Puri: As the holy month of Shravan engulfs millions in divine fervour, transforming Mondays into sacred periods of devotion, cosmic energy swept over the golden shores of Odisha’s Puri beach, where ocean waves and sacred faith converged into a magnificent visual tribute.
Honouring the auspicious second Monday of Sawan, a sacred period dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolic of spiritual purification, cosmic renewal, and the devotion of millions of Kanwariyas journeying for his divine grace, Padma Shri awardee and world-renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik crafted a towering 7-foot-high sand sculpture of Mahadev.
Created on Sunday with the assistance of students from the Sudarsan Sand Art Institute, the intricate artwork depicts the divine face of Lord Shiva, complete with his iconic trident and serpent, while a devoted Kanwariya pilgrim stands in the foreground receiving the deity’s sacred blessings. Against the backdrop of the ocean, the sculpture seamlessly incorporates the essence of the Kanwar pilgrimage, celebrating the timeless traditions, faith, and spiritual atmosphere that define the Shravan month. Etched alongside the detailed figures were the revered messages “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Bhole Baba Paar Karega”, reflecting the deep-seated trust devotees place in Lord Shiva’s eternal protection, guidance, and grace.
“Through this artwork, I wish to convey a message of faith, hope, peace, and harmony with nature. May Mahadev guide us through every difficulty and bless everyone with peace, strength, good health, happiness, and prosperity,” Pattanik said.
