Pattnaik becomes first Indian to win prestigious Italian award for sand art

Acclaimed Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has been conferred Italian Golden Sand Art Award, 2019 at a ceremony in Rome, becoming first Indian to win prestigious award for his contribution to sand art. Representing India at International Scorra Sand Nativity event held in Lecce from vember 13 to 17, Pattnaik created a 10-foot high sand sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi along with Russian artist Pavel Minilkov. 

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"I have received award on Friday from Vito Maraschio, President of Promuovi International Scorra Sand Nativity at a ceremony in Rome. Neeharika Singh, Deputy Chief of Mission of Indian Embassy, was also present at award ceremony," Patnaik wrote on twitter. 

re were eight sculptors from different countries who participated in this festival. "I feel very gl and houred to receive this prestigious award," said Pattnaik, who is also a Pma Shri awardee.Till w, Pattnaik has participated in more than 60 international sand art festivals and championships around world and won many prizes for India.  On Friday evening, he called on Indian Ambassor in Italy Reenat Sandhu who congratulated him on his  achievements.

event was held under patron of Puglia Region in South Italy. 

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