NEW DELHI: With waves crashing behind him and a 10-foot sculpture of Lord Ganesha rising from the sand, Sudarsan Pattnaik made history on the shores of southern England.
The world-renowned Indian sand artist was honoured with the Fred Darrington Sand Master Award at the Sandworld 2025 International Sand Art Festival in Weymouth, Dorset — becoming the first Indian to receive the prestigious title named after the legendary British sculptor.
“This recognition is a testament to my 10-foot sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha, symbolising the universal message of World Peace,” said Pattnaik, standing beside his intricately carved tribute to the elephant-headed deity, which quickly became the festival’s centrepiece.
This year’s edition of Sandworld carries extra weight, marking 100 years since Fred Darrington — considered the father of British sand sculpture — began his artistic journey in Weymouth. Organisers described Pattnaik’s honour as “poetically fitting,” with the artist’s global presence and peaceful message echoing Darrington’s legacy.
The award was presented by Mayor of Weymouth Jon Orell, with dignitaries including Mark Andersen, Director of Sandworld, David Hicks, co-founder of the festival, and Naorem J Singh, Minister for Culture at the Indian High Commission, in attendance.
Pattnaik, a Padma Shri awardee from Odisha, has participated in over 65 international sand art festivals and championships. His work, often blending spiritual themes with social messages, has earned him widespread recognition — but the Weymouth award marks a new high.
Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined in the celebrations, calling Pattnaik’s achievement a proud moment for India. “His contribution has further enhanced the cultural heritage of our country and state on the global stage,” he posted on X.
The Sandworld exhibition at Lodmoor Park, known for its massive, detailed sand sculptures created using just sand and water, is open until November and features works from artists across the world.
But this year, it’s a message from India — carved in sand and rooted in peace — that’s leaving the deepest impression.
