Page 55 - NIS English 16-31 Jan, 2026

Ram Vanji Sutar | OBITUARY

Legendary Sculptor Ram Sutar Passes Away

His Art

Infused Life

into Stone

Born: February 19, 1925 | Died: December 18, 2025

Renowned and distinguished sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, who designed the world’s tallest
statue, the ‘Statue of Unity’ in Gujarat, passed away on December 18, 2025. His art did
not merely shape stone, but infused it with life. A creator of historical sculptures, He also
played a significant role in the restoration of the sculptures of Ajanta and Ellora. Through
his extraordinary contributions, he not only enriched India’s artistic and cultural heritage
but will continue to inspire future generations…

gold medalist from the J.J. School of Art wonderful life and work. Om Shanti.”
and Architecture in Mumbai, Ram Sutar Sutar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 and
A was born in 1925 in the Dhule district of the Padma Bhushan in 2016. He was also recently
Maharashtra. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime honored with the Maharashtra Bhushan Award,
Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister the state’s highest award. His famous sculptures of
Amit Shah, and several other dignitaries expressed Mahatma Gandhi in a meditative pose and Chhatra-
their condolences on his passing and remembered pati Shivaji on horseback in the Parliament complex
his contributions. Expressing his grief on Ram are among his finest creations. He was 100 years old
Sutar’s demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the time of his death. Describing his passing as an
wrote on X, “Deeply saddened by the passing of irreparable loss to the Indian art world, Union Home
Shri Ram Sutar Ji. He was an outstanding sculptor and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said, “May God
whose art gave India several iconic monuments, grant peace to the departed soul and give strength
including the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. His works to his family and admirers to bear this grief.”
will always be cherished as powerful expressions Ram Sutar also played a significant role in the
of India’s history, culture, and collective spirit. He construction of the 108-foot-tall bronze statue of Sri
has immortalized national pride for generations to Nadaprabhu Kempegowda in Bengaluru. Further-
come. His creations will continue to inspire artists more, he contributed to the creation of numerous
and citizens alike. My heartfelt condolences to statues in India and abroad that have enhanced
his family, admirers, and all those touched by his India’s prestige. n

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