Renowned sculptor Ram Sutar, who was the creative force behind the Statue of Unity in Gujarat – the tallest statue in the world – died late on Wednesday at his home in Noida, according to his family. He was 100 years old and had been struggling with age-related health problems for some time.
His son Anil Sutar confirmed the news and said in a press release on Thursday, “It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that my father Shri Ram Vanji Sutar passed away on December 17 at midnight at our residence.”
Sutar was born on February 19, 1925 in Gondur village in Dhule district of Maharashtra and discovered his love for sculpture early in life. Starting from humble beginnings, he became one of India’s most respected artists and even won a gold medal at the prestigious JJ School of Art and Architecture in Mumbai.
During his long career, Sutar created some of the most famous public sculptures in the country. Notable works include a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a meditative pose and an equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, both located 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 sculpture has become an important representation of contemporary Indian sculpture.
Fadnavis said that Sutar’s art will last for generations and that every viewing of his sculptures evokes a memory in him. He also spoke to the sculptor’s son Anil Sutar over phone to express his condolences and said the state government stands with the bereaved family.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde expressed deep grief over the demise of Sutar and described his departure as the end of a glorious era of Indian sculpture.
Calling Sutar the “Kohinoor of the world of sculpture”, Shinde said the veteran had brought Indian culture and ideas 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 that Ram Sutar is the “Bhishmacharya of sculpture” whose contribution to the field will remain unsurpassed.
“The country has lost a highly talented sculptor who gave India’s monument global recognition,” Pawar said.
