Ravi Joshi: A steady hand for Indian printers bids farewell

Ravi Joshi, past president of the All India Federation of Master Printers, passed away in the early hours of the morning after a period of illness. He was a respected industry statesman, mentor and unifying voice at a time when print in India was navigating transition and reinvention.

Joshi’s association with AIFMP was not ceremonial. It was deeply participative and purpose-driven. As president, he steered the federation with clarity and conviction, strengthening its institutional role and reinforcing its relevance to printers across regions and segments. Colleagues recall that under his stewardship, the federation found renewed direction and a sharper sense of collective purpose.

Manoj Mehta, past president of AIFMP, said Joshi was “a visionary leader, a guiding force, and a true pillar of the Indian printing fraternity.” Mehta noted that Joshi’s leadership was defined by integrity and inclusiveness, and by an unwavering belief in the power of collective growth. “He was not just an office bearer; he was a man of conviction and humility,” Mehta said, adding that his actions consistently reflected selfless service.

Girish Rao, president of the Pune Press Owners Association, said the industry had lost a senior statesman. “We all will miss him forever,” Rao said, describing Joshi’s passing as a moment of deep sadness for printers in Pune and across the country.

Suhas Kulkarni, director, Soma India, said, “The print fraternity has lost a genuine well wisher. I remember him as a cheerful person, always wearing a warm smile. He approached every conversation with genuine interest and generosity. His passion for the printing world and his uplifting presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.” 

Beyond positions and titles, Joshi was admired for his warmth and personal outreach. Mehta said, “He invested time in conversations, in mentoring younger printers, and in building bridges between associations. His presence at meetings inspired confidence. His interventions were measured, practical and anchored in long-term thinking. In an industry often defined by tight margins and tighter deadlines, he brought calm and perspective.”

At a time when print businesses were grappling with technology shifts, cost pressures and the need for value differentiation, Joshi consistently advocated unity and professionalism. “He believed that institutions mattered, that dialogue mattered, and that the strength of Indian print lay in its shared resolve rather than isolated success,” Mehta added.

He is survived by his wife Rupa and daughter Radha. 

The federation and affiliated associations have conveyed their condolences to the Joshi family, remembering him not only as a former president but as a mentor and friend.