Internationally recognized sand artist and Padma Shri recipient Sudarsan Pattnaik has welcomed the people of Odisha by creating a remarkable sand sculpture at Puri beach in honor of Nuakhai, the harvest festival celebrated in western Odisha.

The artwork depicts a woman dressed in traditional Sambalpuri attire engaged in prayer, along with a vibrant red circular representation of Maa Samaleswari embellished with floral designs, and a golden sheaf of newly harvested paddy. The sculpture, inscribed with the words ‘Nuakhai Juhar’, is set against the scenic backdrop of the Bay of Bengal, symbolizing gratitude and abundance.

Nuakhai signifies the ritual of presenting the first harvest to the goddess, with families throughout western Odisha offering nabanna (newly harvested rice) while seeking blessings for prosperity and health.

Through this artistic creation, Pattnaik continues his tradition of honoring Odisha’s festivals and promoting messages of cultural pride, hope, and unity. His sand art has garnered admiration from art enthusiasts and festival participants across the region, highlighting Nuakhai’s importance as a celebration of gratitude and community togetherness.