The festival revolves around diverse themes, spanning cultural heritage, social issues, and environmental conservation, showcasing a global perspective and awareness through sand art.
The main aim of the festival include promoting tourism, celebrating the rich artistry of sand sculpting, and providing a platform for artists to exchange ideas and techniques. Visitors to the event have the unique opportunity to witness the evolution of these ephemeral masterpieces throughout the festival.
Despite their temporary nature, the sculptures, with their intricate details and the skilled hands that brought them to life, leave a lasting impression. Beyond its cultural and artistic significance, the International Sand Art Festival plays an important role in promoting the coastal beauty of the region, making it a must-visit for both art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
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The event, which originated in 2011 on Chandrabhaga Beach in Puri, is an annual affair held from December 1-5, with the 2023 edition marking its 13th iteration. The sand art showcased at the festival is a unique blend of painting and sculpture, with no adhesive used to hold the grains of sand in place.