The world of Indian advertising lost one of its brightest minds today. Piyush Pandey — the man who made brands speak a language of heart, humor, and humanity — passed away this morning after being in a coma for nearly a month.
For over four decades, Pandey was more than just an ad man. He was a storyteller who captured the pulse of India like few others could. His journey began humbly in 1982 at Ogilvy & Mather India (now Ogilvy India), where he joined as a trainee account executive. From there, he rose — with that signature mix of warmth, wit, and wisdom — to become a legend whose work changed the face of Indian advertising.
Think of Fevicol, and chances are, you’re smiling already. From the buffalo stuck on the truck to the overcrowded bench that never breaks, Pandey’s Fevicol ads became cultural folklore — timeless, funny, and instantly Indian. They didn’t just sell glue; they stuck with people.
His magic extended far beyond brands. From Cadbury’s “Kuch Khaas Hai” to the iconic “Mile Sur Mera Tumhara,” and even political campaigns like “Ab Ki Baar Modi Sarkar,” Pandey’s words carried weight. They didn’t just promote — they connected, they inspired, and they reflected a nation’s evolving identity.
Colleagues often said that Piyush Pandey’s genius lay in his simplicity. He could find poetry in the everyday, turning the smallest insight into an unforgettable idea. His work never felt forced or foreign — it was Indian to the core, built on the quirks, chaos, and charm of real life.
As tributes pour in from across industries and generations, one thing is certain — Piyush Pandey didn’t just make advertisements; he made memories. And just like Fevicol’s unbeatable bond, his legacy will hold strong — unbreakable, unforgettable, and forever a part of India’s creative soul.