Puri, March 8 (NationPress) To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, acclaimed sand artist Manas Kumar Sahoo crafted a remarkable sand animation in Puri on Sunday. This mesmerizing piece, completed in just 10 minutes, effectively communicated the themes of women’s empowerment, equality, and global peace.

The sand animation showcased inspiring representations of women’s strength and notable achievements, featuring some of India's most revered female figures. Through his artistic expression, Sahoo aimed to honor the bravery, commitment, and successes of women who have made noteworthy contributions to society.

Commenting on the occasion, Sahoo highlighted figures such as President Droupadi Murmu, iconic singer Lata Mangeshkar, Olympic champion P.V. Sindhu, and Vyomika Singh, who epitomize the success, valor, and empowerment of women in contemporary India. He emphasized that many such women are the pride of the nation and continue to inspire future generations.

Through this sand animation, Sahoo delivered a heartfelt tribute to millions of women globally, acknowledging their resilience and vital roles in fostering a more inclusive society.

International Women’s Day 2026 is celebrated globally on March 8, a day set aside to acknowledge women’s achievements and promote awareness of gender equality. The day honors women’s contributions across various sectors, including social, economic, cultural, and political spheres, while also shedding light on the challenges that many women still encounter.

Each year, this occasion is commemorated with campaigns, events, and discussions centered on women’s rights and empowerment. The official theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” This theme underscores the necessity of ensuring that women's legal rights and protections are not merely enshrined in law but are also actively implemented in daily life.

Furthermore, the theme seeks to draw attention to the persistent legal and social disparities faced by women worldwide, calling for enhanced efforts to secure equal opportunities and justice for all.

The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 1900s when women across Europe and North America began advocating for improved working conditions, equitable wages, and voting rights. In 1908, approximately 15,000 women marched in New York City, demanding shorter hours, fair pay, and the right to vote.

In 1909, activist Clara Zetkin proposed the concept of an international day dedicated to women’s rights at a conference in Copenhagen. The proposal was met with considerable support, leading to the observance of the day in numerous countries.

Later, in 1975, the United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day, and March 8 was globally adopted as a day to celebrate women's rights, accomplishments, and equality.