BHUBANESWAR – In a moving and visually spectacular gesture, internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has paid homage to the legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra. Pattnaik created a large-scale sand sculpture on Puri Beach in Odisha to honor the veteran star’s immense contribution to Indian cinema. 
Sudarsan Pattnaik's Sand Art Tribute to Dharmendra at Puri Beach


The intricate sculpture, which measures an impressive five feet in length, required nearly six tonnes of sand to complete. It skillfully captures the charismatic and beloved screen presence of the actor, often referred to as the "He-Man" of Bollywood. The artwork stands as a powerful, if temporary, monument to a career that has deeply influenced millions.
Pattnaik, who is a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, shared his personal admiration for the actor. He described Dharmendra as more than just a film star, calling him "an emotion for millions." The artist reflected on the actor's extraordinary journey in the film industry.
The sand art features a poignant message carved beside the sculpture of the actor's visage. It reads, "RIP Dharmendra Ji, End of an Era." This simple statement reflects the profound sense of loss felt by fans and the film community across the nation. The tribute acknowledges that with his passing, a significant chapter in the history of Indian cinema has come to a close.
Following the creation of the sculpture, Pattnaik took to his social media account on X (formerly Twitter) to share images of his work with his vast audience. In his post, he wrote, “A heartfelt tribute to the evergreen legend Dharmendra Ji — truly the end of an era in Indian cinema.” His online tribute quickly gained traction, receiving an outpouring of responses from grieving fans and fellow celebrities alike.
Many people used the opportunity to express their own condolences and to share cherished memories of the actor. They recalled his powerful performances, his charming personality, and the unique place he held in their hearts. The public response highlighted how Dharmendra’s work transcended generations, connecting with grandparents, parents, and children.
Dharmendra’s career was defined by a remarkable versatility. He delivered unforgettable performances in a wide range of roles, from the intense action hero to the endearing romantic lead and the master of comedy. His role as the rugged Veeru in the iconic film Sholay remains one of Indian cinema's most beloved characters.
Other landmark films like Phool Aur Patthar and Chupke Chupke further demonstrated his significant acting range. His dialogues from these movies have become deeply embedded in popular culture. Lines such as "Kutte, kamine, main tera khoon pi jaaunga!" from Sholay and "Basanti, in kutton ke saamne mat nachna!" are still enthusiastically quoted by fans today, proving the lasting power of his legacy.
Through the medium of sand, a material known for its impermanence, Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a lasting impression of respect and admiration. His artwork on Puri Beach serves as a powerful public memorial, allowing a nation to collectively remember and celebrate the life of a true cinematic legend.