Lucknow: Lucknow witnessed a significant step towards fostering cultural and educational ties between India and France during the visit of H.E. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India. The ambassador revealed plans to introduce French language courses in public schools across Uttar Pradesh, following a meeting with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Ambassador Mathou shared that the proposal to integrate French language education in the state’s public schools received a positive response from the chief minister. “My team will work closely with the state government to identify schools for this initiative. We plan to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), where selected teachers will be trained in the French language, enabling them to teach students effectively,” he said.
Promoting French Language and Literature
During his visit, the ambassador inaugurated the ‘Pardon My French!’ section at Universal Booksellers in Hazratganj, Lucknow. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the French Institute in India, aims to create dedicated corners for French literature in 12 bookstores across the country, with Universal Booksellers being one of the pioneering locations.
Explaining the playful name of the initiative, Ambassador Mathou remarked, “The title ‘Pardon My French!’ serves as a light-hearted way to spark interest in learning French. It highlights the process of overcoming initial challenges in mastering a new language, encouraging people to embrace the journey without hesitation.”
Chander Prakash, one of the owners of Universal Booksellers, highlighted the richness of French literature during the event. He emphasized, “French literature’s diversity mirrors the essence of democracy, offering readers an opportunity to explore varied cultural narratives.”
Bridging Cultural Divides
The ambassador stressed the importance of cultural exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties. He expressed a desire to promote French literature in local languages, including Hindi and English, through translations. “Translations play a crucial role in cultural exchange, enabling local communities to engage deeply with French culture,” he said.
Ambassador Mathou also underscored the mutual respect for Indian and French cultures. “Culture is the backbone of societies. Just as French culture holds significance, Indian culture has immense value globally. Through consistent cultural exchanges, we aim to build a bridge between our traditions,” he added.
Educational and Cultural Innovations
The ambassador highlighted the declaration of 2026 as the ‘India-France Year of Innovation,’ a theme that extends beyond technology to encompass culture and society. “At the opening event, we envision a fusion of French music with an Indian dance form to symbolize this synergy,” he shared.
Referring to the Indian Prime Minister’s vision of increasing the number of Indian students in France to over 30,000, Mathou explained that programs are being developed to facilitate their adaptation to the French language and culture.
Ambassador Mathou’s visit underscored the deepening collaboration between India and France, with initiatives like ‘Pardon My French!’ and the proposed French language courses in Uttar Pradesh’s public schools paving the way for greater cultural and educational integration. These efforts promise to inspire a new generation of learners and readers, strengthening the ties between the two nations. As Lucknow becomes a hub for such innovative exchanges, the city stands at the forefront of this cultural renaissance, bringing India and France closer together.
