Bhubaneswar: Bringing pride to Odisha and India, internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik from Puri has been awarded the Fred Darrington Sand Master Award at the Sandworld 2025 International Sand Art Festival held in Weymouth, United Kingdom. This prestigious recognition marks a historic milestone, as Pattnaik becomes the first Indian artist to receive the coveted award.
Pattnaik captivated audiences and judges alike with his 10-foot-high sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha, created around the theme of “World Peace.” Adorned with vibrant colors, especially in the crown and ornaments, the sculpture drew widespread admiration for its artistic depth and visual brilliance.
“This recognition is a testament to my 10-foot sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha, symbolising the universal message of World Peace,” said an elated Pattnaik. “I am honoured to be the first Indian artist to receive the ‘Fred Darrington’ British Sand Master Award at Sandworld 2025.”
This year’s festival held special significance as it marked the 100th birth anniversary of Fred Darrington, the legendary British sand sculptor after whom the award is named. Pattnaik’s recognition during this centenary celebration underscores the global respect he commands in the world of sand art.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Padma Shri awardee, applauding his remarkable achievement. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Majhi wrote:
“Heartiest congratulations to Padma Shri awardee and eminent sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik on being honoured with the first British Sand Master Award, ‘The Fred Darrington.’”
