PM hails new Swaminarayan temple in Paris as symbol of India-France ties
PM Modi virtually inaugurated the Swaminarayan temple in Paris, calling it a symbol of the enduring cultural and strategic partnership between India and France.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on [date] virtually inaugurated the new Swaminarayan Hindu temple in Paris, describing it as a new pillar of cultural ties between India and France. Addressing the ceremony, he said the temple's consecration embodies the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family).
Modi recalled the legacy of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, crediting him with beginning a cultural renaissance that now shines across Europe. He noted that the temple's construction follows the inauguration of a grand temple in Abu Dhabi in 2024, highlighting the dedication of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the temple is a unique symbol of collaboration, being 'Made in India' and 'Built in France', with many stones carved in India and assembled with modern engineering in Paris.
He highlighted the strengthening India-France partnership, including the Special Global Strategic Partnership with President Macron, covering areas like technology, AI, defence, space, and climate action. He also mentioned the celebration of 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation.
Modi pointed to historical and cultural connections, from French scholars' role in popularising Sanskrit to the writings of Romain Rolland on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda. He also referenced the spiritual journey of 'The Mother' from Paris to the Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry and the work of Srila Prabhupada in France.
He expressed confidence that the temple will serve as a centre for service projects and cultural outreach, benefiting people across Europe. He conveyed his greetings to the Indian diaspora and all devotees on the auspicious occasion.