His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, arrived in Bussy-Saint-Georges, France, on August 29 to preside over the Paris Mandir Mahotsav, marking the inauguration of France’s first traditional Hindu mandir on September 6.
His arrival was a significant moment as he viewed the newly completed BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir for the first time. He also passed the 10-acre festival grounds, ‘Swaminarayan Village’, prepared to welcome thousands of visitors.
Hundreds of devotees and volunteers from across Europe and beyond gathered along the route to welcome him, with traditional dances and cultural performances adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
At the Mandir, Mahant Swami Maharaj was formally welcomed by BAPS Board of Trustees members for the UK and Europe, the leadership of BAPS Paris Mandir and representatives who have overseen the Mandir’s construction and the 13-day festival.
Built in India and assembled in France, the Mandir fulfils a long-held vision and reflects years of dedication by thousands of devotees, volunteers and supporters. It will serve as a centre for worship, learning, culture and service, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds.
The Festival of Culture is expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors from around the world through a programme of devotional ceremonies, cultural events and family activities celebrating faith, heritage, service and fraternity.
Major highlights include the Jal Yatra on September 3, featuring 11 decorated boats travelling along the River Seine, and the Nagar Yatra on September 5, a grand cultural procession beginning at the Eiffel Tower with more than 5,000 participants and performers, traditional music and dance, and 14 decorated floats celebrating Indian culture and universal values.
During his visit, Mahant Swami Maharaj will lead traditional ceremonies ahead of the Mandir’s sacred inauguration, while joining assemblies and celebrations with devotees and guests from around the world.
His arrival marks a historic milestone for BAPS and Hinduism in France, culminating generations of effort and opening a new chapter for the BAPS Paris Mandir as a spiritual and cultural centre.
