Legendary sculptor Ram Sutar, who designed the world’s tallest statue – the Statue of Unity – in Gujarat and whose work brought global recognition to Indian sculpture, passed away at his Noida residence on Wednesday night.
According to the acclaimed sculptor’s son Anil Sutar, his father was ailing with age-related health issues and passed away at their Noida residence at the age of 100.
“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,” Anil Sutar said in a note.
Ram Sutar is known for creating some of India’s most iconic statues and memorials, including the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, and commanded respect across the world for his unparalleled mastery over bronze and stone.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep grief over the passing of the legendary sculptor.
PM Modi said Ram Sutar was a remarkable sculptor whose mastery gave India some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Unity, his works will always be admired as powerful expressions of India’s history, culture and collective spirit.
“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,” PM Modi said.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde also paid rich tributes to the veteran sculptor, saying his demise marked the end of an era in the field of sculpture.
Dr Ram Sutar was born into a humble family in Gondur village, which falls under the Dhule district of present-day Maharashtra, on February 19, 1925, and was a gold medallist from JJ School of Art and Architecture, Mumbai. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1999 and the Padma Bhushan in 2016. He was also recently conferred with Maharashtra’s highest award, Bhushan Puraskar.
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Published By:
Nitish Singh
Published On:
Dec 18, 2025
