Celebrating Craft and Culture: Karishma Swali Receives France’s National Order of Merit
Karishma Swali, Artistic Director of Chanakya International, was honoured with the prestigious French National Order of Merit for her exceptional contributions to preserving Indian craft and fostering cross-cultural collaborations, notably in fashion, contemporary art, and education.
In a testament to the growing recognition of Indian craftsmanship on the global stage, Karishma Swali, the visionary Artistic Director of Chanakya International and Chairperson of the Chanakya School of Craft, was recently honoured with the prestigious title of Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite (Knight of the National Order of Merit) by the French government. This accolade, one of France’s highest civilian honours, recognizes her tireless efforts in preserving Indian cultural heritage through craft, education, and cross-cultural innovation.
The award was conferred in a special ceremony hosted by the French Ambassador to India, H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, at the Residence of France. Attended by prominent figures from fashion, art, and craft, the event highlighted Swali’s contributions to fostering creative bonds between France and India.
Karishma Swali has dedicated over two decades to promoting Indian hand-craftsmanship on a global scale. Her collaborations with renowned French couture houses underscore her commitment to preserving the legacy of Indian artisanship. A significant highlight of her work was the Dior Fall 2023 runway show, held at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai, which showcased the craftsmanship of Chanakya’s master artisans, intertwining Indian and French haute couture traditions. The display not only celebrated the beauty of hand-craftsmanship but also brought global attention to the Chanakya School of Craft's female artisans, reinforcing the importance of women-led craft initiatives.
Swali’s cross-cultural projects have extended beyond the runway. She has collaborated with notable French contemporary artists, including Eva Jospin and Barthélémy Toguo. These interdisciplinary endeavors, such as the Water Matters series presented at the 2024 India Art Fair, further cement her role in bridging Indian and French art communities. Such projects align with her broader vision of using craft as a medium for cultural exchange and social impact.
The Chanakya School of Craft, founded in 2016 under Swali’s guidance, stands as a beacon of this vision. A pioneering institution, the school has created new opportunities for women by teaching over 300 hand-embroidery techniques through a holistic and inclusive curriculum. With a focus on perpetuating Indian master crafts and fostering autonomy for women, the school’s efforts have been widely recognized. This empowerment through craft is integral to Swali’s work, merging traditional artistry with contemporary relevance.
Upon receiving the honour, Swali expressed her gratitude, stating,
“It is with immense honour and humility that I receive the Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite. 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.”
As a gesture of this enduring bond between France and India, Swali will install an interdisciplinary artwork at the Residence of France, featuring celebrated Indian artists Manu Parekh and Madhvi Parekh. This symbolic loan highlights the cultural richness of Indian craftsmanship and its global resonance.
Karishma Swali’s recognition is not just a personal milestone but a celebration of India’s diverse craft traditions, their preservation, and their role in global dialogues on art and culture. Through her leadership, both at Chanakya International and the Chanakya School of Craft, Swali has cemented her legacy as a champion of Indian artistry, committed to bridging cultures through craft excellence. This honour by the French government is a fitting tribute to her contributions to the world of craft, culture, and education.
