PM Modi Congratulates BAPS On Consecration Of First Traditional Stone Hindu Temple In France

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) on the consecration of its Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris, describing the occasion as an important milestone for India’s cultural outreach in Europe.

Addressing the ceremony through a video message, PM Modi said the temple would strengthen cultural ties between India and France and promote the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He said he could not attend the event in person but felt connected to the gathering.

The Prime Minister recalled the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi in 2024 and said such temples carry India’s cultural traditions and human values to communities across the world. He credited Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s vision for creating a global movement centred on India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Located in Bussy-Saint-Georges in France’s Seine-et-Marne department, the temple is the country’s first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple.

The structure features intricately carved stone brought from India and incorporates French engineering expertise.

PM Modi said the new temple would add to France’s cultural diversity while giving further momentum to India-France relations. He further congratulated BAPS, its associated institutions and devotees on the consecration.

The Prime Minister linked the temple’s inauguration to the broader India-France partnership. He recalled the two countries’ decision to elevate their relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership. The partnership covers areas such as defence, technology, space and climate action.

PM Modi referred to historical and cultural links between the two countries, including the contribution of Indian soldiers in France, French writer Romain Rolland’s writings on Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami Vivekananda, the influence of the Mother at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and the growing popularity of yoga in France.

Prime Minister Modi said he expected the temple to become a centre for community service and cultural activities. He said he hoped its message would reach people across Europe. He further expressed hope that he would visit the temple whenever his schedule allowed.

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