Dehradun: The Ambassador of France to India, H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou, today conferred on Mrs Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation, the insignia of Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters), one of France’s most prestigious distinctions. Presented at her private residence in Mumbai, the award came in recognition of Mrs Jindal’s exceptional contribution to the arts, culture, and heritage conservation in India and her dedication to fostering Indo-French cultural ties.
As head of the JSW Foundation, Mrs Jindal has placed culture at the very heart of her mission, and forged dynamic new partnerships with France. Through artist residencies at Hampi Art Labs, she has created meaningful spaces for exchange between Indian and French creators. In 2024, she collaborated with France during the Paris Olympic Games to highlight the dialogue between art and sport. Later this year, she will take part in the exhibition “Textile Matters” at the Mobilier National in Paris.
Presenting the award, Ambassador Thierry Mathou said: “Through her passion, vision and generosity, Mrs Jindal has profoundly enriched the cultural landscape of India and brought our two countries closer together. This decoration reflects France’s deep gratitude and admiration for her achievements and her commitment to building cultural bridges. I am convinced that this is only the beginning of a very fruitful collaboration and dialogue with our country.”
Accepting the award, Mrs. Sangita Jindal said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from France. It reaffirms my commitment to safeguarding India’s heritage while fostering meaningful cultural bridges between our two nations. I accept this distinction as a tribute to the many artists, craftspeople, conservators, and institutions I have had the privilege to work alongside. Heritage is a living resource that connects generations, and I remain dedicated to ensuring it continues to inspire the future.”
About Mrs Sangita Jindal
Mrs Sangita Jindal is the head of the JSW Foundation. Her leadership has nurtured institutions, supported artists, and preserved heritage sites of outstanding value, ensuring that culture remains both a vital resource and a shared legacy. Among her most remarkable initiatives are the restoration of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, the revitalisation of Mumbai’s historic Sassoon Library, the 135-year-old Keneseth Eliyahoo synagogue, and the ongoing restoration of the Shalimar Gardens in Srinagar.
Her commitment extends to the entire cultural ecosystem, from publishing and festivals to craft traditions and innovation. She has spearheaded initiatives such as Art India magazine, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, and the “Woven Narratives” exhibition during the 2023 G20 Summit. She has recently announced her support for the creation of a museum in Assam dedicated to regional crafts, reflecting her deep commitment to safeguarding India’s artisanal heritage.
About the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres
The French government distinction l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of Arts and Letters) is conferred on “persons who have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the field of art, culture, and literature or for their contribution to the influence of arts in France and throughout the world.” Some noted Indian recipients of this honour in the past include Bharti Kher, Subodh Gupta, Shah Rukh Khan, Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Raghu Rai, Ebrahim Alkazi, Habib Tanveer, and Upamanyu Chatterjee.
