Bhubaneswar: Eminent Odia sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has been conferred with the prestigious Russian Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture held in Kaliningrad, Russia.
Pattnaik received the honour for his sand sculpture that spotlighted the pressing global issues of climate change and global warming.
Expressing his joy, the artist described the award as a major milestone in his career. “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” wrote Pattnaik on his X handle.
He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the organisers, the jury members, and all those who have supported and encouraged him throughout his artistic journey.
This international recognition further cements Sudarsan Pattnaik’s stature as one of India’s leading sand artists.
Known for creating intricate and socially relevant sand sculptures on beaches across the world, Pattnaik has previously received several national and international accolades for his unique art form that often addresses environmental, social, and patriotic themes.
The award comes as a proud moment for Odisha and India, with Pattnaik becoming the first Indian to win the Russian Grand Sand Master Cup.