Subhash Dandekar graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Mumbai University and joined the company as Technical Director in 1958. He focused on reducing dependency on imports and producing quality art materials in India.
Dandekar began his research and development with the development of his first product, a waterproof black drawing ink. This ink quickly became popular among designers, cartographers and cartoonists. Encouraged by the positive response, Dandekar expanded his product line to include more shades. Cartoonist Bal Thackeray praised his work, which prompted Dandekar to explore color techniques deeper.
He then began his postgraduate studies in colour chemistry in Glasgow, UK and visited several dye and pigment manufacturers in the UK and neighbouring countries to gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of the business.
Dandeker played a key role in growing Camlin into a premier manufacturer of quality art supplies. Under his leadership, the company significantly expanded beyond art supplies to include office supplies, professional artist tools, math equipment and educational essentials such as pencils, markers and inks.
