Shashi Tharoor Honoured with France's Highest Civilian Award

Diplomat, author, and politician, Shashi Tharoor has been bestowed with the prestigious ‘Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur’ (Knight of the Legion of Honour), France’s highest civilian honour. This accolade celebrates Tharoor’s lifelong dedication to fostering global understanding and his significant service to India and the world at large.

A Ceremonial Recognition in New Delhi

The award ceremony took place at the French Embassy in New Delhi, where French Senate President Gerard Larcher presented the honour to the Congress MP. The decision to award Tharoor was initially announced in August 2022, with the formal conferring happening on a Tuesday, marking a notable moment in Tharoor’s illustrious career.

Tharoor’s Multifaceted Contributions

Gerard Larcher, in his address, praised Tharoor for his exceptional career and contributions. Tharoor’s body of work, which includes renowned books like ‘An Era of Darkness’, ‘Pax Indica’, and ‘The Great Indian Novel’, alongside his significant diplomatic and political roles, underscores a life dedicated to knowledge, service, and the betterment of global society.

Tharoor’s Response to the Honour

Expressing his gratitude, Shashi Tharoor acknowledged the honour with immense pride, reflecting on his long-standing relationship with France. He highlighted the mutual values of strategic autonomy and independent foreign policy that bind France and India as partners in navigating the complexities of contemporary global affairs.

The Significance of the Legion d’Honneur

Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honour stands as the epitome of French recognition for outstanding service to France, transcending nationality. The President of the French Republic acts as the Grand Master of the Order, symbolizing the prestige and honor associated with this award.

Distinguished Attendees of the Ceremony

The award ceremony saw the presence of notable figures including French envoy to India Thierry Mathou, India’s G20 sherpa Amitabh Kant, and Congress leader Anand Sharma, among others, signifying the importance of this occasion in the Indo-French relationship.