Piyush Pandey, the legendary mind who shaped the language, culture and emotion of Indian advertising, passed away on Thursday, October 23, at the age of 70.
For over four decades, Piyush Pandey represented the heart, soul and everything of Ogilvy India as Chief Creative Officer Worldwide and Executive Chairman India of Ogilvy. He became the face of Ogilvy India.
In 2004, Piyush Pandey created history as the first Asian to serve as jury president at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. He received the LIA Legend Award in 2024 and the Padma Shri award in 2016.
Pandey became a defining figure in the country’s advertising industry as he created advertising campaigns for Asian Paints, Fevicol and Cadbury, which were related to Indian emotions and culture. Piyush Pandey was known for his trademark moustache, infectious laughter.
PM Modi and other celebrities pay tribute
PM Narendra Modi took to X to pay his tribute to the 'Adman', "Shri Piyush Pandey Ji was admired for his creativity. He made a monumental contribution to the world of advertising and communications. I will fondly cherish our interactions over the years. Saddened by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Filmmaker, Hansal Mehta, conveyed condolences on X, and wrote, “Fevicol ka jod toot gaya. The ad world lost its glue today. Go well, Piyush Pandey.”
Musician, Ehsaan Noorani also took to X, "Rest in Peace Piyush Pandey the man who redefined creativity in advertising and creating the most memorable campaigns."
Politician, and actress, Smriti Irani also paid tribute, "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."
About Piyush Pandey’s Journey
Pandey was born in Jaipur. Piyush's siblings include film director Prasoon Pandey and famous singer-actor Ila Arun.
He played the Ranji Trophy for the state of Rajasthan. He used to work as a tea taster before finding his calling in advertising. He joined Ogilvy in 1982.
BJP’s 2014 election campaign “Abki Baar Modi Sarkar” with the iconic slogan “Achche Din Aane Wale Hain” is also curated by Piyush Pandey.
