On February 2, the largest Hindu Mandir in Johannesburg, South Africa, was inaugurated in a grand ceremony that drew thousands of Hindu worshippers. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone for the Indian community in South Africa, which is dedicated followers of the Hindu faith and represents a substantial portion of the country’s population. The Mandir, along with its cultural complex, was unveiled by South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, and is considered the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
While inaugurating the first phase of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Multi-Cultural Centre and Mandir, Mashatile remarked that the values upheld by BAPS closely align with South Africa’s national ethos of Ubuntu.
He emphasised, “We must recognise the important role the Hindu community has played in nation-building. With its rich cultural heritage and values, this community has been instrumental in shaping the social fabric of our diverse society.” He further highlighted that Hinduism continues to be one of the leading religions followed by the Indian community in South Africa.
He added, “BAPS is widely recognised for its dedication to humanitarian service, social upliftment, and cultural preservation. The new Mandir will serve not only as a place of worship but also as a sanctuary of peace, knowledge, and spiritual growth for people from all walks of life.”
📸 Deputy President Paul Mashatile addresses the Official Opening of the first phase of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir (Temple) and Cultural Complex, in Northriding, Johannesburg, Gauteng Province.#GovZAUpdates pic.twitter.com/UXJaUDXpaW
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) January 30, 2025
A BAPS spokesperson spoke to the media about the event, explaining that the purpose of the establishment is to promote intercultural and inter-religious dialogue. Looking ahead, BAPS envisions the centre as a hub for spirituality, education, and social engagement for the region.
“It is going to be an all-inclusive hub that opens scopes for communication and networking but gives enough elbow room for prayers. This vision shines through in seeing the Mandir from more than merely a religious standpoint, but with the intent that it would evoke understanding and mutual cooperation between several cultures and religious beliefs,” said BAPS Spokesperson Hemang Desai.
On February 2, the grand ceremony was held in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the 92-year-old head guru of BAPS, who travelled from India specifically for the inauguration. He led the religious puja at the temple during the consecration ceremony. The Mandir, built on a 14.5-acre plot, is constructed using stone and resembles the one in Nairobi, Kenya. In addition to the Mandir, the complex features a cultural centre, a 3,000-seat auditorium, a 2,000-seat banqueting hall, a research institute, classrooms, exhibition and recreational spaces, a clinic and other essential facilities.
Before the consecration rituals by the 92-year-old Mahant, a short nagar yatra procession was held in Johannesburg on February 1 by around 12 Hindu monks featuring devotional music by marching bands and dancers.
According to BAPS spokesperson Hemant Desai, the site was selected due to the significant Hindu population already present in Johannesburg. He noted, “Phase two, which will begin soon, will feature an intricately designed Hindu Mandir, showcasing ancient Hindu architecture that spans thousands of years, right here on South African soil.”
In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the under-construction Mandir site in Johannesburg ahead of the BRICS meeting, praising the efforts to strengthen the influence of Hinduism in South Africa, which is home to about 2% of the global Hindu population. The mandir construction, which began in 2011, was completed this year, with over 12,500 volunteers from around the world playing a pivotal role in its creation. Built by volunteers from across the globe, the temple now stands as a lasting symbol of devotion to Hinduism, preserving its traditions while fostering intercultural and interreligious dialogue in South Africa.
