Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a world record–breaking Santa Claus sculpture at Niladri Beach in Puri, Odisha, celebrating the spirit of Christmas with a message of peace and harmony. The artwork, titled “World’s Biggest Apple and Sand Installation of Santa Claus,” was unveiled on 26 December 2025 and officially recognised by the World Records Book of India.
The massive installation was crafted using 1.5 tonnes of apples along with sand and measures an impressive 60 feet in length, 45 feet in width, and 22 feet in height. By combining traditional sand art with fresh fruits, Pattnaik created a unique and eco-friendly piece of public art that drew wide attention from locals, tourists, and art lovers.
The sculpture not only adds to the festive atmosphere of Christmas but also conveys a universal message of unity, peace, and goodwill. It has boosted cultural tourism in Puri, a city already known for its vibrant sand art traditions and popular beaches.
Sudarsan Pattnaik, an internationally acclaimed artist, is known for using sand sculptures to highlight social, environmental, and humanitarian issues. This latest creation once again showcases India’s creative talent on the global stage while spreading a positive message during the festive season.
