Piyush Pandey, the creative genius who shaped modern Indian advertising with heartfelt campaigns and simple storytelling, passed away on October 24, 2025, at age 70. His funeral is scheduled for October 25 in Mumbai, drawing tributes from across the industry he transformed over four decades.
Early Life and Rise in Advertising
Piyush Pandey was born in Jaipur in 1955 and grew up with a passion for cricket, playing for Rajasthan in the Ranji Trophy. He later worked as a tea taster and even in construction before joining Ogilvy in 1982 at age 27.
This shift marked the start of a remarkable career where he moved Indian ads away from stiff English styles toward everyday Hindi and local flavors. His approach made brands feel close and relatable to millions.
Pandey often shared how his cricket background taught him teamwork, a value he brought into agency life. By the 1990s, he had risen to lead creative efforts at Ogilvy India, turning it into a global powerhouse.
Iconic Campaigns That Defined Generations
Pandey created ads that became part of India’s cultural fabric, blending humor, emotion, and simplicity. His work for brands like Cadbury, Fevicol, and Asian Paints captured the nation’s spirit and boosted sales through clever narratives.
For instance, the Cadbury Dairy Milk campaign with the tagline “Kuch Meetha Ho Jaye” turned chocolate into a symbol of everyday joy. Similarly, Fevicol’s ads showed unbreakable bonds in funny, memorable ways.
Here are some of his most famous campaigns:
- Cadbury: Celebrated small moments of happiness with dancing and cricket themes.
- Fevicol: Highlighted strong glue through humorous stories of things that never break apart.
- Asian Paints: Used “Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai” to connect homes with personal stories.
- Vodafone (formerly Hutch): The pug dog ads built emotional ties with viewers.
These efforts won over 600 international awards, including Cannes Lions, and helped Ogilvy India dominate the scene.
His 2014 political slogan “Abki Baar Modi Sarkar” showed his skill in tapping public sentiment, though he always focused more on brand stories than politics.
Leadership and Global Impact
As Executive Chairman of Ogilvy India, Pandey mentored countless talents and pushed for ideas rooted in real life. He became the first Indian to win the Lion of St. Mark in 2018, shared with his brother Prasoon.
Pandey stepped down in 2023 to an advisory role, leaving a legacy of empathy over technology in ads. He warned young creatives against chasing trends without understanding people.
His influence extended beyond India, earning him the title of the most influential man in Indian advertising for 14 years by The Economic Times. Today, agencies worldwide study his methods for authentic storytelling.
In recent years, Pandey authored books like “Pandeymonium,” sharing lessons from his journey. His voiceover work in ads added a personal touch that fans still remember.
Funeral Details and Family
The funeral will take place on October 25, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Shivaji Park Crematorium in Mumbai. Family, friends, and industry leaders are expected to attend this final goodbye.
Pandey is survived by his family, including brother Prasoon, a noted filmmaker. The event reflects his deep ties to Mumbai, where he built his career.
Details of the service include:
| Time | Location | Expected Attendees |
|---|---|---|
| 11 a.m. | Shivaji Park Crematorium, Mumbai | Family, colleagues, advertising professionals |
| Afternoon | Private gathering | Close friends and mentors |
Mourners are asked to respect the family’s privacy during this time.
Tributes Pour In From Peers
Industry figures have shared heartfelt messages since the news broke. One colleague called him the architect of Indian advertising’s soul, praising his warmth and wisdom.
Social media is filled with stories of how Pandey inspired careers, from young copywriters to top executives. Cricket stars he admired also paid respects, linking his love for the game to his creative style.
His passing comes amid a wave of reflections on India’s evolving ad world, where digital shifts challenge traditional storytelling. Yet, many say Pandey’s human-centered approach remains timeless.
Lasting Legacy in a Changing Industry
Pandey’s work proved that great ads connect on an emotional level, not just sell products. He democratized advertising by using local languages and cultures, making it accessible to all.
In 2025, as AI and data drive marketing, his emphasis on simplicity offers valuable lessons. Recent events, like the rise of short-form video ads, echo his belief in quick, impactful stories.
His influence lives on through Ogilvy’s continued success and the many leaders he trained. As India grows as a global creative hub, Pandey’s legacy ensures ads stay rooted in real experiences.
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