Sudarsan Pattnaik Becomes First Indian to Win UK’s Sand Master Award
Bhubaneswar: Celebrated Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has been conferred with the prestigious Fred Darrington Sand Master Award at the Sandworld 2025 International Sand Art Festival held in Weymouth, Dorset, UK. The award marks a special tribute in the centenary year of iconic British sculptor Fred Darrington.
Pattnaik, a Padma Shri recipient from Puri, Odisha, is the first Indian to receive this international honour. During the festival’s opening ceremony over the weekend, he sculpted a 10-foot-tall image of Lord Ganesha, carrying the message of “World Peace”, earning widespread admiration.
“I am honoured to receive this recognition at Sandworld 2025. My sculpture of Lord Ganesha reflects the global call for peace,” said Pattnaik.
The award was presented by Weymouth Mayor Jon Orell in the presence of key dignitaries, including Mark Andersen, Director of Sandworld; co-founder David Hicks; and Naorem J Singh, Minister for Culture at the Indian High Commission in London.
Pattnaik has participated in over 65 international sand sculpture events and earned numerous accolades for his work, which often blends art with global and social messages.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi congratulated Pattnaik, noting on X, “His contribution has enhanced India’s and Odisha’s cultural presence on the global platform.”
Sandworld, located at Lodmoor Park in Weymouth, is one of the UK’s premier sand art attractions. This year’s festival opened on Saturday and will run through November.
