Payal Kapadia receives French honour after Cannes win

New Delhi

All We Imagine As Light director Payal Kapadia has been conferred the prestigious “Officier dans l’Ordre Arts et des Lettres” (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters) distinction by the French government. Kapadia made history in 2024 at Cannes, where she won the Grand Prix for “All We Imagine As Light”. The film was an Indo-French co-production .

She became the first Indian director in about three-decades to win a major award in Cannes’ main competition.

This esteemed honor was awarded to Kapadia by the Consul General of France in Mumbai. It was in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the world of cinema.

She was recognised for “her outstanding achievements in the field of cinema, her commitment to showcasing the unique voices in India internationally, and her contribution to the cultural relationship between France and India”, according to an official press release.

“It is an honor and privilege..” says Kapadia

“It is an honor and privilege to be conferred with the distinction of Officer of Arts and Letters. I am also very thankful for the French Government’s dedicated support towards independent cinema all over the world,” Kapadia said.

The Officier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres is among France’s highest honours. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the fields of art and literature in France and in the world.

Jean-Marc Sere-Charlet, Consul General of France stated “I am delighted to confer the distinction of Officier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres on Payal. Her journey illustrates the power of cinema to transcend borders, break down barriers, and create understanding.”

Through her work, she has not only deepened our understanding of India’s deepest voices, but also contributed significantly to the cultural dialogue between France and India, strengthening our ties and enriching our cultural landscape,” he continued.

Following her success at Cannes, Kapadia also received other international recognitions at the Asian Film Awards, the British Independent Film Awards, and the San Sebastian Film Festival, among other prestigious events.

Kapadia is among a distinguished group of Indian artists who have been honored by the French government. The list includes figures such as Sivaji Ganesan, Lata Mangeshkar, Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Deepika Padukone, Richa Chadha, and acclaimed director Shaji N. Karun.