Statue of Unity Sculptor Ram Sutar Conferred with Maharashtra Bhushan Award

Renowned sculptor Ram Sutar, best known for designing the Statue of Unity, has been honored with the Maharashtra Bhushan award. The decision was announced by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in the state Legislative Assembly. A selection committee led by Fadnavis finalized Sutar’s name for the award on March 12, 2025. At 100 years old, Sutar continues to contribute to India’s artistic heritage and has been entrusted with sculpting a statue of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar for Chaityabhoomi.

Key Highlights

Award Announcement

• Ram Sutar was selected for the Maharashtra Bhushan award by a committee led by CM Devendra Fadnavis.
• The decision was finalized on March 12, 2025, and officially announced in the state Legislative Assembly.

Achievements of Ram Sutar

• Designer of the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue located in Gujarat.
• Has been commissioned to create a statue of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar for Chaityabhoomi, Mumbai.
• Honored with Padma Shri (1999) and Padma Bhushan (2016).
• Born in Dhule, Maharashtra, and recently turned 100 years old.

Maharashtra Bhushan Award Details

Highest Civilian Award of Maharashtra

• Presented annually by the Government of Maharashtra.
• Recognizes outstanding individual achievements.

Establishment and History

• Instituted in 1995 by the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance government.
• First awarded in 1996.

Fields of Recognition

• Initially given for achievements in Literature, Art, Sport, and Science.
• Later expanded to include Social Work, Journalism, Public Administration, and Health Services.

Prize and Selection Process

• Award includes a cash prize of ₹25 lakh, a memento, and a citation.
• Winners are selected by a committee appointed by the Maharashtra government.