Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a spectacular sand sculpture on Puri Beach to celebrate Snana Purnima 2026, one of the most sacred festivals associated with Lord Jagannath.
The eye-catching artwork features Lord Jagannath along with the devotional message “Jai Jagannath”, reflecting the spiritual significance of the annual bathing festival that marks the beginning of the Rath Yatra festivities.
Tribute to the Sacred Snana Yatra
Snana Purnima is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. On this day, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Sudarshan are ceremonially bathed with 108 pots of sacred water in a grand public ritual known as Snana Yatra.
The festival attracts lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad, who gather in Puri to witness the holy bathing ceremony of the sibling deities.
Sand Art Spreads Message of Devotion and Unity
Speaking about his latest creation, Sudarsan Pattnaik said the artwork is dedicated to the millions of devotees visiting Puri during the festival.
“Devotees from across the world are arriving in Puri to witness Lord Jagannath’s Snana Yatra. Through this sand art, I want to spread the message of devotion, unity, and the timeless glory of Mahaprabhu Jagannath,” he said.
The sculpture highlights the spiritual heritage of Jagannath culture while encouraging harmony and collective devotion.
Major Attraction for Devotees and Tourists
Every year, Pattnaik creates themed sand sculptures during major religious and cultural festivals on Puri Beach. His artworks have become a popular attraction for pilgrims, tourists, and art lovers alike.
His Snana Purnima 2026 creation has already drawn large crowds, adding to the festive atmosphere surrounding the grand bathing ceremony of the deities.
Known for combining artistic excellence with meaningful social and spiritual messages, Sudarsan Pattnaik continues to showcase Odisha’s rich cultural traditions through his internationally acclaimed sand art.
