Legendary ad guru Piyush Pandey, the “Ad Man of India”, has passed away at 70.
The advertising world mourns the passing of Piyush Pandey, aged 70, who passed away in October 2025 after a prolonged illness. Known as the Architect of Indian Advertising’s Soul, he redefined how India saw itself through ads. His work mixed emotion, humour, and cultural truth — shaping brands and generations alike.
Born in Jaipur in 1955, Piyush Pandey studied at St Xavier’s School and later at St Stephen’s College, Delhi. He joined Ogilvy & Mather (O&M) in 1982 as a trainee and went on to become Executive Chairman India and Chief Creative Officer Worldwide.
He was known for his trademark moustache, earthy humour, and deep understanding of Indian culture. He was called the “Ad Man of India” for giving Indian advertising its authentic, emotional voice rooted in everyday life.
Known as the “Ad Man of India”, Piyush Pandey’s storytelling went beyond selling. He gave India confidence in its own voice — from humour to heart.
Piyush Pandey's net worth is approximately ₹4,385,649,250 ($50 million), built over four decades of leadership and creativity at Ogilvy.
Piyush Pandey changed the face of Indian advertising. He built brands through emotion and cultural connection rather than glamour. His language was Indian, his characters familiar, and his humour real. He gave India its advertising identity.
He wrote the lyrics for this national integration anthem that united India through music and language — an early display of his power to connect emotion with message.
One of his first TV ads used a youthful, local tone that spoke directly to middle-class India.
His first written ad marked his creative shift from servicing to storytelling.
Repositioned chocolate for adults through a joyful, cricket-field moment — still a classic today.
Turned paint into an emotional narrative about homes, memories, and family life.
Added playfulness and rhythm to skincare advertising with infectious energy.
Shifted focus from timekeeping to heartfelt gifting, blending relationships with emotion.
A simple Hindi line with lasting recall — everyday bonding through humour.
Visual humour, like the “stuck bus”, turned glue into a symbol of togetherness.
Used minimal dialogue and quirky visuals for mass appeal and instant recall.
Created “Second-hand smoke kills”, blending social responsibility with powerful storytelling.
Coined the slogan that defined a political movement, showing his influence beyond consumer brands.
Emotional and effective, the campaign helped drive India’s fight against polio.
Urged critical thinking with wit and irony, positioning the newspaper as India’s intellectual voice.
He married Nita Joshi Pandey in 2000, who was working with him at Ogilvy.
He spent over 40 years at Ogilvy — his only employer. In 2023, he moved into an advisory role, marking the end of an era.
He made cameo appearances, including as Cabinet Secretary in Madras Café (2013).
Piyush Pandey once said, “Advertising is about making friends with people.” His ads did just that — they made India laugh, think, and feel. Through his words and ideas, he didn’t just sell brands — he sold belonging.
With his passing, India has lost its most loved storyteller — but his words, wit, and warmth will continue to inspire generations of creators.
