Big fight for FIFA World cup on sand art

Puri, Orissa, July 8 (UNI) As the whole world waits to witness the big fight for the Fifa World Cup 2006 title, a sand sculpture of the World cup trophy with the captains of two team vying for the title, has attracted thousands of crowd on the golden beach of this holy city.

Since the two teams - France and Italy will be seen in action in the winal Cup on July 9, internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, has created an image of world cup trophy with two captains Fabio Cannavaro a Haly and Zinedine Zidane of France with their national flags.

The sand artist, who has participated in a number of international events, including the Berlin International Sand Sculpture Festival depicted the two countries ready to fight for the trophy.

It took almost eight hours to create this sculpture with 15 tons of sand and students of his golden sand art institute assisting him.

Recently Pattnaik has returned from the Berlin International Sand Sculpture Festival where he was the only Indian participant.

The sand artist had earlier created a sand sculpture of the World Cup Trophy held aloft by several hands with a smiling 'Pele'.

Sudarsan has so far participated in more than 29 international sand sculpture championships across the world and won many awards for the country.

His sculpture of Black Taj Mahal earned him accolades all over the world. He has also created sculptures to help the tsunami victims in India, save the endangered Olive Ridley turtles and spread awareness on the dangers of HIV-AIDS and polio.

UNI DP SJC PM ND1426