France is set to get its first traditional Hindu temple, with members of the Indian diaspora in Paris announcing on Thursday, 18 June that the inauguration is scheduled for September. The temple, crafted entirely in India using stones sourced from the country, was assembled on French soil — a milestone the Indian community has described as a moment of deep cultural pride.

A Temple Made in India, Built in France

Bhavi Parekh, a member of the Indian diaspora in France, said the project carries special significance. 'We are feeling very proud after welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Another major occasion for us is the opening of France's first traditional Hindu temple in September. We welcome everyone to visit. The speciality of this temple is that it has been crafted in India and assembled in France,' Parekh said.

A representative of the BAPS organisation associated with the temple's construction added that the structure was built using stones sourced directly from India. 'The temple has been made in India and built in France. We invite people from France, India, and the Hindu community worldwide to visit. A 15-day programme will be organised here in September, and everyone is welcome to attend,' the representative said.

PM Modi's Visit Adds to the Occasion

The announcement came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paris on Thursday morning following the conclusion of the G7 Summit in Evian. Modi received what was described as a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora gathered to receive him. He said he was 'proud of the Indian community's efforts in bringing India and France closer to each other.'

Posting on his official account on X (formerly Twitter), Modi wrote: 'Reached Paris a short while ago to a warm welcome by the Indian diaspora. I am proud of their efforts in bringing India and France closer. The India-France partnership is vital for the progress of our planet.'

Modi's G7 Engagements and India-France Ties

On Wednesday evening, Modi said his meetings at the G7 Summit in Evian were productive, noting that he had presented India's views on governance, policy-making, and the importance of working closely with the Global South to ensure global prosperity. He emphasised that the summit provided a platform to highlight India's efforts in key governance areas and to underscore the Global South's role in shaping a more equitable international order.

The Prime Minister also stated that the 'India-France partnership is vital for the progress of the planet Earth,' reinforcing the strategic depth of bilateral ties between the two nations.

What the Temple Means for the Diaspora

The upcoming temple represents more than a place of worship — it is a marker of the Indian diaspora's growing cultural footprint in Europe. Traditional Hindu temples built using Indian stone and classical craftsmanship are relatively rare outside South Asia, making this project notable both architecturally and symbolically. The 15-day September programme is expected to draw visitors from across France, India, and the global Hindu community. Organisers have extended an open invitation to all.