BAPS Hindu Mandir Honors People of Determination with a Symphony of Harmony
[Abu Dhabi, 15 Nov 2025] – The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, globally recognized as a
beacon of peace and unity, resonated once more with chords of harmony as it hosted an
evening unlike any other. The event, titled ‘A Symphony of Harmony’, brought together more
than 500 guests, including members of the UAE leadership, People of Determination from
across the country, UAE nationals, community leaders, and well-wishers. Together, they
celebrated the indomitable spirit of People of Determination, along with the values of
compassion, inclusivity, and shared humanity.
Set beside the serene Ganga waters in the temple amphitheater, as the stars twinkled above
and guests settled into their seats, a young local star, 15-year-old Emirati pianist and composer
Ahmed Al Hashemi, a remarkable artist on the autism spectrum, captivated everyone with his
presence. Ahmed has represented the UAE at over 200 performances across nine countries, and
his extraordinary work has earned him international recognition, including the UNESCO Rising
Talent Honorary Certificate in Paris and the Mother Teresa Memorial Award for social impact
through music.
Ahmed performed with the support of his family, sharing eight total pieces, a repertoire
spanning classical works, including Ludwig van Beethoven, as well as his own original
compositions. His performance reminded every listener that courage knows no boundaries and
that, through hard work and determination, anyone can transform perceived limitations into
exceptional expression.
When asked what inspired him to perform at the temple, Ahmed shared: “A few months ago I
visited the temple and was so moved by the peace and love I felt here that I knew I wanted to
perform here. I wrote a letter expressing my wish to play piano at the temple, and here we are.
Tonight is special because, although I have performed in many countries like Japan and Korea,
this is my big solo at home, and to play it in a place like this, where I feel at peace, is such a
dream come true.”
After the first half of the recital concluded, the depth of emotion in the amphitheater lingered,
and Ahmed took a few minutes to rest, a pause that allowed the audience to reflect on themusical journey they had experienced. During this interlude, Swami Brahmaviharidas, the head
of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi and the visionary behind the event, was invited to share
his thoughts.
Swami Brahmaviharidas began by sharing a story from Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s time, when
Sadguru Premanand Swami was once asked to sing a gentle morning melody, traditionally sung
at sunrise, despite it being the middle of the afternoon. As he sang, the courtyard transformed:
the heat softened, the air grew still, and even morning birds began to chirp as though dawn had
returned. Swami Brahmaviharidas explained that this moment beautifully illustrates the power
of music and melody to change not only the world around us but also the world within us.
In the Hindu tradition, he said, all of creation began with a single sacred sound, Om, a reminder
that vibration, harmony, and inner resonance shape our thoughts and emotions. Music,
therefore, has the ability to quiet the mind, uplift the heart, and realign us with our highest self.
Swami reminded us everyone that each of us is unique and that every challenge is an
opportunity to grow. “With courage, compassion, and determination, let us overcome all our
inner limitations to create a world of harmony,” he said. He spoke of Ahmed Al Hashemi as a
shining example of this spirit, praising his talent and resilience and expressing heartfelt
gratitude to his family, whose love and unwavering support have nurtured his journey and
allowed his gift to touch so many hearts.
He concluded with gratitude to the leadership of the UAE, noting, “Tonight would not be
possible without their generosity, not only in supporting the Mandir, also, in empowering
People of Determination across the nation and enabling each one of them to shine.”
The recital’s highlight was one of Ahmed’s original compositions, “Dark to Light,” created
especially as a tribute to the temple. The piece unfolds as a musical journey, moving from
moments of quiet challenges to a radiant crescendo of peace, symbolizing humanity’s path
toward understanding, compassion, and unity.
Moved by the love and emotions of the evening, Ahmed wished to share a few words with the
audience. Expressing his gratitude and thoughts he said: “Thank you so much for listening.
Through my music, I wanted to share a message of love, peace, and harmony, because when we
truly listen to one another, the world becomes a kinder place.
Music has the power to bring hearts together, beyond language, culture, or differences. If even
one note tonight made you feel calm or connected, that is the greatest reward for me.
Tomorrow is Tolerance Day in the UAE, and I am so happy that our country celebrates this day
for people like me. Happy Tolerance Day to everyone in advance, and thank you for sharing this moment with me.”
To honor Ahmed’s dedication, creativity, and the inspiration he brings to so many, Swami
Brahmaviharidas presented him with a special memento recognizing his remarkable journey
and the light he continues to share through his music. The memento was a beautifully crafted
model of the Mandir, placed at the center of an elegant base, with musical notes arranged
around it, symbolizing the harmony between faith, art, and the human spirit.
Ms. Shaily Desai, a BAPS volunteer, presented a bouquet to Ahmed’s mother, Eiman Alaleeli
acknowledging her unwavering support and the role she has played in nurturing his talent and
resilience.
Swami Brahmaviharidas also honored distinguished members of the UAE leadership and
community for their unwavering support: Brigadier Hamed of Abu Dhabi Police; H.E. Mubarak Al
Ameri and H.E. Mohamed Al Balooshi, representing H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman
of the Department of Community Development; Mr. Zubin Karkaria, CEO of VFS Global; and Dr.
Vibu Bose, Executive Director of Ahalia Medical Group.
Yet the evening’s true beauty unfolded beyond the stage. During the post-performance
reception, children and people of determination from around the country interacted joyfully
with UAE leadership, community leaders, and other guests. Their laughter, curiosity, and
beaming smiles created a living picture of inclusion, one where labels faded and humanity took
centre stage. Guests knelt to speak with the children, shared warm handshakes, exchanged
stories, and listened intently to their thoughts and experiences. Inspired by Ahmed’s triumph,
these young guests became the true VIPs of the evening, embodying the spirit of courage, joy,
and endless potential.
Rabbi Jeff Berger, Chief Rabbi at the Synagogue of the Abrahamic Family House, expressed his
deep gratitude for the evening, sharing, “Thank you for enabling me to attend a remarkable
evening of music and inspiration. Swamiji expressed in words the love and harmony that came
through in Ahmed’s music. The Mandir creates such a beautiful atmosphere at night. I will long
remember tonight’s beautiful visit.”
Asma Rubayea Al Menhali, Head of Communications at the Abrahamic Family House shared,
“Swami Brahmaviharidas and the beautiful souls of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, thank you for being
a living breath of light in this world, an embodiment of coexistence, peace, and harmony in their
most sacred form.
Swami’s words do more than inspire; they awaken something quiet and ancient within the
heart, a remembrance of our shared humanity, the goodness that binds us, and the divine
mutuality that lives beneath all differences. Every talk he gives feels like a soft blessing… a reminder that goodness still moves in the world,
that kindness has a pulse, and that we are all capable of rising a little higher, becoming a little
better, simply by honoring one another with respect and openness.
I am grateful for the serenity and clarity you bring, and for the gentle way you help us return to
who we truly are.”
Everyone celebrated the Mandir as a shining example of a place where the human spirit is
treasured, nurtured, and inspired, an enduring beacon of support for People of Determination
and a source of inspiration for all.
*End of Press Release*
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About BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is an international community-based Hindu fellowship
affiliated to the United Nations, caring for individuals, families and societies through its one
million plus members, 80,000 volunteers and 5,025 centres. Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS strives to build a
righteous, peaceful and harmonious community that is spiritually elevated and free of
addictions and violence.
For further details about BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, please visit baps.org
About Mahant Swami Maharaj (b. 1933)
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is a prominent Hindu spiritual leader who inspires millions
across the world through his virtues of devotion, humility and service.
He carries forth His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s legacy by serving for the greater good of
humanity, such as mobilising volunteers to care for and connect with communities across the
world.
Mahant Swami Maharaj provides guidance, enrichment and upliftment, deeply touching hearts
and uniting families and communities, helping every citizen to become a better member of their
family, community and country.
To learn more about Mahant Swami Maharaj, please click here.
