On Global Tiger Day, 51 sand art installations by Sudarsan Pattnaik spotlight the critical role of tigers in preserving forests and biodiversity, urging harmonious co-existence.
Puri, Odisha: On the occasion of Global Tiger Day, WWF-India, in collaboration with acclaimed sand artist Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik, unveiled an inspiring sand sculpture at the iconic Puri Beach. The theme for the artwork—India Strides with the Stripes—highlights the critical role of the tiger in maintaining ecological balance, symbolising hope, and promoting harmony and co-existence between humans and wildlife.
The evocative sand art, featuring 51 tiger installations, serves as a visual reminder that the survival of tigers is intrinsically linked to the health of our forests, water systems, and biodiversity. As apex predators, tigers are not just majestic species—they are keystone indicators of thriving ecosystems that also support millions of people who depend on forests for their livelihoods.
The world-renowned sand artist, Sudarsan Pattnaik, shared, “It is an honour to collaborate with WWF-India on Global Tiger Day to create this sand art that reflects the tiger’s deep connection with our forests and communities. Through my work, I aim to send a strong visual message about the importance of co-existence. The tiger is not just a symbol of power—it is a protector of our environment and serves as a guardian of our ecosystem.”
The event was graced by Shri Magar Dhanaji Raoso, IFS, DFO, Puri Wildlife Division, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, who spoke about the significance of the day: “On Global Tiger Day, let us remember that the tiger is not only the pride of our nation but also the pulse of our forests. Its survival ensures the well-being of entire ecosystems. Through initiatives like this powerful sand art by Sudarsan Pattnaik, we are reminded of our shared responsibility—to protect, preserve, and peacefully coexist with nature.”
This unique collaboration between WWF-India and Sudarsan Pattnaik is a creative call to action, reminding all citizens of the essential role tigers play in preserving the natural heritage of India.
Dr. Anamitra Anurag Danda, Sundarbans Programme Director, WWF-India, highlighted the broader ecological message behind tiger conservation: “Conserving tigers is not just about saving a species—it is about protecting the entire ecosystem. The tiger’s presence is a sign of a healthy environment. As we celebrate Global Tiger Day, let us reaffirm our collective responsibility to conserve nature through co-existence, compassion, and commitment. Sudarsan Pattnaik’s powerful sand art beautifully captures this spirit, and we are grateful for his continued support in raising awareness through such evocative and meaningful expression.”
Puri, Odisha: On the occasion of Global Tiger Day, WWF-India, in collaboration with acclaimed sand artist Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik, unveiled an inspiring sand sculpture at the iconic Puri Beach. The theme for the artwork—India Strides with the Stripes—highlights the critical role of the tiger in maintaining ecological balance, symbolising hope, and promoting harmony and co-existence between humans and wildlife.
The evocative sand art, featuring 51 tiger installations, serves as a visual reminder that the survival of tigers is intrinsically linked to the health of our forests, water systems, and biodiversity. As apex predators, tigers are not just majestic species—they are keystone indicators of thriving ecosystems that also support millions of people who depend on forests for their livelihoods.
The world-renowned sand artist, Sudarsan Pattnaik, shared, “It is an honour to collaborate with WWF-India on Global Tiger Day to create this sand art that reflects the tiger’s deep connection with our forests and communities. Through my work, I aim to send a strong visual message about the importance of co-existence. The tiger is not just a symbol of power—it is a protector of our environment and serves as a guardian of our ecosystem.”
The event was graced by Shri Magar Dhanaji Raoso, IFS, DFO, Puri Wildlife Division, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, who spoke about the significance of the day: “On Global Tiger Day, let us remember that the tiger is not only the pride of our nation but also the pulse of our forests. Its survival ensures the well-being of entire ecosystems. Through initiatives like this powerful sand art by Sudarsan Pattnaik, we are reminded of our shared responsibility—to protect, preserve, and peacefully coexist with nature.”
This unique collaboration between WWF-India and Sudarsan Pattnaik is a creative call to action, reminding all citizens of the essential role tigers play in preserving the natural heritage of India.
Dr. Anamitra Anurag Danda, Sundarbans Programme Director, WWF-India, highlighted the broader ecological message behind tiger conservation: “Conserving tigers is not just about saving a species—it is about protecting the entire ecosystem. The tiger’s presence is a sign of a healthy environment. As we celebrate Global Tiger Day, let us reaffirm our collective responsibility to conserve nature through co-existence, compassion, and commitment. Sudarsan Pattnaik’s powerful sand art beautifully captures this spirit, and we are grateful for his continued support in raising awareness through such evocative and meaningful expression.”
