Puri, Dec 25: Renowned sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik from Puri has set a new world record by creating the largest apple-sand sculpture of Santa Claus at Niladri Beach in Puri.

The impressive sculpture, which measures 60 feet in length, 22 feet in height, and 45 feet in width, is made with 1.5 tons of apples and sand. It carries a powerful message of "World Peace" and "Merry Christmas."

Patnaik, a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, crafted this extraordinary piece with the help of 30 students from his Sand Art Institute. The sculpture was part of the 22nd Puri Sand Art Festival and aims to spread messages of peace, happiness, and global unity during the Christmas season.

This unique creation has captured the attention of both locals and tourists, further cementing Sudarshan Patnaik's reputation as one of the most talented and innovative sand artists in the world.