PARIS / NEW DELHI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually addressed the grand inauguration of the new BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris, describing the landmark event as a major milestone in deepening the cultural and spiritual ties between India and France.

Delivering his address via video link, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the newly consecrated temple represents the enduring spirit of universal brotherhood and embodies the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).

"In recent years, relations between India and France have reached new heights," PM Modi remarked during his address. "Together with my friend, President Emmanuel Macron, both nations are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership that spans technology, defense, space, and climate action. Today, this grand temple adds a whole new dimension to our cultural foundation".

'Made in India, Built in France'

Drawing a unique analogy to modern economic enterprise, the Prime Minister described the landmark structure as a unique architectural fusion. "This temple is truly 'Made in India' and 'Built in France'. The intricate stone carvings were meticulously crafted by traditional artisans in India before being seamlessly assembled with modern French engineering in Paris," PM Modi noted, highlighting how centuries-old Indian craftsmanship has blended with European innovation.

He expressed confidence that the temple will stand for generations as an enduring symbol of bilateral cooperation and cultural synergy between both nations.

A Rich Legacy of Shared Cultural Bonds

Reflecting on the historical foundation connecting the two countries, PM Modi recalled how French intellectuals and scholars have long championed Indian philosophy and literature. He cited French Nobel laureate Romain Rolland's works on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda, as well as the spiritual movement of 'The Mother' (Mirra Alfassa) from Paris to Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry, as foundational pillars of mutual heritage.

He also paid tribute to the sacrifices of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives on French soil during the World Wars, highlighting that their memory remains deeply cherished in the hearts of citizens in both countries.

Beyond Devotion: A Hub for Community Service

Underlining the social welfare aspect of Swaminarayan temples globally—such as the landmark BAPS temple opened in Abu Dhabi earlier—PM Modi noted that the Paris center will serve not only as a place of worship but also as a hub for humanitarian and community service projects.

"Swaminarayan temples have always been centers of service alongside devotion," PM Modi said, adding that the universal human values emanating from the Paris mandir would inspire communities across Europe.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister extended his congratulations to Mahant Swami Maharaj, the BAPS organization, and thousands of devotees gathered in Paris, stating that he looks forward to visiting the temple in person during a future visit to France.