New Delhi– Renowned sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, best known for designing the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, passed away late Wednesday night at his residence in Noida. He was 100 and had been suffering from age-related ailments, his family said.
Announcing his demise, Sutar’s son Anil Sutar said his father passed away around midnight on December 17. In a note shared with the press on Thursday, he expressed deep grief over the loss of the veteran artist.
Born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village of Dhule district in present-day Maharashtra, Ram Sutar developed a passion for sculpting at a very young age despite his modest upbringing. His talent later earned him a gold medal from the Sir JJ School of Art and Architecture in Mumbai, laying the foundation for an extraordinary artistic career.
Over the decades, Sutar created several iconic sculptures that have become national landmarks. Among his most celebrated works are the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a meditative seated posture and the equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the Parliament complex. His most monumental contribution, the Statue of Unity, was built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian art and culture, Sutar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 and the Padma Bhushan in 2016. More recently, he was conferred the Maharashtra Bhushan Puraskar, the highest civilian honour of the state.
Ram Sutar’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian sculpture, leaving behind a legacy carved in stone and bronze that will continue to inspire generations.
