Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde, on Thursday paid heartfelt tributes to renowned sculptor and Padma Shri awardee Dr Ram Sutar, whose monumental works brought global recognition to Indian sculpture. Sutar passed away late Wednesday night at his residence in Noida at the age of 100.
Expressing grief, Fadnavis said Sutar&rsquo;s death marked the end of an era in the world of sculpture. He highlighted that the veteran artist&rsquo;s creations were known for their perfect proportions and lifelike expressions. The chief minister recalled his recent visit to Sutar&rsquo;s New Delhi residence to present him with the Maharashtra Bhushan award, describing the moment as deeply emotional when the centenarian artist recited lines from the iconic song &ldquo;Maharashtra Majha&rdquo;.
Dr Ram Sutar is best known for creating some of India&rsquo;s most iconic monuments, including the Statue of Unity dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the statue of V D Savarkar at the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Even at the age of 100, he remained actively involved in artistic projects, including work related to the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar memorial at Indu Mill in Mumbai.
Fadnavis said Sutar&rsquo;s art would continue to inspire generations and that his legacy would live on through his sculptures. He also spoke to the sculptor&rsquo;s son, Anil Sutar, to offer condolences and assured the family of the state government&rsquo;s support.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde described Sutar&rsquo;s demise as the conclusion of a glorious chapter in Indian sculpture. He called the legendary artist a &ldquo;Kohinoor of the sculptural world&rdquo; who carried Indian culture and the ideals of great leaders to a global audience.
Ajit Pawar also expressed deep sorrow, calling Sutar the &ldquo;Bhishmacharya of sculpture&rdquo;. He said the country had lost an exceptional artist whose contribution to Indian memorial art remains unparalleled.

Padma Shri awardee and Statue of Unity creator passes away at 100

Legendary Sculptor Ram Sutar Passes Away at 100

Padma Shri awardee and Statue of Unity creator passes away at 100

December 18, 2025 | 12:27 IST