After being named as the next recipient of the prestigious Chevalier Award given by the Government of France, Universal Star Kamal Haasan has sent 'Thank you' audio messages spoken in English as much as in chaste, eloquent Tamil. The speech is marked by his genuine sense of gratitude towards his forerunners as well as fans and admirers. Here is the full speech:

"The French Government has kindly conferred the Chevalier award for Arts and Letters on me. On this occasion, I bow before my more deserving forerunners, Mr. Satyajit Ray and Mr. Sivaji Ganesan, who made even the common man realize the value of the Chevalier Award. I thank His Excellency, the French ambassador in India, Mr. Alexander Ziegler, who intimated me of this honour. This award humbles me rather than stiffen me with pride. I realize my journey in the chosen field has not been alone. Teachers and admirers abounded around me. With motherly care, they have applauded my every little step forward. The melancholy of my parents not being alive to see this day is allayed by the fact that the elders and young are still around in my family to enjoy it. I dedicate this award to my admirers and audience, who give me the tenacity of purpose to pursue, to this day and moment, my arts and letters. Thank you".

This honorable recognition of Kamal's talent makes his country proud. Tollywood's big actors and Movie Artists' Association are expected to congratulate the actor in the coming hours.