Sudarsan Pattnaik Creates Maa Kali Sand Sculpture Adorned with Thousands of Diyas at Puri Beach

Puri, Oct 20 : Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has crafted a spectacular 7-foot-tall sand sculpture of Goddess Maa Kali at Puri Beach on the occasion of Diwali, illuminated by thousands of diyas.

The artwork, inspired by the blessings of Maa Kali, reflects the spiritual essence of Diwali while resonating with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of an Ātma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and the “Vocal for Local” initiative. The sculpture carries the message: “Happy Diwali — Let us rise with strength, Ātma Nirbhar Bharat.”

Pattnaik encouraged people to support local artisans by purchasing Indian-made gifts and celebrating Diwali in a way that uplifts traditional crafts and communities. Crafted from nearly six tons of sand, the installation features an illuminated diya at its center, symbolizing hope, unity, and resilience, surrounded by motifs representing India’s culture, strength, and self-reliance.

Students from Pattnaik’s Sand Art Institute also participated in creating the sculpture, showcasing devotion, teamwork, and creativity.

“This year, my message through sand art is to inspire every Indian to stand strong and contribute towards building an Ātma Nirbhar Bharat,” said Sudarsan Pattnaik.

With a legacy spanning over 65 international sand sculpture championships and numerous awards, Pattnaik continues to use his art to raise awareness about social and environmental causes, including peace, climate change, and plastic pollution.