In a message on X, Stalin said the award “doubles our joy.” He recalled that Tharani had gifted a portrait of Thanthai Periyar, now displayed at Oxford University. The Chief Minister said this honour places Tharani among India’s most respected artists.

Thota Tharani will receive the award from the French Ambassador at the Alliance Française in Chennai on November 13. He is the sixth Indian to earn the Chevalier Award, joining legends like Satyajit Ray, Sivaji Ganesan, Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Kamal Haasan.

The veteran artist has worked with directors Mani Ratnam and Shankar on acclaimed films like Nayakan, Thalapathi, Ponniyin Selvan, and Sivaji. He has received two National Awards, multiple state honours, and the Padma Shri in 2001. Tharani’s creativity continues to define the visual identity of Indian cinema.

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In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Mr. Stalin said the announcement of this honour has doubled the joy in Tamil Nadu. His message came just days after Thotta Tharani presented a painting of social reformer Periyar E.V. Ramasamy to the University of Oxford, symbolizing the global reach of Tamil art and values.

Mr. Stalin praised the veteran artist for his creativity, discipline, and lifelong contribution to Indian cinema. A proud alumnus of the Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai, Thotta Tharani has designed iconic film sets for masterpieces like Nayakan, Indian, and Thiruda Thiruda. His blend of imagination and authenticity has made him one of India’s most respected art directors.

He now joins a distinguished list of Indian personalities such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and R.K. Narayan, who have earlier received this French honour.

The Chief Minister also mentioned that achievements like this strengthen India’s reputation in global art and cinema. His congratulatory message reflects Tamil Nadu’s growing cultural influence and commitment to supporting artistic excellence.

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The award ceremony was held in Patna, where dignitaries praised Patowary’s efforts in bringing Bhojpuri folk music to national and international platforms. She has recorded numerous songs in Bhojpuri, Assamese, Hindi, and other languages, earning acclaim for her versatile voice and energetic performances.

Kalpana Patowary honoured with Bihar Kala Samman 2023-24 also received recognition for her work in mentoring young artists. Organizers highlighted her role in keeping traditional Bhojpuri music relevant in contemporary times. Her contribution extends beyond singing, as she actively participates in cultural events and music festivals across the country.

Speaking at the ceremony, Patowary expressed gratitude and said, “It is an honor to receive Bihar Kala Samman. This motivates me to continue promoting Bhojpuri music and art forms.”

The award adds to her growing list of accolades and reinforces her position as a cultural ambassador of Bihar. Fans and cultural enthusiasts celebrated her achievement, noting her significant impact on preserving and popularizing Bhojpuri music globally.

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