London: Indian-born British-American novelist, Salman Rushdie, tops the list of 40 experts and representatives of Indian origin to receive honours in the birthday celebration of Queen Elizabeth this year.
The author has received the best of bookers for the novel 'Midnight children.' He was also chosen as the Knight Bachelor by Queen Elizabeth in 2007.
"It's a privilege to be included in such illustrious company, both past, and present," says the author, commemorating the achievement. Companion of Honour, also known as the junior class of merit gets awarded to selected 65 individuals considering their contributions to arts, science, medicine, or government.
The author, who was born in Bombay, moved to England, and later received his Bachelor's in history from Kings College, Cambridge. Rushdie's works, which include 'Satanic Verses' have been also subjected to multiple controversies. Apart from being a novelist, he is also a screenwriter, copywriter, children's book author, and essayist.
Some other officials who have received honours include Avnish Mitter Goyal, for his contributions to social care and philanthropy. He received the Commander of Order of the British Empire.
Liverpool head teacher Rohit Nalik and Kishorekant Bhattessa are given titles as the officers of the Order of the British Empire for their services to education and charity.
Sandeep Mahal, Professor Daljit Nagra, Dr. Chithra Ramakrishnan, and Dr. Chila Kumari Singh Burman become the Members of the Order of the British Empire in arts, culture, and literature.
13.3 percent of the 1,134 successful candidates come from a culturally outvoted population.
"This historic Platinum Jubilee is not only a celebration of the monarch but of the qualities she possesses," said Boris Johnson, British Prime Minister, while congratulating the winners.