Puri, Oct. 1 -- Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarshan Pattnaik paid tribute to Indian pilot Smit Machchhar by dedicating a heartfelt sand sculpture in his honour.

The sand artwork, created on Odisha's Puri beach, reflects Pattnaik's tribute to the pilot, capturing a message of respect and prayers for the captain's speedy recovery.

Speaking to ANI, Pattnaik expressed immense pride and shared his hopes for Smit Machchhar's well-being.

"We have created this sand sculpture to salute the Captain. Through our sand art, we are paying tribute to him and praying to God for his speedy recovery. The entire world is saluting him today for the way he risked his own life to save the lives of others. There isn't a corner of the globe ...