A Paris baker of Sri Lankan origin expressed his emotions of joy and gratitude upon learning that he had been awarded the prestigious title of best baguette in the French capital. Tharshan Selvarajah, the talented baker, admitted to shedding tears of happiness upon receiving the news that he would be delivering his bread to the presidential palace.
Selvarajah shared his heartfelt sentiments, saying, “I cried because we are foreigners and we came here to learn how to make traditional French bread. I am very happy to have won the prize.”
Out of 175 anonymous contenders, Selvarajah’s version of the iconic French bread was chosen as the finest by fifteen baguette connoisseurs. The jury, including six ordinary Parisians, meticulously assessed the taste, crust, crumb, air bubbles, and overall appearance of dozens of baguettes.
Selvarajah disclosed that he always prepares his long loaves “with love,” accompanied by a spirit of joy, laughter, and song. The outcome is a well-cooked, delicious, and crusty baguette. As a reward for his remarkable achievement, he was granted a prize of 4,000 euros (over $4,300) and the incredible opportunity to supply baguettes to the presidential palace.
“I’m so happy that the president will taste my bread. Just taking it to the palace is exciting,” Selvarajah expressed , reflecting his excitement and gratitude for this unique recognition.
It is worth noting that the baguette was bestowed with world heritage status by UNESCO, the UN cultural body, in November of the previous year. This recognition further emphasizes the significance and cultural value of this iconic French bread.
