Noida | December 18, 2025
India lost one of its greatest sculptors, Ram Vanji Sutar, on December 18, 2025 early morning 01:30am. He passed away peacefully at his home in Noida at the age of 100. Ram Sutar was best known as the creator of the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. His passing marks the end of an important chapter in Indian art history.
The news of his death was shared by his son, Anil Sutar. He said that Ram Sutar passed away around midnight. His last rites were performed on December 18 at 11 a.m. in Noida.
Ram Vanji Sutar was born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village of Dhule district, Maharashtra, into a simple Vishwakarma family. His father, Vanji Hansraj, was a carpenter. From a young age, Ram Sutar learned about tools and craftsmanship by helping his father, which slowly developed into a deep love for sculpture.
He later studied at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, where he trained as a sculptor and won a gold medal for his work. He also worked with the Archaeological Survey of India at the Ajanta and Ellora caves, where he learned about India’s ancient art and sculpture.
Ram Sutar was known for creating lifelike and expressive sculptures. His works seemed full of emotion and character. His most famous creation, the 182-metre-tall Statue of Unity, brought him worldwide recognition and made India proud on the global stage.
During his long career, he created more than 8,000 sculptures, including over 50 large monuments. He made statues of many great leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and others. Some of his well-known works can be seen in the Parliament complex in New Delhi.
For his contribution to Indian art, Ram Sutar received the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan awards. Despite these honors, he lived a simple life and remained dedicated to his work.
Ram Sutar believed that sculpture was a way to preserve history for future generations. Though he is no longer with us, his art will continue to inspire people for many years to come.
