Sudarsan Pattnaik Pays Tribute to Pope Francis with Sand Art at Puri Beach

Puri, Apr 21 : Renowned Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik paid a heartfelt tribute to Pope Francis by crafting an 8-foot-high sand sculpture at Puri beach in Odisha on Monday. The tribute comes in the wake of the Pope’s passing, marking a solemn moment for the global Catholic community.

Using around seven tonnes of sand, Pattnaik sculpted an impressive likeness of Pope Francis accompanied by the message, “Rest in Peace, Pope Francis.” He was assisted by students from his sand art institute, who worked alongside him to complete the emotional homage.

Pope Francis served as the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City from March 13, 2013, until his passing in 2025. He was the first Jesuit Pope and the first from the Americas, known for his humility, compassion, and progressive views.

“We pay our tribute to Pope Francis through our sand sculpture,” said Pattnaik, who had previously sculpted a similar artwork when the Pope was critically ill.

Sudarsan Pattnaik, a recipient of the Padma Shri, has brought international acclaim to India through his participation in numerous global sand art championships and festivals. His latest work once again blends art with emotion, capturing a moment of global mourning through the shifting sands of Puri’s shore.