Remembering Ashwin Basavar: The man who never stopped smiling

Ashwin Basavar, a much-revered figure in the Indian bookbinding industry and the eldest son of Shamaldas Vitthaldas Bhavsar, passed away on 22 October 2025, at the age of 64. Born on 3 November 1960, Ashwin Bhai, as he was affectionately known, leaves behind a legacy of unwavering optimism, exceptional workmanship, and human connection.

Ashwin Binding Works, a prestigious post-press unit established in 1960 by Shamaldas Vitthaldas Bhavsar in Ahmedabad's Shahpur area, was the foundation of Ashwin Bhai's life. Under his guidance, and now continued by his son, Anand Ashwinbhai Bhavsar, the company has been synonymous with the binding of all types of books. With the changing times, Ashwin Binding Works also expanded its services to include printing.

P Sajith, managing director of the Bindwel-Stelda Group, said, "Ashwin Bhai's impact extended far beyond his business. He was remembered by colleagues and friends as 'The Man Who Never Stopped Smiling,' a pint-sized powerhouse whose curiosity and optimism were infectious. He had a unique ability to find a silver lining in every challenge, fostering harmony even when his brothers ventured into their independent businesses."

Industry experts say  Ashwin Bhai's commitment to quality was relentless, never allowing price to compromise on excellence. He was an early adopter of new technologies, welcoming higher-speed binders and three-knife trimmers into his facility in Gujarat.

Sajith added, "Beyond business, Ashwin Bhai cultivated deep and effortless friendships. He was known for his heartfelt insistence on sharing meals, his infectious smile, and his tight, affectionate hugs. His warmth extended to everyone, including my colleagues like Anilkumar Nair and Pravin Varandhani, and even to the children of his friends."

Ashwin Binding Works continues its operations with a suite of machinery, including Bindwel six-clamp and single-clamp perfect binding machines and a three-knife trimmer, Heidelberg SORD kit, HM four-colour web offset machine, Muller Martini saddle-stitcher, Polar cutting machine, and Stahl folding machine. The company serves long-term customers such as Navneet Education, World Inbox, Win Help Education, Navbharat Sahitya Mandir, Adarsh Law House, and Sneh Desai World Publication.

Sajith signs off, "Ashwin Basavar's life was a testament to grace, generosity, and a child-like enthusiasm that made him unforgettable. He leaves behind a legacy much larger than his modest frame—a legacy of love, workmanship, and relentless positivity." 

As Ashwin Bhai would say, "Aavjo," until we meet again.