Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Piyush Pandey, the legendary creative force behind some of India’s most iconic advertisements for Fevicol, Cadbury, and Asian Paints, passed away on Friday at the age of 70. He had been suffering from an infection. His final rites will be conducted at 11 am at Shivaji Park in Mumbai.
The Voice of Indian Advertising
With a career spanning nearly four decades, Pandey served as the Chief Creative Officer Worldwide and Executive Chairman India of Ogilvy. He joined Ogilvy in 1982, initially working on a Sunlight Detergent campaign before moving into the creative department. From there, he went on to craft unforgettable ad campaigns for brands like Fevicol, Cadbury, Asian Paints, Luna Moped, and Fortune Oil. Under his creative leadership, Ogilvy India was ranked the number one agency for 12 consecutive years in Agency Reckoner, a survey conducted by The Economic Times. In recognition of his immense contributions, Pandey was awarded the Padma Shri in 2016.
Beyond Advertising: Acting and National Integration
Pandey also made an impression outside the ad world. He appeared in the 2013 film Madras Cafe starring John Abraham and in ICICI Bank’s Magic Pencil Project videos. He was also the lyricist for Mile Sur Mera Tumhara, a song that became a symbol of national unity, and co-wrote the screenplay for the film Bhopal Express.
Tributes from Across India
Condolences poured in from leaders in business, politics, and the creative world. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharamandescribed him as “a titan and legend of Indian advertising” who brought “everyday idioms, earthy humor, and genuine warmth” to his work.
Uday Kotak, founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, recalled how Pandey launched the bank’s brand in 2003 with the slogan “banking as common sense,” praising his creativity and humility.
Author and columnist Suhel Seth called him a “dearest friend,” adding, “India has not lost just a great advertising mind but a true patriot and a fine gentleman.”
