PM Modi Inaugurates Paris Hindu Temple, Hails Deepening India-France Ties
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually inaugurated the Swaminarayan temple in Paris, describing the event as a symbol of the enduring friendship between India and France. In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the strategic partnership between the two nations, which he said rests on a foundation of cultural and political ties that have strengthened over the years.
The temple, built by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), is one of the largest Hindu temples in Europe. PM Modi noted that the inauguration was more than a religious occasion; it embodied the spirit of universal brotherhood rooted in the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning 'the world is one family'.
Modi spoke of his collaboration with French President Emmanuel Macron, saying that both countries are working together to build a 'Special Global Strategic Partnership'. He also mentioned that 2026 will be celebrated as the India-France Year of Innovation, reflecting the forward-looking nature of the bilateral relationship.
The Prime Minister underscored the historic and cultural connections between India and France. He recalled the sacrifices of Indian soldiers who fought in France during World War I, noting that their memory remains alive in the hearts of the people. He also highlighted the role of French scholars in popularising Sanskrit and the writings of Romain Rolland on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda, which brought the two societies closer.
Modi asserted that the establishment of temples and the spread of India's spiritual traditions abroad carry with them a philosophical message of human unity. 'India's civilisational thought has a universal appeal,' he said, adding that the ideals of uniting minds and connecting hearts resonate across borders.
The inauguration was attended virtually by members of the Indian diaspora and dignitaries from both countries. The temple in Paris is part of BAPS's global network of cultural and spiritual centres, which aim to promote Hindu values and community service. Its construction in France reflects the growing presence of the Indian diaspora in Europe and the mutual respect between the two nations.
India and France have historically enjoyed close relations, marked by cooperation in defence, space, nuclear energy, and climate change. The two countries have also worked together on counter-terrorism and multilateral issues. The visit of PM Modi to France in 2023 and the subsequent state visit of President Macron to India earlier this year have given fresh momentum to the partnership.
Observers note that cultural exchanges, such as the inauguration of the temple, add a crucial dimension to the diplomatic relationship. The invocation of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam by the Prime Minister aligns with India's broader foreign policy emphasis on shared global values and inclusive development.
As India and France prepare to mark major anniversaries and initiatives, including the Year of Innovation in 2026, the symbolic importance of the temple in Paris serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted ties that bind the two countries. PM Modi expressed confidence that the temple would stand for centuries as a symbol of cooperation and opportunity between India and France.
