France has awarded Syed Jamal Shah, a prominent figure in Pakistan\u2019s art and culture, the insignia of Chevalier de l\u2019Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in recognition of his lifelong contribution to the creative field.<\/p>\n
The ceremony took place at the France ambassador residence in Islamabad where diplomats, artists and cultural figures gathered to celebrate his achievements.<\/p>\n
The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, created in 1957 by the French Ministry of Culture, is awarded to individuals whose work has significantly enriched the arts and literature.
\nFrench Ambassador Nicolas Galey highlighted Shah\u2019s journey from Quetta, Balochistan, a region close to the ancient site of Mehrgarh, excavated by French archaeologists. He said his connection to Pakistan\u2019s deep cultural roots has shaped his work across sculpture, painting, printmaking and acting.
\nThe ambassador praised Shah\u2019s role as a mentor, teacher and founder of the Hunerkada College of Visual and Performing Arts, where for 15 years he guided young artists. He added that his belief in art as a tool for resilience and healing reflects values shared by both Pakistan and France.
\nIn 2023, Jamal Shah served as Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, where he engaged with Pakistan\u2019s vast potential in crafts, folk arts, archaeology and tourism.
\nEarlier, as Director General of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), he hosted major cultural events in Islamabad.
\nCurrently, as Chairman of the Silk Road Culture Centre, he continues to promote diverse art forms and international exchanges.
\nThe French Ambassador noted that Shah\u2019s career of more than four decades has strengthened cultural awareness and tolerance while fostering collaboration between Pakistan and France.<\/p>\n
On behalf of the French Minister of Culture, the ambassador presented him with the insignia of Chevalier de l\u2019Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, acknowledging his contribution to Pakistan\u2019s cultural identity and international cooperation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
France has awarded Syed Jamal Shah, a prominent figure in Pakistan\u2019s art and culture, the insignia of Chevalier de l\u2019Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in recognition of his lifelong contribution to the creative field. The ceremony took place at the France ambassador residence in Islamabad where diplomats, artists and cultural figures gathered to celebrate […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":506297,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-506285","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-top-news"},"yoast_head":"\n