The India Global Forum (IGF) Leaders Dinner brought together industry leaders from India and the Middle East for an evening of meaningful dialogues, collaborations and curated networking at the iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.
With intricate carvings depicting stories from diverse ancient civilisations from across the world, the Mandir symbolises interfaith harmony. The Mandir, inaugurated by India’s Prime Narendra Modi earlier this year, reflects the shared values of unity and cultural understanding between the UAE and India.
In his remarks, His Excellency Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, said: “The temple is one of the most visited sites in the UAE. It is a symbol of harmony. More than just a temple, it stands as a testament to vision and leadership, first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 and inaugurated by him in 2024.”
IGF Founder and Chairman Manoj Ladwa said: “The magic word ‘trust’ binds us together. It is this very bond of trust that underpins the India-UAE relationship and that has seen this relationship flourish and grow in the past 10 years.
“It is this bond of trust and friendship between His Highness and PM Narendra Modi that is the very foundation of this great Mandir and the harmony of humanity and nature that it represents.”
Faisal Kottikollon, the visionary founder of Tulah; Suhel Seth, a cultural and leadership expert; and tennis legend Leander Paes delved into the integration of holistic health and wellbeing in everyday life and shaping communities.
"Ayurveda was a service in earlier times. Modern medicine treats a disease as an organ. We're not organs. We're body, mind and spirit as a whole. Time to revisit that,” said Faisal Kottikollon.
Highlighting the role of leadership in Wellness Advocacy, Seth noted: “Today the BAPS Mandir is a reflection of the Hindu and Indian way of life. It is the truest oasis in this desert. Good health is about having a good soul. And that's how the Mandir is leading from the front. God is in Goodness. Be it a Mandir, Mosque or Church. At every moment, humanity needs spiritual healing.”
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“Sports is the greatest vehicle to unite. A tennis ball doesn't understand a language. The responsibility of representing 1.4 billion people was an honour. My next dream is to inspire 250 million children through this vehicle of sports. Our eastern philosophy, our ancient culture is about energy and faith. I believe that to attain success, we all as leaders do very well to balance between the Western world and Eastern wisdom,” added Leander Paes.
The evening, part of the fourth edition of IGF Middle East & Africa, fostered meaningful discussions on forging future alliances, showcasing the region’s commitment to unity and progress.
