Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris via video conference on September 6, 2026. The Prime Minister described the temple inauguration as a "new milestone in the cultural relations between India and France" and emphasized that the structure would "enrich the diversity of France and energize our cultural relations." He framed the event within the context of the India-France Strategic Partnership, which he characterized as "special because it rests on the strong foundation of our old cultural and political bonds."
The Prime Minister highlighted the collaborative nature of the temple's construction, noting the integration of "ancient Indian carving talent seamlessly integrated with modern French engineering" and describing the project as "'Made in India' and 'Built in France'." He drew a parallel between the temple and modern bilateral enterprise discussions, stating that "the Swaminarayan Temple has added a completely new dimension to the possibilities of joint ventures."
PM Modi outlined the expansive scope of bilateral cooperation between India and France, specifically mentioning collaboration spanning AI, defense, space, and climate action. He pointed to the upcoming 2026 India-France Year of Innovation as evidence that "both countries are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership together" and "are moving forward together with a new momentum and new energy."
The address included historical references to strengthen the cultural connection, noting the valor of Indian soldiers on French soil and the role of French scholars in popularizing Sanskrit. The Prime Minister also cited literary and spiritual exchanges, including Romain Rolland's writings on Indian mystics and The Mother's transformative journey to Puducherry, as powerful catalysts for mutual inspiration.
PM Modi expressed confidence that the temple would have regional impact beyond Paris, anticipating that "the voices of Indian culture emerging from here will benefit people across the whole of Europe." He also noted the dual mission of spiritual practice and social welfare inherent in Swaminarayan temples, expressing optimism about the site's upcoming humanitarian projects.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing his personal intention to visit the temple in the future, stating "whenever I get the time, I will try to visit this temple for darshan." The event was presented as part of a broader cultural renaissance and continuation of spiritual diplomacy, following the earlier inauguration of a grand temple in Abu Dhabi in 2024.