The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex in Northriding, Johannesburg officially opened its doors on Monday, following the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony, led by Mahant Swami Maharaj, the global spiritual leader of BAPS.
This is the largest Hindu temple in Southern Hemisphere and its grand inauguration was marked by a 12-day special festival of Hope and Unity.
The temple stands as a beacon of unity, heritage, and interfaith dialogue.
To commemorate this historic occasion, BAPS has organised a 12-day ‘Festival of Hope and Unity’, featuring a series of spiritual and cultural events that highlight the deep-rooted ties between Indian and African traditions.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile attended the event and met BAPS spiritual head, Mahant Swami Maharaj. He praised the Mandir’s contribution to multiculturalism and interfaith harmony in South Africa and commended its role in strengthening the country’s cultural diversity and fostering understanding among communities.
Spanning 5.9 hectares with over 37,000 square meters of built-up space, the Mandir and cultural complex represent a significant investment by the Indian community in South Africa.
It serves as:
* A Jewel of Hope and Unity – A landmark that unites people of all backgrounds in peace and harmony.
* A Home for Arts, Culture, and Spirituality – Showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and the rich heritage of Hindu traditions.
* A Hub for Multicultural and Inter-religious Dialogue – Promoting understanding and collaboration across faiths.
A lasting legacy
Constructed with the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, the Mandir is a testament to selfless service and devotion. The temple premises also embrace environmental sustainability, with over 100 trees planted as part of BAPS’ commitment to ecological responsibility.
With its official inauguration, the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex has become a spiritual and cultural milestone for South Africa and an inspirational force for generations to come.
Centre sets up Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk to assist exporters, importers
The Centre has operationalised a dedicated ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk’ to assist the country’s exporters and importers in navigating emerging trade issues due to the hike in tariffs announced by the US.
India, US likely to sign trade pact within 90-day tariff-pause period
The first phase of the bilateral trade agreement between India and the US is likely to be concluded within the tariff-pause period of 90 days fixed by the Donald Trump administration, according to official sources.
We look forward to invest more in India, boost exports: Italy's Deputy PM
Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, on Friday said they want to invest more in India, along with exporting and attracting more Indian investments in Italy.
India's forex reserves surge to $676.3 billion
India's foreign exchange reserves surged by $10.8 billion to $676.3 billion during the week ended April 4, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India on Friday.
US hails Rana's extradition, says 'long sought justice' for 26/11 victims
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday hailed the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana - a key conspirator in the deadly 2008 Mumbai terror attacks - to India, stating that Washington and New Delhi have "long sought justice" for the 26/11 victims.
AIADMK to lead NDA in Tamil Nadu: HM Amit Shah announces revival of alliance
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday formally announced that the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) will lead the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu, setting the stage for a joint campaign in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Gold ETFs see record inflows of Rs 14,852 crore in FY25 amid global uncertainty: AMFI data
Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) attracted massive investments in FY 2025, with net inflows of Rs 14,852 crore -- nearly three times higher than the Rs 5,248 crore recorded in FY 2024, according to the data released by the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) on Friday.
Strong image, stronger message: PM Modi's stern airport huddle reflects 'zero-tolerance' stance on law and order
launch a crackdown on the alleged sex racket and ensure the strictest possible action against those involved in the recent gangrape case that has deeply shaken the city and the nation.