Bhubaneswar: The preparation for the 22nd Asian Athletics Championship is in full swing. Internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik will showcase Odisha's rich art and culture through his art during the Championship scheduled to be inaugurated here at the capital city on July 5.
Sources said Sudarsan will carve out sand arts at the premises of Kalinga Stadium here where the focus will be to promote the rich culture and heritage of Odisha.
Organised by the State Sports and Youth Service Department, emphasis has been laid on turning the stadium into an atmosphere resembling sand festival to attract people and athletes taking part in the championship.
Sudarsan will also create sand sculptures of the famous athletes in the world. Around 9 tonnes of sand will be used to create all these sculptures, sources added.
Meanwhile, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has expedited the city beautification drive by repairing street lights, cleaning of roads and painting the walls of flyovers and other places with traditional themes.