Tributes have poured in as the print fraternity in Delhi and AIFMP office bearers from all over the country mourned the loss of a popular print personality from North India. Industry leaders said Makhija’s contribution to print would be remembered and cherished for the time to come.

“What shocking news this morning when we lost a dedicated, sincere and honest human being in the printing fraternity,” said SR Sharma, adding, “I have known him for his fellowship and his courage to dance in his amicable style. May his soul rest in peace.”

Others who offered tributes to Makhija and condolences to the bereaved family include Dev Nair, Ravi Joshi, Manoj Mehta, Sunil Jain, president, DPA, Dibyajyoti Kalita, Mehul Shah, Dilip Padalkar, Narendra Parmer, Sanjay Patel, and Govind Bhargava.

Born on 3 October 1932 at Karachi, Pakistan, Makhija joined the family business after completing his education. His father G D Makhija, the doyen of offset printing, managed the printing business. Makhija received an excellent professional training at India Offset Press under the watchful eye of his father.

Later, under his leadership, India Offset Press remained one of the leading presses of India. With his professional acumen, Makhija earned several, awards in printing excellence. He has always been in the forefront in social welfare activities. He became the President of the Delhi Printers’ Association in 1968-69, at the young age of 36.

He has been the chairman of several important committees of the association, including those connected with historical 21st Printers Conference and Pamex 83. His second term as president of Delhi Printers Association was in 1995-1996. He used to participate in the meetings of the executive committee of the association despite his busy schedule.

Makhija has been a member of the governing council of the All India Federation of Master Printers for about four decades and has held its various offices, including that of the president for a term (1884-1985). He has been chairman of its various committees from time to time. He has held the office of the president of Derawal Biradari and Lions Club.

He inherited the qualities of kindness, charity and philanthropy from his father and always came forward to help those in need.