Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has once again captured global attention with a unique and festive creation on the shores of Puri beach. This time, Pattnaik stepped away from his signature sand medium and built what is believed to be the world’s largest Santa Claus sculpture made entirely from apples.
The massive sculpture, unveiled on Christmas Day, features Santa Claus lying on the beach with his body, clothing, and hat crafted from thousands of red apples. The installation quickly drew large crowds, with locals, tourists, and media gathering to witness the extraordinary artwork.
Pattnaik, who has previously represented India in international sand art competitions and holds multiple records, said the apple sculpture was designed to spread joy and promote peace during the holiday season. Behind the sculpture, a dome-shaped structure bearing the words “WORLD PEACE” added a deeper message to the visual spectacle.
Puri-based sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik attempts world record with biggest Santa Claus sculpture created with apples. pic.twitter.com/Qsb1Ez7aHY
— News Arena India (@NewsArenaIndia) December 24, 2025
“This is not just about art,” Pattnaik told reporters. “It’s about celebrating Christmas in a new way and reminding people of the importance of peace and unity.”
The sculpture was shared widely on social media, with a tweet from News Arena India showcasing the creation and noting Pattnaik’s attempt to set a world record. The tweet, posted at 12:15 AM on December 25, quickly went viral, garnering over 18,000 views within hours.
Creating the sculpture was no easy task. Pattnaik and his team spent hours carefully placing each apple to form the detailed figure of Santa Claus. The challenge involved not only artistic skill but also logistical planning to ensure the structure remained stable and visually striking.
The use of apples added a vibrant and festive touch, with the red color symbolizing warmth, celebration, and the spirit of giving. The sculpture’s location set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal enhanced its appeal, making it a perfect blend of nature, creativity, and seasonal cheer.
Visitors to the beach expressed admiration for the artwork, calling it “inspiring,” “beautiful,” and “a fresh take on Christmas celebrations.” Many posed for photos and shared their experiences online, further amplifying the reach of Pattnaik’s creation.
While official confirmation of the world record is pending, the sculpture has already made headlines across India and beyond. Pattnaik’s innovative approach continues to redefine public art, using everyday materials to create powerful messages.
As the holiday season unfolds, the apple Santa stands as a reminder of how creativity can bring people together, spark joy, and promote values that matter. Whether or not it enters the record books, it has certainly earned a place in the hearts of many.
