President Murmu Congratulates Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik on International Win

President Droupadi Murmu met renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, congratulating him on his international award win at the Sand Sculpture Championship in Russia. Pattnaik created a 12-foot sculpture depicting Lord Jagannath and poet Balaram Das. His works often convey social messages and have earned him global recognition.

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday met renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik to congratulate him on his recent international award win at the Sand Sculpture Championship in Russia.

''It is a memorable day for me that I met President madam and briefed her about my achievement. She was very happy to know about it and congratulated me for winning the award,'' Pattnaik told PTI here.

The prestigious event, held from July 4-12 in St Petersburg at the iconic Peter and Paul Fortress, featured 21 master sculptors from around the world.

Pattnaik's entries included a 12-foot sculpture depicting Lord Jagannath on a chariot and his devotee Balaram Das, the famous 14th-century Odia poet. He detailed his creations during his meeting with the President at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

A Padma Shri awardee, Pattnaik has represented India in more than 65 international sand art championships and festivals, earning global accolades. His works often aim to convey significant social messages.