Modi celebrates inauguration of BAPS Swaminarayan temple near Paris as India-France milestone

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a video message for the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris, calling it a milestone in India-France cultural relations.

The consecration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Paris has been welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a significant milestone in strengthening the cultural ties between India and France on Sunday. Addressing a gathering through a video conference during the inauguration of the temple, the PM extended his heartfelt congratulations on the consecration of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris, calling the occasion “a matter of great joy,” PM Modi highlighted the temple’s importance as a symbol of India’s spiritual heritage and its growing cultural presence abroad.#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "A magnificent temple was inaugurated in Abu Dhabi in 2024. Today, thousands of people visit it to offer their prayers. And now, the construction of the Swaminarayan temple in Paris stands as a testament to the continuity of creation… pic.twitter.com/kmLAXqSWlF— ANI (@ANI) September 6, 2026 PM Modi extended wishes on consecrationOn Sunday, September 6, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt wishes on the consecration of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris. PM Modi recognised the historic event as a foundational pillar for bilateral ties. Expressing deep gratitude towards the affection of the spiritual leaders, the PM said, “I continue to get the opportunity to associate with such pious occasions."The historic Pratishtha of BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, Paris. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj personally led the sacred Murti Pratishtha ceremonies in the presence of more than 125 sadhus and thousands of devotees.A landmark day as France’s first traditional Hindu… pic.twitter.com/VJdEczv3PV— BAPS Mandir Swaminarayan Hindou de Paris (@BAPSParis) September 6, 2026 About the BAPS templeThe BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, built by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), represents India’s rich traditions of architecture, spirituality and community values. Its consecration in the French capital marks an important moment for the Indian diaspora and devotees living in France.PM Modi addresses gathering via videoSharing his thoughts on the occasion, PM Modi said the temple would further deepen the longstanding bond between India and France. He noted that cultural exchanges have played an important role in bringing people of the two countries closer.A sacred invocation by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. As part of the Murti Pratishtha ceremonies of BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, Paris, Mahant Swami Maharaj personally performed the invocation, offering Vedic prayers to begin this deeply sacred moment.A profound… pic.twitter.com/tuRTQFpvRZ— BAPS Mandir Swaminarayan Hindou de Paris (@BAPSParis) September 6, 2026 PM Narendra Modi said, "He said that the construction of the Swaminarayan Temple in Paris, following the grand temple in Abu Dhabi, is a testament to the resolve of the saints and the continuity of this cultural journey. PM Modi expressed gratitude to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and extended heartfelt congratulations to the BAPS organisation and millions of devotees."It is a matter of great joy that BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir is being inaugurated in Paris.@BAPS https://t.co/PaXRoM0mkv— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2026 Sharing the video conference, the PM said, "It is a matter of great joy that BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir is being inaugurated in Paris."