France is set to welcome its first major Hindu temple, the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges, near Paris, which is scheduled to be inaugurated in September 2026. The historic opening will be marked by a 13-day ‘Festival of Culture’, which will be held from September 2 to 14.
Mahant Swami Maharaj will bless the inauguration and the celebrations, with devotees and well-wishers from across the world expected to participate in the event.
Hindu temple to open in Paris
France is set to get its first major Hindu temple, with the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in the Parisian district of Bussy-Saint-Georges scheduled to be inaugurated in September. BAPS said the ‘Festival of Culture’, is 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.
The opening of the temple has also been welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora in France, who see it as an important cultural and spiritual link between India and France. The temple has been constructed using stones brought from India, further reflecting its connection with Indian heritage.
Vedic chants were performed
Ahead of the inauguration, swamis and devotees gathered for the sacred ‘Kalash’ and ‘Dhaja Dand Pujans’ atop the shikhars and the central dome of the BAPS Paris temple. Vedic chants and prayers were performed, seeking peace, harmony and the well-being of people in the surrounding areas and beyond.
The inauguration is expected to mark a significant moment for the Hindu community in France. Beyond serving as a place of worship, the BAPS Paris temple is set to provide a space for cultural and spiritual activities, bringing together devotees and visitors from different backgrounds.
The 13-day Festival of Culture will form a key part of the inauguration celebrations, offering an opportunity to showcase Indian traditions and values in France.
