Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir has won the MONDO-DR 2025 Award, the world’s top AV honour, for immersive spiritual design.
ABU DHABI: The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has been awarded the prestigious MONDO-DR 2025 Award in the category of House of Worship — often referred to as the “Oscars of the AV world.” Presented in Orlando, Florida, this accolade recognises the temple’s world-class audiovisual design and immersive storytelling that integrates culture, technology, and spirituality.
This year’s House of Worship category drew dozens of high-calibre entries from globally renowned places of worship, including cathedrals and mosques, all boasting sophisticated AV systems. The award-winning submission from Abu Dhabi stood out for its pioneering approach — notably ‘The Fairy Tale’ immersive show, which blends storytelling, state-of-the-art lighting, and surround sound, earning high praise from the international judging panel.
Designed as the Middle East’s first traditional Hindu stone temple, the BAPS Hindu Mandir combines spiritual architecture with advanced AV integration to create a transformative experience. Built through global collaborations and led by in-house creatives and volunteers, the technology serves a higher purpose — not just spectacle, but spiritual elevation. Technical Director of VueAV, Adrian Goulder, highlighted that the real strength of the installation is its powerful message of unity and peace — narrated by HH Swami Brahmaviharidas — which moves hearts beyond visuals and audio.
The immersive show features monumental moments such as the Indian PM’s inaugural visit, prayers by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1997, and blessings from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2018 — all designed to inspire cultural connection and spiritual introspection.
Swami Brahmaviharidas noted, “It was never just about installing lights or sound. This is about creating an environment where every heart, from every background, connects to universal spirituality.” He also praised the support of UAE leadership in fostering an environment of harmony.
This MONDO-DR victory adds to a growing list of recognitions for the BAPS Mandir, including accolades from MEED Awards, MEP Awards, and the World Architecture Festival. The temple is now globally regarded not only for its spiritual and architectural significance, but also for being a benchmark in immersive, message-driven AV design.
