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मूर्तिकार

A1 noun #8,500 most common 10 min read

मूर्तिकार

moortikaar Top 8,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips मूर्तिकार in 30 Seconds

Explanation मूर्तिकार in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'मूर्तिकार' (mūrtikār) means 'sculptor'. It is a person who makes 'mūrti' (statues). You can use it in very simple sentences like 'वह मूर्तिकार है' (He is a sculptor). Think of it as a job title, like 'teacher' or 'doctor'. You will mostly see this word in picture books or basic vocabulary lists about professions. At this stage, focus on the spelling and the basic meaning. Remember that it ends with 'kār', which often means 'maker' in Hindi. So, 'mūrti' (statue) + 'kār' (maker) = statue maker. This makes it easier to remember. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just use it as a simple noun to identify a person's job. Practice saying it: moor-tee-kaar.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'मूर्तिकार' in slightly longer sentences with adjectives and basic verbs. You can describe what a sculptor does: 'मूर्तिकार मूर्ति बनाता है' (The sculptor makes statues). You can also use adjectives like 'अच्छा' (good) or 'बड़ा' (big/great). You should also learn that if you are talking about 'the sculptor' doing something in the past tense, you need to add 'ने' (e.g., मूर्तिकार ने मूर्ति बनाई). At this level, you might also encounter the word when talking about festivals in India where people buy statues. You can say 'मैं मूर्तिकार के पास गया' (I went to the sculptor). Start noticing how the word functions as a masculine noun and how it interacts with simple postpositions.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'मूर्तिकार' in various contexts, including discussions about art and culture. You can talk about the materials a sculptor uses: 'मूर्तिकार पत्थर, मिट्टी और लकड़ी से काम करता है' (The sculptor works with stone, clay, and wood). You can also use the word in the oblique plural form 'मूर्तिकारों' when followed by postpositions: 'मूर्तिकारों को बहुत समय लगता है' (Sculptors take a lot of time). You can start discussing the skill (कौशल) and hard work (मेहनत) of a sculptor. This is also a good time to learn related words like 'मूर्तिकला' (sculpture as an art form). You might hear this word in news stories or read it in short articles about famous Indian artists.

At the B2 level, you can use 'मूर्तिकार' to engage in more detailed conversations about art history and the creative process. You can discuss the 'vision' (दृष्टिकोण) of a sculptor or how a 'मूर्तिकार' expresses emotions through stone. You should be able to understand more formal texts where the word appears, such as museum descriptions or art reviews. You can also use more advanced synonyms like 'शिल्पकार' and understand the subtle differences between them. You might explore the role of the 'मूर्तिकार' in ancient Indian history, such as those who carved the temples at Khajuraho or Ellora. Your sentences should be more complex, using conjunctions and relative clauses: 'वह मूर्तिकार, जिसे पिछले साल पुरस्कार मिला था, अब एक नई प्रदर्शनी लगा रहा है' (That sculptor, who received an award last year, is now putting up a new exhibition).

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'मूर्तिकार' should include its metaphorical and literary uses. You might encounter the word in philosophical discussions about how a creator 'sculpts' a society or how a mentor 'sculpts' a student's character. You should be able to appreciate the nuances of different regional traditions of 'मूर्तिकार' across India. You can read academic papers or long-form essays on 'मूर्तिकला' and the socio-economic status of traditional 'मूर्तिकारों' in the modern world. You should also be familiar with poetic terms like 'बुततराश' and know when to use them for stylistic effect. At this level, you can critique the techniques of a sculptor and discuss the aesthetic impact of their work in fluent, sophisticated Hindi.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly grasp of 'मूर्तिकार' and can use it with total precision in any context—be it academic, professional, or poetic. You can debate the evolution of the sculptor's role from ancient temple guilds to contemporary global art markets. You can understand and use archaic or highly specialized terms related to the 'Shilpa Shastras' that a master 'मूर्तिकार' would use. You can translate complex art criticism from English to Hindi (and vice versa) while maintaining the correct register and emotional weight of the word. You can also use the word with irony, metaphor, or deep cultural allusion in your own creative writing. At this stage, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a gateway to a deep understanding of Indian artistic heritage.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

मूर्तिकार in 30 Seconds

मूर्तिकार refers to a sculptor or a person who makes statues.
It is a masculine noun derived from 'mūrti' (statue) and 'kār' (maker).
It is used for both traditional religious artisans and modern fine artists.
The word is common in cultural, religious, and artistic discussions in Hindi.

The word मूर्तिकार (mūrtikār) is a profound Hindi noun that translates directly to 'sculptor' or 'statue-maker'. To understand its weight, one must look at its components: 'Mūrti' (statue, idol, or form) and 'Kār' (maker or doer). In the cultural landscape of India, a mūrtikār is not merely a craftsman; they are often seen as individuals who bridge the gap between the mundane and the divine. Whether it is carving intricate deities from white marble in Jaipur or shaping massive clay idols of Goddess Durga in the narrow lanes of Kumartuli, the mūrtikār is a central figure in Indian artistic and religious life.

Artistic Context: In a modern art gallery, a mūrtikār might be someone working with abstract bronze or recycled materials, pushing the boundaries of three-dimensional expression.
Religious Context: In the context of temples, the mūrtikār follows the 'Shilpa Shastras'—ancient texts that dictate the precise proportions and attributes of divine figures.

People use this word when discussing the creator of any three-dimensional art. It is a term of respect, acknowledging the physical labor and the creative vision required to transform a block of stone or a pile of mud into a recognizable figure.

शहर के सबसे प्रसिद्ध मूर्तिकार ने इस प्रतिमा को बनाया है। (The most famous sculptor of the city has made this statue.)

Beyond the physical act of carving, the word evokes the idea of 'giving form'. In literature, a poet might be called a 'shabd-mūrtikār' (a sculptor of words), though this is metaphorical. Most commonly, you will hear it in news reports about new monuments, in documentaries about traditional crafts, or during festival seasons when the demand for clay idols peaks. The versatility of the word allows it to cover everything from a street-side artisan to a world-renowned sculptor like Ram V. Sutar. Historically, the role of the mūrtikār was hereditary in many parts of India, with skills passed down through generations within specific guilds. Today, while many still follow the family tradition, many others learn the craft in fine arts universities.

वह एक कुशल मूर्तिकार है जो मिट्टी में जान फूँक देता है। (He is a skilled sculptor who breathes life into clay.)

Material Usage: A stone-worker is often called a 'shilpkār', but 'mūrtikār' is specifically for one who makes figures.

पुराने मंदिरों की दीवारों पर मूर्तिकारों की अद्भुत कला दिखती है। (The wonderful art of sculptors is visible on the walls of old temples.)

इस मूर्तिकार ने अपनी कला से सबको मंत्रमुग्ध कर दिया। (This sculptor mesmerized everyone with his art.)

Public Recognition: Government awards like the Padma Shri are often given to master mūrtikārs for preserving traditional heritage.

क्या आप किसी प्रसिद्ध मूर्तिकार को जानते हैं? (Do you know any famous sculptor?)

Ultimately, the word represents the human desire to replicate the beauty of the world and the divine in a tangible, lasting form.

Using मूर्तिकार (mūrtikār) in sentences requires understanding its role as a masculine noun that refers to a person. In Hindi grammar, the word remains 'मूर्तिकार' in the direct case (singular and plural), but changes to 'मूर्तिकारों' in the oblique case (when followed by a postposition like 'को', 'से', 'ने').

Simple Subject: When the sculptor is the one doing the action: 'मूर्तिकार पत्थर तराश रहा है' (The sculptor is carving the stone).

एक मूर्तिकार अपनी छेनी और हथौड़े से काम करता है। (A sculptor works with his chisel and hammer.)

To describe the quality of the sculptor, you can use adjectives like 'कुशल' (skilled), 'प्रसिद्ध' (famous), or 'महान' (great). For example, 'वह एक कुशल मूर्तिकार है' (He is a skilled sculptor). When talking about the tools or materials used by the sculptor, you use the postposition 'के पास' or 'का'.

मूर्तिकार की कार्यशाला में बहुत सारी मूर्तियाँ थीं। (There were many statues in the sculptor's workshop.)

In more complex sentences, you might describe the process: 'मूर्तिकार ने मिट्टी को आकार देकर एक सुंदर चेहरा बनाया' (The sculptor gave shape to the clay and made a beautiful face). Notice how 'ने' is used here because the verb is transitive and in the past tense.

लोग मूर्तिकार की मेहनत की प्रशंसा कर रहे हैं। (People are praising the sculptor's hard work.)

Plural Usage: 'मूर्तिकार यहाँ रहते हैं' (Sculptors live here) vs 'मूर्तिकारों ने काम शुरू किया' (The sculptors started the work).

क्या तुम किसी मूर्तिकार से मिलना चाहोगे? (Would you like to meet any sculptor?)

इस मूर्तिकार की कला विश्व प्रसिद्ध है। (The art of this sculptor is world-famous.)

Professional Titles: In formal writing, use 'मूर्तिकार' before a name: 'मूर्तिकार राम सुतार' (Sculptor Ram Sutar).

एक सच्चा मूर्तिकार पत्थर के अंदर छिपी मूर्ति को देख लेता है। (A true sculptor sees the statue hidden inside the stone.)

By varying the adjectives and the verbs associated with the noun, you can express a wide range of meanings, from simple professional identification to deep artistic appreciation.

In daily life, the word मूर्तिकार (mūrtikār) pops up in several distinct environments. The most vibrant setting is during the months leading up to major Hindu festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, or Saraswati Puja. News channels often run features on 'मूर्तिकारों की तैयारी' (the preparations of the sculptors), showing them working in large sheds or 'pandals'. You will hear residents discussing which mūrtikār makes the most beautiful or 'eco-friendly' idols.

In the Media: Newspapers often feature headlines like 'मूर्तिकारों को नहीं मिल रही मिट्टी' (Sculptors are not getting clay), highlighting their seasonal struggles.

आज टीवी पर एक प्रसिद्ध मूर्तिकार का इंटरव्यू है। (There is an interview of a famous sculptor on TV today.)

Another common place is in historical or educational contexts. If you visit a museum or a heritage site like the Ajanta and Ellora caves, the guides will frequently use the term to refer to the ancient artisans who carved those masterpieces. They might say, 'प्राचीन मूर्तिकारों ने बिना आधुनिक औजारों के यह काम किया' (Ancient sculptors did this work without modern tools). In schools, children learn about 'मूर्तिकार' as one of the community helpers or artists.

गाँव के मूर्तिकार अपनी कला को जीवित रखने की कोशिश कर रहे हैं। (The village sculptors are trying to keep their art alive.)

In literature and Hindi cinema, a 'mūrtikār' is sometimes portrayed as a passionate, misunderstood artist. You might hear the word in a movie dialogue where a character is being compared to a sculptor who has 'shaped' someone's life.

In Fine Arts: In art galleries, curators use 'मूर्तिकार' to introduce the artist whose 3D works are being exhibited.

इस प्रदर्शनी में देश के बेहतरीन मूर्तिकारों की कृतियाँ हैं। (This exhibition has works by the country's best sculptors.)

सरकारी आदेश के अनुसार, मूर्तिकारों को अब केवल प्राकृतिक रंगों का उपयोग करना चाहिए। (According to government orders, sculptors should now use only natural colors.)

Workshops: You might hear 'मूर्तिकार की दुकान' (sculptor's shop) or 'मूर्तिकार की वर्कशॉप' (sculptor's workshop) when asking for directions in an old city.

एक युवा मूर्तिकार ने कबाड़ से एक अद्भुत मूर्ति बनाई। (A young sculptor made an amazing statue from scrap.)

Whether you are in a sacred temple, a bustling market, or a high-end art show, 'मूर्तिकार' is the standard and most respectful way to refer to these creators.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing मूर्तिकार (mūrtikār) with other types of artists. While all sculptors are artists, not all artists are sculptors. Beginners often use the general term 'Kalākār' (artist) when they specifically mean someone who makes statues. While not grammatically 'wrong', it lacks the precision of 'मूर्तिकार'.

Mūrtikār vs. Chitrakār: Learners sometimes mix these up. 'Chitrakār' is a painter (2D), whereas 'Mūrtikār' is a sculptor (3D). Using 'Chitrakār' for a statue-maker is a common error.

गलत: वह एक अच्छा चित्रकार है जो पत्थर काटता है। (Wrong: He is a good painter who cuts stone.) - सही: वह एक अच्छा मूर्तिकार है। (Correct: He is a good sculptor.)

Another mistake is the pronunciation. The 'ū' in 'mūrtikār' is a long vowel. Pronouncing it with a short 'u' (murtikār) is a common slip for English speakers. Also, the 't' in 'mūrti' is a soft dental sound, not the hard 't' found in the English word 'tea'. Using a hard 't' can make the word sound awkward to native ears. Learners also struggle with the plural oblique form. They might say 'मूर्तिकारों' in a direct sentence like 'मूर्तिकारों यहाँ हैं' (The sculptors are here), which is incorrect. The correct plural direct is 'मूर्तिकार यहाँ हैं'. You only use 'मूर्तिकारों' when followed by a postposition.

गलत: मूर्तिकारों ने बहुत मेहनत की। (Incorrect: Sculptors [direct] worked hard.) - सही: मूर्तिकारों ने बहुत मेहनत की। (Wait, this is actually correct because 'ने' is a postposition! The mistake would be saying 'मूर्तिकार ने' when referring to many.)

Confusing with Shilpkār: 'Shilpkār' is a broader term meaning craftsman or architect. While a sculptor is a shilpkār, a carpenter is also a shilpkār. Use 'मूर्तिकार' for specific figure-making.

गलत: वह मूर्तिकार मेज बना रहा है। (Wrong: That sculptor is making a table.) - सही: वह बढ़ई मेज बना रहा है। (Correct: That carpenter is making a table.)

गलत: क्या तुम एक मूर्तिकार हो जो गाने गाता है? (Wrong: Are you a sculptor who sings songs?) - सही: क्या तुम एक गायक हो? (Correct: Are you a singer?)

Overusing the word: In very casual conversation, people might just say 'मूर्ति बनाने वाला' (statue maker). 'मूर्तिकार' is slightly more formal and professional.

सावधान: मूर्तिकार शब्द का प्रयोग केवल उन कलाकारों के लिए करें जो मूर्तियाँ बनाते हैं। (Caution: Use the word 'mūrtikār' only for artists who make statues.)

By avoiding these pitfalls, you will sound much more like a native speaker and show a deeper understanding of the nuances of Hindi vocabulary.

To enrich your vocabulary, it is helpful to look at words related to मूर्तिकार (mūrtikār). Each has a slightly different shade of meaning depending on the material or the level of skill involved.

शिल्पकार (Shilpkār): This is the most common synonym. It comes from 'Shilp' (craft/art) and 'Kār'. While 'mūrtikār' is specific to statues, 'shilpkār' is a broader term for any craftsman, including those who do architectural carving or work with wood and metal in non-figurative ways.
कलाकार (Kalākār): Meaning 'artist', this is a general category. A mūrtikār is a type of kalākār. You use this when you want to praise someone's creative spirit rather than their specific technical job.
बुततराश (But-tarāsh): This word has Urdu/Persian origins. 'But' means idol/statue and 'tarāsh' means carver. You will find this word in poetry (Ghazals) or classic literature. It sounds very poetic and sophisticated.

वह पत्थरों का बुततराश है। (He is a carver of stone idols.)

If the sculptor works specifically with clay, they might be called a 'Kumhār' (potter), though this is usually reserved for someone making pots and utensils. However, a 'Kumhār' who makes idols for festivals is often called a 'mūrtikār' during that season.

सभी शिल्पकार इस मेले में हिस्सा लेंगे। (All craftsmen will participate in this fair.)

प्रतिमाकार (Pratimākār): A very formal/Sanskritized version of the word. 'Pratimā' is another word for statue/image. You will mostly find this in academic books or formal art criticism.

महान प्रतिमाकार ने राजा की मूर्ति बनाई। (The great statue-maker made the king's statue.)

वह एक कलाकार है, लेकिन उसका मुख्य काम मूर्तिकला है। (He is an artist, but his main work is sculpture.)

Sang-tarāsh (संगतराश): Specifically a stone-cutter or stone-carver ('Sang' = stone). This is used more for the physical labor of carving stone rather than the artistic creation of a figure.

ताजमहल के निर्माण में हजारों संगतराशों ने काम किया। (Thousands of stone-carvers worked in the construction of the Taj Mahal.)

Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the right word for the right context, making your Hindi sound more precise and expressive.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The root 'mūrch' in Sanskrit, from which 'mūrti' is derived, originally meant to thicken, solidify, or take a definite shape. So a 'mūrtikār' is literally a 'solidifier' of ideas.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /muːrtɪˈkɑːr/

US /mʊrtɪˈkɑr/

The primary stress is on the first syllable 'Mūr', with a secondary stress on 'kār'.

Rhymes With

कलाकार (Kalākār) पत्रकार (Patrakār) साहित्यकार (Sāhityakār) चित्रकार (Chitrakār) संगीतकार (Sangeetkār) सलाहकार (Salāhkār) अहंकार (Ahankār) उपकार (Upkār)

Common Errors

Using a hard 't' (retroflex) like in 'table'.
Shortening the long 'u' sound to a short 'u'.
Misplacing the 'r' sound (it should come after 'mu' and before 'ti').
Pronouncing 'kār' as 'care'.
Dropping the final 'r' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to read if you know basic conjuncts and the 'reph' (r) sound.

Writing 3/5

Requires attention to the 'reph' mark and vowel lengths.

Speaking 2/5

Simple to pronounce once the dental 't' is mastered.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive enough to recognize in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

मूर्ति (Statue) कला (Art) बनाना (To make) पत्थर (Stone) मिट्टी (Clay)

Learn Next

मूर्तिकला (Sculpture) शिल्पकार (Craftsman) प्रदर्शनी (Exhibition) संग्रहालय (Museum) छेनी (Chisel)

Advanced

शिल्पशास्त्र (Canons of art) स्थापत्यकला (Architecture) सौंदर्यशास्त्र (Aesthetics)

Grammar to Know

Agentive Suffix '-kār'

Adding '-kār' to a noun creates a professional title (e.g., Chitrakār, Sangeetkār).

Oblique Plural with Postpositions

मूर्तिकार (direct plural) -> मूर्तिकारों को (oblique plural with 'ko').

Transitive Verbs in Past Tense (Ne Rule)

मूर्तिकार ने (subject) मूर्ति (object) बनाई (verb).

Respectful Plural

Using 'hain' instead of 'hai' for an elderly or respected sculptor.

Compound Nouns

Mūrti + Kalā = Mūrtikalā (The art of sculpture).

Examples by Level

वह एक मूर्तिकार है।

He is a sculptor.

Simple subject-complement structure.

मूर्तिकार कहाँ है?

Where is the sculptor?

Interrogative sentence.

यह मूर्तिकार अच्छा है।

This sculptor is good.

Using 'yah' as a demonstrative adjective.

मूर्तिकार मूर्ति बनाता है।

The sculptor makes statues.

Present indefinite tense.

मेरे पिता मूर्तिकार हैं।

My father is a sculptor.

Use of 'hain' for respect.

मूर्तिकार के पास पत्थर है।

The sculptor has a stone.

Possessive construction with 'ke paas'.

क्या तुम मूर्तिकार हो?

Are you a sculptor?

Simple question.

मूर्तिकार काम कर रहा है।

The sculptor is working.

Present continuous tense.

मूर्तिकार मिट्टी से मूर्ति बना रहा है।

The sculptor is making a statue from clay.

Using 'se' for material.

मूर्तिकार ने एक सुंदर चेहरा बनाया।

The sculptor made a beautiful face.

Past tense with 'ne'.

कल हम मूर्तिकार की दुकान पर जाएंगे।

Tomorrow we will go to the sculptor's shop.

Future tense.

इस मूर्तिकार को पुरस्कार मिला।

This sculptor received an award.

Dative subject with 'ko'.

मूर्तिकार बहुत मेहनत करता है।

The sculptor works very hard.

Adverbial phrase 'bahut mehnat'.

क्या मूर्तिकार घर पर है?

Is the sculptor at home?

Locative case with 'par'.

मूर्तिकार के औजार बहुत पुराने हैं।

The sculptor's tools are very old.

Genitive case 'ke'.

वह मूर्तिकार लकड़ी का उपयोग करता है।

That sculptor uses wood.

Direct object with 'ka upyog'.

प्रसिद्ध मूर्तिकार ने मंदिर के लिए मूर्ति बनाई।

The famous sculptor made a statue for the temple.

Purposive case 'ke liye'.

मूर्तिकार अपनी कला में बहुत निपुण है।

The sculptor is very skilled in his art.

Adjective 'nipun' (skilled).

हमें मूर्तिकारों का सम्मान करना चाहिए।

We should respect sculptors.

Modal verb 'chahiye' with oblique plural.

मूर्तिकार ने पत्थर को तराशकर उसे रूप दिया।

The sculptor carved the stone and gave it shape.

Conjunctive participle 'tarashkar'.

शहर के सभी मूर्तिकार इस मेले में आए हैं।

All the sculptors of the city have come to this fair.

Plural subject.

मूर्तिकार की कार्यशाला में धूल उड़ रही थी।

Dust was flying in the sculptor's workshop.

Past continuous tense.

क्या आप जानते हैं कि यह मूर्तिकार कौन है?

Do you know who this sculptor is?

Complex sentence with 'ki'.

मूर्तिकार ने अपनी मूर्ति को रंगों से सजाया।

The sculptor decorated his statue with colors.

Instrumental case 'se'.

मूर्तिकार की कल्पना शक्ति वास्तव में अद्भुत है।

The sculptor's imaginative power is truly wonderful.

Abstract noun 'kalpana shakti'.

आधुनिक मूर्तिकार अक्सर धातु और कांच का प्रयोग करते हैं।

Modern sculptors often use metal and glass.

Adverb 'aksar' (often).

मूर्तिकार ने अपनी कृति के माध्यम से शांति का संदेश दिया।

The sculptor gave a message of peace through his creation.

Postposition 'ke maadhyam se'.

कई मूर्तिकार अब पर्यावरण के अनुकूल सामग्री का उपयोग कर रहे हैं।

Many sculptors are now using eco-friendly materials.

Compound adjective 'paryavaran ke anukul'.

मूर्तिकार की सूक्ष्म दृष्टि ने पत्थर के दोषों को भी कला में बदल दिया।

The sculptor's keen eye turned even the stone's defects into art.

Subjective genitive.

इस मूर्तिकार की शैली पुरानी परंपराओं और आधुनिकता का मिश्रण है।

This sculptor's style is a blend of old traditions and modernity.

Noun 'mishran' (mixture).

मूर्तिकार को अपनी कला के लिए अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर पर पहचान मिली।

The sculptor received international recognition for his art.

Locative phrase 'star par'.

एक मूर्तिकार के लिए धैर्य सबसे बड़ा गुण है।

For a sculptor, patience is the greatest virtue.

Comparison with 'sabse bada'.

मूर्तिकार ने पत्थर की कठोरता को कोमलता में परिवर्तित कर दिया।

The sculptor transformed the hardness of the stone into softness.

Abstract nouns 'kathorta' and 'komalta'.

समकालीन मूर्तिकार सामाजिक मुद्दों पर अपनी राय व्यक्त करने के लिए मूर्तिकला का सहारा लेते हैं।

Contemporary sculptors take the help of sculpture to express their opinions on social issues.

Complex infinitive phrase.

मूर्तिकार की छेनी के हर प्रहार में एक गहरा दर्शन छिपा होता है।

A deep philosophy is hidden in every strike of the sculptor's chisel.

Passive-like state 'chhipa hona'.

उस मूर्तिकार की कलाकृतियों ने समय की सीमाओं को लांघ दिया है।

That sculptor's artworks have transcended the boundaries of time.

Metaphorical usage.

मूर्तिकार और उसकी कला के बीच का संबंध अत्यंत व्यक्तिगत और आध्यात्मिक होता है।

The relationship between the sculptor and his art is extremely personal and spiritual.

Adverb 'atyant' (extremely).

प्रसिद्ध मूर्तिकार ने अपनी आत्मकथा में अपने संघर्षों का सजीव चित्रण किया है।

The famous sculptor has vividly depicted his struggles in his autobiography.

Perfective aspect.

मूर्तिकार की पारखी नजर ने एक साधारण पत्थर में भी देवत्व देख लिया।

The sculptor's discerning eye saw divinity even in an ordinary stone.

Adjective 'paarkhi' (discerning).

आज की प्रदर्शनी में मूर्तिकार की वैचारिक गहराई स्पष्ट रूप से दिखाई देती है।

In today's exhibition, the sculptor's conceptual depth is clearly visible.

Adverbial phrase 'spasht roop se'.

मूर्तिकार की कृतियाँ मानव अस्तित्व की नश्वरता और कला की अमरता के बीच एक संवाद स्थापित करती हैं।

The sculptor's works establish a dialogue between the mortality of human existence and the immortality of art.

Sophisticated vocabulary 'nashvarta' and 'amarta'.

शिल्पशास्त्र के गूढ़ नियमों का पालन करते हुए, मूर्तिकार ने एक कालजयी प्रतिमा का निर्माण किया।

Following the profound rules of Shilpa Shastra, the sculptor created a timeless statue.

Present participle 'paalan karte hue'.

मूर्तिकार ने शून्य से सृजन की प्रक्रिया को एक नया आयाम प्रदान किया है।

The sculptor has provided a new dimension to the process of creation from nothingness.

Metaphysical phrasing.

उस मूर्तिकार की शैली में गोथिक और भारतीय शास्त्रीय कला का एक अभूतपूर्व समन्वय देखने को मिलता है।

In that sculptor's style, an unprecedented synthesis of Gothic and Indian classical art is seen.

Noun 'samanvay' (synthesis/coordination).

मूर्तिकार ने अपनी कला के माध्यम से जड़ता को गतिशीलता में बदलने का दुस्साहस किया है।

The sculptor has dared to transform inertia into dynamism through his art.

Abstract nouns 'jarta' and 'gatishilta'.

मूर्तिकार की छेनी केवल पत्थर नहीं काटती, बल्कि वह समाज की रूढ़ियों पर भी प्रहार करती है।

The sculptor's chisel does not just cut stone; it also strikes at the dogmas of society.

Correlative conjunctions 'na keval... balki'.

कला समीक्षकों के अनुसार, यह मूर्तिकार अपनी पीढ़ी का सबसे प्रभावशाली रचनाकार है।

According to art critics, this sculptor is the most influential creator of his generation.

Postposition 'ke anusaar'.

मूर्तिकार ने अपनी अंतिम कृति में मौन की अभिव्यक्ति को चरमोत्कर्ष पर पहुँचा दिया।

In his final work, the sculptor brought the expression of silence to its climax.

Sanskritized noun 'charmoatkarsh' (climax).

Synonyms

शिल्पी बुततराश नक्का़श गढ़ने वाला मूर्तिकारी करने वाला

Antonyms

विनाशक विध्वंसक

Common Collocations

कुशल मूर्तिकार

प्रसिद्ध मूर्तिकार

मूर्तिकार की कार्यशाला

मूर्तिकार के औजार

पारंपरिक मूर्तिकार

आधुनिक मूर्तिकार

मूर्तिकार की कला

मूर्तिकार का कौशल

मूर्तिकार की छेनी

मूर्तिकार का सपना

Common Phrases

पत्थर का मूर्तिकार

— A sculptor who works with stone.

वह पत्थर का मूर्तिकार है।

मिट्टी का मूर्तिकार

— A sculptor who works with clay.

गाँव में कई मिट्टी के मूर्तिकार हैं।

मूर्तिकार का बेटा

— The son of a sculptor (often implying hereditary skill).

मूर्तिकार का बेटा भी अच्छी मूर्तियाँ बनाता है।

महान मूर्तिकार

— A great sculptor.

माइकल एंजेलो एक महान मूर्तिकार थे।

स्थानीय मूर्तिकार

— A local sculptor.

हमने स्थानीय मूर्तिकार से मूर्ति खरीदी।

अनुभवी मूर्तिकार

— An experienced sculptor.

अनुभवी मूर्तिकार काम जल्दी खत्म करता है।

राष्ट्रीय मूर्तिकार

— A national-level sculptor.

उन्हें राष्ट्रीय मूर्तिकार का सम्मान मिला।

युवा मूर्तिकार

— A young sculptor.

युवा मूर्तिकार नए प्रयोग कर रहे हैं।

सरकारी मूर्तिकार

— A sculptor employed by the government.

सरकारी मूर्तिकार ने स्मारक बनाया।

अज्ञात मूर्तिकार

— An unknown sculptor.

यह प्राचीन मूर्ति किसी अज्ञात मूर्तिकार की है।

Often Confused With

मूर्तिकार vs चित्रकार (Chitrakār)

Chitrakār makes paintings (2D), while Mūrtikār makes statues (3D).

मूर्तिकार vs बढ़ई (Barhai)

Barhai is a carpenter who makes furniture, not necessarily statues.

मूर्तिकार vs कुम्हार (Kumhār)

Kumhār is a potter. While some potters make statues, not all sculptors are potters.

Idioms & Expressions

"पत्थर में जान फूँकना"

— To make something lifeless seem alive (often said of a sculptor).

मूर्तिकार ने पत्थर में जान फूँक दी।

Metaphorical

"मिट्टी का माधो"

— Literally 'a clay statue', but idiomatically means a dull or stupid person.

वह तो बिल्कुल मिट्टी का माधो है।

Informal

"आकार देना"

— To give shape (can be used for a sculptor or a mentor).

शिक्षक ने मेरे भविष्य को आकार दिया।

General

"तराशना"

— To carve or refine (used for stones or skills).

उसने अपनी प्रतिभा को खूब तराशा है।

General

"मूर्त रूप देना"

— To give a concrete form to an idea.

उसने अपने सपनों को मूर्त रूप दिया।

Formal

"कलम का जादूगर"

— Magician of the pen (painter/writer), sometimes 'छेनी का जादूगर' is used for a sculptor.

वह छेनी का जादूगर है।

Literary

"हाथ का हुनर"

— Skill of the hand.

मूर्तिकार के हाथ का हुनर देखने लायक है।

Neutral

"जान डालना"

— To put life into something.

मूर्तिकार ने अपनी कला से मूर्ति में जान डाल दी।

General

"नक्श-ओ-निगार"

— Paintings and carvings (Urdu origin).

दीवारों पर सुंदर नक्श-ओ-निगार हैं।

Literary

"शून्य से सृजन"

— Creation from nothing.

मूर्तिकार शून्य से सृजन करता है।

Philosophical

Easily Confused

मूर्तिकार vs शिल्पकार

Both mean someone who creates art.

Shilpkār is a general craftsman; Mūrtikār is specifically a statue-maker.

हर मूर्तिकार शिल्पकार होता है, पर हर शिल्पकार मूर्तिकार नहीं।

मूर्तिकार vs कलाकार

Both refer to creative people.

Kalākār is any artist (singer, dancer, painter); Mūrtikār is specific to sculpture.

वह एक महान कलाकार है, और उसका पेशा मूर्तिकार है।

मूर्तिकार vs वास्तुकार

Both end in 'kār' and relate to building/creating.

Vāstukār is an architect who designs buildings.

वास्तुकार घर बनाता है, मूर्तिकार मूर्ति।

मूर्तिकार vs स्वर्णकार

Similar structure.

Svarnakār is a goldsmith.

स्वर्णकार गहने बनाता है, मूर्तिकार मूर्तियाँ।

मूर्तिकार vs साहित्यकार

Similar structure.

Sāhityakār is a writer/litterateur.

साहित्यकार शब्दों से खेलता है, मूर्तिकार पत्थर से।

Sentence Patterns

वह [Noun] है।

वह मूर्तिकार है।

[Noun] [Object] बनाता है।

मूर्तिकार मूर्ति बनाता है।

[Noun] ने [Adjective] [Object] बनाया।

मूर्तिकार ने सुंदर मूर्ति बनाई।

[Noun] के पास [Tools] हैं।

मूर्तिकार के पास छेनी और हथौड़ा हैं।

[Noun] की कला [Abstract Noun] को दर्शाती है।

मूर्तिकार की कला शांति को दर्शाती है।

हालांकि [Clause], फिर भी मूर्तिकार [Clause]।

हालांकि पत्थर सख्त था, फिर भी मूर्तिकार ने उसे कोमल बना दिया।

[Noun] की कृतियों में [Synthesis] का आभास होता है।

मूर्तिकार की कृतियों में परंपरा और आधुनिकता का आभास होता है।

मूर्तिकार का [Noun] उसके [Noun] का परिचायक है।

मूर्तिकार का कौशल उसके धैर्य का परिचायक है।

Word Family

Nouns

मूर्ति (Statue)

मूर्तिकला (Sculpture - the art)

मूर्तिकारिन (Female sculptor)

मूर्तिकारी (The act of sculpting)

Verbs

मूर्त करना (To give form)

तराशना (To carve)

गढ़ना (To shape)

Adjectives

मूर्त (Concrete/Tangible)

अमूर्त (Abstract)

मूर्तिकलात्मक (Sculptural)

छेनी (Chisel)

हथौड़ा (Hammer)

मिट्टी (Clay)

पत्थर (Stone)

धातु (Metal)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in art, religion, and news contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using a hard 't' in pronunciation. → Soft dental 't'.
English 't' is retroflex, Hindi 't' in 'mūrti' is dental. Using the wrong one sounds non-native.
Confusing with 'Chitrakār'. → Mūrtikār.
A painter is a chitrakār; a sculptor is a mūrtikār. They are different mediums.
Saying 'मूर्तिकारों' without a postposition. → मूर्तिकार (for plural direct).
Plural direct doesn't take the 'o' ending. 'वे मूर्तिकार हैं' is correct.
Writing 'मूरतीकार' with a long 'i'. → मूर्तिकार (short 'i').
The 'i' in 'mūrti' is always short in standard Hindi spelling.
Using it for a carpenter. → बढ़ई (Barhai).
Sculptors make art/statues; carpenters make functional wood items.

Tips

Oblique Form

Remember to use 'मूर्तिकारों' only when a postposition like 'को', 'से', or 'में' follows. Otherwise, use 'मूर्तिकार'.

Soft 'T'

Keep the 't' in 'mūrti' soft. If you say it with a hard English 't', it sounds like a different word to native speakers.

The '-kār' Suffix

Learn other '-kār' words together. It will help you remember professions easily (e.g., Patrakār, Chitrakār).

Respect the Artist

In India, being a 'mūrtikār' is often a spiritual calling. When visiting a workshop, show respect for the process.

Spelling the 'R'

The 'r' sound in 'mūrti' is written as a hook above the next letter. This is called a 'reph'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'mitti' (clay) or 'patthar' (stone) in the same sentence, the word is likely 'mūrtikār'.

Poetic Alternative

Use 'बुततराश' in your creative writing to add a touch of Urdu poetic flair.

Honorifics

Use 'जी' after the name of a sculptor (e.g., मूर्तिकार सतार जी) to show extra respect.

Not for Digital

Don't use this for 3D digital artists. It implies physical carving or moulding.

Root Word

Connect 'mūrti' to 'form'. A 'mūrtikār' is a 'form-maker'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Mūr' as 'Mould' and 'Ti' as 'Thing'. 'Kār' is 'Maker'. A Mūrtikār is a 'Mould-Thing-Maker'.

Visual Association

Imagine a person covered in white marble dust, holding a small chisel, looking intensely at a block of stone as a face begins to emerge.

Word Web

Art Statue Chisel Clay Stone Temple Gallery Creation

Challenge

Try to find 5 famous statues in your city and find out the name of the 'मूर्तिकार' who created them.

Word Origin

Derived from Sanskrit 'मूर्तिकार' (mūrtikāra). It is a compound of 'mūrti' and the suffix 'kāra'.

Original meaning: One who gives form or creates an image/idol.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit)

Cultural Context

When referring to traditional religious sculptors, use the term with respect as they are often seen as performing a sacred duty.

In English, we use 'sculptor', but 'मूर्तिकार' often carries a stronger connotation of 'idol-maker' due to India's religious traditions.

Ram V. Sutar (creator of the Statue of Unity) Nek Chand (creator of the Rock Garden) Dhruva Mistry (contemporary sculptor)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Art Gallery

इस मूर्तिकार की शैली क्या है?
मूर्तिकार ने कौन सी धातु इस्तेमाल की?
क्या मूर्तिकार यहाँ मौजूद हैं?
मूर्तिकार की अन्य कृतियाँ कहाँ हैं?

Festival Market

मूर्तिकार कहाँ बैठते हैं?
क्या मूर्तिकार मिट्टी की मूर्तियाँ बनाते हैं?
मूर्तिकार से दाम पूछो।
मूर्तिकार ने बहुत सुंदर गणेश बनाया है।

History Class

प्राचीन मूर्तिकार कौन थे?
मूर्तिकारों ने गुफाओं को कैसे तराशा?
क्या मूर्तिकारों के नाम पत्थरों पर लिखे हैं?
मूर्तिकारों की तकनीक क्या थी?

Workshop

मूर्तिकार काम कब शुरू करते हैं?
मूर्तिकार की छेनी कहाँ है?
मूर्तिकार को और मिट्टी चाहिए।
मूर्तिकार थके हुए लग रहे हैं।

News Report

मूर्तिकारों की समस्याएँ क्या हैं?
मूर्तिकारों को आर्थिक मदद चाहिए।
मूर्तिकार नए रिकॉर्ड बना रहे हैं।
मूर्तिकारों के लिए नई नीति।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप किसी प्रसिद्ध भारतीय मूर्तिकार का नाम जानते हैं?"

"मूर्तिकार पत्थर में जान कैसे फूँक देते हैं?"

"अगर आप मूर्तिकार होते, तो आप किसकी मूर्ति बनाते?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि मशीनों के आने से मूर्तिकारों का काम खत्म हो जाएगा?"

"मूर्तिकार बनने के लिए सबसे जरूरी गुण क्या है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने एक मूर्तिकार को काम करते देखा। उसके बारे में लिखिए।

मूर्तिकार और पत्थर के बीच की बातचीत की कल्पना कीजिए।

क्या मूर्तिकला पेंटिंग से ज्यादा कठिन है? अपने विचार लिखिए।

एक ऐसे मूर्तिकार की कहानी लिखिए जो बोल नहीं सकता लेकिन उसकी मूर्तियाँ बोलती हैं।

मूर्तिकार की कार्यशाला का वर्णन कीजिए।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Mūrtikār specifically refers to a person who makes statues or idols (mūrtis). Shilpkār is a broader term for any artisan or craftsman, including those who work on architecture or general crafts. While a Mūrtikār can be called a Shilpkār, the reverse is not always true.

Yes, in modern Hindi, 'मूर्तिकार' is often used as a gender-neutral professional title. However, the specific feminine form is 'मूर्तिकारिन' (mūrtikārin), though it is less common in formal speech.

A मूर्तिकार can work with a variety of materials including stone (patthar), clay (mitti), wood (lakdi), metal (dhātu), and even modern materials like fiberglass or wax.

Yes, 'बुततराश' (but-tarāsh) is a synonym with Urdu/Persian roots. It is more poetic and is often used in literature and ghazals to describe an idol-carver.

The word 'मूर्तिकार' is neutral to formal. In very informal settings, people might say 'मूर्ति बनाने वाला', but 'मूर्तिकार' is the standard respectful term.

You would say 'मूर्तिकार के औजार' (mūrtikār ke auzār).

While not a very common surname, some families involved in the profession for generations do use it as a last name, or use related names like 'Shilpkar'.

It is called 'मूर्तिकला' (mūrtikalā).

In the direct case, it remains 'मूर्तिकार' (e.g., वे मूर्तिकार हैं - They are sculptors). In the oblique case (with postpositions), it becomes 'मूर्तिकारों' (e.g., मूर्तिकारों के लिए - For the sculptors).

Ram V. Sutar is currently very famous for designing the Statue of Unity. Historically, many ancient sculptors remain unknown by name despite their incredible work.