Udaipur: Renowned international sculptor and 211-time world record holder Prof. Dr. Iqbal Sakka has unveiled a unique artwork inspired by the FIFA World Cup 2026, transforming the emotions of millions of Indians into an extraordinary artistic expression.
The installation reflects the heartfelt disappointment felt by every Indian when the national tricolour is absent from football's biggest global stage. While 48 nations are competing in the tournament, India, despite being home to over 1.4 billion people, is not among them.
To symbolize this emotion, Dr. Sakka has created a miniature silver FIFA football stadium adorned with lush green grass. The artwork features 50 flags—the flags of the 48 participating nations, one FIFA World Cup flag, and the Indian tricolour, representing hope, pride, and the dream of seeing India compete in a future FIFA World Cup.
The centerpiece of the installation is the world's smallest gold sculpture, visible only through a microscopic lens. The miniature artwork depicts two football players, a football, and the FIFA World Cup trophy, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship while symbolizing India's aspiration to stand among the world's footballing nations.
Expressing his emotions, Dr. Sakka said, "When you see the flags of 48 nations but not India's tricolour, every Indian feels a sense of longing. This artwork is my tribute to that emotion and to the dream that one day our national flag will proudly fly at the FIFA World Cup."
He further said that his greatest wish is to witness the Indian football team qualify for and eventually win the FIFA World Cup. On that historic day, he hopes to present his world-record artwork and the world's smallest gold FIFA World Cup trophy to the victorious Indian players.
Dr. Sakka also revealed that he has written to the Prime Minister of India and the Union Sports Minister, requesting that this unique artwork be displayed in a national museum until India qualifies for the FIFA World Cup, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations and a symbol of the nation's footballing aspirations.