Vishwakarma Shilpi Ramdas is a 6th-generation stone artisan based in the ancient coastal town of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu—long revered as a cradle of Indian stone sculpture. Coming from the sacred Vishwakarma lineage, Ramdas carries forward a distinguished heritage of temple building and idol carving that spans centuries. His craft is not merely an occupation but a spiritual calling, rooted deeply in the traditions of Shilpa Shastra, the ancient Indian canon of sculpture and sacred geometry.
As a traditional stone mason and temple sculptor, Ramdas works exclusively by hand, using age-old tools to breathe life into blocks of granite. His family is known for working with what they call “living stone”—a specific variety of granite believed to emit spiritual energy—meticulously selected and shaped with offerings, chants, and rituals. His signature style combines fluid grace with mathematical precision, capturing the essence of deities such as Ganesha, Vishnu, and Shiva in poses and expressions that convey deep spiritual symbolism.
Over decades, Ramdas has contributed to temple reconstructions, heritage preservation projects, and bespoke spiritual commissions across India and internationally. His workshop in Mahabalipuram stands as a living museum of stone art—strewn with unfinished idols, sacred motifs, and the soft rhythm of chisel against stone.
Despite the growing presence of mechanized tools in the craft, Ramdas remains unwavering in his commitment to manual technique, believing that the artisan’s touch infuses each sculpture with soul. His work continues to be sought after by temple trusts, spiritual leaders, collectors, and heritage architects who recognize in it not just craftsmanship, but devotion carved in stone.