New Delhi — Mrs. Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation, has been honoured with the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters), one of France’s most prestigious cultural distinctions. The insignia was conferred by the Ambassador of France to India, H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, during a ceremony held at her private residence in Mumbai.
This recognition celebrates Mrs. Jindal’s exceptional contributions to the arts, culture, and heritage conservation in India and her dedicated efforts in fostering Indo-French cultural ties.
Acknowledging a Visionary’s Cultural Impact
The French honour specifically acknowledges Mrs. Jindal’s visionary leadership in placing culture at the heart of the JSW Foundation’s mission and actively cultivating dynamic collaborations with France.

Key highlights of her work in this context include:
- Hampi Art Labs: Through artist residency programs at Hampi Art Labs, she has successfully created meaningful spaces for exchange and dialogue between Indian and French creators.
- Paris 2024 Olympic Collaboration: In 2024, she collaborated with France during the Paris Olympic Games to promote the important dialogue between art and sport.
- International Exhibition: Later this year, she is set to participate in the “Textile Matters” exhibition at the prestigious Mobilier National in Paris, further strengthening India’s cultural presence in France.
Ambassador Thierry Mathou praised her for profoundly enriching India’s cultural landscape and bringing the two countries closer, stating the decoration reflects France’s “deep gratitude and admiration” for her achievements.
Commitment to Heritage and Cultural Bridges
In accepting the award, Mrs. Jindal expressed deep honour and reaffirmed her commitment, saying, “It reaffirms my commitment to safeguarding India’s heritage while fostering meaningful cultural bridges between our two nations.”
She viewed the distinction as a tribute to the many artists, craftspeople, conservators, and institutions she has partnered with, emphasizing that “Heritage is a living resource that connects generations, and I remain dedicated to ensuring it continues to inspire the future.”
The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres is given by the French Ministry of Culture to recognize eminent artists, writers, and individuals who have significantly contributed to furthering the arts in France and globally. Mrs. Jindal joins a distinguished list of Indian luminaries who have received this honour.
#SangitaJindal #FrenchHonour #ChevalierDesArtsEtDesLettres #JSWFoundation #CulturalDiplomacy #IndoFrenchTies #HeritageConservation #ThierryMathou #ArtAndCulture
