India’s celebrated sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, best known for designing the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, the tallest statue in the world, passed away late Wednesday night at his home in Noida, his family confirmed. He was 100 years old and had been suffering from age-related health issues for some time.
His son Anil Sutar shared the sad news in a press release on Thursday. 'It is with profound grief that we inform you of the passing of my father Shri Ram Vanji Sutar on 17th December at midnight at our residence,' the statement read. Sutar’s demise marks the end of a golden era in Indian sculpture.
---Advertisement---
Nation mourns a master artist
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over Ram Sutar’s passing and paid tribute to his extraordinary contribution to Indian art. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said Sutar gave India some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. He added that the sculptor’s works beautifully reflected India’s history, culture and national pride, and would continue to inspire generations.
---Advertisement---
Renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj also shared an emotional message, calling Sutar a true visionary who turned metal into powerful symbols of India’s soul and heritage. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Sutar’s art would live on forever and personally spoke to Anil Sutar to offer condolences.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde described Sutar as a 'Kohinoor of the world of sculpture' and said his passing marked the end of a glorious chapter in Indian art. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar echoed the sentiment, calling him the 'Bhishmacharya of sculpture' whose contribution would remain unmatched.
From humble beginnings to global recognition
Born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village of Dhule district, Maharashtra, Ram Sutar discovered his love for sculpting at a young age. Through dedication and hard work, he rose to become one of India’s most respected artists and earned a gold medal from the prestigious JJ School of Art and Architecture in Mumbai.
Over his long career, Sutar created several iconic public sculptures, including statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Parliament House in New Delhi. His greatest achievement, the Statue of Unity, stands as a powerful tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and remains a lasting symbol of India’s artistic and cultural strength.