India’s Renowned Sculptor Ram Sutar Passes Away at 100

Ram Vanji Sutar, celebrated as the “Statue Man of India,” died on December 18, 2025, at the age of 100 in Noida. Renowned for his monumental sculptures, Sutar’s career spanned over seven decades, during which he created more than 50 large-scale public works, including the iconic Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue at 182 meters. His art blended technical precision with a dynamic style, capturing the essence of India’s national icons in hyper-realistic bronze and stone.

Born in Gondur village, Dhule district, Maharashtra, Sutar came from a modest Vishwakarma family. His artistic journey began at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, where he earned a gold medal. Early influences included the ancient caves of Ajanta and Ellora, and he initially focused on restoring temple sculptures before moving into monumental works in the late 1950s. While Italian sculptors influenced his style, Sutar often cited his experiences at Ajanta and Ellora as foundational in shaping his expressive capabilities.

Mastering Lifelike Portraiture

Sutar’s mastery of lifelike portraiture is exemplified in his work on the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This engineering marvel is not only a tribute to Patel’s legacy but also an enlarged version of a smaller sculpture he created for the Ahmedabad airport. Sutar’s art resonated with the nationalist themes of the project, emphasizing the significance of portraying Indian historical figures with authenticity. He had a particular affinity for Mahatma Gandhi, having created nearly 400 statues and busts of the leader, including a meditative figure at the Parliament House.

Reflecting on his fascination with Gandhi, Sutar once remarked, “When he laughed, it was hearty and full. How much he is loved by people all over the world is what is always so touching.” His various representations of Gandhi, whether it be the thin-moustached figure at Parliament or the towering 72-foot statue in Patna’s Gandhi Maidan, each captured unique expressions of the leader’s spirit.

Sutar extended Gandhi’s message internationally, with statues in cities such as Berlin and Madrid. In an interview with The Hindu, he expressed his desire to convey Gandhi’s strength through his sculptures, while the Statue of Unity was intended to embody the spirit of the “Iron Man” of India.

A Legacy of Collaboration and Mentorship

Throughout his career, Sutar’s work transcended political and ideological divides. His sculptures of figures like B.R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Chhatrapati Shivaji showcased a commitment to national unity and heritage. Despite his popularity, some avant-garde circles criticized his style for lacking innovation, as Sutar focused on creating works that honored revered figures rather than experimenting with contemporary art forms.

Even in his 90s, Sutar maintained a rigorous daily routine, dedicating eight hours a day to clay modeling. His commitment to his craft reflected both physical and mental resilience. In the 1990s, he established a studio in Noida, where he collaborated with his son, Anil Ram Sutar, integrating modern techniques with traditional artistry. His studio became a nurturing ground for young sculptors, many of whom flourished under his mentorship.

Sutar’s personality resonated with a blend of ambition and humility. He embraced a collaborative environment, fostering relationships with emerging artists and sharing his wealth of knowledge. The impact of his work and teachings will continue to inspire generations of sculptors, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the realm of Indian art.