Puri, April 7 (NationPress) In celebration of World Health Day, celebrated sand artist and Padma Shri honoree Sudarsan Pattnaik unveiled a magnificent sand sculpture at Puri Beach in Odisha, honoring frontline workers while conveying the message, “Together for Health, Stand with Science.”

This impressive sculpture, towering at around six feet, was meticulously crafted from several tonnes of sand, showcasing Pattnaik's distinctive approach of combining artistry with meaningful social commentary. With the help of students from his sand art school, the artwork illustrated human figures representing unity, compassion, and the vital importance of science in protecting global health.

World Health Day, observed every year on April 7, seeks to highlight urgent global health challenges and motivate collective efforts to enhance public health. Pattnaik's creation served as a poignant reminder of the necessity for solidarity, scientific understanding, and shared accountability in fostering a healthier and safer world.

During the event, Pattnaik stressed the importance of backing science and fortifying healthcare systems in a continuously changing global environment. He encouraged individuals to embrace healthier habits and actively participate in the welfare of society. His sand art served as a tribute to healthcare personnel and others who work tirelessly day and night for the betterment of humanity.

A world-renowned artist, Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand sculpture competitions and festivals, garnering numerous awards. He is widely recognized for utilizing his art as a platform to raise awareness on critical social and environmental issues such as HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, climate change, terrorism, plastic waste, and ecological conservation.

The theme for World Health Day 2026, “Together for Health, Stand with Science,” has been initiated by the World Health Organization as part of a year-long campaign celebrating the power of scientific collaboration. This initiative emphasizes essential goals like the “One Health” concept, which acknowledges the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the environment, combating misinformation, and fostering scientific multilateralism through global cooperation.

World Health Day commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization in 1948. The WHO Constitution was endorsed in 1946 by 61 nations and became effective on April 7, 1948. Although the inaugural observance occurred in 1949, it was officially moved to April 7 from 1950 onwards to coincide with the organization’s anniversary.