Sudarshan Pattnaik Celebrates Raksha Bandhan with Stunning Sand Art in Puri

Renowned sand artist Sudarshan Pattnaik celebrated Raksha Bandhan by creating a beautiful sand idol of Lord Shiva on Puri beach, Odisha. Marking the last Monday of the holy Sawan month, Pattnaik's art aimed to bless brothers and sisters. He has participated in over 65 international competitions.

Renowned sand artist Sudarshan Pattnaik celebrated the Raksha Bandhan festival on Monday by creating an exquisite sand sculpture of Lord Shiva on Puri beach in Odisha. The occasion also marked the last Monday of the holy month of Sawan, making his artwork particularly auspicious.

Sharing his creation on the social media platform X, Pattnaik wrote, 'On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan and last Monday of the holy month of Sawan. May Lord Shiva bless all brothers and sisters. My SandArt at Puri beach in Odisha.' The artist, who is a recipient of the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honor, also runs a sand art school at Puri Beach.

Pattnaik has represented India in more than 65 international sand art competitions and festivals, earning numerous accolades. His sand sculptures often aim to raise awareness on social issues including HIV, AIDS, global warming, terrorism, plastic pollution, COVID-19, and environmental conservation.

Raksha Bandhan, commonly referred to as Rakhi, is being celebrated today. This traditional Hindu festival symbolizes the love and bond between brothers and sisters, with sisters tying a rakhi around their brothers' wrists, and brothers offering gifts in return. The festival holds deep roots in Indian culture and has been celebrated for centuries, with references found in Hindu religious texts.

(With inputs from agencies.)