Ram V. Sutar: A Legacy Etched in Stone – Remembering the Sculptor of the Statue of Unity
The art world mourns the loss of Ram Vanji Sutar, the renowned Indian sculptor whose monumental works have become synonymous with national pride and artistic excellence. sutar, aged 99, passed away on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy that rivals the masters – Rodin and Michelangelo - and a nation deeply indebted to his vision. This article delves into the life, work, and enduring impact of this unusual artist.
A life dedicated to Sculpture
Born in 1924 in Gondhal,Maharashtra,Sutar’s journey began with a diploma in sculpture from the Sir J.J. School of Art, Bombay (now Mumbai). He quickly distinguished himself,dedicating his life to breathing life into stone and metal. His career spanned decades, marked by a relentless pursuit of perfection and a profound understanding of form and emotion.
Iconic Creations: Shaping India’s Landscape
Sutar’s portfolio is a testament to his skill and patriotic fervor. He wasn’t merely a sculptor; he was a storyteller, using his art to commemorate heroes and embody national ideals. Some of his most celebrated works include:
* Statue of Unity: Undoubtedly his most famous creation, this 182-metre (597 ft) statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Gujarat is the world’s tallest statue, a breathtaking tribute to India’s Iron Man.
* Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statues: Sutar crafted equestrian statues of the Maratha warrior king for both the Parliament complex in Delhi and the upcoming monument in Mumbai, symbols of courage and leadership.
* Mahatma Gandhi Statues: His depictions of mahatma Gandhi are ubiquitous,with over 450 busts installed in cities across the globe,spreading the message of peace and non-violence.
* Lord Ram Statue (Ayodhya): Sutar was actively involved in the ongoing project to create a grand statue of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, a project of immense cultural significance.
* Restoration Work at Ajanta & Ellora: Beyond creating new works,Sutar also contributed substantially to preserving India’s artistic heritage,restoring sculptures at the ancient cave sites of Ajanta and Ellora.
Recognition and Accolades: A Nation’s Gratitude
Sutar’s contributions where widely recognized throughout his life. He received some of India’s highest civilian honors:
* Padma Shri (1999): Awarded for his distinguished service in the field of art.
* Padma Bhushan (2016): A higher honour recognizing his exceptional and distinguished service.
* Maharashtra Bhushan Puraskar (recent): The state of Maharashtra’s highest civilian award, presented earlier this year by leading political figures including CM Devendra Fadnavis.
the recent presentation of the Maharashtra Bhushan Puraskar in Noida, attended by key leaders like Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, underscored the deep respect and admiration for Sutar’s work.
A Nation in Mourning: Tributes Pour In
News of Sutar’s passing evoked widespread grief and heartfelt tributes from across the political spectrum.
* Yogi Adityanath (UP CM): Expressed profound sorrow, calling Sutar the “artisan behind the world’s tallest statue” and lamenting an “irreparable loss to the art world.”
* Droupadi Murmu (President of India): Remembered Sutar as an artist who significantly enriched India’s cultural heritage, highlighting the Statue of unity as a “great symbol of India’s enduring legacy.”
* Amit Shah (Union Home Minister): Acknowledged Sutar’s role in creating ancient sculptures and his vital work in restoring the artistic treasures of Ajanta and Ellora.
* JP Nadda (BJP President): praised Sutar as one of India’s most respected sculptors, assuring that his legacy would live on through his creations.
* Himanta Biswa Sarma (Assam CM): Recognized Sutar’s exceptional craftsmanship in bringing Assam’s heroes – Lachit Barphukan and Gopinath Bardoloi - to life through his statues.
The Maharashtra government announced full state honors for Sutar’s funeral in Noida, a testament to the nation’s gratitude.
