Did an Odisha Artist Create Sand Animation to Welcome Putin to India?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Art and Diplomacy: Manas Kumar Sahoo's sand animation highlights the role of art in international relations.
- Symbol of Peace: The artwork represents the longstanding relationship between India and Russia.
- Significant Visit: President Putin's visit is crucial for strengthening bilateral ties.
- Cultural Diplomacy: Initiatives like this enhance mutual respect and understanding.
- Global Context: The visit occurs amidst rising tensions in India-US relations.
Puri, Dec 4 (NationPress) - Renowned artist Manas Kumar Sahoo has designed a unique sand animation piece to greet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to India. This stunning artwork was crafted on the Golden Beach in Puri, Odisha, on Thursday.
Manas Kumar Sahoo, a finalist on 'India’s Got Talent' and one of the nation’s top sand animation artists, completed this masterpiece in just two hours. The artwork reflects the theme, “Welcome President Putin to India.”
Through mesmerizing sand visuals, the piece conveys friendship, peace, and the enduring relationship between India and Russia. In an interview with IANS, Sahoo expressed, “Art holds the power to unite nations. This sand animation is my tribute to respect and the promotion of peace and global harmony.”
President Putin’s two-day visit to India kicks off this evening. Following his arrival, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host an informal dinner, reflecting a reciprocal gesture from President Putin during PM Modi’s trip to Moscow in July 2024. This dinner is anticipated to set a congenial atmosphere for subsequent formal talks.
On Friday morning, President Putin will initiate his official activities with a ceremonial reception. He will then visit Rajghat to pay respects at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial—a customary practice for visiting heads of state.
This will be succeeded by the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit at Hyderabad House in the capital, where PM Modi will also hold a working lunch for President Putin and his team.
In addition to the leaders' discussions, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov are expected to engage in talks regarding significant military collaboration and defense technology.
President Putin’s visit arrives amid rising tensions in India-US relations, particularly following the imposition of tariffs by Washington on various Indian products and a specific levy on India's acquisition of Russian crude oil.