Meira Chand, a novelist of Indian origin, received the highest Art Award in Singapore. President Tharman presented the award to Meira, Suchen Christine Lim (novelist) and Osman Abdul Hamid (Malay dance veteran) at a ceremony at the Istana.
The Cultural Medallion is Singapore’s most prestigious arts accolade, awarded to recognise artistic excellence, contribution and commitment.
Meira was born in London to an Indian father and a Swiss mother, where she grew up and had her education. The eighty-one year old novelist has, since then, lived in several parts across the globe, including in India during the 70s, until she decided to finally settle in Singapore.
Her writings have carried her journey through the places she had been. As a matter of fact, she began writing during her stay in Mumbai. She has been praised for her depiction of multicultural societies as she perceived them since her childhood. Meira’s ‘The Painted Cage (1986) was long listed for the Booker Prize.
Meira’s influence strengthens the arguments that Indians do play key roles in many countries across the world. And, it’s not only in tech or medicine but in arts as well.
Last year, Aravinth Kumarasamy (Tamilian Hindu) received the Cultural Medallion.
