Sudarsan Pattnaik Creates 100 Sand Chariots On Puri Beach To Celebrate Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026

Padma Shri award winning sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a spectacular sand sculpture featuring 100 miniature chariots on Puri Beach ahead of the grand Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026 , blending art, devotion and Odisha’s centuries old cultural tradition. The installation was opened for visitors as devotees began gathering in Puri for the annual festival.

The massive sand artwork showcases a giant idol of Lord Jagannath surrounded by 100 miniature sand raths , along with the message “Jai Jagannatha, Happy Ratha Jatra.” Through the creation, Pattnaik highlighted the faith of millions of devotees who participate in the world famous chariot festival every year.

The sculpture also pays tribute to Panchasakha saint poet Balaram Das , whose devotion holds a special place in Jagannath tradition. According to legend, after being unable to participate in the Rath Yatra, Balaram Das created a Bali Rath (sand chariot) on the seashore and offered prayers to Lord Jagannath. Pattnaik said this story remains a symbol of deep faith and devotion.

Created with the support of students from the Sudarsan Sand Art Institute , the artwork celebrates the spiritual journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra during Rath Yatra. Pattnaik described the festival as a divine journey that fills devotees’ hearts with faith, joy and devotion, while offering prayers for peace and prosperity.

The annual Puri Rath Yatra sees the three deities leave the Jagannath Temple and travel in three grand wooden chariots to the Gundicha Temple. The three sacred chariots, traditionally built every year, represent one of India’s biggest religious celebrations, attracting lakhs of devotees from across the world.

Sudarsan Pattnaik, known globally for his sand art creations on social and cultural themes, has repeatedly used Puri’s coastline as a canvas to showcase Odisha’s heritage. His Rath Yatra inspired artworks have previously attracted national and international attention.