Odisha CM lauds Sudarsan for winning US awards

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Monday congratulated sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik for winning prizes at the World Cup of Sand Sculpting 2014 held in Atlantic City in the US.

"In the field of sand art, Sudarsan is a renowned name," the chief minister said in a statement here.

"He has won many prizes internationally for his magical art and creativity. With this success, he has been able to get recognition for Odisha's art and culture throughout the world. I wish him good luck to achieve more success in future."

In a separate statement, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram said Sudarsan was the first Indian to win prizes at the World Cup of Sand Sculpting.

"It is with great joy and pride I extend my congratulations to him. We are proud of his achievement," he said.

The 37-year-old Pattnaik, a native of the beach town of Puri, about 55 km from state capital Bhubaneswar, was the lone participant from India during the June 15-29 competition in Atlantic City which was attended by artists from several countries.

He won the People's Choice prize in the solo category for his sand sculpture "Save Tree, Save the Future".

He also won a medal and $4,400 in the doubles category for creating a sculpture of the Taj Mahal with an American artist.

Pattnaik is a recipient of the Padma Shri award and has participated in over 50 international sand sculpture championships and festivals.