In a shocking turn of events, well-known veteran Marathi publisher Anil Mehta passed away. The literary world is mourning the sad demise of the veteran publisher and founder of the iconic Mehta Publishing House.
On November 7, 2026, Advocate Ashish Shelar, the prominent BJP leader and Cabinet Minister for Electronics, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence Development, and Cultural Affairs in the Government of Maharashtra, confirmed Mehta’s passing in a heartfelt tribute post.
Expressing his deep grief, Shelar wrote, “A heartfelt tribute! The news of the death of Anil Mehta, founder of Mehta Prakashan, is very sad. His journey started with Anand Yadav’s story collection ‘Malavarachi Maina’ and has left a different impression in the world of Marathi publishing.”
Reflecting on how Mehta transformed reading habits across the region, Shelar added, “In addition to delivering books of renowned Marathi writers to readers, they have truly enriched the reading culture by bringing the best literature in other languages. His demise has caused an unhealed loss to Marathi literature and publication world.”
Concluding his note, the politician extended his support to the grieving family: “May God rest his soul in peace and give the Mehta family strength to heal from this pain; this is my prayer. Om Calmness:”
Anil Mehta’s Mehta Publishing House encompasses a catalog of over 4,500 titles. It publishes more than 150 new books each year and leads regional literature into the modern era with a digital transition (Marathi e-books).
