Padma Shri Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik Faces Backlash for “Obscene” Sand Art Celebrating Women’s World Cup Victory

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Bhubaneswar: Celebrated sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, known for his iconic creations on Odisha’s Puri Beach, has found himself at the center of controversy after unveiling a sand sculpture celebrating India’s historic ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 victory. While intended as a tribute to “Nari Shakti,” the artwork has sparked widespread criticism online, with many calling it “inappropriate” and “confusing.”

Pattnaik shared a photo of his sand art on social media platform X, captioning it:

“Saluting the power of Indian women! Congratulations to Team India for winning the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. My sand art with cricket balls at Puri Beach, Odisha.”

However, what was meant as a congratulatory gesture quickly turned into a storm of trolling. Many users questioned his artistic choice, claiming the design looked “awkward” and even “suggestive.” One user commented, “What exactly are you trying to show here?” while another remarked, “Didn’t expect this from you — such a double standard!”

Several compared his artwork for the women’s team with his earlier, more detailed sand sculpture celebrating the men’s World Cup victory, accusing him of being dismissive toward women players. User Minty Sharma posted a side-by-side comparison with the caption:

“Sudarsan Pattnaik when men win vs. when women win 😞.”

Others mocked the artwork, saying the cricket bat resembled a “liquor bottle” or “laundry paddle,” while one joked, “Even Shah Jahan would’ve banned this art.” Some comments went as far as using abusive language, asking the artist to “take a break.”

Despite the trolling, Pattnaik — a Padma Shri awardee — remains one of India’s most respected sand sculptors. Known for his monumental creations on themes of national pride, spirituality, and social awareness, he recently crafted a 6-foot statue of Lord Shiva during the Shravan month and a massive 50-wheel Konark-themed sculpture for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday in September.

The incident has reignited debate on artistic freedom versus public sentiment, with social media divided between those defending Pattnaik’s creative expression and others demanding more sensitivity in symbolic art.