Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually inaugurated the grand BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris, describing the occasion as a new milestone in the cultural relations between India and France and reflecting the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, “the world is one family.”
Addressing the gathering through video conference, Modi said, “Today, in the capital of France, Paris, the grand Swaminarayan temple is being inaugurated. This inauguration is a new milestone in the cultural relations between India and France. With the blessings of revered saints and the noble custodians of the Sanatan tradition, today this inauguration platform has become a stage of the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”
He respectfully remembered Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj, saying, “In ancient times, India’s cultural and spiritual glory was immense, and he began a campaign for its renaissance. Today its light is spreading across Europe and the entire world.”
Modi highlighted that through BAPS, when temples are consecrated in different countries, India’s ancient ideas and human values also travel with them. “And India’s thought says: ‘Samanam manah saha chittamesham’ – may our minds be united, may our hearts be connected. Therefore, today when such a grand temple has been built in France, it will enrich France’s diversity, and it will also energize the cultural relations between India and France,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that in recent years, India and France’s relations have reached new heights. “Together with my friend President Macron, both countries are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership. From technology, AI, and defense to space and climate action, we are moving forward with new speed and new energy. We are also celebrating 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation,” Modi said.
He recalled historical ties, saying, “History is witness – the sacrifices of Indian soldiers in France are still alive in the temple of memory. Those interested in languages also know how French scholars played a crucial role in popularizing Sanskrit. The writings of Romain Rolland on Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami Vivekananda brought our societies closer.”
Modi described the temple as “Made in India” and “Built in France”, noting that many of its stones were carved in India. “India’s ancient craftsmanship has joined here with modern engineering in France. Therefore, I hope this temple will stand for centuries as a symbol of cooperation and possibilities between India and France,” he said.
When temples rise in foreign lands, even borders bow to brotherhood. Follow Dharmic News for more updates on Hindu community issues and global affairs.
