Recognised for his masterful bronze and other metal sculptures that celebrate the essence of rural life, mythology and Indian cultural traditions, N S Rana was born in Delhi in 1951. He graduated with first-class honours in Sculpture from the Delhi College of Art in 1979, specialising in metal casting, a discipline that has remained central to his artistic practice. In 1981, he earned a Diploma in Commercial Art from the Sarda Ukil School of Art, Board of Technical Education, Delhi, further expanding his artistic foundation.

Working across bronze, terracotta and fibreglass, Rana’s sculptural language is characterised by elongated figures, intricate detailing and expressive textures. His works are mostly influenced by memories of his childhood in rural Rajasthan, where the beauty of village life, folklore and everyday rituals left a lasting impression. These experiences continue to shape his artistic vision, resulting in sculptures that reflect both nostalgia and human narratives.

Rana's figurative works often portray scenes from rural and semi-urban India that reflect his social observation and use of mythological themes. His sculptures balance realism with stylisation, using form and texture to create works that are both visually compelling and emotionally resonant. Equally noteworthy are his mythological reliefs, which reinterpret traditional narratives through a contemporary lens while demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship and decorative finesse.

Throughout the course of his career, Rana has received numerous honours and awards from prestigious institutions, including UNESCO, the All India Fine Arts and Crafts Society (AIFACS), and the Sahitya Kala Parishad, recognising his significant contribution to Indian sculpture. Alongside his studio practice, he has played an important role as an educator and mentor, serving as the Head of the Sculpture Department at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New Delhi.