India and France Inaugurate BAPS Temple in Paris

The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges, Seine-et-Marne, was inaugurated on 6 September 2026. The temple is France’s first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple and the largest of its kind in mainland Europe.

BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir

The mandir belongs to the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, commonly known as BAPS. BAPS is a Hindu socio-spiritual organisation within the Swaminarayan tradition.

The temple was formally consecrated by Mahant Swami Maharaj on 6 September 2026. The opening ceremony included participation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi through video conference.

Location and Construction

The temple stands in Bussy-Saint-Georges in the Seine-et-Marne department of France. Construction began in April 2024 and used hand-carved stones from India assembled with French engineering expertise.

The architectural firm Arte Charpentier was involved in the project. The mandir was completed as a joint effort combining traditional stone craftsmanship and modern construction methods.

Associated Cultural Events

A Jal Yatra was held on the River Seine in Paris on 3 September 2026. The procession included more than 5,500 participants and 11 decorated boats.

The inauguration is linked with a 13-day Festival of Culture from 2 to 14 September 2026. The temple opening also coincided with 2026 being observed as the India-France Year of Innovation.

Important Facts for Exams

• France’s first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple is located in Bussy-Saint-Georges, Seine-et-Marne.
• Mahant Swami Maharaj is the spiritual leader of BAPS.
• The River Seine flows through Paris and is a major river of France.
• Arte Charpentier is a French architectural firm associated with the temple project.

Historical Context

BAPS linked the temple’s inauguration to a spiritual vision associated with Yogiji Maharaj in 1970. The vision was said to have been blessed during a stopover at Orly Airport in France.