Bhubaneswar, July 14: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has felicitated internationally acclaimed sand artist and Padma Shri Awardee Sudarshan Pattnaik for his remarkable achievement of winning the gold medal at the International Sand Art Championship held in St. Petersburg, Russia.
In a ceremony at Pattnaik's residence in Bhubaneswar, the Chief Minister, accompanied by Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, honoured the sand artist for his exceptional talent and significant contribution to the art world.
Pattnaik crafted a 12-foot depiction of a Sand Ratha (chariot) carrying Lord Jagannath and his devotee Balaram Das, a 14th-century poet. His sculpture earned him the 'Golden Sand Master' Award along with a gold medal.
Pattnaik shared a picture of himself standing in front of his sand art, proudly displaying the gold medal. He captioned the post, “Jai Jagannath… My sand chariot of Mahaprabhu Jagannath and His great devotee Balaram Das, Sculpture Won Golden Sand Master Award with Gold medal at International sand sculpture championship/festival 2024 at St. Petersburg, #Russia.”
The championship, held from July 4-12, revolved around the theme of history, mythology, and fairy tales. A total of 21 master sand sculptors from around the world participated in the event, with Pattnaik being the sole representative from India.
The Chief Minister commended Pattnaik’s extraordinary talent, highlighting that it has garnered him personal acclaim while also bringing pride to Odisha. He described Pattnaik as a shining star and a source of pride for both the state and the nation.
CM Majhi also expressed his hope that Pattnaik will continue to achieve greater heights of success and fame in the future.
