Manubhai Chhaganlal Gajjar

Manubhai Chhaganlal Gajjar (1940-2021) was a prominent Indian artist, designer, and educator known for his significant contributions to graphic design and visual communication in India. His most notable achievement includes the design of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) logo in 1961, which has become an iconic symbol in the Indian educational landscape.

Manubhai Gajjar was born in Gujarat, India in 1940. He pursued his education in the arts and design at MS University Baroda, which laid the foundation for his future contributions to graphic design. His early exposure to traditional Indian art forms influenced his design philosophy, which often incorporated elements of Indian culture and heritage.

Gajjar's career was marked by his association with the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, where he played a crucial role in shaping the curriculum and training a new generation of designers. He joined NID as an apprentice/model maker in the Visual Communication Department. Later on promoted as Junior Trainee Assistant, Junior Assistant, Designer, Associate Senior Designer, Senior Designer. He retired as a Senior Designer, Visual Communication department in 1996, serving the institute for more than 31 years. During his tenure he played a significant role in Nehru Exhibition, Udyam Exhibition, sections of the Jawaharlal Nehru Museum, Discovery of India, Exposition at Nehru Centre, NCERT Logo, India International Centre Logo, Vadilal Icecream Logo, Co-operative Bank of Ahemdabad Logo, Computer Society of Bombay Logo, and Bharat Earth Movers Limited Logo, among others.

Manubhai Gajjar passed away in 2021, leaving behind a rich legacy of design and education that continues to inspire future generations of artists and designers.