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BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir Paris: PM Narendra Modi Hails ‘Made in India, Built in France’ Landmark as a Milestone in Bilateral Ties
summary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the grand consecration of mainland Europe’s landmark cultural marvel—the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges near Paris. Describing the hand-carved stone sanctuary as a seamless blend of "Made in India and Built in France," PM Modi highlighted how this historic milestone deepens India-France strategic ties while beaming the timeless spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam across the continent.
A New Chapter in Indo-French Friendship: PM Modi Addresses BAPS Mandir Consecration in Paris
In a historic moment for global spiritual heritage and bilateral diplomacy, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually addressed a gathering on September 6, 2026, marking the consecration (Pran Pratishtha) of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris, France. Calling the occasion a "new milestone in cultural relations," PM Modi emphasized that the grand structure represents far more than a venue for worship—it serves as an active platform for universal brotherhood.
Though participating via video conference, the Prime Minister shared a deep emotional connection with the attendees, remarking that in mind and spirit, he felt present right alongside the spiritual leaders, devotees, and dignitaries gathered in the French capital.
'Made in India, Built in France': A Unique Architectural Synthesis
A primary highlight of PM Modi's address was the creative synergy that brought the mandir to life. Combining classical Indian artisan talent with modern French engineering, the intricate stone carvings were hand-sculpted in India before being meticulously assembled in France by master craftsmen alongside French structural engineers.
"This temple is truly 'Made in India' and 'Built in France.' It will remain a symbol of cooperation and possibilities between our two nations for centuries to come." — Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India
PM Modi playfully linked this spiritual achievement to modern economic collaboration, pointing out that the mandir adds an entirely new dimension to the possibilities of Indo-French "joint ventures."
From Abu Dhabi to Paris: Spreading the Renaissance of Sanatan Values
Paying homage to the vision of Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Ji Maharaj and extending deep reverence to spiritual head Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, PM Modi traced the journey of spiritual expansion. Following the 2024 inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the Paris temple marks another triumph in sharing India's spiritual wisdom across Europe.
The Prime Minister observed that when temples are consecrated internationally, they naturally export India's core civilisational ethos—that "minds should be united and hearts must connect". The complex stands as a beacon for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family).
Deep Historical and Intellectual Bonds
Reflecting on the enduring links between India and France, PM Modi highlighted several historical milestones:
- Valor & Sacrifice: The bravery of Indian soldiers who fought on French soil during the World Wars.
- Academic & Philosophical Synergy: French scholars who helped popularize Sanskrit literature globally, along with French author Romain Rolland’s writings on Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami Vivekananda.
- Spiritual Journeys: The transformative path of 'The Mother' (Mirra Alfassa) from Paris to Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry, as well as Srila Prabhupada’s early spiritual steps in France through ISKCON.
- Modern Cultural Bridges: Public gatherings for Yoga near the iconic Eiffel Tower, now complemented by the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir.
Energizing the Special Global Strategic Partnership
Beyond spiritual heritage, PM Modi underscored the rapidly expanding India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership nurtured alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. As both nations prepare for the 2026 India-France Year of Innovation, collaboration across Artificial Intelligence (AI), defense, space, and climate action continues to reach new heights.
Closing his address, PM Modi expressed confidence that the temple will double as a hub for community welfare and humanitarian initiatives, radiating positive values across Europe. He concluded with a promise to visit the Paris Mandir for darshan in person whenever his schedule permits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where is the new BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir located in France?
A: The temple is situated in Bussy-Saint-Georges, located in the Esplanade des Religions et des Cultures district in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France.
Q2: What is the architectural significance of the Paris BAPS Temple?
A: It is the first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple in France. The natural stones were hand-carved in India and assembled in France through a partnership between traditional Indian artisans and French structural engineering specialists.
Q3: What core theme did PM Modi emphasize during his virtual address?
A: PM Modi highlighted the theme "Made in India, Built in France," emphasizing how the temple acts as a cultural bridge, enriching French diversity while embodying the timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
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