Piyush Pandey, a renowned Indian advertising executive, passed away on Friday at the age of 70. He is being remembered by industry leaders as a creative mind who gave Indian advertising its soul, confidence, and unique voice. Nestlé India Chairman Manish Tiwary described Pandey as a storyteller who brought “the real, raw, and rustic Bharat” to Indian TV screens, radio, and print. Tiwary praised Pandey’s iconic lines, such as “Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai” for Asian Paints and “Todo Nahi Jodo” for Fevicol, saying they were “lines he wore on his sleeve, and everyone took notice.”
Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra remembered Pandey for his infectious warmth and creativity, saying he was a man who left “gigantic footprints” on the ad industry. Mahindra recalled Pandey’s hearty laugh and irrepressible zest for life, which reminded him that joy and humanity should never be forgotten in the business of persuasion. Uday Kotak, Founder and Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, praised Pandey’s role in shaping the bank’s identity, describing him as an “amazing out-of-the-box thinker” who wove creativity with an Indian context.
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, called Pandey “the voice that made India believe in its own story.” Adani said Pandey gave Indian advertising its self-confidence, soul, and unique swagger, and was a very good friend. Pandey spent over four decades at Ogilvy India, redefining how brands spoke to the nation in the language and rhythm of everyday India. He joined Ogilvy in 1982 and transformed it into a creative powerhouse, becoming one of the most influential voices in global advertising.
Pandey received numerous awards and honors, including the CLIO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 and the Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian advertising. He stepped down as Executive Chairman of Ogilvy India in 2023 but continued as an advisor. His funeral was held on Saturday, October 25, at Shivaji Park Crematorium in Mumbai. Industry leaders and friends are mourning the loss of Pandey, remembering him as a creative genius who left an indelible mark on Indian advertising.