with recipients selected by the conference’s scientific committee based on their measurable international impact.

The Emirates Scholar Center for Research & Studies (ESCRS) and the Abrahamic Family House, presented the 3rd International Dialogue of Civilizations & Tolerance Conference (IDCT 2026) in partnership with Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau.

Held in Abu Dhabi under the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of the Family, IDCT 2026 is a landmark global convening that brings together governments, academic institutions, international organisations, faith communities, and civil society leaders around a shared commitment: to strengthen intercultural dialogue, advance the science of coexistence, and address the profound transformations that artificial intelligence and new media are imposing upon families and communities worldwide.

The award is a profound recognition of the Mandir's contribution to fostering harmony, dialogue, and social cohesion in the UAE and beyond. Through initiatives such as the Festival of Harmony, Omsiyyat, and Care in Crisis during Covid and the current conflict, the Mandir continues to serve selflessly, personally and universally. The award reflects a collective effort of thousands of volunteers, countless visitors, and a shared commitment to creating a space where people of every background, culture, and faith feel welcomed and valued.

Focusing on the theme “The Impact of New Media and AI on Family and Community,” the conference brought together an international gathering of government officials, decision-makers, academics, religious leaders, media professionals, and experts from around the world. Hosted by Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies and the Abrahamic Family House, in partnership with Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities as the Knowledge Partner and the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau as the Destination Partner, the event reflected the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to advancing intercultural dialogue and promoting a global culture of understanding and coexistence.

Accepting the honour from the hands of HE Dr. Abdulla Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chancellor of Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, and HE Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, Brahmavihari Swami, the Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi delivered a thought-provoking keynote address on the future of family, faith, and technology. While much of the world is focused on what artificial intelligence can do, he invited delegates to reflect on a deeper question: what kind of humanity are we becoming because of it?

Drawing on wisdom from civilizations across the world, from Egyptian tomb inscriptions and African proverbs to Christian and Islamic traditions, Mesopotamia law, and Hindu values, he highlighted a timeless truth: strong societies are built upon strong families. Whether expressed through civilizational lessons that unity creates strength, or the Indian ideals of Matrudevo Bhava, Pitrudevo Bhava or Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world is one family, the message across cultures remains remarkably consistent.

One of the most inspiring moments of the address was his reflection on Ghar Sabha - a simple but transformative practice encouraged by HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, spiritual leader of BAPS, where families spend twenty minutes together each day in prayer, conversation, reflection, and listening. No screens. No notifications. No algorithms. Just family and open dialogue. Connecting hearts, minds and souls.

In a world increasingly connected by technology yet often disconnected from one another, he reminded the audience that meaningful relationships are built not through constant communication, but through genuine presence.

The message deeply resonated throughout the conference: as technology advances, humanity must advance with it. Innovation requires values. Progress requires purpose. And the future will depend not only on smarter machines, but on stronger families and more compassionate communities. “What we need are AI Empowered Families, not just AI Powered Families!”

The audience was transfixed and hung upon his every word and idea as he concluded with gratitude to the conference organisers for this honour, and to the UAE's leadership for continually championing the values of coexistence, dialogue, and human fraternity.