Modi inaugurates Paris Hindu temple, hails India-France ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the virtual inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris on Sunday, September 6, 2026, describing the event as a significant milestone in the cultural relations between India and France. The newly consecrated temple, located in Bussy-Saint-Georges near Paris, is noted as France's first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple and the largest of its kind in mainland Europe. Speaking to attendees, Prime Minister Modi stated that India-France relations have reached new heights, characterizing the partnership as a "Special Global Strategic Partnership" built on enduring cultural and political foundations. He highlighted collaborative efforts in areas such as technology, artificial intelligence, defense, space, and climate action, noting that 2026 is being celebrated as the India-France Year of Innovation. The Prime Minister emphasized that the temple represents more than just a religious or architectural achievement. He described it as a symbol of cooperation and opportunity between the two nations, embodying the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or universal brotherhood.