Renowned sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, celebrated for designing the world's tallest statue—the Statue of Unity dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel—passed away at his Noida residence late on December 17, 2025. He was 100 years old and had been ailing from age-related illnesses. His son, Anil Sutar, confirmed the news in a statement shared with the media, expressing profound grief over the loss of the legendary artist. Born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village in Maharashtra's Dhule district to a humble family, Sutar displayed an early affinity for sculpting that shaped his extraordinary career. A gold medallist from Mumbai's prestigious JJ School of Art and Architecture, he leaves behind a monumental legacy of public art that adorns landmarks across India. His contributions earned him the Padma Shri in 1999, the Padma Bhushan in 2016, and recently the Maharashtra Bhushan Puraskar, the state's highest civilian honour.
Sutar's most iconic creation remains the 182-meter Statue of Unity in Gujarat, unveiled in 2018 as a tribute to India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Sardar Patel. The colossal bronze-clad structure overlooking the Narmada River stands as the tallest statue globally, symbolising national integration and Patel's role in unifying princely states post-independence. Sutar's studio meticulously crafted the design, overseeing intricate details that captured Patel's stature and vision. Beyond this engineering marvel, his portfolio includes revered installations in New Delhi, such as the meditative Mahatma Gandhi statue and the dynamic equestrian portrait of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on Parliament premises. These works exemplify his mastery in portraying historical figures with lifelike precision and emotional depth.
Throughout his prolific career spanning decades, Sutar created hundreds of sculptures honouring leaders, freedom fighters, and cultural icons, many installed in public spaces nationwide. His approach blended traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, ensuring durability and aesthetic grandeur. Collaborating often with his son Anil, he established a design studio in Noida that became a hub for large-scale monumental projects. Sutar's dedication extended to mentoring younger artists, preserving sculptural heritage while innovating for contemporary contexts.
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The sculptor's passing marks the end of an era in Indian public art, where his creations serve as enduring symbols of national pride and history. Tributes poured in from political leaders, artists, and cultural figures, acknowledging his role in immortalising India's heroes through bronze and stone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the Statue of Unity, described Sutar as a visionary whose works inspire generations.
As arrangements for final rites proceed, the nation reflects on Sutar's quiet yet profound impact on its visual landscape. His journey from a village boy drawn to clay modelling to architect of global landmarks embodies perseverance and artistic excellence. The Statue of Unity and other masterpieces stand as lasting testaments to his genius.
India mourns the loss of a cultural luminary whose sculptures continue to evoke patriotism and unity among millions visiting these sites daily. Sutar's family, including son Anil, who carried forward the studio's legacy, receives widespread condolences. His contributions elevated Indian sculpture on the world stage, blending scale with sensitivity. Future generations will encounter his art in public squares, parliaments, and riverbanks, reminded of the hands that shaped modern India's monumental narrative.
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