Goa-based ace designer Wendell Rodricks has been conferred the prestigious French honour Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres for his contribution to fashion industry.
Rodricks, who was honoured with the Padma Shri earlier this year, said he is still in disbelief that a foreign country has recognised his talent.
"Thank you France for bestowing on me a distinction that has gone to the likes of T S Elliott, Audrey Hepburn, Jeanne Moreau, Marion Cotillard among many illustrious artists and writers. I am still digesting it. Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres (Knight in the National Order of Arts and Lettres)," Rodricks posted on his Facebook page.
"Thank you Minister of Culture and Communication Ms Aurelie Fillppetti, Paris and His Excellency French Ambassdor to India Francois Richier. To be recognised by a foreign country... Je suis vraiment honore et touche. Merci. Vive La France (I am truly honoured and humbled. Thank you. Long live France," the designer added.
Noted past Indian recipients of the prestigious award are Shahrukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Kalki Koechlin, Anurag Kashyap among others.
