Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India: Eminent art director Thota Tharani has been chosen to receive the ‘Chevalier Award’, the highest civilian honour presented by the French government. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place tomorrow at the French Consulate in Chennai. On this occasion, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin extended his congratulations to the veteran artist.

Tharani’s work has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema across generations. Whether designing grand historical settings or imaginative fictional worlds, his craftsmanship brings stories to life with authenticity and creativity.

He began his career as an art director in 1978 with the film Sommokadidi Sokokadidi. Since then, he has contributed to several iconic films such as Shubhalekha, Sagara Sangamam, Pushpaka Vimanam, Nayakudu, Geetanjali, Indian, Jeans, and Bombay.

His recent projects include Kubera, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, and Ghati. Over the years, Tharani has received multiple accolades — including two National Film Awards (for Leader and Indian), three Nandi Awards for Best Art Direction, and the Padma Shri in 2001.

Notably, distinguished Indian personalities such as Sivaji Ganesan, Kamal Haasan, Aishwarya Rai, and Dr. Balamuralikrishna have also been recipients of the Chevalier Award in previous years.