Bhubaneswar: Renowned sand sculptor Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik arrived in Bhubaneswar on Saturday after winning the gold medal in the International Sand Art Championship in Russia.
Following his arrival, he met with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at his residence.
During the meeting, CM Majhi felicitated Pattnaik and announced a reward of ₹2 lakh for him. State Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj was also present.
In praise of the sand artist’s talent, the CM referred to Pattnaik’s gold medal win in Russia as an artistic connection with the divine, occurring between the Rath Yatra and Bahuda Yatra. He also mentioned that by showcasing the chariot Nandighosh in Russia, Pattnaik has represented Odia pride on a global level.