Renowned sculptor Ram Sutar was honored with the prestigious Maharashtra Bhushan award on Friday. The Maharashtra government visited his residence in Sector 19, Noida, to confer this honor. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, and Culture Minister Ashish Shelar attended the event to celebrate Ram Sutar’s remarkable contribution to the field of art.
A Glorious Recognition of Art and Legacy
The Maharashtra Bhushan award, which is the state’s highest civilian honor, was announced for Ram Sutar on March 20, 2025, by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. As part of the award, Ram Sutar was given a cash prize of 25 lakh rupees and a commemorative plaque. During the ceremony, Fadnavis expressed his pride in Ram Sutar’s accomplishments and noted that the artist, originally from Maharashtra, had earned global recognition through his remarkable artistry. Fadnavis acknowledged that Sutar’s sculptures are not only displayed across India but are also found in several countries, marking significant milestones in the world of sculpture. Ram Sutar holds numerous records for his extraordinary works.
Ram Sutar’s Health Challenges and the Ceremony at Home
Due to Ram Sutar’s current health condition, he was unable to attend the ceremony in person. The artist, who is confined to his bed, was honored in the comfort of his own home. After receiving the award, Ram Sutar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those present. The ceremony also saw the presence of local Member of Parliament, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, who joined the occasion to celebrate the artist’s achievements.
Sutar’s son, sculptor Anil Sutar, expressed gratitude on behalf of his father, thanking the Maharashtra government for honoring Ram Sutar at his home. He conveyed that the family felt deeply appreciative of the government’s gesture, which honored his father’s lifetime of dedication to the arts.
A Lifetime of Artistic Excellence
Ram Sutar turned 100 years old earlier this year, celebrating his centenary on February 19, 2025. Born into a poor family in Gondur village, Maharashtra, Ram Sutar moved to Noida in 1990, where he established his studio and has been residing since then. Over the years, he has earned accolades such as the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards for his contributions to art and sculpture.
Ram Sutar is best known for creating monumental sculptures and historical monuments. He is credited with crafting over 350 statues of Mahatma Gandhi. Apart from these, he played an essential role in restoring several ancient sculptures in the Ajanta and Ellora caves, which are among the world’s most iconic historical sites.
World’s Tallest Statue and Other Monumental Works
Ram Sutar’s contribution to art is not just confined to traditional sculptures but also includes some of the world’s largest and most impressive statues. He designed the Statue of Unity, located in Gujarat, which is the world’s tallest statue at a staggering height of 182 meters. This statue honors the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and stands as a symbol of India’s unity and strength.
In addition to the Statue of Unity, Sutar has been responsible for creating numerous other significant sculptures. One such example is the statue of Mahatma Gandhi located in the Parliament House. This statue, along with many others, has been gifted to various countries, serving as a tribute to the leader’s global influence.
Other Iconic Sculptures Created by Ram Sutar
Ram Sutar’s remarkable skill is also reflected in several other monumental sculptures across India. He designed the towering 251-meter statue of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, which is one of the tallest statues in India. The statue is a symbol of Lord Ram’s legacy and cultural significance in Hinduism.
Sutar’s contributions also include the creation of the 153-foot statue of Lord Shiva in Bengaluru, the 100-foot statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Moshi, Pune, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi with children at Gandhi Maidan in Patna. These sculptures have become landmarks in their respective locations, drawing visitors and admirers from across the globe.
Ram Sutar’s work transcends the boundaries of sculpture. His creations are not only artistic marvels but also embody the cultural and historical narratives that define India. His sculptures, often located in prominent public spaces, have made art more accessible to the general public while preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage.
A Global Legacy of Art
The recognition of Ram Sutar with the Maharashtra Bhushan award is a testament to his immense contribution to the world of sculpture. His works have left an indelible mark on the global art scene, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists. As Sutar’s sculptures continue to stand tall in various parts of India and beyond, they serve as symbols of India’s rich cultural history and the power of art to convey powerful messages.
The Maharashtra Bhushan award, presented to Sutar in recognition of his lifetime of artistic excellence, is not only a personal honor for the artist but also a tribute to the artistic heritage of India. As the world celebrates his achievements, Ram Sutar’s name will forever be associated with the greatness of Indian sculpture and the vision of an artist who dedicated his life to creating monumental works of art that reflect the country’s cultural diversity and history.
Ram Sutar’s journey from a humble background in Maharashtra to becoming one of the most celebrated sculptors in the world is nothing short of inspiring. His work has not only shaped the artistic landscape of India but has also garnered international recognition. The Maharashtra Bhushan award is a fitting tribute to his immense contributions to art and culture. As Ram Sutar continues to receive the respect and admiration he truly deserves, his legacy will undoubtedly live on in the towering sculptures he has created across the world.
