Celebrated sculptor Ram Sutar, who was the creative force behind the Statue of Unity in Gujarat—the tallest statue in the world—passed away late Wednesday night at his home in Noida, according to his family. He was 100 years old and had been dealing with health issues related to his age for some time.
His son, Anil Sutar, confirmed the news, stating 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 midnight at our residence.”
Prime Minister expressed condolences on Ram Sutar's passing away. The PM wrote on X: “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ram Sutar Ji, a remarkable sculptor whose mastery gave India some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. His works will always be admired as powerful expressions of India’s history, culture and collective spirit. He has immortalised national pride for generations to come. His works will keep inspiring artists and citizens alike. My heartfelt condolences to his family, admirers and all who were touched by his remarkable life and work. Om Shanti.”
Sculptor Arun Yogiraj posted about Ram Sutar's death on microblogging platform X, and wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Padma Vibhushan Shri Ram V. Sutar sir, the legendary sculptor of our nation. A true visionary, he transformed metal into symbols of India’s soul, culture, and history. His monumental works stand as eternal inspirations.. om shanti”
Born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village in the Dhule district of Maharashtra, Sutar discovered his love for sculpting early in life. Starting from humble beginnings, he rose to become one of India’s most revered artists, even earning a gold medal from the prestigious JJ School of Art and Architecture in Mumbai.
Over his long career, Sutar crafted some of the most iconic public sculptures in the country. Notable works include the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a meditative pose and the equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, both situated on the grounds of Parliament in New Delhi.
His crowning achievement, the Statue of Unity, serves as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who was India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister. This statue has become a significant representation of contemporary Indian sculpture.
Fadnavis said Sutar’s art would endure for generations and that every viewing of his sculptures would evoke his memory. He also spoke to the sculptor’s son, Anil Sutar, over the phone to offer condolences and said the state government stood with the bereaved family.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde expressed deep grief over the demise of Sutar, describing his passing as the end of a glorious era in Indian sculpture.
Calling Sutar a “Kohinoor of the world of sculpture”, Shinde said the veteran artist took Indian culture and the thoughts of great leaders to the global stage through his monumental works.
Shinde’s peer Ajit Pawar described Sutar’s passing as the end of a golden era in Indian sculpture.
In a condolence message, Pawar said Ram Sutar was the “Bhishmacharya of sculpture” whose contribution to the field would remain unmatched.
“The country has lost a highly talented sculptor who gave Indian memorial art global recognition,” Pawar said.
