BAPS Paris Mandir Hosts Diplomats From 43 Nations in Celebration of India-France Cultural Ties

PARIS — More than 50 UNESCO ambassadors and diplomats representing 43 countries gathered at the newly inaugurated BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges for an Indo-French Cultural Open Day highlighting cultural dialogue, shared values and ties between India and France.

Hosted by the Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO, the event brought together ambassadors, permanent delegates and senior diplomatic representatives from countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Arab States, the Americas and the Caribbean, along with UNESCO officials.

The diplomats traveled from UNESCO headquarters in Paris to Bussy-Saint-Georges, where they were welcomed at a “Festival of Culture” village. The program included a traditional Indian meal, followed by presentations on the history of the Mandir and its emphasis on service, cultural understanding and dialogue.

Vishal Sharma, ambassador and permanent representative of India to UNESCO, described the Mandir as “a remarkable celebration of India’s civilisation, heritage and Indo-French collaborative masonry.”

Speaking in the context of UNESCO’s focus on culture and heritage, Sharma said the Mandir represented Indian heritage as a living tradition rather than as an artifact preserved in a museum.

“Here, Indian cultural heritage has travelled across continents, not as a museum artefact, but as a living tradition,” he said, describing the Mandir as “Made in India, built in France, celebrated by the world.”

A film presented during the program highlighted the construction of the new Mandir and the collaboration between Indian craftsmen and French engineers. The presentation showed how traditional Indian craftsmanship and sacred architectural practices were combined with modern French engineering and expertise.

The program also focused on the role of volunteers in the creation and operation of the Mandir.

Bhavisha Patel, a lead BAPS volunteer, spoke about her experience of selfless service and the role volunteering can play in giving people a sense of purpose, confidence, friendship and an opportunity to contribute to society.

Patel highlighted the work of thousands of volunteers who contributed their time alongside professional and family responsibilities, often without recognition or compensation. She said their efforts were guided by a simple question: “How can I help?”

Inspired by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, Patel said the spirit of service enabled people from different backgrounds to work together on the Paris Mandir and accomplish something beyond what any individual could achieve alone.

Jyoti Hosagrahar, deputy director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, said the Mandir reflected the concept of living heritage and the importance of cultural dialogue.

“UNESCO attaches great importance to initiatives such as this, which celebrate cultural diversity, strengthen bonds between communities, promote intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding,” she said.

Hosagrahar said the Mandir demonstrated that heritage is a living process and reflects the richness of cultural diversity. She also noted the ability of heritage and craftsmanship to encourage dialogue, mutual respect and social cohesion among communities.

The visiting ambassadors and delegates later took part in a guided tour of the Mandir before gathering for refreshments and sharing their reflections on the event and their experience of the temple.

Sanjay Kara, project lead of the Mandir, said it was a privilege to welcome diplomatic representatives from around the world and introduce them to the Mandir’s architecture and values.

He said His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj had encouraged the Mandir to serve as a place where people could come together in a spirit of peace, respect and understanding.

“To see representatives of 43 nations gathered here today was a beautiful expression of that vision,” Kara said.