Prepared in India using time-honoured techniques, the stones represent centuries of sacred architectural heritage. Select elements have been hand-carved by skilled artisans, preserving ancient methods passed down through generations.
As part of the ceremony held in Bussy-Saint-Georges ahead of the commencement of stone installation, the stones were sanctified through a traditional Vedic ceremony conducted by swamis, led by Yogvivekdas Swami, Head Swami of BAPS UK & Europe. Invited guests also took part in the ceremony, offering prayers and participating in rituals that acknowledged the sacred purpose of the stones and their role in the creation of the Mandir.
In Hindu tradition, stone holds deep spiritual symbolism. Carefully shaped and assembled, it represents steadfastness, purity, and permanence. Each stone is carved with devotion and intention, forming not only a physical structure, but a spiritual foundation that inspires faith and values across generations.
As this next phase of construction progresses, Indian artisans will work alongside French stone masons, including members of the team involved in the restoration of Notre-Dame Cathedral. This unique collaboration brings together two traditions of craftsmanship, united by shared values of precision, respect, and excellence.
The Mandir is being developed as part of a broader vision to serve not only as a place of worship, but also as a centre for culture, education, and community engagement. Open to people of all backgrounds, it is envisioned as a welcoming space that fosters understanding, harmony, and service.
Local and national representatives, diplomats, and community leaders attended the ceremony, recognising the significance of the project and its positive contribution to social and cultural life in France.
Sanjay Kara, a trustee of BAPS UK & Europe, reflected,
“The arrival of the first stones from India marks a historic milestone. Each one carries heritage, care, and intention, symbolising Indian tradition meeting French engineering through shared respect and collaboration. Guided by the values and vision of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, whose teachings inspire service, humility, and harmony, this project reflects a shared commitment to building with purpose and devotion.”
Ambassador of India to France, His Excellency Sanjeev Kumar Singla, attended the special assembly. Sharing his impressions, Mr Singla said,
“This Mandir represents a unique collaboration. This is the meeting of two great traditions of sacred architecture, united by excellence and a shared pride in craftsmanship. The meeting of Indian and French artisans, symbolised today by the exchange of sacred threads of friendship, reflects the cooperation, respect, and friendship between our peoples. This moment is a celebration of culture, heritage, and universal human values.”
Ambassador Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, Advisor for Religious Affairs at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, remarked,
“The launch of this project, this Mandir, represents something very new and very innovative. This is the first time a temple of this kind will be built in France. The partnership between our two countries is also a spiritual and human partnership.”
Alain Ngouoto, Sous-Préfet de Torcy, described the occasion as a meaningful “stone in the edifice” of friendship and cooperation, highlighting the fusion of ancestral stone carving traditions with French expertise.
As BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir continues to take shape, it stands as an expression of the spiritual vision of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj – a spiritual sanctuary being built stone by stone, prayer by prayer, as a lasting centre of faith, harmony, and service for generations to come.
