End of an era: Subhash Dandekar, the man who made Camlin a household name, dies

Subhash Dandekar, chairman emeritus of Kokuyo Camlin, passed away on July 15 in Mumbai. He was 86.

Dandekar was instrumental in transforming Camlin into a household name synonymous with quality stationery and educational products. His passing marks the end of an era for an iconic brand that has left an indelible mark on countless childhoods in India.

Born into a family that founded the Camlin brand, Subhash Dandekar inherited not just a business but a legacy. Camlin, originally founded by Digambar Parashuram Dandekar in 1931, began its journey as Dandekar & Co. It was under Subhash Dandekar's visionary leadership that the company expanded its horizons. In 1960, he spearheaded the company's diversification into art materials, broadening its product range from stationery to include office supplies and professional artist tools. This move was instrumental in cementing Camlin’s position as a leader in the stationery market.

Dandekar's tenure at Camlin was marked by significant milestones, including the acquisition of a majority stake by the Japanese company Kokuyo in 2011. This strategic partnership not only introduced Kokuyo products to the Indian market but also facilitated Camlin's expansion into international markets. Despite the global ambitions, Camlin remained a beloved brand in Indian households, with its iconic yellow geometry box becoming a staple in schools across the country.

Dandekar was deeply committed to social causes as well. As the head of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce from 1992 to 1997, he advocated for the dignity of labour and the preservation of values in business practices. His contributions to social awareness, art, and entrepreneurship earned him several accolades.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described him as a "grandfather figure" who brought fame to the Marathi industry and highlighted his role in employment generation. Fadnavis remarked, “Subhash Dandekar not only built Camlin, but added colour to the lives of thousands of youths by providing employment. He gave great priority to the preservation of values.”

Dandekar's contributions to the industry and community are immeasurable, wrote Goa minister Vishwajit Rane in a tweet.

Dandekar is survived by his son, Ashish, and daughter, Anagha. The funeral was a quiet ceremony at Shivaji Park cemetery in Mumbai, in the presence of family, employees and representatives from the industry.

(This is an AI-generated article)