Place : Ahmedabad
Speech Date : 17-10-2011Social media, which I see as a great opportunity to interact with the society, is seen by many other political leaders as a big threat
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Respected Mahant Swami, honored representatives of the French government, distinguished guests, members of the Indian community, all Hari devotees connected from across the world, ladies and gentlemen - Jai Swaminarayan!
Today, in the capital of France, Paris, the grand Swaminarayan temple is being inaugurated. This inauguration is a new milestone in the cultural relations between India and France. With the blessings of revered saints and the noble custodians of the Sanatan tradition, today this inauguration platform has become a stage of the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - “the world is one family.” By the grace of Lord Swaminarayan and the affection and blessings of our saints, it is my fortune that I always get the opportunity to be connected with such sacred occasions. Even today, though I am not physically present among you in Paris, in mind and heart I feel myself to be right there with you.
Friends,
On this occasion, I also respectfully remember Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj. In ancient times, India’s cultural and spiritual glory was immense, and he began a campaign for its renaissance. Today its light is spreading across Europe and the entire world. In 2024, the grand temple in Abu Dhabi was inaugurated. Today thousands of people go there for darshan. And now here in Paris, the construction of the Swaminarayan temple - this continuity of creation - is proof of the resolve and strength of our saints. I express gratitude to Pujya Mahant Swami for this sacred work, I bow at his feet. I extend heartfelt congratulations to the BAPS Swaminarayan organization and to millions of Hari devotees on this occasion.
Friends,
Through BAPS, when temples are consecrated in different countries, India’s ancient ideas and human values also travel with them. And India’s thought says: “Samanam manah saha chittamesham” - may our minds be united, may our hearts be connected. Therefore, today when such a grand temple has been built in France, it will enrich France’s diversity, and it will also energize the cultural relations between India and France.
Friends,
In recent years, India and France’s relations have reached new heights. Together with my friend President Macron, both countries are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership. From technology, AI, and defense to space and climate action, we are moving forward with new speed and new energy. We are also celebrating 2026 as the India–France Year of Innovation. This strategic partnership is special because it rests on the strong foundation of our old cultural and political ties. History is witness - the sacrifices of Indian soldiers in France are still alive in the temple of memory. Those interested in languages also know how French scholars played a crucial role in popularizing Sanskrit. The writings of Romain Rolland on Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami Vivekananda brought our societies closer. From Paris to the Puducherry Aurobindo Ashram, “The Mother’s” spiritual journey inspired countless Indian and French seekers.
Friends,
Decades ago, Srila Prabhupada Swami also came to France. Through ISKCON he began a new chapter of spiritual relations between India and France. Today yoga too has become a medium of people‑to‑people connection between India and France. The pictures from in front of the Eiffel Tower on International Yoga Day are examples of yoga’s popularity in France. And now, through this grand BAPS temple, a new chapter is being added to our cultural relations.
Friends,
These days, there are discussions about India–France joint ventures. The Swaminarayan temple has added a new dimension to this possibility. This temple is “Made in India” and “Built in France.” Many of its stones were carved in India. India’s ancient craftsmanship has joined here with modern engineering in France. In Paris, this grand temple has taken shape. Therefore, I hope this temple will stand for centuries as a symbol of cooperation and possibilities between India and France.
Friends,
Swaminarayan temples have always been not only centers of devotion but also of service. I have been told that this temple too will become such a center of service projects. I am confident that the voices of Indian culture that will arise from here will benefit people across Europe. In the future, whenever I get the time, I will surely make the effort to come and have darshan in this temple. With these words, once again I extend many congratulations on this auspicious occasion to all the guests present, all families, all Hari devotees, and the entire Indian diaspora.
Thank you very much!
Merci beaucoup!
Jai Swaminarayan!
