France to get first major Hindu temple as BAPS Mandir in Paris prepares for September inauguration

August 22, 2026

Paris: France is set to get its first traditional Hindu temple, with the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges, near Paris, scheduled to be inaugurated in September 2026.

The historic opening will be marked by a 13-day ‘Festival of Culture’ from September 2 to 14, bringing together devotees and well-wishers from France, India and other parts of the world.

The inauguration and celebrations will be blessed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.

BAPS temple inauguration in September

BAPS said the ‘Festival of Culture’ was launched globally during satsang assemblies held across the world in March and April.

“The ‘Festival of Culture’, a 13-day celebration in September marking the opening of BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, Paris – the first traditional Hindu temple in France – was launched globally in ‘satsang’ assemblies around the world during the months of March and April,” BAPS said.

The launch featured video presentations, including a message from Yogvivekdas Swami, head swami for BAPS in the UK and across Europe. The presentations highlighted the historical significance of the temple and provided details about the upcoming celebrations.

Temple crafted in India, assembled in France

Members of the Indian diaspora in France have welcomed the temple’s opening, describing it as a significant cultural and religious milestone.

Speaking to IANS, Bhavi Parekh said the inauguration was a matter of pride for the Indian community in France.

“We are feeling very proud after welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Another major occasion for us is the opening of France’s first traditional Hindu temple in September. We welcome everyone to visit. The speciality of this temple is that it has been crafted in India and assembled in France,” Parekh said.

Another member of the Indian diaspora associated with BAPS said the temple was made using stones sourced from India.

“The temple has been made in India and built in France. We invite people from France, India, and the Hindu community worldwide to visit,” he said, adding that a special programme would be organised in September.

Sacred rituals held ahead of opening

Ahead of the inauguration, swamis and devotees gathered for the sacred ‘Kalash’ and ‘Dhaja Dand Pujans’ atop the shikhars and central dome of the BAPS Paris temple.

Vedic chants and prayers were offered for peace, harmony and well-being in Bussy-Saint-Georges, neighbouring areas and beyond.

BAPS marked the occasion with the devotional call, “Paris Mandir Mahotsavni Jay!”, reflecting the enthusiasm of Mahant Swami Maharaj, senior swamis and devotees around the world.

The upcoming festival is expected to provide visitors with a spiritual and cultural experience while marking a major milestone for the Hindu community in France.