GUWAHATI: Renowned Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has won the prestigious Russia Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture in the Kaliningrad Region, becoming the first Indian artist to receive the honour.
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Pattnaik was recognised for his outstanding contribution to the field of sand art and for his striking sculpture highlighting the issue of global warming. The award was conferred following a unanimous decision by the festival's jury committee during the international event, which commenced on June 11.
The internationally acclaimed artist, known for using sand sculptures to convey messages on social, environmental and humanitarian issues, created a three-metre-high artwork depicting two contrasting faces of the Earth. One side portrayed a planet ravaged by environmental degradation and climate change, while the other symbolised hope through afforestation and environmental conservation.
The sculpture underscored the importance of trees in absorbing carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen, conserving water, preventing soil erosion and supporting biodiversity, delivering a strong message on environmental protection.
The festival brought together 12 leading sand sculptors from different countries, showcasing large-scale artworks on a variety of themes.
According to the jury, Pattnaik was selected unanimously for his artistic excellence, creativity and significant contribution to promoting social awareness through the medium of sand art.
A recipient of the Padma Shri, Pattnaik hails from the state of Odisha and has earned international recognition for using sand art to raise awareness about pressing global issues. His latest achievement adds another milestone to his distinguished career and further strengthens India's presence on the global art stage.