Author:
Publication: Baps.org
Date: September 1, 2026
URL:   https://www.baps.org/news/2026/unveiling-of-namaste-sculpture-31853.aspx

A new sculpture was unveiled in the Greater Parisian suburb of Bussy-Saint-Georges on Tuesday 1 September by the local Mayor, Yann Dubosc, the Consular Minister of India K. G. Praveen Kumar, and, on behalf of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, Anandswarupdas Swami and senior swamis of the nearby BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir.

Installed at the roundabout on Avenue du Général-de-Gaulle, the folded hands in the traditional and widely recognised Indian gesture of ‘namaste’ represent welcome, respect, and humility. Positioned on a key approach into Bussy-Saint-Georges, the sculpture is intended to offer a warm, inclusive welcome to everyone entering the town, while reflecting the cultural diversity and spirit of inclusivity of the local community.

The sculpture continues a distinctive tradition of cultural landmarks across Bussy-Saint-Georges, representing the diverse histories, cultures and traditions present across the town. Existing landmarks include the three-headed elephant at the Rond-Point du Laos, created with a message of peace and tolerance; the sandstone Bayon sculpture at the Rond-Point Phnom Penh, reflecting Cambodian heritage and values of compassion and kindness; and Le Rêve de la Mère at the Rond-Point Saïgon, commemorating the experiences of Vietnamese refugees.

The unveiling came on the eve of the ‘Festival of Culture’, a 13-day celebration in Bussy-Saint-Georges marking the inauguration of BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, the first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple in France.

At the unveiling ceremony, Mayor Dubosc began by applauding “the story of French-Indian friendship embodied in Bussy-Saint-Georges,” before adding: “Joined hands symbolise both peace and compassion towards others, but they also symbolise the junction of our two cultures, our two traditions, our two civilisations; different in their existence, but complementary in their search for sharing, brotherhood, and the building of a united humanity. Because that is what Bussy-Saint-Georges is: a unique space where cultures and traditions of all communities mingle.”

The Mayor concluded by saying, “I congratulate each and every one of you, and I very officially welcome you all to Bussy-Saint-Georges. Thank you all. Namaste!”

Véronique Lacroix, Head of Public Spaces for Bussy-Saint-Georges, also participated in the ceremony and was warmly appreciated for her efforts in helping set up the roundabout with the sculpture.

Also joining from the Mayor’s office were Deputy Mayor Marc Nougayrol and Chief of Staff Cédric Tartaud-Gineste.

The Indian Consul Minister Mr Kumar shared, “[The Namaste sculpture] is a testimony to India’s civilizational heritage. It is a testimony to the enduring French ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. It is a testimony to the ideals of secularism as practised in France. Above all, it is a testimony to the beautiful manner in which the Indian community has integrated into France, while retaining their own heritage.”

Anandswarupdas Swami further elaborated upon the value of humility as embodied by the folded hands. He explained: “Humility teaches us three beautiful qualities: to learn from others, to respect others, and to serve others; when our ego becomes smaller, our desire to serve others becomes greater.” He added: “All these qualities are deeply cherished in Indian culture, and they create a beautiful bond with France’s appreciation for courtesy, consideration for others, dignity, respect, and human fellowship.”

Note: Please see the 10 minute video at the link.