By Monika Angrish

On February 20, 2025, the art world gathered at the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi in New Delhi to honor the centenary of India’s eminent sculptor, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awardee, Shri Ram V. Sutar. This grand retrospective exhibition, inaugurated by Peethadhishwar Swami Dhiraj Maharaj ji and Shri Arun Govil ji, Member of Lok Sabha, offers an in-depth journey through Sutar’s monumental contributions to art and culture.

The Sant of Art

Hailed as the Sant of Art, a title lovingly bestowed upon him by his son, Shri Anil Ram Sutar, Shri Ram V. Sutar’s dedication to his craft transcends mere artistic expression-it is a spiritual pursuit. His sculptures do not merely capture form; they breathe life, conveying stories of valor, wisdom, and divinity. His most iconic creation, the 182-meter Statue of Unity, stands as a beacon of his artistic and nationalistic fervor.

Through his meticulous work, Shri Sutar has sculpted over 8,000 statues, immortalizing historical and mythological figures. His sculptures grace national and international landscapes, preserving India’s rich heritage for generations to come.

A Grand Inauguration & Honoring a Legacy

The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by an award ceremony recognizing Shri Ram V. Sutar’s unparalleled contributions to art. He was honored with the Face India World Record for two remarkable achievements: crafting the world’s tallest statue and producing the highest number of Mahatma Gandhi busts. The award was presented by Prof. Paramjeet Singh, Face India World Record Patron, along with trustee Ms. Monika Angrish and managing trustee Virender Kumar from the Face India Foundation for Art, Culture, and Education Trust.

Eminent guests, including Dr. Ram Vanji Sutar and Dr. Anil Ram Sutar, applauded the sculptor’s relentless dedication and artistic passion. A special documentary film chronicling his life and works provided attendees with an intimate glimpse into his creative journey and vision.

A Tribute to a Living Legend

The retrospective exhibition curated an extensive collection of Shri Sutar’s lifeworks, allowing visitors to traverse his journey from a budding artist in Maharashtra to a globally acclaimed sculptor. Attendees witnessed the evolution of his artistic philosophy, from his early inspirations to his groundbreaking monumental sculptures.

The exhibition not only honored Shri Ram V. Sutar but also recognized the contributions of his son and collaborator, Shri Anil Ram Sutar, who has played an instrumental role in carrying forward this legacy of artistic excellence.

Pioneers of Monumental Sculptures

Shri Ram V. Sutar and Anil Ram Sutar have established themselves as global pioneers in monumental sculpture, elevating India’s artistic reputation worldwide. Their expertise, precision, and visionary artistry have resulted in some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring statues ever created.

Among their many celebrated works, the Statue of Unity, a 522-foot bronze tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, stands as a global landmark, drawing millions of visitors and enhancing India’s cultural pride. The intricate details and lifelike features of this engineering marvel showcase their exceptional craftsmanship, cementing their status as India’s foremost sculptors.

Beyond the Statue of Unity, the father-son duo operates India’s largest bronze foundry in Sahibabad, Uttar Pradesh, enabling them to execute large-scale projects with impeccable precision. Their upcoming magnum opus, a 400-foot-high statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, will be installed in the Arabian Sea near Nariman Point. This grand monument will honor the legendary Maratha warrior, serving as an enduring symbol of valor and leadership.

The Legacy Continues

As the evening concluded, the air was filled with reverence and inspiration. The retrospective exhibition not only celebrated Shri Ram V. Sutar’s extraordinary journey but also ignited a renewed appreciation for the role of sculpture in storytelling and national identity.

This landmark event serves as a reminder that art is eternal, and through the hands of a master like Shri Ram V. Sutar, history is sculpted in stone and bronze, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

For those yet to witness this historic exhibition, the doors of Lalit Kala Akademi remain open, inviting all to experience the grandeur of a century’s worth of artistic brilliance.

For an exclusive visual tribute to Shri Ram V. Sutar’s centenary celebrations, watch the special biography film on Art Times India’s YouTube channel.