Puri: Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has set a new world record with a spectacular sand art installation titled 'World's Biggest Apple and Sand Installation of Santa Claus,' officials said on Thursday.
The artwork, created on the occasion of Christmas at Niladri Beach in Puri, used 1.5 tons of apples and was formally recognised on December 24 by the World Records Book of India.
The installation measures 60 feet in length, 22 feet in height, and 45 feet in width, symbolising a unique fusion of art, sustainability, creativity, and festive spirit.
The project was successfully executed under Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik's leadership with the active participation of 30 students from his Sand Art Institute, reflecting his continued commitment to mentoring the young.
Christmas was celebrated with devotion and festive gaiety across the country on Thursday as churches were decked in lights and cribs, midnight masses drew large congregations, and community events spread cheer amid prayers for peace and harmony.
Kashmir witnessed Christmas in peace and harmony with the participation of other faiths, this year, when incidents of harassment of the Christian community by Hindutva right-wing extremists occurred in other parts of the country.
Churches across Kashmir were decked up as Christians in the valley celebrated Christmas on Thursday with religious fervour, and held special prayers for peace and prosperity for the people, PTI reported.
Several members of the majority Muslim community participated in Christmas celebrations here.
Father John Paul, the priest at Holy Family Catholic Church at Maulana Azad Road here, said the devotees prayed for peace and calm in Kashmir and the country.
"We prayed for peace and calm in Kashmir, in the entire country. We prayed for the people to be able to help and support each other. We also prayed for the generation of employment opportunities for the people in Kashmir who get fewer opportunities," he told reporters here.