Puri: On the auspicious occasion of Pratham Shravan Somvar, internationally renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik created a stunning 8-foot-high devotional sand sculpture on Puri Beach.
The sculpture, dedicated to Lord Shiva, carries the message ‘Har Har Mahadev’. It depicts Mahadev in a serene and meditative form, symbolising peace, divine power and spiritual awakening. The artwork features a Shiva Linga, two Kanwariyas carrying a Kanwar (holy water yoke), the Trishul, Damaru, crescent moon, serpent, Rudraksha beads and the holy River Ganga flowing from Lord Shiva’s matted locks.
Created with the support of students from the Sudarsan Sand Art Institute, the sculpture pays tribute to the age-old tradition of Shravan, when millions of devotees across India observe fasts and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. It highlights the significance of Pratham Shravan Somvar, one of the most sacred days dedicated to the worship of Mahadev.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudarsan Pattnaik said, “On the auspicious occasion of Pratham Shravan Somvar, I offer my prayers to Lord Shiva for world peace, and for peace, good health, happiness and prosperity for all. May Mahadev’s divine blessings guide us with strength, compassion and positivity. Through this sand sculpture, I wish to spread the message of faith, hope and spiritual harmony among people across the world.”
A Padma Shri awardee, Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand sculpture championships, festivals and cultural events. He continues to use sand art as a medium to promote India’s cultural heritage while spreading messages of devotion, unity, peace and humanity.
