Advertising legend Piyush Pandey passes away at 70.
Veteran advertising icon Piyush Pandey, the creative force behind some of India’s most memorable ad campaigns, passed away on Friday morning at the age of 70. Widely regarded as the man who gave Indian advertising its distinct local voice, Pandey’s passing marks the end of an era for the industry.
Yes, he was a man who left gigantic footprints on the ad industry…
But what I will remember most is not the campaigns he crafted or the brands he built, but his hearty laugh and his irrepressible zest for life.
He reminded us that even in the serious business of persuasion,… pic.twitter.com/6C1SJHwFH6
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Pandey became synonymous with Ogilvy India, where he spent much of his professional life shaping brands and redefining storytelling in advertising. His deep understanding of Indian culture and consumers helped bridge the gap between global marketing ideas and local sentiments.
Known for his signature moustache and earthy charm, Pandey created campaigns that celebrated India’s everyday life — from emotional narratives to witty social commentary. Under his leadership, Indian advertising moved away from elitist, English-centric tones to stories that spoke the language of the people.
A recipient of numerous national and international honours, Pandey was not just a creative visionary but also a mentor to generations of ad professionals. His legacy continues to inspire storytellers, copywriters, and brand strategists who look up to him as the man who turned advertising into an art form rooted in Indian reality.
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