Image Source : Screengrab From Youtube | Fevicol
Introduction
India’s advertising world has lost its most celebrated and defining voice. Piyush Pandey, the creative genius often hailed as the “Voice of Indian Advertising,” passed away earlier today, Friday, October 24, 2025, at the age of 70. According to reports, his demise came after battling complications from a recent infection, marking the end of an era for the industry he helped shape for over four decades.
The Man Who Gave India Its Memorable Slogans
Pandey’s name is inextricably linked with Ogilvy India, where he spent the entirety of his remarkable four-decade career, rising to prestigious positions including Executive Chairman India and Chief Creative Officer Worldwide. He was the mind behind some of the country’s most beloved and enduring advertising campaigns, crafting narratives that were not just commercials but cultural touchstones.
His legendary work includes:
- Fevicol: Creating ads that celebrated quirky relationships and unbreakable bonds, making the adhesive brand synonymous with resilience and humour.
- Cadbury Dairy Milk: Crafting campaigns like “Kuch Khaas Hai” that transformed chocolate from a children’s treat into a symbol of everyday celebration for adults.
- Asian Paints: Bringing alive the concept of beautiful homes with heartwarming stories through campaigns like “Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai.”
Pandey had a unique ability to connect with the Indian psyche, using relatable characters, local insights, and simple yet profound storytelling to create magic on screen.
Beyond Commercials: A Cultural Contributor
Piyush Pandey’s creative genius extended beyond the 30-second ad spot. He was also the co-writer of the iconic national integration song, “Mile Sur Mera Tumhara,” a melody that resonated deeply across India and continues to evoke a sense of unity. Furthermore, he showcased his versatility with a memorable cameo appearance in the critically acclaimed film “Madras Cafe.”
A Legacy Honored
Recognized for his immense contribution to advertising and communication, Pandey was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors. His influence was global, but his heart remained firmly rooted in Indian storytelling, earning him unparalleled respect within the industry.
Tributes Pour In for a Visionary
News of his passing has sent shockwaves through the advertising, business, and media communities. Tributes have begun pouring in from leaders across sectors. Prominent figures like Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, banker Uday Kotak, and commentator Suhel Seth have expressed their grief, universally honoring Pandey’s unparalleled creativity, his characteristic humility, and the indelible legacy he leaves behind. He was remembered not just as a brilliant mind but as a warm mentor and an inspiration to generations of creative professionals.
An Irreplaceable Loss
Piyush Pandey’s passing leaves a void in the Indian creative landscape that will be impossible to fill. He didn’t just sell products; he told stories that reflected, celebrated, and sometimes even shaped Indian culture. His last rites are scheduled to be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, as the nation mourns the loss of a true visionary. His work, however, will continue to live on in the collective memory of India.
