Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the consecration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris, describing the new temple as an important milestone in the cultural relationship between India and France. In a video message, Modi congratulated BAPS and the devotees involved in the project, emphasizing the broader significance of establishing a traditionally designed Hindu temple in Europe.
Addressing the gathering remotely, the Prime Minister said the temple represents a fresh chapter in India-France cultural engagement. He connected the occasion with the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which emphasizes the idea of the world as one family. Although he was unable to attend the ceremony in person, Modi said he felt closely connected to the historic occasion.
Modi also recalled the contribution of the late BAPS spiritual leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whose efforts helped take India’s cultural and spiritual traditions to audiences around the world. He noted that BAPS temples established in different countries serve not only as places of worship but also as spaces where Indian philosophical ideas and human values are shared internationally.
The Prime Minister referred to the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, inaugurated in 2024, as another example of India’s cultural heritage reaching new audiences overseas. He expressed confidence that the Paris temple would similarly contribute to France’s multicultural landscape while creating stronger cultural connections between the two countries.
Located in Bussy-Saint-Georges in France’s Seine-et-Marne region, the temple is the country’s first traditionally designed stone Hindu mandir and is considered one of the largest of its kind in mainland Europe. Indian craftsmen produced intricately carved stone elements, which were brought together using French engineering expertise. The consecration ceremony was part of a 13-day Festival of Culture.
Modi also pointed to the wider strategic relationship between India and France, which encompasses defense, technology, space and climate cooperation. He highlighted historic links between the two nations, including the role of Indian soldiers in France and the influence of Indian spiritual thinkers and yoga in French society.
Looking ahead, Modi said he expected the temple to become a center for community service and cultural exchange. He added that the values and message associated with India’s heritage could reach communities across Europe through the new landmark.
