Director of Gujarat Samachar, veteran journalist Smrutiben Shreyanshbhai Shah, passes away

Smrutiben Shreyanshbhai Shah, Director of Gujarat Samachar and a shining star in the governing board of Gujarati journalism, passed away on Thursday evening. 

With her unique decision-making abilities and management expertise, she successfully handled the management of various editions of Gujarat Samachar. Her departure has left a significant void, not only among newspaper managers in Gujarat but also in the community of dedicated women professionals known for their strong public connections and unwavering commitment to Gujarat Samachar.

She served as the editor of the popular women’s weekly Shree for four decades, nurturing and presenting a new generation of female Gujarati writers to the worlds of literature and journalism. She also led Gujarat Samachar’s women’s supplement for several years, guiding its direction and content. As the life partner of Gujarat Samachar’s Managing Editor, Shreyanshbhai Shah, she fulfilled an ideal role throughout her life.

Even during the most turbulent times resulting from Shreyanshbhai’s fearless and impartial journalism, Smrutiben stood firmly beside him, truly becoming his other half. Her deep insight helped her develop a modern management system and exceptional administrative skills that she applied across various departments of Gujarat Samachar’s operations.

As the devoted life partner of Managing Editor Shreyanshbhai Shah, she was a steadfast pillar during challenging times that arose from his bold and impartial journalistic endeavors. Her intuitive leadership and the modern management systems she developed played a crucial role in steering Gujarat Samachar’s diverse editions and administrative functions.

Smrutiben was deeply respected and beloved by the vast network of distribution agents and vendors associated with Gujarat Samachar. Known for siding with distributors during internal misunderstandings, she was regarded as a supportive figure in times of crisis. Her absence has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of thousands who relied on her guidance and maternal warmth.

She also invested heavily in the growth and development of budding journalists. Many young reporters considered her a mentor and a mother figure, and under her guidance, a large community of professionals emerged across the various branches and editions of the newspaper.

Today, the entire Gujarat Samachar family, the journalistic community, and her vast network of admirers mourn the loss of a visionary leader whose presence was a protective canopy over generations.