Dr. Nadhra Shahbaz Khan, a renowned art historian and Associate Professor at LUMS, has been honored with the prestigious Ordre des Palmes Académiques, one of France’s highest academic awards. This distinction, which is among the oldest non-military honors in France, was awarded to Dr. Nadhra for her outstanding contributions to promoting French culture and arts among students in Pakistan.
A Passion for Art and Heritage
Dr. Nadhra has played a significant role in reviving the forgotten French heritage in Lahore through her teaching and research. She has helped students explore French art while also uncovering hidden historical connections between Pakistan and France. One of her most notable projects focuses on a nearly forgotten funerary monument in Lahore called the Kuri Bagh.
This monument, located in Old Anarkali, is a tribute to Marie Charlotte, the infant daughter of General Jean-François Allard, a French officer who served in the army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Over time, rapid urban development has pushed Kuri Bagh toward obscurity, making it a nearly lost part of Lahore’s history. However, Dr. Nadhra and her students have worked diligently to shed light on this site’s historical significance.
A Revival of Interest in Kuri Bagh
Determined to keep this piece of history alive, Dr. Nadhra led her students on a research project to reimagine Kuri Bagh in a modern context. This initiative sparked discussions among academics, historians, and cultural experts, eventually gaining attention from the French Embassy. Her efforts also connected her with Jean-Marie Lafont, a distinguished French historian who first highlighted Kuri Bagh’s importance in the 1980s.
Her class of 2022 curated an exhibition at LUMS that showcased the connections between Pakistani and French art, further strengthening cross-cultural appreciation. This exhibition and her work in art history have played a vital role in promoting a deeper understanding of shared heritage.
A Special Ceremony in Lahore
On February 22, Dr. Nadhra received the Ordre des Palmes Académiques at a special ceremony hosted by Alliance Française in Lahore. The award was presented by His Excellency Nicolas Galey, the Ambassador of France to Pakistan.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Galey expressed his admiration for Dr. Nadhra’s work, saying, “It is with gratitude that we honor your contributions to the celebration of French culture. We hope you continue to showcase the historical connections between France and Pakistan through art and architecture.”
Dr. Nadhra’s Reflections on the Honor
Accepting the award, Dr. Nadhra shared how art history has transformed her perspective on different cultures and belief systems. She emphasized that studying history allows us to understand people we may never meet, bridging cultural divides and strengthening human connections.
She also paid tribute to General Allard, acknowledging his contributions to history and urging people to preserve his daughter’s resting place. “We have a hero resting among us, and we must honor him by ensuring his memory is not forgotten. Recognizing such historical connections helps us celebrate our shared past and build a more inclusive future,” she stated.
A Win for Humanities and Cultural Preservation
This recognition highlights the importance of the humanities in fostering global understanding. Dr. Nadhra’s work serves as a powerful example of how art, history, and education can bridge cultures and bring forgotten stories back to life. Her efforts not only preserve Lahore’s heritage but also strengthen the ties between Pakistan and France.
Her achievement is a proud moment for Pakistan’s academic community, proving that dedication to cultural preservation and education can receive international appreciation.
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