Noted sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik attacked in Odisha's Puri

International sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik was hospitalised on Sunday after an unidentified youth twisted his hand.

The incident, reportedly, took place at the ongoing International Sand Art Festival in Odisha's Puri, near the famous Sun Temple in Konark.

Pattnaik is the brand ambassador of the festival organised by the state department of tourism.

"The youth caught hold of my arm during a handshake and tried to snatch my wristwatch. When I tried to resist, he attacked me and disappeared into the crowd," the artist told Times of India.

The youth reportedly fled the spot.

At least 70 participants from nine countries - Germany, Mexico, Ghana, Singapore, Canada, Spain, Sri Lanka, Russia and India are showcasing their sand art during the festival.