Karishma Swali awarded Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite for cultural contributions

Karishma Swali, Artistic Director of Chanakya International and Chairperson of Chanakya School of Craft, was awarded the prestigious Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite (Knight of the National Order of Merit) by the French Ambassador to India, H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou. The ceremony, held at the Residence of France, recognised her work in preserving Indian cultural heritage through craft, education, and innovation, as well as her efforts in strengthening creative ties between India and France.
The event was organised in collaboration with the French Institute in India (IFI) and was attended by prominent figures from the fields of fashion, contemporary art, and craft."I am delighted to confer the Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite on Karishma Swali. She has put the spotlight on haute couture artists in India and created bridges with new creative fields such as the visual arts. Through this award, France not only recognises her exceptional talent but also her tireless efforts in bringing France and India closer together in the field of fine craft," said H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou.
Swali has been involved in cross-cultural exchanges between India and France for over three decades, collaborating with French couture houses to showcase Indian craftsmanship. One such collaboration was the Dior Fall 2023 show at Mumbai’s Gateway of India, where Chanakya’s artisans highlighted the rich traditions of Indian and French textile craftsmanship. "It is with immense honour and humility that I receive the Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite. I convey my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, and Mrs. Cécile Mathou for conferring me with this prestigious recognition. Rooted in a shared appreciation for the beauty of craftsmanship and the importance of cultural exchange, I remain committed to strengthening the creative bond between France and India, highlighting the pluralistic beauty of Indian traditions and the perpetuation of savoir-faire at the intersection of art, craft, and couture," shared Swali
Her work also includes partnerships with French contemporary artists like Eva Jospin and Barthélémy Toguo, as part of interdisciplinary projects that bridge art and craft, such as the “Water Matters” series, presented at the India Art Fair in 2024.
Chanakya School of Craft, established in 2016, teaches over 300 hand-embroidery techniques and promotes inclusion and equality for women artisans.
In accepting the honour, Ms Swali expressed her gratitude and commitment to furthering cultural exchange and preserving Indian traditions.