Ram Vanji Sutar, the Visionary Behind the Statue of Unity, Passes Away at 100

Updated: December 19, 2025 14:57

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Ram Vanji Sutar, legendary sculptor and designer of the Statue of Unity, passed away at 100 in Noida. A gold medallist from J.J. School of Art, he created over 50 monumental works, including statues of Gandhi and Shivaji. Tributes from leaders highlight his enduring legacy in Indian art and culture.

Renowned sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, celebrated as the creative genius behind the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, passed away at his residence in Noida on December 17, 2025, at the age of 100. His demise marks the end of an era in Indian monumental art, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the nation’s cultural and historical landscape.

Key highlights of his life and career include:

Born in Gondur village, Dhule district, Maharashtra, in 1925, Sutar displayed an early fascination with sculpting.

He graduated with a gold medal from Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, establishing himself as a master of form and detail.

Over a career spanning seven decades, he created more than 50 monumental works, immortalizing national icons such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and Subhas Chandra Bose.

His most iconic creation, the Statue of Unity (522 feet tall) in Gujarat, unveiled in 2018, became a global landmark and a symbol of India’s pride.

He was also associated with upcoming projects, including the statue of Lord Ram in Ayodhya and a grand Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mumbai.

Tributes poured in from across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed him as a “remarkable sculptor whose mastery gave India some of its most iconic landmarks,” while President Droupadi Murmu described his passing as “a monumental loss to Indian art and heritage.” The Maharashtra government announced state honours for his funeral, underscoring his stature as the “Statue Man of India.”

Beyond his monumental works, Sutar’s artistry was defined by hyper-realistic bronze and stone portraits, blending technical precision with emotional depth. His sculptures not only celebrated India’s leaders but also reflected the country’s collective consciousness and cultural identity.

As India mourns his passing, Ram Sutar’s creations continue to inspire generations, standing tall as timeless testaments to his vision and craftsmanship. His journey from a humble village in Maharashtra to becoming the nation’s most revered sculptor is a story of dedication, artistry, and national pride.

Sources: The Hindu, The Hans IndiaThe Hans India, The Logical Indian, Indian ExpressThe Indian Express, Hindustan Times