Ambassador Ashraf was first associated with the Mandir during the shilanyas (stone-laying) ceremony in September 2022, where he remarked, “This magnificent temple will not only serve as a place of worship, but will be a living centre of learning, humanity, culture, and a centre that provides refuge to all. The temple will shape a future of peace, harmony, co-existence – not just of tolerance, but the embrace of diversity and pluralism that makes this world so beautiful.”

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During his return visit, Ambassador Ashraf was traditionally welcomed by Shailesh Bhavsar, President of BAPS France, and guided around the construction site by Sanjay Kara, a trustee of BAPS UK & Europe. He inspected the Indian sandstone samples to be used in constructing the Mandir and learned about the meticulous processes and stone testing undertaken to ensure the material is suitable for the French climate.

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Observing the scale and complexity of the project, he said, “It is a project that is not just large in scale, but a very complex project, architecturally and also in terms of construction and civil engineering. I see this as a meeting of the ancient with the modern. I see this as the spiritual with the contemporary. The traditions of India, the culture of India will come together with the most modern techniques of construction. This is a project which is unique in Europe and is a proud moment for India.”

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Sanjay Kara shared, “We are honoured to welcome Ambassador Ashraf back to the Mandir site. His presence reflects the importance of this project, not only as a place of worship but as a centre for culture, community, andheritage.”

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BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris, once completed, will be France’s first traditional Hindu temple, blending classical Indian architecture with modern engineering techniques. It will serve as a spiritual, cultural, and educational centre and stand as a beacon of Indian heritage and community service in Europe.