BUSSY-SAINT-GEORGES, France (Diya TV) — The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir near Paris was formally consecrated Sunday, marking the opening of what organizers describe as France’s first traditionally designed, purpose-built Hindu temple.
BAPS spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj led the Murti Pratishtha ceremony on Sept. 6 at the mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges, east of Paris. The ceremony included Vedic chanting, a mahapuja and the first arti following the consecration of the temple’s murtis, or sacred images.
The mandir was constructed according to traditional Hindu architectural principles using stone and incorporates modern French engineering and construction methods.
The consecration is part of BAPS’ 13-day Festival of Culture, running from Sept. 2 through Sept. 14. Events include religious ceremonies, cultural programs, processions and community gatherings in Bussy-Saint-Georges and Paris.
The project traces its origins to a vision expressed by BAPS spiritual leader Yogiji Maharaj during a visit to France in 1970. The plan was later advanced under Pramukh Swami Maharaj and completed under Mahant Swami Maharaj.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the inauguration by video on Sunday, describing the mandir as a milestone in cultural relations between India and France.
