Ram Vanji Sutar, a renowned Indian sculptor, has left an indelible mark on the world with his monumental creations. His legacy extends beyond individual works; he embodies the spirit of dedication and artistic mastery.

Biography/Wiki

Born on February 19, 1925 (age 93 as of 2018), in the humble Vishwakarma community of Gondur village, Dhule district, Maharashtra, Ram V. Sutar’s journey began in a modest setting. His father, Vanji Hansraj, was a carpenter and sculptor, fostering a natural inclination towards art in young Ram. Inspired by his mentor, Shriram Krishna Joshi, he pursued his passion, gaining admission to the prestigious Sir J.J. School of Art in Bombay (now Mumbai).

His talent shone brightly; he graduated at the top of his class, earning the coveted Mayo Gold Medal for his exceptional sculpting skills.

Family

Ram V. Sutar was the only son of Vanji Hansraj and Sitabai. He married Pramila in 1952, and their son, Anil Sutar, followed in his father’s footsteps, also becoming a successful sculptor.

Career

Sutar’s career journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication. From 1954 to 1958, he contributed to the preservation of history, meticulously restoring ancient statues within the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. He then transitioned to a role as a Technical Assistant in the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in New Delhi, crafting models for the five-year plans.

However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue his artistic independence, resigning from his government position in 1959 to fully dedicate himself to his sculpting career.

His notable works include the impressive 45-foot Goddess Chambal sculpture at the Gandhi Sagar Dam, and the globally recognized bust of Mahatma Gandhi, gifted by the Indian government to numerous countries. His contribution includes a 17-foot-high Mahatma Gandhi sculpture in meditation pose, installed near Parliament House, Delhi, and Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat. The majestic 21-foot Equestrian statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Amritsar, Punjab, is another testament to his skill. His crowning achievement, however, is the design of the Statue of Unity – a breathtaking 182-meter tall tribute to Sardar Patel.

Awards

His exceptional contributions to the art world have been duly recognized with prestigious awards. In 1999, he received the Padma Shri, and in 2016, he was further honored with the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India.

Interesting Facts

• Ram V. Sutar’s early life intertwined with carpentry, assisting his father.
• He had the remarkable opportunity to meet Mahatma Gandhi in his childhood.
• The Statue of Unity, a project spanning almost three years, showcases his dedication and artistic prowess.

Key Milestones in Ram V. Sutar’s Career