♦ Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has become the first Indian to receive the prestigious Fred Darrington Sand Master Award for his outstanding contributions to sand art.

♦ The award was presented during the Sandworld 2025 International Sand Art Festival in Dorset, England. 

♦ Pattnaik created a 10-foot-high sculpture of Lord Ganesha carrying the message of “World Peace”.

♦ The award holds special significance this year as it commemorates the 100th birth anniversary of legendary British sculptor Fred Darrington.

♦ Sudarshan Pattnaik, a Padma Shri awardee from Odisha, has participated in over 65 international sand art festivals and championships.