Mumbai: The demise of ad guru Piyush Pandey has sent shockwaves across the nation. A name synonymous with emotional storytelling and iconic campaigns, Pandey’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian advertising. Tributes have poured in from leaders, artists, and creatives since the news broke.
Paying her condolences, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman wrote on X, “Saddened to hear of the passing of Shri Piyush Pandey. A titan and legend of Indian advertising, he transformed communication by bringing everyday idioms, earthy humour, and genuine warmth into it. Have had opportunities to interact with him on various occasions. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire creative fraternity. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
Politician and actor Smriti Irani remembered how Pandey “taught us that emotion is the truest language of creativity.”
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“Piyush Pandey wasn’t just an ad man, he was one of India’s finest storytellers. He taught us that emotion is the truest language of creativity. His words made brands human, and ideas immortal. Farewell to a legend who made us feel, think, and smile,” she posted on X.
Musician Ehsaan Noorani also expressed his grief, writing, “Rest in peace, Piyush Pandey – the man who redefined creativity in advertising and created some of the most memorable campaigns.”
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta paid a heartfelt tribute, writing,“Fevicol ka jod toot gaya. Aaj ad world ne apna glue kho diya. Piyush Pandey, aap acche se jao.” (The Fevicol bond has broken. The ad world has lost its glue today. Piyush Pandey, go in peace.)
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri also recalled working with the ad legend, while Union Minister Piyush Goyal shared,
“Words fall short to express my sadness on the passing of Padma Shri Piyush Pandey. A towering figure in the world of advertising, his creative genius redefined storytelling and gave us unforgettable narratives that will live on.
To me, he was a friend whose brilliance shone through his honesty, warmth, and wit. I will always cherish our engaging conversations. He leaves behind a deep void that will be hard to fill. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers.”
Who Was Piyush Pandey?
Piyush Pandey began his advertising journey in 1982 with Ogilvy & Mather India (now Ogilvy India), starting as a trainee account executive before moving to the creative department. With his talent, he transformed the face of Indian advertising.
Born in Jaipur in 1955, Pandey grew up in a large family with nine siblings — seven sisters and two brothers. His father worked at a bank.
Among his many iconic campaigns were Asian Paints’ “Har Khushi Mein Rang Laaye,” Cadbury’s “Kuch Khaas Hai,” and Fevicol’s timeless “Egg” film.
In 2004, he created history by becoming the first Asian to serve as jury president at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. His pathbreaking contributions were later recognised with the CLIO Lifetime Achievement Award (2012) and the Padma Shri, making him the first Indian advertising professional to receive the national honour.
