CM Devendra Fadnavis Presents Maharashtra Bhushan to Centenarian Sculptor Ram Sutar at Noida Residence

Noida, Uttar Pradesh: Legendary Indian sculptor Ram Sutar, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, was awarded the Maharashtra Bhushan 2024 on Friday. The prestigious honor was personally presented by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at Sutar’s residence in Sector-19, Noida. A delegation from Maharashtra accompanied him, including Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, and Culture Minister Ashish Sailar.

CM Fadnavis praised Sutar for his outstanding contribution to the world of art. The award carries a cash prize of ₹25 lakh along with a commemorative memento. Anil Sutar, Ram Sutar’s son and fellow sculptor, expressed gratitude to the Maharashtra government for honoring his father at home.

Born on 19 February 1925 in a humble family from Gondur village, Maharashtra, Ram Sutar established his studio in Noida, where he has been based since 1990. Over his illustrious career, Sutar has been conferred with the Padma Shri (1999), Padma Bhushan (2018), and Tagore Award (2018). He has created more than 350 statues of Mahatma Gandhi, contributed to the restoration of ancient sculptures in Ajanta and Ellora caves, and designed several iconic monuments in India and abroad.

Due to his current health condition, Sutar was unable to leave his bed. Hence, the Maharashtra government delegation visited him at his residence to confer the award. Local MP Dr. Mahesh Sharma was also present on the occasion.

Among his most celebrated works, Ram Sutar designed the Statue of Unity in Gujarat (182 meters), the 251-meter Lord Ram statue in Ayodhya, a 153-foot Shiva statue in Bengaluru, a 100-foot Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj statue in Pune, and numerous Mahatma Gandhi statues in over 450 cities across India. His creations also grace international venues and have been presented as diplomatic gifts.

The Maharashtra Bhushan, the state’s highest civilian award, honors extraordinary contributions in art, literature, and social service. Previous recipients include Lata Mangeshkar (1997), Sachin Tendulkar (2001), Ratan Tata (2006), and Ashok Saraf (2023).

CM Fadnavis remarked, “It is a matter of pride for Maharashtra that Ram Sutar, a son of our soil, has illuminated India’s name globally through his unparalleled talent.”

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