France has conferred the insignia of Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres on Syed Jamal Shah, recognising his lifelong contribution to the arts and culture of Pakistan. The award ceremony took place at the French ambassador’s residence in Islamabad, attended by diplomats, artists and cultural figures who gathered to mark the occasion.
Established in 1957 by the French Ministry of Culture, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres is awarded to individuals whose work has significantly enriched the fields of arts and literature. French Ambassador Nicolas Galey spoke of Shah’s journey from Quetta, Balochistan, near the ancient archaeological site of Mehrgarh, excavated by French researchers. He reflected on how this cultural heritage has shaped Shah’s creative work in sculpture, painting, printmaking and acting.
Shah’s role as a mentor, teacher and founder of Hunerkada College of Visual & Performing Arts was acknowledged. For fifteen years, he guided emerging artists and supported the use of art as a means of resilience and healing-values shared by both Pakistan and France.
In 2023, Shah served as Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, engaging with Pakistan’s rich legacy in crafts, folk traditions, archaeology and tourism.