Seven multi-coloured Taj Mahals in sand on Puri beach

Puri, May 28 (UNI) International sand artist Sudarshan Pattnaik has undertaken a novel idea of creating seven multi-coloured Taj Mahals in sand on the sprawling beach of Puri in his campaign drive for the Taj Mahal to be included in the 'New Seven Wonders of the World'.

The sand creations of Mr Pattnaik would be exhibited for the general public from May 28, as the 'New Seven Wonders' would be announced on July seven (07/07/07) in Lisbon, official sources informed.

Through his art, he would appeal to the people across the country to vote for the Taj Mahal so that it could be included as one of the seven wonders.

Mughal emperor Shahjahan built the Taj Mahal as a symbol of enduring love for his wife Mumtaz during the 17th century.

Mr Pattnaik said the Taj Mahal was one of the most splendid wonders of the world but it was uncertain whether it would be included in the seven wonders.

The internationally-acclaimed sand artist would be creating seven mini-Taj Mahals using seven different colours, including green, blue, black, pink, brown, white and golden.

Mr Pattnaik had, in the past, created a black Taj Mahal to fulfil the dream of Shahjahan at Agra on the occasion of the 350th anniversary of the ''monument of love.'' He had also created many Taj Mahals in different nations, including the US and Doha, but this time, the special art would be an appeal to the people and tourists to vote for the "symbol of love" and place it in the seven wonders.

Mr Pattnaik participated in more than 32 international sand sculpture championships throughout the world and won many awards for the country.

UNI