Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi congratulates sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik on winning 'Russian Grand Sand Master Cup'
Bhubaneswar, June 13
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has congratulated renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik on winning the prestigious 'Russian Grand Sand Master Cup' at the International Sand Art Festival held in Russia.
In an X post, CM Majhi shared a picture of the artist with his winner's trophy, posing against the background of a stunning sand art.
"Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Odisha's sand artist Shri Sudarshan Pattnayak for winning the prestigious 'Russian Grand Sand Master Cup' at the International Sand Art Festival held in Russia. As the first Indian sand artist to receive this honour, he has further glorified the victorious journey of Odia identity, Odisha's rich culture, and unique artistic heritage on the global stage," the Chief Minister wrote.
He further noted how Sudarsan Pattnaik has time and again conveyed significant messages of awareness on critical global issues like climate change and global warming.
"The message of awareness he has conveyed through his sand art on critical global issues like climate change and global warming is truly commendable. I pray to Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath for his healthy life and continued artistic pursuits for generations to come," he added.
Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati also congratulated Pattnaik on his remarkable achievement.
"Congratulations to renowned sand artist Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik on winning the prestigious Russian Grand Sand Master Cup. His remarkable achievement brings pride to Odisha and India, showcasing our rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Wishing him continued success in his artistic journey," Odisha Governor said in a post on X.
In a June 12 tweet, Pattnaik shared pictures from the Sand Sculpture festival and expressed delight at being honoured with the winner's cup.
"Honoured to receive the Russian Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture in Kaliningrad, Russia, for my work highlighting the global issue of climate change and global warming. Proud to be the first Indian sand artist to receive this prestigious recognition. Sincerely grateful to the organisers, jury members, and everyone who has supported and encouraged my artistic journey," he wrote.
Ever since, congratulatory messages have been pouring in for the artist, applauding his talent.
Sudarsan Pattnaik is a globally recognised Indian sand artist who has won numerous international awards and honours across the world. Over the years, he has proudly represented India on major international platforms, earning global acclaim for his large-scale sand installations that convey powerful social and environmental messages.
His artworks have also been exhibited across India at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and New Delhi, where they received an exceptionally interactive response and were widely appreciated by audiences.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some good news! Our artists are putting India on the global map in unique ways. Sudarsan's sand sculptures are always meaningful—not just pretty but carrying a message. Hope our government supports more such talents from villages.
Hats off to Sudarsan Pattnaik! From Puri beach to Russia—what a journey. But I wish the government would do more than just post on X. Funding for art and culture in schools? Better infrastructure for local artists? That would be real progress. Respectful criticism but we need action too.
Incredible achievement! Climate change is the biggest challenge of our time, and Sudarsan ji is using his art to educate people globally. CM Majhi is right—this glorifies Odia culture on the world stage. Jai Jagannath! 🙏
Proud moment indeed! But let's also remember the team behind him—sand artists often work under harsh conditions. Hope this recognition brings more visibility to their craft. Sudarsan sir, you inspire us all! 🌟
First Indian to win this cup—now that's something to be proud of. Sudarsan has been doing this for decades, always with a social message. The fact that he highlighted climate change at a Russian festival shows art knows no borders. Well done, sir! 👏