
Enthusiastic learners are encouraged to access the SWAYAM platform to register for the courses prior to the deadline of 15 September. The course is set to begin on 15 July and will end on 15 November. Candidates may complete their registration at onlinecourses.swayam2.ac.in.
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has introduced two online courses focused on Sand Art, in partnership with the esteemed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik. The courses, named “Introduction to Sand Art” and “Principles & Formats of Sand Art,” will be available through the Ministry of Education’s SWAYAM platform at onlinecourses.swayam2.ac.in.
Enthusiastic learners are encouraged to access the SWAYAM platform to register for the courses prior to the deadline of 15 September. The course is set to begin on 15 July and will end on 15 November.
Course structure
The two courses aim to familiarize learners with the basics of sand art while offering practical insights into the techniques and environmental factors associated with crafting sand sculptures.
The instructor for both courses is Sudarsan Pattnaik, a Padma Shri awardee and Sand Artist from Puri, Odisha. As stated on the SWAYAM website, Pattnaik possesses a wealth of international experience, having represented India in more than 60 global sand art competitions and festivals.
Course schedule and broad overview
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Status | Upcoming |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Category | Arts |
| Credit Points | 4 |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Course Start Date | 15 July 2025 |
| Course End Date | 15 November 2025 |
| Enrollment End Date | 15 September 2025 |
What topics will be covered in the course?
The courses will encompass various fundamental and practical elements of sand art creation. The structure of the course is organized into essential thematic units, which include:
| Topic Number | Topic Description |
| Topic 1 | Sand Art across the world |
| Topic 2 | Selection of the right place for creating the art |
| Topic 3 | Selection of sand |
| Topic 4 | Selection of right kind and amount of water |
| Topic 5 | Gathering and compacting the sand on the basis of the right format |
| Topic 6 | Choosing/Creating the right kind of environment for sand art |
Certification and assessment criteria
In order to qualify for the SWAYAM certificate, learners are required to complete both internal and external assessments:
–Internal Assessment: A total of 30 marks is designated for a final quiz administered at the conclusion of the course.
–External Assessment: A total of 70 marks is assigned to a proctored end-term examination.
Learners must achieve a minimum of 40% overall marks to be eligible for certification, which necessitates at least 12 marks in the internal quiz and 28 marks in the external examination.


