Malayalam Publisher Receives French Chevalier Honour

A leading figure in Indian publishing, Ravi Deecee, has been conferred one of France’s highest cultural distinctions for his contribution to literature and cross-cultural exchange. The honour recognises his decades-long efforts in expanding Malayalam publishing and promoting world literature among Indian readers.

Prestigious French Recognition

The Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres was presented to Ravi Deecee, Publisher and Managing Director of DC Books, by the French Ambassador to India, H.E. Thierry Mathou. The ceremony was held at the Embassy of France on December 4 and was attended by eminent personalities from India’s literary and cultural circles. The award is bestowed by the French government to recognise significant contributions to arts and literature worldwide.

Role in Transforming DC Books

Ambassador Thierry Mathou highlighted Deecee’s role in transforming DC Books into one of India’s foremost publishing houses. Under his leadership, DC Books has built an extensive catalogue of translated works, especially from French literature into Malayalam. The initiative has strengthened literary exchange between India and France and expanded access to global thought for regional language readers.

Promotion of French Literature in Malayalam

DC Books has published Malayalam translations of major French authors, including Annie Ernaux, Louis-Ferdinand Céline, Jean-Paul Sartre, Emmanuel Carrère, David Diop, Johanna Gustawsson, and Maryse Condé. This sustained focus on translation has reinforced multilingualism and literary innovation, aligning with France’s cultural diplomacy objectives.

What to Note for UPSC Prelims?

• The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres was instituted by France in 1957.
• It honours individuals for contributions to arts, culture, and literature.
• The Chevalier is one of the three grades of the order.
• DC Books is a leading Malayalam publishing house based in Kerala.

Literary Exchange and Cultural Diplomacy

Beyond publishing, DC Books has played a key role in fostering international literary engagement through the Vagamon Writer Residency in Kerala. The residency has been part of the French Embassy’s Villa Swagatam programme since its inception, bringing international authors to India. Accepting the honour, Ravi Deecee emphasised literature’s power to nurture empathy, imagination, and shared cultural values across generations and borders.