Leaders and volunteers from BAPS met with the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, in Paris on 13 July 2023.
Volunteers updated the Prime Minister on the progress of the new BAPS mandir being constructed in Paris. This included a presentation of a 3D model of the mandir, and construction plans and architectural drawings of the complex.
Mr Modi learned how the temple, which is being constructed at the Esplanade des religions et des cultures – the multifaith and multicultural heartland of Paris – will become mainland Europe’s first traditional purpose-built mandir and will promote culture, integrity, and harmony.
Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments and exquisite buildings. Mr Modi was delighted to learn that France is embracing India’s architectural beauty with the addition of this BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Volunteers also explained to the Prime Minister how the mandir complex will serve the needs of current and future generations, and that it will stand as a beacon of inspiration, service and harmony to people of all faiths and backgrounds within the Indo-French community and beyond.
During his visit, the Prime Minister met with the mandir’s project team and architects Arte Charpentier as well as Andrew Hobson (Managing Director/Principal) and Nahla Jojo-Legrand (Project Director).
Mr Hobson explained to the Prime Minister that this project is one of the most significant cultural projects in France today, as it will bring Indians and the people of France closer together. In addition, Nahla Jojo-Legrand expressed how privileged and honoured they all are to work on this iconic project and to be part of its history.
Deep Patel, Project Coordinator for the mandir’s construction, added, “We were honoured to meet Prime Minister Modi and discuss the upcoming historic BAPS mandir in Paris.
“The Prime Minster was very pleased to learn about this momentous project, representing the blossoming friendship between France and India. BAPS thanks the leaders of both France and India for their continuing support and for bringing the vision of Mahant Swami Maharaj to fruition.”