Paris, January 27 – In a landmark moment for Franco-Indian cultural ties, the first sacred stones carved in India have reached Bussi-Saint-Georges near Paris. These meticulously handcrafted blocks mark the official start of construction for Europe’s first traditional Hindu temple by BAPS, blending ancient Indian artistry with French engineering prowess.
Sourced directly from India, each stone embodies centuries-old architectural traditions. Skilled artisans in India hand-chiseled them using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. Now in France, these stones will be integrated by a collaborative team of Indian craftsmen and French stonemasons, including experts who restored the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral.
This isn’t just about transporting rocks; it’s a profound fusion of cultures, values, and expertise. The temple will serve far beyond worship—emerging as a vibrant hub for culture, education, and community engagement. Upon completion, it will stand as an enduring symbol of friendship between India and France.
The arrival ceremony drew dignitaries from local and national levels, along with community leaders, underscoring the project’s role in fostering intercultural harmony in France. Sanjay Kara, CEO of the Paris Temple project and Trustee of BAPS UK & Europe, declared, ‘The arrival of these first stones from India is a historic milestone. Each stone carries heritage, devotion, and purpose, inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj’s vision—a beautiful confluence of Indian tradition and French engineering that will be a center for culture, education, and harmony.’
India’s Ambassador to France, H.E. Sanjeev Kumar Singla, hailed it as ‘a magnificent convergence of two great sacred architectural traditions. Stones carved in India will be assembled in France by French artisans, some of whom worked on Notre-Dame’s restoration. This collaboration reflects our shared pride in excellence and craftsmanship.’
France’s Foreign Ministry religious affairs advisor Ambassador Jean-Christophe Puissochet described the project as a new, innovative chapter in spiritual and humanistic partnership in France. Sub-Prefect Alain Nguoto called it a building block of French-Indian friendship, where timeless Indian art meets renowned French expertise to create an inspiring structure.
As construction ramps up, this temple promises to bridge continents, honoring shared human aspirations through stone and skill. It signals a new era of global cultural exchange, rooted in mutual respect and artistic mastery.