Paris has a new landmark for Hindu culture and spirituality. The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges, in the eastern suburbs of Paris, was inaugurated on September 6, marking a significant moment for the Hindu community in France and India-France cultural ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually joined the inauguration and described the temple as a new milestone in the cultural relationship between the two countries.
BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir In Paris: France’s First Hindu Temple
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
According to NDTV, the newly inaugurated mandir is France’s first purpose-built, traditionally designed Hindu temple. Built with stones brought from India, the temple combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with French engineering. Its architecture features intricately designed shikhars, domes, columns, canopies and windows, making it a striking addition to the Paris region. The temple itself describes the project as a collaboration between Indian artistry and French technology.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir is not just designed as a place of worship. It is envisioned as a space for learning, cultural celebrations, community activities and interfaith harmony. The mandir is open to people from different backgrounds who wish to experience Hindu traditions, ceremonies and philosophy.
At the heart of the temple are the sacred murtis, or consecrated idols, installed during the Murti Pratishtha ceremony on September 6. The mandir houses Shri Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, along with murtis of Shri Radha-Krishna Bhagwan, Shri Siyavar-Ramchandra Bhagwan, Shri Umapati Shankar Bhagwan, Shri Hanumanji and Shri Ganeshji.
The Murti Pratishtha, an important Hindu consecration ceremony, formed one of the key moments of the temple’s inauguration. It was followed by a dedication assembly, marking the mandir’s transition from a monumental structure to a living place of worship.
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A 13-Day Festival Celebrating Indian Culture
The inauguration is being marked with the Paris Mandir Mahotsav, a 13-day Festival of Culture running from September 2 to 14. The celebrations include a Vedic Mahayagna, Jal Yatra, Nagar Yatra, cultural programmes and religious ceremonies. The festival also includes a special Hindu Cultural Celebration on September 14.
The celebrations are more than an opening ceremony. They showcase different aspects of Hindu traditions while bringing together devotees, members of the Indian diaspora and people from different communities in France.
Why Is This Temple Significant?
The new temple comes at a time when India-France relations extend beyond diplomacy, defence and trade into culture and people-to-people connections. During the virtual inauguration, PM Modi highlighted the temple as a symbol of India’s spiritual heritage and said it would further strengthen the cultural relationship between India and France.
For France’s Hindu community, the mandir also offers a dedicated traditional space where festivals, rituals and cultural traditions can be celebrated and passed on to younger generations. For visitors, meanwhile, it offers a glimpse into India’s architectural and spiritual heritage without leaving the Paris region.
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With its traditional Indian stone architecture, sacred murtis, and a festival that brings together faith and culture, the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir is now more than a new place of worship!
Cover Image Courtesy: X/BAPSParis
FAQs
Where is the new Hindu temple located in Paris?
The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir is located in Bussy-Saint-Georges, a suburb east of Paris, France.
Which deities are enshrined in the temple?
The temple houses murtis of Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Radha-Krishna, Sita-Ram, Shiva-Parvati, Hanuman and Ganesh.
Is the Hindu temple in Paris open to visitors?
Yes, the temple welcomes devotees as well as visitors interested in learning about Hindu culture, traditions and architecture.
