The founder of iconic stationery brand Camlin, Subhash Dandekar, passed away on Monday. He was 86. According to reports, the businessman breathed his last around 7 AM on Monday. He was cremated in central Mumbai, with a condolence meeting planned for Thursday. Subhash Dandekar’swife had passed away two years ago. He is survived by a son and a daughter.

Following the news of his demise, many politicians and industry competitors came forward to pour their condolences. Maharashtra Dy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared a lengthy note on his X handle and wrote, “With the death of senior entrepreneur Subhash Dandekar, who set up the Camlin industry, we have lost the grandfather figure who brought fame to the Marathi industry world. Subhash Dandekar not only built the Camlin industry but also added color to the lives of thousands of youths by providing employment. He gave great priority to the preservation of values. While growing the industry, they preserved value and people. He always insisted that labor should have dignity. He set an exemplary example of how a Marathi man can build an industry with his skills and hard work. With his death, the new generation lost a mentor. We share in the grief of his family. May his family get the strength to bear this suffering, this prayer to God! Om Shanti.”

https://x.com/Dev_Fadnavis/ status/1812786504558850299

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray also paid tribute to the late Camlin founder, recalling his old ties with Dandekar. “Camlin made everything from inks to fountain pens, pencils, paint brushes, crayons to various colors, erasers to office stationery. There is a proverb in English that means, ‘Put a stick on a camel’s back and the camel sat down’. But Dandekar’s camel was never burdened with artistic production. This is a significant leap taken by a Marathi entrepreneur,” a part of his tweet read.

https://x.com/RajThackeray/ status/1812874061816697114

Subhash Dandekar As The Driving Force Behind Camlin

Subhash Dandekar is believed to have played an instrumental role in transforming Camlin into a leading stationery name in India. Under his leadership, the company significantly expanded its product range and started selling office supplies, artist tools, and other educational materials.

An eminent businessman, Subhash Dandekar served as the Executive Chairman of the company until May 2002. After selling the brand to Japan’s Kokuyo, he has been associated as Chairman Emeritus.