Bollywood and Advertising Fraternity Mourn Legendary Ad Guru Piyush Pandey

Mumbai bid farewell to one of its most influential creative minds as Piyush Pandey, the legendary advertising icon, was laid to rest on Friday. He was 70.

 

An emotional gathering of film and advertising personalities turned up to pay their final respects. Among those seen at the funeral were Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Manoj Pahwa, Virendra Saxena, and several other industry figures who had collaborated with or been inspired by Pandey’s extraordinary creative journey.

 

Piyush Pandey was more than just an advertising professional—he was a storyteller who helped define how India spoke to itself. As Chief Creative Officer Worldwide (2019) and Executive Chairman, India of Ogilvy, Pandey’s influence reached far beyond brands and campaigns.

 

He was celebrated for shaping an authentically Indian voice in advertising, breaking away from Westernized templates and creating campaigns that spoke directly to Indian hearts. His memorable work—from emotionally resonant public service ads to witty brand campaigns—set new creative standards for the industry.

 

Pandey’s illustrious career was adorned with honours, including the Padma Shri (2016) and the LIA Legend Award (2024). Yet, those who knew him often describe him as humble, humorous, and deeply passionate about nurturing young talent.

 

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the creative spectrum—advertisers, filmmakers, and corporate leaders alike remembering him as the man who made India fall in love with its own stories.

 

His loss leaves an irreplaceable void, but his words, wit, and wisdom will continue to inspire generations of dreamers who believe in the power of ideas.

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